Woodstock outlets a resounding success
Since opening in July 2013, the Outlet Shoppes at Atlanta has been a big boost to the Cherokee County economy, say local officials.
According to the Cherokee Office of Economic Development, the initial investment in the complex was $115 million and 1,200 jobs originally added upon its opening.
“Our community is benefiting from the boost in sales tax generation from the success of the Outlet Shoppes at Atlanta, which is helping local projects and education,” said Misti Martin, president, Cherokee Office of Economic Development. “They have been a wonderful addition to our county.”
Locals and people within the metro Atlanta area have responded by flocking to the complex that boasts the title of being the closest outlets to the downtown area, Martin said, just 31 miles outside town. The estimated yearly sales for the outlets are $150 million per year, according to the COED.
The sprawling 370,000 square-foot complex off of Ga. 575 in Woodstock has a total of 93 stores and is owned by CBL & Associate Properties Inc., and Horizon Group Properties Inc. In addition to the outlet stores, there are also several restaurants in the area. Marlow’s Tavern is one of the most recent restaurants to open. COED says that these restaurants, in addition to the outlets, adds to the attractiveness of the area.
Work is also underway on a 33,000 square-foot expansion on the north side of the complex.
The expansion will bring in more stores, namely GAP and Banana Republic, among others. The project is estimated to be complete by the 2015 holiday season.
Click here to view the original article on The North Atlanta Business Post.