Compared to the common trend in Moscow’s shopping centers where the number of visitors decreased on average by 40% year-to-year, the outlet format turned out to be more stable for the period after restrictions were lifted. Thus, from June 1 to June 7, Outlet Village Belaya Dacha footfall amounted to more than 72,000 people, or 97% of the level during the same period of 2019. Such indicators are related to the fact that customers consider shopping in the open air safer.
Sales figures are gradually recovering. After the opening, the turnover decreased only by 17% compared to last year. The main constraint is a temporary ban on fitting of clothes and shoes for retailers in the Moscow region. However, after it is canceled, making purchases will become easier.
“After this difficult period of self-isolation, our main goal has been to create a safe environment for our guests who now deserve to enjoy amazing moments in a beautiful outdoor environment, and also to create safe working place for our tenants’ personnel and our staff”, comments Antoni Gascon, Director of Retail Operations at Hines Russia. “At the same time, we aim to contribute to the reactivation of the economy, in particular in the retail sector, where we have excellent relations with our tenants and partners with whom we share business objectives.”
Information materials on the territory of the shopping galleries remind to take care of one’s health. Outlet village’s guests are advised to remember to use masks, gloves and keep a distance of 1.5 meters, wash their hands thoroughly and regularly, purchase using contactless terminals and choose morning or afternoon hours for shopping.
Additionally, in stores and public areas, you can use hand sanitizers, all spaces are regularly disinfected, and the cleaning frequency is increased. Store staff and personnel also work in individual protective equipment. Every day before the start of the shift, temperature is measured and health conditions are monitored.
In addition, the number of visitors who may simultaneously be in a store is temporarily limited. Together with the open concept of the outlet village territory, this makes it possible to maintain social distance. During the summer season, the doors of the stores are open, which contributes to the regular ventilation of the premises.
