Chic Outlet Shopping Villages in Europe

The Collection of nine Chic Outlet Shopping? Villages in Europe, managed by Value Retail continue to attract savvy international shoppers this season with an increase of total tax refunded sales in Q2 of 47% compared to the same period in 2008, showing a significant 51% increase year to date.

Collectively the nine European Villages outperformed their benchmark by double digit growth with clear indication that a sophisticated outlet shopping experience remains a key feature in the itineraries of travellers allowing shoppers to experience international and niche European brands at prices reduced by up to 60% every day, all year round. Host to internationally recognised fashion and lifestyle brands, of which, Vivienne Westwood, Givenchy, Matthew Williamson, Smythson, Anya Hindmarch, Temperley London and Agent Provocateur have chosen to have their only outlet boutique in Europe with one of the nine Chic Outlet Shopping? Villages. In a continued evolution, over 70 brands have opened or plan to open a boutique at the Villages during 2009, with names including Gucci, Bulgari, Armani, Roberto Cavalli Class, Belstaff, and Diesel Kids. It is clearly a compelling offer.

China is the largest contributing market by volume (23% of all tax refund sales) and Hong Kong in the first half (January-June 2009) contributed in an increase of tax refunded sales by 93% compared to the previous year. The Collection also recorded a rise of 4% on the average value per transaction compared to the same period in 2008 with the leading market being Brazil. The Middle East, with an average value per transaction of €305, still remains the fastest growing market in sales (+ 122% on last year) for the Chic Outlet Shopping? Villages. “The Outstanding 50% sales growth vs. PYTD of the Chic Outlet Shopping? Villages across Europe, managed by Value Retail, where so many of the luxury brands are represented also confirms that “luxury is still in fashion” especially at such irresistible price levels”, says Pier Francesco Nervini, VP International Key Accounts at Global Refund.

The nine Chic Outlet Shopping? Villages offer an unparalleled proposition for day shoppers or those taking weekend breaks in Europe.  The Villages deliver five-star service with award winning Tourist Information Centres, personal shoppers, direct shuttle transport from the city and offer a discreet, secure and exclusive environment.  Suggested itineraries can be found at www.chicoutletshopping.com/shoppingtrips.

DUBLIN & COUNTY KILDARE     Kildare Village
LONDON, OXFORD & THE COTSWOLDS    Bicester Village
PARIS, BRIE COUNTRY & THE CHAMPAGNE REGION    La Vallée Village
MADRID & SEGOVIA    Las Rozas Village
BARCELONA & THE COSTA BRAVA    La Roca Village
MILAN/BOLOGNA & PARMA    Fidenza Village
BRUSSELS, ANTWERP, COLOGNE & THE REGION OF LIMBURG    Maasmechelen Village
FRANKFURT & THE ROMANTIC ROAD    Wertheim Village
MUNICH & BAVARIA     Ingolstadt Village

Tags: Chic, defy, downturn, Europe, Outlet, Retails, Shopping Villages, Value