South Edmonton Common
Western Canada’s largest open-air retail centre continues a tradition of innovation
The “Holiday Fashion Loop” shuttle has started transporting shoppers at South Edmonton Common, providing an innovative convenience for the holiday shopping season.
The complimentary shuttle will make moving around the massive centre quicker and more convenient.
That emphasis on innovation for the shopper is but part of the reason South Edmonton Common has garnered this year’s Gold standing as Edmonton’s Best Shopping District in the Readers’ Choice Awards — a fitting recognition as it celebrates its 20th anniversary.
“At South Edmonton Common, shoppers know they can find luxury for less,” says Harold Pacheco, Marketing Manager for Cameron Corporation, which owns and operates the development. “But their experience at South Edmonton Common is more than just shopping — we’re focused on providing an innovative and memorable engagement.”
As Western Canada’s largest open-air outlet centre, South Edmonton Common houses 170 stores and businesses on 320 acres (130 hectares). Selection — from outlets with entry level offerings, to those featuring high end designer options — is the hallmark of the diverse array of shopping opportunities assembled, including some 40 dining and recreation facilities. “With its size and variety, we don’t look at it as simply a shopping destination,” points out Pacheco. “Friends and families can virtually spend the day — they can see a movie, take in a live concert, enjoy some friendly gaming competition … lots of ways to spend their time.”
Becoming one of Canada’s largest and most successful open-air centres didn’t happen overnight. “In 1998, the concept of a collection of big-box stores was new to the region, so we were essentially at the forefront,” says Pacheco. “Home Depot was our initial anchor store, then Walmart, and it gained momentum from there, with several stores as firsts for Canada, including buybuy Baby and the Cineplex Rec Room.” Other notable stores include one of the largest standalone Ikeas in Canada, as well as the two-floor flagship Canadian Tire which is the company’s largest location.
The recently opened Nordstrom Rack (the first Edmonton location for the popular retailer), signals the final new, big box location available at South Edmonton Common to be developed.
The centre strives to continue innovating and adapting to changing consumer tastes, which now includes a focus on sustainable development and operating practices. While the Holiday Fashion Loop is focused on convenience for shoppers, it also aligns with the centre’s commitment to this goal.
“We build things to stand the test of time,” says Pacheco. “We’re not just a developer — we’re a locally-owned company and as such want to be a contributing member of the community.”
Solar panels have been installed on the roof of Ikea, while electric vehicle charging stations are located in their lot as well as in front of the Nordstrom Rack and MEC stores. The centre is also in the process of converting to LED lighting, with pylon signs as well as extensive holiday lights along Gateway Boulevard having already been converted.
To learn more about the free Holiday Fashion Loop shuttle, including dates and shuttle stops, visit www.southedmontoncommon.com.