Outlet centers were big winners during the pandemic

In a recent interview with Retailnet, Thomas Reichenauer, co-founder and managing director of ROS Retail Outlet Shopping, talks about how outlet centers were big winners during the pandemic. 

Here is what he had to say. "In the last year or so, the market has undergone a profound revision. Retail was hit hard by customer economic uncertainty, recurring lockdowns, and a slowdown in production. The pattern of ups and downs has had an impact on mall operating restrictions across Europe. We have been looking at markets and customer behavior and I can say with confidence that outlet centers have been the big winners in the pandemic. Not only here in Poland, but also in other European countries."

He also added, "customers came back immediately after the first lockdown last year, and this has been the case every time. The level of visitors leveled off very quickly, and what pleases us even more, the value of the shopping basket increased. Especially now, after the re-opening of stores in our largest center, Designer Outlet Warsaw. This is because firstly, after a long break, customers are eager to go out to people, to the stores, and to experience shopping in reality. Secondly, and perhaps more importantly, the economic uncertainty is causing customers to spend their money more wisely. Customers are buying good quality, reaching for their favorite brands, but looking for price bargains. Purchases are more thoughtful."

(WBJ)