The extension is a response to Umeå’s rapid growth and the constantly evolving needs of local communities. The city is expected to have more than 200,000 inhabitants by 2050 and at Teg, the area closest to Avion, 4000 new apartments are now being built. The extension will complement Avion´s existing shopping experiences and offers, including a regional IKEA store, and is expected to attract an additional 1 million visitors to the 4.2 million that already visit the center every year.
“I’m so excited to see Avion Shopping in Umeå growing! At Ingka Centres we want to be locally relevant to fulfil the needs and aspirations of our visitors. As the vibrant cityscape of Umeå expands, we want Avion to be a place that grows together with the city and the local communities. Our goal is to transform Avion Shopping to a place where many people meet, shop, eat and have fun, while businesses flourish and give back to communities.” says Lars Wild-Nordlund, Operations Manager Nordic at Ingka Centres.
To benefit from the new opportunities and strong footfall in Avion, Coop will join the extension alongside Rusta, Candyworld and other strong brands which will ultimately strengthen and diversify the shopping experience, thus responding to the actual needs of local communities. In addition, Systembolaget will also expand its existing store.
“There is great interest from the market as a result of the amazing location and strength of the meeting place. Most of the units in the expansion area have already been signed. We are confident in Umeå and the area here at Avion, and it’s great to see that our partners share our beliefs. Together we are aiming to create an attractive meeting place for the many people of Umeå city” comments Mia Eskilsson, Avion Shopping Meeting Place Manager.
Peter Forsberg, Market Manager IKEA Umeå added: “Really looking forward to the new openings at Söderslätt’s area. It bodes well for a good future and a good meeting place for the people of Umeå. I believe that the additional businesses will attract even more visitors to IKEA and Avion Shopping.”
Following Ingka Centres’ global sustainability strategy, the implementation of environmentally friendly solutions and practices is a crucial part of the project. The extension of Avion Shopping will be developed following BREEAM level Excellent standards. By adhering to the requirements, optimal waste management and sustainable building materials will be implemented in the project. In addition, an ecological study conducted by an expert will ensure that the construction project works with biodiversity in the best possible way and improve the plot’s ecological value through meadow vegetation, insect hotels, and birdhouses.
The extension will also benefit from Avion’s existing building sustainable solutions like 100% fossil-free electricity and energy-efficient heating and cooling provided by the geothermal plant.
