Vancouver Airport Authority today announced that it is planning to develop a luxury designer outlet centre on Vancouver International Airport / Aéroport international de Vancouver (YVR) land in partnership with London-based developer McArthurGlen Group, Europe’s leading owner, developer and manager of designer outlets.
“This is an exciting project that will increase the region’s destination appeal for visiting travellers and encourage local shoppers to spend within their own community,” said Larry Berg, President and CEO, Vancouver Airport Authority. “Later this summer, you’ll start to see the lands on Russ Baker Way near BCIT being prepared for eventual construction; evidence of some of the jobs that will be added to the more than 23,600 already in place at YVR.”
The project reinforces the Airport Authority’s role in the economic development of the region with the creation of an estimated 1,000 new jobs. YVR currently generates $11.7 billion in total economic output to the Canadian economy.
“We are delighted to have this opportunity to create a premium retail destination in Vancouver, our first location in North America. Already we are seeing very strong interest from our brand partners to open at the centre,” said Gary Bond, McArthurGlen’s CEO of Development. “Vancouver combines location excellence, economic strength, tourism potential and a strong partner – all elements that guarantee success when opening luxury shopping projects.”
The proposed new centre would open in phases, beginning in the fall of 2014, and feature European and North American luxury, designer and mainstream brands. The company’s outlets in Europe are known for brands such as Prada, Armani, Burberry, Gucci, Hugo Boss, Ralph Lauren, Salvatore Ferragamo, Ermenegildo Zegna and Michael Kors.
Vancouver Airport Authority and McArthurGlen are committed to the proposed project being built and operated to ensure environmental compatibility with the local area. Areas of the Fraser River that border the outlet centre would be protected and environmental enhancement plans include the installation of foot and cycling paths that fit into existing regional trail networks.
For further information:
YVR Media Relations
604.880.9815 [email protected]
www.yvr.ca Twitter: @yvrairport