Two powerhouse investment firms have secured a prized retail asset that perfectly captures the resilience of the outlet sector, as Patron Capital and Mindston Capital announce their joint acquisition of Nailloux Outlet Village, France's only outlet centre serving the economically vibrant southwestern region.
The strategic acquisition, expected to close after summer, positions the investors to capitalise on a unique market monopoly just 20 minutes from Toulouse, now France's third-largest city. With 1.61 million visitors in 2024, representing a robust 4.8% year-on-year growth and an impressive average basket of €140, the 25,000 sq m centre demonstrates the sector's remarkable consumer appeal despite broader retail headwinds.
"This acquisition reflects the ambition to position Nailloux Outlet Village among the leading outlet destinations in France and Europe," the partners stated, signalling their confidence in the outlet model's proven resilience during economic uncertainty. The centre's strategic location between Toulouse and Carcassonne creates a captive audience spanning local shoppers, regional visitors, and tourists drawn to the area's rich cultural heritage.
What makes this acquisition particularly compelling for institutional investors is the untapped potential for catchment area expansion. With southwestern France experiencing significant population growth and Toulouse's tech sector boom attracting high-income demographics, the centre sits at the epicentre of evolving consumer patterns that favour experiential retail destinations over traditional shopping formats.
The transformation programme launching in 2025 will modernise the customer journey with architectural enhancements inspired by Occitan heritage, new landscaped terraces, and expanded food and beverage offerings. This repositioning strategy directly addresses the growing consumer demand for destination shopping experiences, a trend accelerated by post-pandemic shopping behaviours.
Advantail, which manages 20 retail destinations including seven outlet centres across France and Switzerland, will continue operational oversight, ensuring continuity while the new owners implement their ambitious vision. The centre currently hosts 72 shops featuring over 110 brands including Nike, Adidas, Lacoste, and regional labels, supporting 400 jobs in the local economy.
Companies mentioned:
- Patron Capital Partners - Investment firm with €5.3bn in capital raised, established 1999, undertaking 200+ transactions across 114 investments
- Mindston Capital - Retail investment and asset management specialists
- Advantail - Retail destination operator managing 20 retail destinations including 7 outlet centres across France and Switzerland
- Nailloux Outlet Village - Outlet centre opened 2011, 25,000 sq m retail space, 72 shops, 1.61 million visitors (2024)
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