UPDATE: Ashford Designer Outlet has just achieved 100% occupancy for the first time since its £90 million expansion six years ago. This milestone follows the recent arrivals of fashion brands Pepe Jeans and Weird Fish, which have filled previously vacant units. The news comes as the outlet launches an expanded Christmas market, featuring 13 stalls, running until January 1.
The openings of Pepe Jeans and Weird Fish mark a significant turning point for the McArthurGlen-owned complex. After an initial struggle to fill nearly half of the new spaces created in 2019, the momentum has finally shifted. Manager Peter Heritage, who has overseen operations since 2017, expressed enthusiasm for the new arrivals. “Our three busiest days of the year are usually Black Friday, the Saturday afterwards, and Boxing Day, so to be fully occupied is great,” he stated.
The recent influx includes the debut of Playmobil’s first standalone store in the UK, alongside Cadbury’s recent addition and the return of Cornish Bakery after an eight-year absence. Heritage noted that these developments coincide perfectly with the holiday shopping rush, enhancing the overall shopping experience for visitors.
The Christmas market expansion brings four additional stalls compared to last year, creating a vibrant atmosphere as shoppers flock to the outlet. Heritage remarked on the positive reception of Weird Fish, stating it has already become a popular choice among customers. “Pepe Jeans’ opening has also been really nice—we thought it would be good but have been pleasantly surprised at how good the store is and what it’s offering,” he added.
While the outlet celebrates its full occupancy, plans for a 33-metre high Ferris wheel in the main car park are still under discussion. The proposal has generated mixed responses, with 21 objections filed and eight supporters voicing their approval on the Ashford Borough Council’s planning portal.
The successful transformation of Ashford Designer Outlet into a bustling retail hub is a result of strategic planning and significant investment. Heritage commented on the long road to today’s success, emphasizing the importance of creating a destination beyond just shopping. “The dynamic has changed over the years, and we had fewer units then,” he explained. “The foundation of today’s success was building the extension and making it more than just a shopping destination.”
As the holiday season gears up, Ashford Designer Outlet is poised to attract even more visitors, leveraging its full occupancy and festive offerings to drive engagement. The community is invited to experience the vibrant atmosphere and diverse shopping options throughout the holiday season, making this an exciting time for both retailers and customers alike.
