FREY, a leading developer, investor and manager of open-air shopping centers in Europe, has acquired Designer Outlet Berlin from Nuveen. As part of this acquisition, ROS Retail Outlet Shopping—now an in-house division of FREY—will take over the management of the center, building on their strategic partnership that began in summer 2024 when ROS joined the Paris-listed property group. This move reinforces FREY’s ambitions in the European outlet market and is set to further enhance Designer Outlet Berlin’s positioning as a successful premium outlet shopping destination in Germany.
Opened in 2009, Designer Outlet Berlin is a well-established premium outlet village located just 30 minutes from the heart of Germany’s capital and 25 minutes from Potsdam. With over 21,000 sq m of gross lettable area, the center is home to more than 100 designer, fashion and lifestyle brands, including Polo Ralph Lauren, Hugo Boss, Michael Kors, Adidas, Tommy Hilfiger and many more, 30-70% off, all year round.
In 2024, the outlet welcomed 2.7 million visitors and was ranked 21st in Europe and 2nd in Germany in the latest Ecostra Outlet Centre Performance Report—the industry’s leading benchmark for European outlet success. Its strategic location near Berlin’s western border ensures accessibility for a broad regional catchment while providing a relaxed shopping environment on the edge of the scenic Havelland region.
“The collaboration between FREY and ROS marks an exciting new chapter for Designer Outlet Berlin. With our combined expertise in open retail and premium shopping destinations, we are dedicated to enhancing the customer journey, driving footfall and reinforcing the outlet’s status as a must-visit destination for both local and international shoppers,” says Thomas Reichenauer, Co-Founder and Managing Director at ROS Retail Outlet Shopping.
With a shared commitment to innovation and retail excellence, FREY and ROS will introduce strategies to expand the brand portfolio, optimize performance and ensure continued success in an increasingly competitive market.
