September/October 2009
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Cover Story
Southgate Centre Expands!
They lined up early and eagerly awaited the opening. At 11:00 AM on August 5, 2009, Southgate Centre officially launched its 5 day grand opening celebration for the expansion of the 39 year old shopping centre. People waited to get the free swag bags being handed out by the exotic-looking upscale models. Thousands lined up to enter into the draws for prizes which included a $25,000 shopping spree, a trip to Las Vegas, and multitudes of gift cards. For the last 2 and a half years, Southgate Centre has been undergoing the $114 million expansion. The development adds 154,597 square feet of space which increases the space to 1,125,290 Square Feet. The growth adds over 30 new stores and a brand new food court. The expansion is expected to create 500-600 full and part time jobs.
According to Southgate Centre General Manager Paul Fairbridge, “Southgate is the most productive shopping centre in Edmonton. With the completion of the expansion, we have an enhanced mix of retailers for Edmontonians to enjoy.” The current average sales productivity is calculated at near $800 sales per square foot. The new retailers include: Alberta’s first Kiehl’s store, Coach, Banana Republic, Sephora, BCBG Max Azria, Zara, Mappins, Ecco Shoes, Geox, Town Shoes, Brown Shoes, Guess, Telephone Booth and Pusch. Southgate Centre’s focus for new retailers is for mid- to upscale fashion retailers.
The new food court has seating for 850 people and has five new operators: Edo of Japan, Koryo Korean BBQ, Opa Souvlaki, Rasoee Indian Kitchen and Thai Express. Other new exciting features near the food court are: hotel quality washrooms and a new customer concierge desk.
“Not only have we increased the store and service selection at Southgate but we have also enhanced the features of the Centre,” said Fairbridge. These features include additions to the parkades. Two additional parking levels above the retail expansion have been built adding 1000 parking stalls. Elevators have been built on both the east and west parkades to provide safe and convenient access to the shopping centre. Finally, contemporary architectural features and public art have been added and designed to create a welcoming atmosphere for customers.
With over 10 million visitors every year, Southgate Centre is also looking to expand on activities taking place at the shopping centre. From children’s programs, family activities, fashion events, community awareness events, and charity events, Southgate Centre wants to be more than just the dominant shopping centre in South Edmonton and continues to build relationships with the community to provide unique shopping experiences. For example on August 27, 2009, Southgate Centre held a Fall Fashion show showcasing the latest fashions. Overall this exciting expansion continues Southgate Centre’s commitment to provide an outstanding shopping experience for all visitors.
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