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Ontario Mills is one of the hottest shopping centers in the Inland Empire. As part of our Thought Leadership program with San Bernardino County (RECon booth C203L), we spoke with Gregg Goodman, president of the Mills outlet concept, which is owned by Simon Property Group. He spoke to us about how asset is doing and retail trends in the area.

GlobeSt.com: Please describe your project located in San Bernardino County?

Gregg Goodman: Ontario Mills is the largest outlet and value retail shopping destination in California. It is the leading choice for area residents and visitors, showcasing more than 200 stores with some of the best names in outlet and value retail such as Saks Fifth Avenue OFF Fifth, Last Call by Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom Rack, Michael Kors, H&M, Coach Factory Store and more.

GlobeSt.com: What has been key to success as a retail property owner in this region?

Goodman: Ontario Mills is a major economic force fueling thousands of jobs, impacting tourism to the region and generating increased tax revenues. With support from city and county governments, we have attracted several big-box tenants, including Nordstrom Rack and Last Call by Neiman Marcus to create a well-received Fashion District; updated common areas of the property and expanded our customer amenities such as valet parking. We have also capitalized on our prime location to welcome a significant base of shoppers comprised of area residents and out-of-town travelers. It is also advantageous for Ontario Mills to be located in a city and county that is business friendly and focuses on long term successes.

GlobeSt.com: What has surprised you about the longevity of Ontario Mills and its success?

Goodman: We do a lot of research and planning before opening a property, so we are not surprised that Ontario Mills continues to enjoy great success. Location is a key factor that we examine and Ontario Mills does benefit from convenient highway access to attract travelers from various points of interest in California, plus close proximity to Ontario International Airport. Shopper demand for more fashion forward stores continues to fuel our evolving retail mix, which is translating to more traffic and sales

GlobeSt.com: Can you describe some recent news, changes at Ontario Mills?

Goodman: Ontario Mills continues to evolve as the largest outlet and value retail shopping destination in California. Recently, we unveiled our Mercedes-Benz of Ontario Fashion District, featuring a collection of the best names in fashion, including Last Call by Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom Rack and Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5TH, plus an outlet location from Michael Kors, Swarovski, Tommy Bahama and more. Shoppers have plenty of dining options with our newly renovated food court, featuring 11 eateries, comfortable furnishings and enhanced lighting. Modernized restrooms and expanded valet parking also add to the new look and feel at Ontario Mills.

GlobeSt.com: What is important to the shopping experience at Ontario Mills?

Goodman: At Ontario Mills, shoppers are our top priority. We offer an unmatched selection of retail, dining and entertainment options all under one roof. Shoppers can save up to 70% off everyday prices on popular name brand and designer clothing, jewelry, fitness apparel, health and beauty products and home accessories. We also offer a variety of amenities that customers want, such as full-service and casual dining options, valet parking, courteous Guest Services, modern restrooms and exterior directional signage for easy access to the best shopping in the area.

GlobeSt.com: What do you foresee for the future for Ontario Mills?

Goodman: Ontario Mills will continue to enjoy great success, constantly evolving to add the latest store concepts and brands to satisfy the needs of today's shoppers. We will also continue to seek opportunities to offer even more customer amenities, including further enhancements to the property so our visitors always have the best possible shopping experience.

GlobeSt.com: What do you tell retailers considering the area for expansion?

Goodman: The ongoing success of Ontario Mills speaks for itself as the largest outlet and value retail shopping destination in California. We engage potential retailers on key points related to the property such as sales and traffic, the current retail mix and our aggressive marketing efforts. In addition, we highlight the significant benefits of the area such as our prime location with convenient highway and airport access, hotel and lodging availability, sales potential from a growing local and out-of-town shopper base and a shared vision of success with local and county leaders who understand the economic value of what we bring to the area.

Instant Insights /

Simon Strong in San Bernardino County

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