The news of Hammerson-linked Via Outlets announcing new leadership appointments marks a significant move in the retail industry. Otto Ambagtsheer, the newly appointed Chief Operating Officer, brings a wealth of experience from his previous role at Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield. With his background in property management, Ambagtsheer is set to lead the company towards innovative strategies to navigate the changing landscape of consumer behavior.
Joining Ambagtsheer is Peter Stals, Via Outlets’ new Chief Financial Officer. Stals’ impressive background at BlackRock, where he oversaw transaction support and valuations for EMEA Real Estate, positions him well to steer Via Outlets towards financial success and growth in the dynamic retail market.
These strategic appointments come at a crucial time for physical retail specialists as they adapt to the increasing shift towards online shopping and the rising demand for experiential retail. Now more than ever, consumers are seeking unique experiences and a diverse range of lifestyle brands, alongside the traditional fashion retailers.
Via Outlets, a collaboration between Hammerson, APG, Value Retail, and Meyer Bergman, is already a prominent player in the European retail scene. With 11 premium fashion outlets across Europe, the company showcases over 850 brands and attracts approximately 30 million visitors annually. In 2017, Via Outlets achieved over €1 billion in brand sales, solidifying its position as a leading destination for fashion and lifestyle enthusiasts.
For more information on Via Outlets and its recent leadership appointments, visit their official website here. To stay updated on industry news and trends, check out the latest insights from Retail Gazette here.
