An innovative €35m (£30m) retail and leisure destination, the Cotswolds Designer Outlet has officially opened 12,600m² of Phase 1 space, with 98% already let to 52 brands, a striking vote of confidence in post-pandemic retail. Developed by Robert Hitchins Ltd in partnership with specialist manager Multi-Realm, the outlet offers a model of heritage-inspired design blended with modern retail appeal.
Highlighting its regional impact, the scheme sits just off Junction 9 of the M5, drawing from a catchment stretching between Bristol and Birmingham, and tapping into an affluent population of 5.8 million within a 60-minute radius. With a projected footfall of 3.6 million visitors annually, the development adds up to 350 jobs in Phase 1 and over 600 when Phase 2 completes, delivering both social and economic value.
Built by Bouygues UK, Phase 1 used 330 m³ of FSC-certified timber, with Gaia AI technology cutting site energy use by 53% an ESG flagship for sustainable construction. The site also features EV charging, wildflower meadows and a dog-friendly meadow, attributes that boost its appeal as a motorway pause destination.
Local marketing specialist ICG led the brand strategy, supporting leasing before construction began and gathering over 7,000 e-newsletter sign-ups pre-opening, helping accelerate investor interest. Their efforts underscore the outlet’s dual appeal: a consumer destination and a compelling asset for institutional capital.
While Phase 1 proves its viability, plans for Phase 2 are being advanced sooner than anticipated, adding circa 4,650 m² (50,000 ft²) and around 90 more units. This fast tracking underlines strong investor momentum and the potential for blended returns from property, retail and hospitality income streams.
“We have taken great care to ensure we deliver something that showcases the very best of the region… this is an outstanding destination,” said Simon Tothill, property & development director at Robert Hitchins, while Christine Grace, leasing director at Multi Realm, added “To be 98% let on the day of opening is unprecedented…”.
People
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Simon Tothill – property & development director, Robert Hitchins
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Christine Grace – leasing director, Multi Realm
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John Boughton – managing director, Bouygues UK
Companies
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Robert Hitchins – developer & investor
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Multi Realm – retail & leisure scheme manager/operator
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Bouygues UK – main contractor, sustainable build lead
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ICG – strategic brand and leasing marketing partner
