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MATT SLADE, RETAIL DIRECTOR – QUINTAIN by brands to take up space in outlet centres that are strategically
located in urban centres, close to public transport connections and
Historically, outlet centres have far outperformed the wider retail residential areas.
sector – and there is nothing to suggest this upward trajectory is set Though travel is no longer restricted as it was during the pandemic,
to falter any time soon. Covid-19 has almost certainly left a long-lasting impact on consumer
Even with inflation on the rise - coupled with the cost-of-living crisis behaviour, highlighting the obvious merits of there being a range of
- world-renowned flagship brands continue to signal a strong vote of stores and other amenities on your doorstep. Moreover, as petrol prices
confidence in the outlet model and, in particular, its understanding of rocket, the virtues of localism are only set to gain further traction –
relative value. with concepts like the 15-minute city we are pioneering at Wembley
At London Designer Outlet, for instance, a number of big brands Park, for instance, negating the need to travel long distances to visit
including Nike, adidas, Calvin Klein and Tommy Hilfiger have all restaurants, shops and indeed, outlet centres.
significantly expanded their store footprints in recent months. This is The use of turnover-based rent structures by outlet destinations
evidence of the growing awareness among retailers that the shoppers is appealing to retailers too, now more than ever. This shared risk
who frequent outlets, by and large, spend more than they would at a inspires greater confidence in brands, which appreciate the fact that
full-price store to take advantage of the greater value. the landlord has as much of a vested interest in ensuring solid sales
And while many outlet regulars will sadly see their disposable performance as they do.
income ebb over the coming months, an increasingly frugal The driving force behind the continued success of the outlet sector
consumer base will also see an influx of shoppers who ordinarily will be three-pronged. Not only will it be spurred on by consumers
shop at full-price stores turn to outlets, seeking out better value honing in on better value for money, but also brands investing in their
for money. stores via upsizes and other enhancements, as well as the growing
Our own continued success also suggests a growing preference appeal of turnover-based rent structures to retailers themselves.

LONDON DESIGNER OUTLET
London, UK
Developer: Quintain