Construction of Phase 2 to begin at McArthurGlen outlet mall near airport

McArthurGlen Designer Outlet at Vancouver International Airport announced Monday it plans to start construction of Phase II soon for a spring 2019 opening.

The new phase will adjoin the existing centre to the east and mirror its outdoor, European design. It will add up to 35 new brands to the more than 70 already at the mall.

Since opening in July 2015, McArthurGlen has attracted 10 million shoppers.

“In less than three years, the centre has become a key retail destination in Metro Vancouver,” Robert Thurlow, general manager of the mall, said in a release.

“As one of Canada’s best performing malls, we are excited to expand our existing offer, elevating the retail experience for our guests and brand partners.”

The second phase will add 7,800 square metres (84,000 sq. ft) of retail space to the existing 22,300 sq. m (240,000 sq. ft). The mall will remain open during construction.

The Templeton Stop on the Canada Line connects guests to and from the airport and mall for free in three minutes. The centre also has multilingual staff, real-time flight information on digital screens, free charging stations and free luggage lockers.

McArthurGlen has about 2,000 free parking spaces.

McArthurGlen Group, based in London, U.K., is a European owner, developer and manager of designer outlets. The company has 24 designer outlets in nine countries.

The shopping mall on Sea Island in Richmond is a joint venture between McArthurGlen Group and Vancouver Airport Authority.