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Simon Adds Stores, Enhancements To Growing Woodbury Common Premium Outlets
Simon plans to add customer experience enhancements and a new store line-up to Woodbury Common Premium Outlets. Woodbury Common, the Orange County-based mega outlet mall which has the largest collection of luxury outlets in the US, will added 20 stores in 2024. The list includes David Yurman, Roberto Cavalli, Maison Margiela, Ladurée, BOGNER, Sferra, Bollicine Champagne Bar, Jil Sander, Eleventy, and Reformation among others. In addition, Arc’teryx, Tory Burch, Marc Jacobs and Golden Goose are expanding their footprints.
The outlet center draws more than 10 million shoppers annually.
The center is also planning upgrades, including a VIP Suite with private spaces including dressing rooms, an upscale lounge area with plush furnishings and curated art, and a private kitchen. The opulent ambience, the center said in a press release, will allow guests to explore the latest fashions from luxury brands in privacy and comfort. The VIP Suite will host private events, as well as offer personalized service and curated customer experiences. The multimillion-dollar suite is expected to open later this year in the heart of the center’s luxury wing, The Adirondacks District.
“Innovation and continually enhancing our idyllic shopping atmosphere, along with our collection of the most desirable brands, is what excites Woodbury Common’s shoppers, and we look forward to enhancing our guest service experience with our luxurious VIP Suite,” said Mark Silvestri, Simon’s President of Development.
Woodbury Common last fall unveiled plans to add 155,000 square feet of retail stores and restaurants, a 200-key luxury hotel, a second parking facility, and upgraded customer amenities. Enhanced amenities will include a new children’s play area, improved crosswalks and wayfinding, and generous landscaping.
Woodbury Common reported Q4 2023 sales surpassing $375 million. The center generates more than $1.2 billion in sales annually.
Heather Bell-Meyer Takes Helm of Chamber Alliance of New York State
The Board of Directors of the Chamber Alliance of New York State (CANYS), a statewide association of over 70 Chambers of Commerce, has elected Heather Bell-Meyer, President and CEO of the Orange County Chamber of Commerce as Chairperson.
Bell-Meyer began her board term on CANYS in January 2023.
The newly elected Chair has more than a decade of experience with chambers of commerce, economic development initiatives, and advocacy throughout the Hudson Valley region. Bell-Meyer is President & CEO of the Orange County Chamber of Commerce.
She has also held leadership positions since 2008 with Heineken USA, the YMCA, and her own small business. CANYS’ press release said she participates in the Business Council of NYS, Orange County Economic Development Task Force, Orange County Workforce Development Board, Stewart Air Service Development Committee, United Way of Dutchess and Orange Regions, the US Chamber of Commerce and Orange County and NYS Association of Towns.
“I’m extremely pleased to have Heather serve as our Chair to help further the work of CANYS in providing professional development, valuable resources and crucial advocacy strategies to our chambers of commerce throughout New York State”, said Peter Aust, Executive Director of CANYS. “Heather’s passion for chambers of commerce is effusive, her experience extensive and I’m confident our association will continue to grow under her leadership”
Bell-Meyer added, “I feel incredibly honored to contribute to CANYS in this capacity and to express my enthusiasm for business, economic development, and advocacy on behalf of colleagues statewide.” remarked Bell-Meyer.
“The efforts of Chambers of Commerce play a vital role in the survival, growth, and innovation of the communities we serve,” she added. “Our actions have a meaningful impact, and I am delighted to align my passion with CANYS, working towards the organization’s growth and, ultimately, enhancing business representation in New York State.”
