Viaduct Village takes shape in southern France

Called Viaduct Village, the centre is being developed by the real estate investment arm of Groupe Idec and The Outlet Resource Group (TORG) has been appointed to lease it. 

Situated on a major north-south tourist route close to the iconic Millau Viaduct – the highest bridge in the world and the third most visited monument in France – the outlet’s retail offer will be aimed squarely at the tourist market, according to Lionel Mary, CEO of Groupe Idec Invest.

He estimates there are around nine million tourists annually, alongside a local catchment of around 1.5 million, and 15 million tourists who visit the neighbouring region of Languedoc Roussillon annually.
The first phase of development is due to open in spring 2018 and will offer 45 premi-um brand stores over 7,500 m2 GLA, including two restaurants showcasing the region’s rich gastronomy.

The second phase, including between 40 and 50 additional stores, will double the size of the project and is expected to open in 2019. The design is modern architecture set against a background of old villages. It’s not
a designer outlet, emphasises Mary. The aim is to project a sports, outdoor and lifestyle image with retailers that fit the bill.

‘We will offer variety and a village feel,’ he says. ‘This will be experience shopping and tourism, including
brands specific to the region.’