Local roots, national appeal: Outlets Park City’s journey towards inclusive retail and community engagement

Outlets Park City, formerly Tanger Outlets, came into new ownership in late 2018. Photo: Outlets Park City

PARK CITY, Utah — While navigating an ownership change and the pandemic’s impact, Outlets Park City has emerged with a renewed vision and commitment to supporting the community’s shoppers and business owners.

In late 2018, Tanger Outlets became Outlets Park City. Soon thereafter, the world plunged into the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the change in ownership and vision for the outdoor retail space and mall flew under the radar. The benefits of being an outdoor center while facing the pandemic challenges provided better opportunities than some enclosed shopping centers.

“We’re very thoughtful about what we’re doing here at the center; it really is a process that we take seriously,” said Heather Nash, Outlets Park City General Manager.

With a thoughtful approach, the current owners aim to revitalize the center with cosmetic changes and by fostering an environment that resonates with both locals and tourists. Outlets Park City encompasses more than outlet shopping, from back-to-school shopping and vacationers browsing to grabbing a gift or necessity from a locally-owned shop.

Management embarked on a journey to reshape the narrative with the recent additions of four new stores, including Buckle, Pro Image, Chipotle, and Jersey Mike’s, signifying a pivotal shift towards a diverse and inclusive shopping experience.

The importance of amalgamating national outlets with local brands is paramount. The infusion of outlets with locally-owned businesses like Beau Collective, fulFILLed, Designer Digs, and others reflects the commitment to cater to the distinct preferences of both locals and tourists.

“We want to offer more than just retail; we strive to create gathering spaces and foster a sense of community,” said Nash. “Our aim is to balance the outlet experience with the essence of Park City, ensuring sustainable changes that resonate with the community’s desires.”

One of the notable strategies outlined for 2024 involves the introduction of unique retailers, addressing gaps in offerings, and unveiling an evolved shopping experience. Outlets Park City partnered again with the Park City Arts Council to bring the Brand PC pop-up back through Dec. 24 in an effort to support and showcase local artists.

“A hyper focus for us is to make sure that we have that local feel here and that we help the local businesses, especially being part of a large shopping center that they may not be used to,” said Nash. “I’m proud of these small businesses for giving us the chance and also current ownership for providing what they need to be successful because that doesn’t happen everywhere. I’m very proud to be part of that as the General Manager, but I also work closely with our owners and our retailers to make everyone uniquely successful.”

Follow Outlets Park City to stay updated on its progress and new additions on Instagram and Facebook.