Indian source market is a growth market that has shown itself to be extremely remarkable, says Angela Rieger
Angela Rieger
What is new at Outletcity?
In 2023, two new highlights will open in Outletcity Metzingen. As the largest outlet in Europe and the first outlet in Germany, Outletcity Metzingen can look back on a breathtaking history. A permanent exhibition will showcase this history so that all guests will have the opportunity to look up the success story.
In Q4 2023, Outletcity Metzingen will open its first hotel, a Moxy which is part of the Mariott portfolio. The dynamic 3-star fashion and lifestyle hotel with over 200 rooms is a great option for guests who like to spend more than one day and want to stay right in the shopping paradise. The heart of the hotel will be the extraordinary lobby, which features a stylised catwalk and fits perfectly with Germany’s most successful outlet and our claim as an experience destination.
At the same time, the hotel building will also host a new Welcome Centre of 600 sqm on the ground floor and is designed to provide Outletcity guests with a stylish space for a warm welcome. Tax Refund and a VIP lounge are just some of the services that will be offered.
How has the tourism and tourist spending recovered at Outletcity in 2022?
2022 was a very mixed year. Nevertheless, the restrictions due to the global pandemic were lightened and tourism picked up again. In 2022, more international guests were welcomed again, including guests from India. We hope that the positive trend will continue this year and we are convinced that the opening of the hotel will have a positive impact on the number of visitors from all over the world.
What is the state of Indian market? What kind of share did Indian visitors have in total spending in 2019? Where was it in 2022?
The Indian source market is a growth market that has shown itself to be extremely remarkable, especially in 2022, with the discontinuation of travel regulations due to the pandemic. As tourism travel was only fully possible again from mid-2022, no direct comparison can be made with 2019. Nevertheless, we have seen an extremely positive trend in terms of visitor numbers from 2019 to 2022 and have chosen to focus our efforts even more on the market. India is now in the top 10 international markets for Outletcity Metzingen and therefore relevance is rated as important.
What is your forecast for this year vis a vis India?
With Covid restrictions completely removed since early 2023, we are extremely positive about the development of the national and international markets. Asia in particular, with focus on China, the Gulf States and India, play an enormous role in establishing Outletcity Metzingen as a shopping destination worldwide and raising its profile.
What are the Indian tourists looking for at Outletcity? What do they spend the most on?
Outletcity Metzingen offers a range of over 150 premium and luxury brands. Upper premium and luxury brands such as Jimmy Choo, Gucci and Burberry are particularly popular with Indian guests. They also appreciate the culinary offerings at Outletcity Metzingen, especially Almresi restaurant with its Alpine cuisine and Champa with its Asian fusion cuisine.
Are they more price conscious or brand conscious?
All guests of Outletcity Metzingen are very individual. Our Indian visitors focus on very high-quality goods from well-known designer brands and appreciate attractive prices and the wide range of brands.
What is your plan to promote Outletcity in the Indian market?
Our goal is to significantly increase the awareness of Outletcity Metzingen in India. We are supported by various experts directly from the source market. At the same time, we implement various in-country activities such as roadshows or participation in trade fairs.
We are looking forward to welcoming many Indian guests to Metzingen this summer and to introducing them to our destination. Fantastic promotions are planned such as various late night shopping days and guests can enjoy a fabulous summer set-up in Miami Beach style.
