British Columbia’s first-ever luxury designer outlet mall is currently undergoing construction at the 30-acre site of the Vancouver International Airport (YVR) and is set to open in the spring of 2015.
The Vancouver Airport Authority partnered with McArthurGlen Group—Europe’s leading owner, developer and manager of designer outlets—to create 35,000 square metres of luxury, designer and lifestyle retail stores in one central place. The shopping centre will be located on the northeast corner of Sea Island (near the Templeton Canada Line station).
The outlet mall will be developed in two phases; the first will offer 22,500 square metres of retail space that will include both European and North American designer brands, as well as restaurants and cafes—with the extra 12,500 square metres being added once all of the phases are open.
“This project reinforces our role in the economic development of the region,” said Tony Gugliotta, Senior Vice President, Marketing and Business Development, Vancouver Airport Authority. “Not only will it increase the region’s destination appeal for travelers and create approximately 1,000 jobs, but it will also offer the airport an alternative revenue source that will allow us to continue building YVR as a premier global gateway, which, in turn, will create even more jobs.”
McArthurGlen Group’s designer outlets in Europe are well-known for their sought-after brands such as Ralph Lauren, Hugo Boss, Michael Kors, Gucci, Prada, Armani and Burberry (many of which, if not all, will be offered at the YVR outlet mall.)
“McArthurGlen Designer Outlet Vancouver Airport will offer a highly distinctive, luxury-oriented retail destination in Vancouver,” said Joan Jove, McArthurGlen’s Development Director for North America. “We are already seeing strong interest from leading European and North American fashion brands. Vancouver offers an excellent location, economic strength, tourism potential, as well as a strong partner in the Vancouver Airport Authority – all elements that guarantee success when opening a premium retail centre.”
The outlet mall is being designed as an open-air village; with pedestrian-friendly walkways and tree-lined streets. And with so many popular luxury designer brands—the new development will likely become a shopping hub for both locals and tourists.
Written by: Meagan Gill
Photo Credit: YVR Airport Authority
