When The Peterson Companies first started exploring the concept of adding an Outlet Center into the mix at National Harbor a little over two years ago, it was a bit of a radical idea because outlet centers historically located well outside of major metropolitan areas.
However, the country was in the midst of an economic collapse that has had a profound and lasting impact on consumer spending patterns. The outlet model, with its emphasis on designer brands at value prices, National Harbor’s prominence as the region’s premier waterfront resort with unparalleled interstate access, and a strong demographic base that was grossly underserved from a fashion retail perspective created a compelling argument.
As one of the premiere outlet developers in the country with over 38 centers in 25 states, Tanger was a natural partner who was uniquely positioned to capitalize on several key trends in the industry and help us create Tanger Outlets at National Harbor.
Retailers embrace outlets as an important distribution channel so regional proximity is no longer an issue - I’m
very encouraged by Tanger’s recent track record of successfully opening
centers with leading national brands such as Coach Factory, Gap Outlet,
Tommy Hilfiger, J Crew, Banana Republic Factory Store, Brooks Brothers,
Jones NY, Nine West and many more designer outlets.
Architecture Matters - The
notion that an Outlet Center should LOOK like an Outlet Center so
consumers feel like they’re getting good value is no longer valid. As
you can see in the rendering, we’ve raised the bar in terms of
architectural quality and finishes to create a comfortable and relaxed
environment featuring, inviting entrances, landscaped promenades, open
plazas that provide an opportunity to pay homage to the history of
Salubria farm, and other consumer friendly amenities.
Outlet Centers are moving into major metropolitan areas – No
longer limited to the hinterlands, most of the new outlet center
developments will be located in major metropolitan areas where they can
benefit from repeat shoppers as well as tourists. With unparalleled
access off Interstates 95/495 and 295 Tanger Outlets at National Harbor
will not only appeal to the millions of tourists visiting DC and Gaylord
National but it will also serve as a convenient option for regional
residents in MD, VA and DC.
When it opens in 2013, Tanger Outlets at National Harbor will represent the best our industry has to offer in terms of retail brands at value prices, first-class shopping environments and unparalleled regional access. We also believe it will be a model for future developments throughout the country.
We are proud to be working with an industry leader like Tanger and are looking forward to sharing more details in the coming months as we work through the approvals process and plan for a groundbreaking later this year.
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