VIA Outlets – leading owner-operator in redefining the outlet shopping experience with a portfolio of eleven premium outlet centres in nine European countries – has achieved a 5 Star Rating in the 2021 GRESB Real Estate Assessment.
The score is the highest available and a true recognition for being an industry leader in sustainability, placing VIA Outlets amongst the top 20 per cent in the industry.
VIA Outlets scored 92 points, a seven-point increase from last year that places the company above both the total GRESB and peer group average in all categories. VIA Outlets placed as number nine out of 31 non-listed European Retail Shopping Centres, reflecting its commitment to making a lasting positive contribution to the places in which it owns and manages outlet centres.
VIA Outlets recently launched its sustainability strategy ‘Beyond Sustainable’ to guide corporate activities to create an even more positive and regenerative approach to outlet shopping. The strategy is based on a 4-pillar approach encompassing a range of identified issues: Sustainable Buildings, Resilient Communities, Conscious Consumers and Engaged Stakeholders.
The company’s most recent sustainability initiative was the launch of Re.Love, a new, sustainable pop-up initiative offering sustainable collections and initiatives from existing brands and new brand partners. The first store opened in Freeport Lisboa Fashion Outlet on 3 September, followed by a second opening in Batavia Stad Fashion Outlet in Amsterdam on 15 October. Each store will remain open for a minimum 3 months and further roll-out of the initiative across the rest of the portfolio will follow.
