McArthurGlen Designer Outlet Vancouver Airport continues to strengthen its position as one of Canada’s most successful outlet destinations with the addition of new tenants and plans for a long-anticipated third phase of development. Opened in 2015 as a joint venture between McArthurGlen and Vancouver Airport Authority, the open-air shopping centre has become a go-to destination for both locals and international travelers seeking premium and luxury brands at discounted prices.
Officially known as McArthurGlen Designer Outlet Vancouver Airport, the centre operates as a collaboration between McArthurGlen Group and Vancouver International Airport Authority, making it a unique retail destination with strong connectivity to international visitors.
New Additions to the McArthurGlen Brand Lineup
The retail mix at McArthurGlen Vancouver is evolving with the addition of new brands, including Marc Jacobs, which has opened its third Canadian location—and the only one on the West Coast. The store initially launched with accessories, including its well-known tote bags, wallets, and other leather goods, with ready-to-wear fashion expected to arrive at a later date.
“We continue to add to our premium and luxury mix, and Marc Jacobs is a fantastic addition,” said Robert Thurlow, General Manager of McArthurGlen Designer Outlet Vancouver Airport. “Their bags are incredibly popular, and we’re excited to have them here.”
In addition to fashion retailers, McArthurGlen is also enhancing its food and beverage options with the upcoming opening of Kinton Ramen. The new ramen shop, set to open in late summer, will add to the diverse dining selection already available at the centre, which includes Mexican, Italian, Chinese, Japanese, American, and Canadian cuisine.
“We’ve seen the growing popularity of ramen in Vancouver, and we’re thrilled to introduce Kinton Ramen to our centre,” said Thurlow. “There are some fantastic ramen spots downtown that consistently have lineups out the door. This addition will give our shoppers another great option.”
McArthurGlen’s Shopper Demographics: A Mix of Locals and Tourists
McArthurGlen Vancouver has long been a favourite among local shoppers and international visitors alike. Thurlow revealed that approximately 70% of the centre’s visitors are locals living within a 90-minute radius, while the remaining 30% are international tourists.
“Our local shoppers are the real bread and butter of our business,” Thurlow said. “But we also see a significant number of international visitors, particularly from markets like the UK, Germany, Mexico, and parts of Southeast Asia. The increase in direct flights to Vancouver, including from Singapore and the Philippines, has helped sustain international foot traffic.”
While visitor numbers from mainland China have not yet returned to pre-pandemic levels, Thurlow noted that other international markets have compensated for the gap.
Expansion Plans: A Long-Awaited Phase Three
McArthurGlen’s success has created strong demand for additional retail space, leading to ongoing discussions about a third phase of expansion. The centre, which originally opened in 2015, expanded once already with the completion of its second phase in August 2019.
“We are currently 99% leased and trading, which is an enviable position to be in,” said Thurlow. “However, we don’t have the 5,000 square feet that some brands are looking for, which makes a potential phase three development incredibly important.”
The proposed third phase would be located in the northeast corner of the property. Though an official timeline has not been announced, Thurlow suggested that news could be coming soon.
“I can’t share a date just yet, but I hope to be able to provide more details imminently,” he said. “Given our high occupancy levels and continued demand from brands looking to enter the centre, we see this as a natural next step.”
McArthurGlen Vancouver: One of Canada’s Top-Performing Outlet Centres
Since its opening, McArthurGlen Vancouver has consistently ranked among Canada’s best-performing outlet malls. The open-air design, inspired by a European village, has made it a unique retail destination in Metro Vancouver.
“We have gone from strength to strength and are now among the top five centres in Canada in terms of sales per square foot,” Thurlow stated. “One of the keys to our success has been offering aspirational brands at discounted prices, which attracts a broad demographic of shoppers.”
Unlike Toronto Premium Outlets, which features a heavy luxury presence, McArthurGlen Vancouver takes a more balanced approach, incorporating a mix of mid-range and premium brands to appeal to a wider customer base.
“Vancouver is a different market than Toronto,” said Thurlow. “We want to maintain an assortment that appeals to a broader audience while still catering to those looking for premium and luxury brands.”
A Bright Future for McArthurGlen Vancouver
With strong demand from retailers, a solid mix of local and international shoppers, and a third phase of expansion on the horizon, McArthurGlen Vancouver remains one of the most successful retail outlets in Canada.
“I think people love the experience here—not just the shopping but the atmosphere,” said Thurlow. “You can grab a bubble tea, soon a bowl of ramen, and watch flights take off from Vancouver International Airport. It’s a unique and enjoyable setting.”
