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Simon Property Group

Malls open slowly, cautiously

May 12, 2020 By Kathy Steele

Rose Rich sipped a cool drink as she shared a bench out of the sun at The Shops at Wiregrass.

Her 19-year-old grandson, Chandler Estes, and Estes’ girlfriend, 18-year-old Jayda Warchesik, were on a visit from Texas.

“We’re out for an adventure,” Rich said.

Chandler Estes, 19, his girlfriend, Jayda Warchesik, and Estes’ grandmother, Rose Rich, enjoyed a trip to The Shops at Wiregrass on the first day it reopened. (Kathy Steele)

Estes and Warchesik hoped to find bathing suits for a trip to the beach, but were out of luck. They found few shops open.

The trio was among the first customers to explore Pasco County malls after weeks of homebound isolation and shuttered shops.

Effective May 4, Gov. Ron DeSantis gave the all-clear to at least some commercial activity to get the economy reopened amid the ongoing coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.

Mall operators, business owners and customers moved cautiously into uncharted territory. Many stores remained closed during the first days of lifted restrictions. Crowds of shoppers didn’t materialize.

But, as additional stores open, and with a weekend approaching, more shoppers were anticipated.

“We expected to have a slow opening, said Greg Lenners, general manager for The Shops at Wiregrass. “Various stores have their own protocols for ramping up. We’re off to a good start with the number of stores open.”

He estimated about one-quarter of Wiregrass shops had opened, evenly split among restaurants and retail.

Even during the shutdown, restaurants stayed open for takeout orders, with curbside pickup, Lenners said.

Wiregrass is following safety guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)  to protect customers and employees. The guidance includes extra sanitizing stations and closed-off play areas.

Tampa Premium Outlets and Cypress Creek Town Center also slowly opened a few previously closed shops. They also followed CDC guidelines.

Cypress Creek Town Center even has a new tenant, Aussie Grill, a free-standing restaurant on Sierra Center Boulevard.

A press release announced that the restaurant would offer limited indoor seating, drive-through, pickup and delivery.

Meanwhile, just outside AtHome at Tampa Premium Outlets, Jerry Cugno struggled to move a cache of large wall art from a shopping cart into the back seat and trunk of his car.

He wore a face mask and carried sanitizer in his pocket.

He picked up the art trove for his Lakeland-based spas. Cugno owns a chain of spas with more than 30 locations in Florida, and one in Denver, Colorado.

“I’m so happy, I can’t believe it,” Cugno said.

Many, but not all, of the services at his spas still remain off-limits during the first phase of Florida’s reopening.

But, people are ready to go back to work, he said.

He agrees with that sentiment: “Let them do their jobs,” he said.

Jerry Cugno, owner of a chain of spas, is happy with his purchase from AtHome, at Tampa Premium Outlets.

Clusters of cars filled the outlet mall’s parking lots. And, a few families and young couples strolled down pathways looking for open stores.

Shelly Stecklow successfully returned an item she bought before shops closed.

She enjoyed the chance to visit stores other than Walmart and Sam’s Clubs, which had stayed open.

“It’s just being out and about,” she said.

“I think as long as people are aware of their environment and abide by what they are told to do, it’s OK,” she said.

Most stores remained closed, but a few doors were open, including Haagen Dazs, Pop Cult, Finish Line and Elite Home Room Games.

An employee posted a notice on the door at Express Men listing a May 8 opening.

Representatives for the outlet mall and its owner, Simon Property Group, could not be reached for comment.

In a news release, Simon President John Rulli said, “We look forward to serving the needs of our communities, and (to) do so in a safe and responsible manner.”

Owner Jennifer Morales opened her shop, Sparks Jewelers, on the first day allowed.

She hadn’t seen many customers by midday and many who walked in said they were just looking for an open shop.

Morales and an employee wore face masks. A sign taped to the door gave notice that customers also should wear masks.

The shutdown has been hard.

“We’re a small business,” said Morales, who has been at the outlet mall about two years. “If we don’t open, we don’t generate sales. We depend on foot traffic.”

She is hopeful, though, that business will pick up — safely, and soon.

Published May 13, 2020

More shops coming to Cypress Creek and Tampa Premium Outlets

June 20, 2018 By Kathy Steele

New retail is on the way to Cypress Creek Town Center, located west of the Interstate 75 interchange, on the north side of State Road 56.

Across the road, Tampa Premium Outlets will add a new big box store – the At Home Décor Superstore.

Construction on the infrastructure for the new shops is in early stages.

Berry Construction has obtained permits for Burlington (formerly Burlington Coat Factory), Earth Fare grocery store, Home Goods, and Five Below, for Cypress Creek Town Center.

At Home Décor Superstore is under construction at Tampa Premium Outlets. (Kathy Steele)

A representative for Sierra Properties, which is developing the site, couldn’t be reached for comment.

