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Giles Membrey, Managing Director of Rioja Estates (left), Grantham Designer Outlet Village (right) /// credit: Rioja Estates
Giles Membrey, Managing Director of Rioja Estates (left), Grantham Designer Outlet Village (right) /// credit: Rioja Estates

Grantham Designer Outlet Village gains momentum ahead of planned opening in 2028

With a growing list of premium brands already in legal discussions, Grantham Designer Outlet Village continues to gather momentum ahead of its scheduled opening in 2028. The 164 million Euro project, led by outlet specialists Rioja Estates and its partner, Buckminster Estates, will be located on a new purpose-built junction directly off the A1, the third busiest road in the UK. With 750 m of frontage to the A1 it will be directly visible to more than 17 million passing vehicles every year making it one of the best outlet locations in the UK.

With forecasted sales densities of up to €7,600/sq m² and expected to attract over 3.9 million visitors per year, Grantham Designer Outlet Village is projected to quickly become one of the top 10 best-performing outlets in the UK, by turnover. The 36-acre site – which will feature 25,550 sq m of retail and leisure space across two phases – is already over 50% pre-let, or in active negotiations, highlighting brand confidence in one of the UK’s newest and most strategically positioned outlet locations. With over 80% of Phase 1 expected to be let at launch, this strong interest is a clear indication of the importance that brands place on having an outlet presence, particularly in this region which is currently under-represented.

Adrian Taylor, Leasing Director at Rioja Estates, noted, “Retailers understand that outlets are outperforming traditional retail, so Grantham Designer Outlet Village’s visibility, location, and catchment area make it an exceptionally attractive proposition which explains why we are seeing such strong demand from both UK and international brands.”

Conveniently located, and with connections to both Grantham Town Centre and railway station, the outlet has an affluent 60-minute catchment area with disposable income of €38.3 billion per year. Positioned within easy reach of Nottingham, Leicester, Lincoln, Peterborough, Derby, and Cambridge, Grantham Designer Outlet Village will not only offer a new shopping and leisure experience, but it will also boost the local economy by creating 1,500 jobs during construction and operation. A partnership with Grantham College will offer education and training in retail and design, further integrating the outlet into the community.

Sustainability is a core focus of the project. The development will earn a BREEAM “Excellent” certification and will feature low-carbon materials, high-efficiency lighting and ventilation, and one of the UK’s largest EV charging hubs with up to 250 chargers.

“We’re not just creating a place to shop, but a destination to linger, explore, and enjoy,” said Giles Membrey, Managing Director of Rioja Estates. “Our focus is on sustainable placemaking that will create long-term value for customers, brands, stakeholders, investors, and the local community.”