For me, two current outstanding projects in the industry are the comprehensive repositioning of the former “Potsdamer Platz Arkaden” to “The Playce” as well as the upgrading of Main-Taunus-Zentrum by implementing the new “Foodgarden”.
the Main-Taunus-Zentrum (MTZ), one
of the largest and highest-turnover
shopping centers in Germany. /// credit: ECE Markateplaces
“The Playce” in Berlin: With the introduction of the new “The Playce” project, the owner, Brookfield Properties, has proven foresight, perseverance, and a great spirit of innovation in the planning, development, and realization of this project. The Playce was conceived with a completely new approach, not as a classic mall, but as a mix of retail and entertainment. Following extensive refurbishment, renaming and repositioning, The Playce now stands out from the competition with a new concept and responds to changing customer needs. This is why it is a prime example of how a retail destination can be transformed for the future, and I am happy that Brookfield has chosen ECE Marketplaces as their partner to realize this outstanding repositioning project.
“Foodgarden” @ Main-Taunus-Zentrum: At Main-Taunus-Zentrum in Sulzbach near Frankfurt/Main the new „Foodgarden“ is being realized as a new center within the center. This strategic redevelopment project will provide a high-quality, varied and completely new F&B experience on top of adding a new attraction and an increased gastronomic offering to one of the biggest, highest-turnover, and most successful centers in Germany.
It is also a prime example of a new use instead of a former department store that had been closed down in 2020 and finally demolished, and thus is a great illustration of the flexibility and versatility of shopping centers as they constantly change and adapt to the changing consumer needs and retail world. The owners, Deutsche Euroshop and a closed-end REIT, are investing MEUR into this project, which includes five free-standing restaurant buildings, open terraces, attractive green areas, and outstanding architecture. The new “Food-garden” is scheduled to open in spring 2025 – and already fully let.
