The maximum 5-star GRESB rating was attained again even though the new standard entails a more rigorous assessment of sustainability practices, new asset-level benchmarks, and enhanced alignment with emerging investor priorities. VIA Outlets’ overall GRESB score of 92 out of 100 outstrips both the peer (82) and GRESB Benchmark Group (76) averages. VIA Outlets achieved perfect scores in the Social and Governance sections, and significantly outperformed its peer group on environmental factors thanks to excellent scores on Energy, GHG Emissions, Waste Management, and Data Monitoring and Review. VIA Outlets ranked in the top quartile of both its ‘Europe, Shopping Center’ and ‘Retail, Europe’ peer group categories.
“Securing a GRESB 5-star rating for the fifth year running demonstrates VIA Outlets’ determination to be the market leader in sustainable outlet shopping,” says Geert Paemen, VIA Outlet’s Head of ESG. “We are committed to responsible business practices and finding diverse ways to minimize our environmental impact across all aspects of our operations. This year’s score reflects the expanding on-site solar power capacity of our portfolio, the energy efficiency strategies we have incorporated and adapted to each of our 11 European fashion outlets’ characteristics, and our dedicated focus on health and safety and engagement with our brand partners.”
Fitch Affirms Level 2 ESG Rating
In addition, VIA Outlets again achieved a Level 2 Fitch ESG Entity Rating and Fitch ESG Framework Rating, the second highest achievable, from global ratings firm Fitch. The rating recognizes the progress VIA Outlets is making in its portfolio and value chain ‘Beyond Sustainable’ strategy.
“At VIA Outlets, we continue to take sustained action to meet our Net Zero-aligned energy efficiency and emissions targets, and social and governance objectives,” adds Otto Ambagtsheer, CEO of VIA Outlets. “Next to this, we work closely with our local and international brand partners to advance their and our sustainability agendas, to achieve our collective goals and targets. This year’s reconfirmation of the GRESB and Fitch ratings are a testament to the progress we are making together and shows that our “Beyond Sustainable” strategy, which is based on the four pillars of Sustainable Buildings, Resilient Communities, Responsible Consumption and Engaged Stakeholders, is working to achieve the short- and long-term targets of our ESG strategy.”
