New York City gets its first outlet center

Empire Outlets, New York’s first outlet center, was inaugurated today on Staten island with shops from H&M, Banana Republic, Old Navy, Columbia Sporting Goods, Jockey, Brooks Brothers, Nike Factory, and Gap Factory. Nordstrom Rack, American Eagle Outfitters and Crocs are also set to open retail spaces at Empire Outlets in the upcoming months. In addition to the stores, the space features green open areas, art installations and restaurants spanning over 340,000 square feet.

"The opening of Empire Outlets is a historic day for Staten Island and for BFC Partners," said Donald Capoccia and Joseph Ferrara, Principals of BFC Partners, developers of the property in collaboration with NYC & Company, in a statement. "We set out to revolutionize the shopping experience in New York City”.

They hope the outlet center will not only revitalize Staten Island’s North Shore, but also attract more tourists to the area.

Picture: courtesy of Empire Outlets