As reported last week, VIA Outlets celebrates a major milestone with the expansion, which was part of a multi-year investment programme.
The expansion adds 31 stores and four restaurants to the centre, including the openings of new brands such as Lottusse, New Era, Pandora, Pedro del Hierro, Tommy Hilfiger Kids, Vans, Volcom, Urban Project, Boutique dos Relogios, and Zara Home, alongside renovated spaces for Armani, LINDT, Rituals, and Tommy Hilfiger.
Otto Ambagtsheer, CEO of VIA Outlets, said:
“Our investment in the major expansion of Vila do Conde Porto Fashion Outlet reflects our confidence in the continuing strong performance of the centre as the dominant premium outlet destination in northern Portugal. Rising numbers of visitors and brand sales have been bolstered by the region’s dynamic local economy and the growing attraction of the city of Porto as a European tourist hotspot. This opening represents the latest materialisation of our strategic vision for our centres across Europe. We create spaces that combine memorable experiences for our guests with attractive platforms for our brandpartners through our ‘3Rs strategy’ of Remodelling, Remerchandising, and Remarketing.”
Balance between Sustainability & Design
The Vila do Conde Porto Fashion Outlet project, conceived by renowned international architects L35 studio, embraces a contemporary and sustainable design, with spacious and bright areas, green spaces, natural materials, and a clear focus on local architecture and culture, matching VIA Outlets’ vision that it should be inspired by the beauty of the Porto region.
The expansion was designed with a strong emphasis on sustainability, aligned with VIA Outlets’ Beyond Sustainable strategy and the centre has achieved the highest BREEAM ‘Outstanding’ sustainability rating, by incorporating features such as rainwater harvesting, solar panels, low-consumption LED lighting, and smart energy efficiency processes.
David Kervyn de Lettenhove, Business Director Iberia of VIA Outlets, adds:
“This expansion marks the next step in a journey that began in 2017 when VIA Outlets acquired Vila do Conde Porto Fashion Outlet. With a major refurbishment in 2021 and now this expansion, we’ve created a destination where brands can thrive and guests enjoy an experience defined by quality, architecture, and attention to detail – while incorporating sustainability initiatives that support our goal of achieving net zero emissions target by 20250 across our portfolio.”
Art and culture play a central role in the new conception of Vila do Conde Porto Fashion Outlet with the Women Art Fellowship gallery showcasing works by emerging female artists, and installations by leading designers Joana Astolfi and Cristina Rodrigues. The new Zara Home For&From store also introduces an inclusive employment programme in partnership with VilacomVida.
Dining options have been broadened with the Vila 953 restaurant, offering refined Portuguese cuisine with Mediterranean influences, and Delfina, presenting creative, informal dining. A new VIP Lounge enhances the experience for tourists, who represent nearly 25% of guests visting Vila do Conde Porto Fashion Outlet .
