VIA Outlets will open the extensively expanded Vila do Conde Porto Fashion Outlet on 18 November, underscoring its commitment to strengthening its footprint in the dynamic Iberian outlet market. As Northern Portugal’s only premium outlet destination, the center is a strategic asset whose performance has consistently mirrored the region’s economic ascent.
The expansion adds additional 10,000 m² of GLA bringing the total offer to 31,000 m² and creating capacity for 31 new stores and 4 restaurants. The project forms part of VIA Outlets’ wider multi-year investment programme, through which the company has committed over €100 million to upgrading and repositioning key assets across its European portfolio.
Iberia’s Outlet Sector Continues to Outperform
Northern Portugal has seen robust economic fundamentals supported by strong domestic demand and sustained tourism flows – factors that have bolstered sales and footfall at Vila do Conde. Under the leadership of CEO Otto Ambagtsheer, VIA Outlets has established itself as one of Europe’s leading premium outlet operators, reporting €1.4 billion in brand sales across its 11 destinations last year.
Iberia, in particular, continues to stand out: outlet centers in Spain and Portugal are outperforming full-price retail, as value-driven consumers and international visitors shift further toward the premium outlet proposition.
Vila do Conde Porto Fashion Outlet benefits from excellent multimodal accessibility, including a direct 30-minute metro link to Porto, motorway connections across the northern region, and strong cross-border reach into Spain. Construction, which began in Q2 2024, was carefully phased to ensure uninterrupted trading, supported by a temporary metro-side entrance to maintain guest experience.
Efficiency, Performance and Sustainability
While the expansion strengthens commercial performance, VIA Outlets continued to embed sustainability measures that enhance the outlet center’s operational efficiency and asset resilience. From energy efficiency to ecological materials, everything has been designed with respect for the environment and local architecture.
This includes:
- 962 photovoltaic panels producing 680 MWh/year, powering the equivalent of more than 200 homes.
- 30% reduction in purchased energy and 670 tonnes of CO₂ savings annually.
- 5,000 m² of solar film generating 12.3% annual energy savings.
- 11,000 m² of polyurea-treated roofing for improved energy behaviour and durability.
- Center-wide LED lighting, presence-detection sensors, and optimised HVAC infrastructure.
- Water-saving technologies across the asset
These measures are aligned with VIA Outlets’ overarching sustainability strategy, which focuses on sustainable buildings, informed consumers, resilient communities, and engaged stakeholders.
New Benchmark for Outlet Growth in Iberia
The upgraded Vila do Conde Porto Fashion Outlet exemplifies VIA Outlets’ strategy of targeted investment in high-potential locations, strengthened by efficiency-driven asset management and aligned with the needs of a broadening international customer base. Large, bright areas, green spaces and gardens that make every visit more pleasant and welcoming. According to VIA Outlet CEO Otto Ambagtsheer 300 new jobs are being created by the expansion.
With a larger retail footprint, improved infrastructure, and a value proposition that continues to resonate, the center is well positioned to reinforce its role as one of Iberia’s most competitive outlet destinations – and to contribute meaningfully to a market that continues to outperform and reshape the wider retail landscape.
