VIA Outlets, a prominent European premium outlet centers operator, has appointed Otto Ambagtsheer as its new CEO and has announced impressive results for the first half of the year. The company, which is partially owned by Hammerson in the UK, has seen a notable rise in both brand sales and footfall despite the challenges faced by the retail industry.
Describing itself as Europe’s fastest-growing owner-operator of premium outlet shopping destinations, VIA Outlets has been concentrating on converting its centers into premium fashion outlets. Ambagtsheer, who initially joined as COO in September last year, has played a vital role in driving this strategy forward.
The company’s ‘3 R’s’ strategy of Remodeling, Remerchandising, and Remarketing its assets has been a key factor in its success. This approach, which proved effective in 2018, has continued to deliver positive results in 2019, with a 10% increase in brand sales and an 8% increase in footfall reported in the first half of the year.
Commenting on the results, Ambagtsheer expressed his satisfaction, stating, “Our half-year results once again demonstrate the successful execution of our strategy and the outlet market’s resilience. As we head into the second half of 2019, we are enthusiastic about the strengthened senior management team that will drive our ongoing success and future aspirations.”
With 11 centers spread across nine European countries in popular tourist locations such as Amsterdam, Prague, Seville, and more, VIA Outlets boasts a diverse portfolio. In the past year, their total portfolio brand sales reached an impressive €1.07 billion, with over 30 million visitors to their centers.
This latest development underscores VIA Outlets’ commitment to growth and prosperity as they strive to solidify their position as a key player in the premium outlet market in Europe.
For more information on VIA Outlets and their success story, visit their official website here. Additionally, to learn more about the latest retail trends in the European market, check out this informative article here.
