McArthurGlen Designer Outlet Vancouver Airport is marking a decade of growth, community engagement, and evolving consumer trends as it celebrates its 10-year anniversary in 2025. Opened in July 2015 as a joint venture between McArthurGlen Group and Vancouver Airport Authority, the open-air luxury outlet has become a leading destination in Western Canada for value-driven designer shopping.
According to General Manager Robert Thurlow, the centre has grown from an ambitious concept built on an empty plot of land to a vibrant retail hub that attracts millions of visitors annually and ranks among Canada’s top-performing shopping centres.
“It’s flown by very quickly, and the centre has continued to grow and go from strength to strength,” said Thurlow in an interview. “We’ve become a tourism destination in the Greater Vancouver area. You’ll see us on travel itineraries right next to whale watching and a day trip to Whistler.”
A Major West Coast Retail Landmark
McArthurGlen Designer Outlet Vancouver Airport is the only luxury outlet centre in Western Canada and remains unique in its location adjacent to Vancouver International Airport (YVR). The project initially opened with a strong lineup of brands and was further expanded in 2019 with a second phase that added another 85,000 square feet and brought in new retailers including Jimmy Choo, Aritzia, Psycho Bunny, and Adidas.
The centre now features over 80 stores, representing a mix of premium, designer, and mid-range brands including Coach, Michael Kors, Hugo Boss, North Face, and Marc Jacobs—whose location at the centre is its only on the West Coast.
The growth continues. Thurlow confirmed that a long-anticipated third phase of development is in the works. While an exact opening timeline has not yet been announced, the expansion will add approximately 65,000 square feet and between 15 and 20 stores, depending on unit sizes. Some will be new-to-market brands, while others will involve expanding space for existing tenants that have outgrown their current footprints.
“We’re more than 98% leased, which is an incredible position to be in,” said Thurlow. “We’ve reached a point where demand from retailers is exceeding our current capacity.”
Architectural Identity and Experiential Design
The centre’s architectural character is another defining feature. McArthurGlen Vancouver’s design draws inspiration from a blend of European influences and local Vancouver heritage.
“The main entrance was designed to reflect the roofline of the Hotel Vancouver,” explained Thurlow. “In the central piazza, the brick and cobbled detailing pays homage to Gastown. And as you move further into the centre, it begins to feel more French or Italian, almost like a European village.”
This thoughtful design helps distinguish McArthurGlen Vancouver from more utilitarian outlet centres. The open-air layout, tree-lined walkways, piazzas, and car-free environment enhance the visitor experience, while also encouraging longer dwell times.
Transit-Friendly and Tourism-Oriented
Positioned just two SkyTrain stops from YVR Airport and about 20 minutes from downtown Vancouver, the outlet is easily accessible to both locals and international visitors. Approximately 20 to 30 percent of guests arrive via the SkyTrain, depending on the season and events. The rest travel by car, aided by the centre’s 2,000 free parking spaces.
“SkyTrain is one of our biggest assets. During peak periods like Black Friday or Boxing Day, transit accounts for up to 30 percent of our traffic,” Thurlow said. “And it’s just so efficient. You can be here from downtown Vancouver in under 25 minutes.”
Tourism has been a vital part of McArthurGlen Designer Outlet Vancouver’s business model from day one. The pandemic briefly disrupted this stream, but recovery was swift.
“We were back to pre-pandemic visitor levels by 2022, well ahead of other shopping centres,” said Thurlow. “The strong local base of shoppers helped. About 70 to 75 percent of our visitors are from within a 60-minute radius.”
While traffic from Asia has been slower to rebound, European countries such as the UK and Germany have returned in strength. Thurlow also cited increased visitation from Mexico, a growing market for Vancouver given the rise in direct air service between Mexico City and YVR.
Strong Retail Performance
McArthurGlen Designer Outlet Vancouver Airport is not only thriving in foot traffic but also in sales. According to Thurlow, the centre currently generates about $1,350 per square foot, placing it in the top tier of shopping centres in Canada, outperforming many full-price malls.
“We’re among the top five centres in the country in terms of productivity,” Thurlow said. “That includes both outlet and full-price malls. It’s quite an accomplishment for a centre that’s only been open 10 years.”
This strong performance has helped the centre attract sought-after retailers. Its tenant mix is carefully curated to offer value while preserving a premium feel. New additions this year will include Burberry, Max Mara, and the popular Canadian ramen brand Kinton Ramen, which will open a new location at the centre this fall.
“We’re seeing a great response from brands looking to open their first store in Western Canada,” Thurlow added. “Marc Jacobs was a good example of that, and Burberry is another exciting addition.”
A Deep Commitment to Community
Beyond its retail success, McArthurGlen Designer Outlet Vancouver Airport plays an important role in the broader community. Since opening, the centre has created over 1,200 local jobs and supports a wide range of charitable organizations.
“We’ve partnered with the Richmond Food Bank Society, BC SPCA, KidSport Richmond, Rainbow Refugee, and BC Women’s Health Foundation,” said Thurlow. “With food bank usage up significantly, supporting our community has never been more important.”
This dual focus, on economic contribution and social responsibility, has become part of the centre’s identity. The staff themselves reflect this diversity and inclusivity.
“Just within our management office, we have people from nine different countries. That mirrors our customer base and makes the work environment richer,” said Thurlow.
As the McArthurGlen Vancouver team celebrates its 10-year milestone, the focus remains squarely on future growth. The upcoming third phase of expansion is a major priority, and additional enhancements to the visitor experience are under consideration.
“It’s exciting to be in growth mode again,” Thurlow said. “We’re continuing to evolve to meet consumer expectations, bring in exciting new brands, and remain one of Canada’s leading retail destinations.”