Permits are for parcels located along Sierra Center Boulevard, which already is populated with restaurants and shops.

Ford’s Garage, Mellow Mushroom, Men’s Wearhouse, Pollo Tropical, Chuy’s Tex Mex, Great Clips and Bahama Breeze are among existing tenants.

A 130-room Hyatt Place Hotel & Conference is nearing completion.

At Home Décor Superstore is under construction on an outparcel, off Grand Cypress Drive at the outlet mall, which is being developed by Simon Property Group. The store will be directly behind the Costco Warehouse Store.

Advertising on the exterior of a parked Home Décor truck touts a summer 2018 opening.

A company representative couldn’t be reached for comment.

The new retail will offer a range of shopping choices.

Burlington
The company began in 1924 as a wholesaler of women’s coats and junior suits. An outlet store opened in 1972 in Burlington, New Jersey. The shop expanded from women’s clothes to add men’s wear, sportswear and accessories.

Earth Fare
Earth Fare is a full-service supermarket that offers natural, healthy food choices. It began in 1975 as Dinner for the Earth, a health food store in Ashville, North Carolina. The first Earth Fare grocery store opened in 1994.

Home Goods
Home Goods is a discount home furnishings store with a range of departments, including furniture, gifts, bedding, pets, and home accents.

Five Below
Five Below is aimed at teens, preteens and their parents, selling an eclectic mix of items, including cellphone cases and chargers, yoga pants, footballs, and candy and seasonal items for Halloween, Easter and Christmas.

At Home Décor Superstore
The Texas-based discount home décor store sells upwards of 50,000 items in warehouse-size spaces. Departments include furniture, rugs, storage and organization, pots and planters, and lights.

Published June 20, 2018

Cash registers jingle at Tampa Premium Outlets

November 25, 2015 By Kathy Steele

Shopping madness begins at Tampa Premium Outlets in a shop ‘til you drop holiday extravaganza.

The outlet mall, which is experiencing its first holiday season, will open on Thanksgiving at 6 p.m., and will continuously operate through Black Friday, until 10 p.m.

Mall hours the rest of the weekend will be from 8 a.m. until 10 p.m., on Nov. 28 and from 9 a.m. until 8 p.m., on Nov. 29.

While shoppers are expected to flock to the outlet mall — which had a splashy opening at the end of October — local businesses may pick up some spinoff trade.

Local shops are already reporting that their cash registers are ringing up more sales.

Tampa Premium Outlets is having a shop ‘til you drop holiday extravaganza during its first holiday season. The shopping destination opened at the end of October, off State Road 56, west of Interstate 75. (File Photo)
Tampa Premium Outlets is having a shop ‘til you drop holiday extravaganza during its first holiday season. The shopping destination opened at the end of October, off State Road 56, west of Interstate 75.
(File Photo)

“I’ve already seen it,” said Jeremy Quijano, manager of Kona Swim Bike Run, at 27217 State Road 56. The triathlon shop is a short hop from the outlet mall, at the interchange of Interstate 75 and State Road 56.

Quijano said a man came in the shop after dropping off his wife at the outlet mall. He put his focus on buying sports gear not on hours of outlet mall shopping. “I’m going to have some fun,” Quijano said the man told him.

The outlet mall is one half of a retail bookend that could bring more visibility to locally owned and operated shops.

Another customer told Quijano that he was driving past heading from The Shops at Wiregrass to Tampa Premium Outlets when he spotted Kona.

“I never knew you were here,” the customer said.

Before and during the grand opening, Hampton Inn & Suites saw a boost in reservations as the mall’s developer, Simon Property Group, booked rooms for its team members.

People from corporate headquarters are still flying in, said Todd Patrick, the hotel’s general manager.

But, reservations don’t have to come from long-distance travelers. Patrick said a woman from Spring Hill booked a night at the hotel within the past week because she wanted to get an early start on her shopping.

Overall, he said, “It’s hard to gauge. But, there are a few people making reservations to shop.”

That can happen, apparently, even when the drive from home is only 30 minutes.

The shopping season is expected to be strong as it officially kicks off on Black Friday, according to recent surveys by the International Council of Shopping Centers.

Sales should increase about 3.3 percent, according to one survey. Another consumer survey showed customers plan to spend $702 on average for holiday gifts, an increase from $677 in 2014.

“It’s a pretty sizable jump,” said Jesse Tron, spokesman for the council. Consumers are feeling pretty good. “It should produce what should be a very strong season.”

So, cash registers will be jingling at The Shops at Wiregrass and Tampa Premium Outlets. There really is no direct competition between them, but there is the potential for people who come to one venue to drive on over to the other, Tron said.

“The two are different kinds of shopping trips,” he added.

Local malls typically are destinations for area residents who stop by once or twice a week. Outlets malls draw regionally from shoppers who make it a day trip and stay for hours.

But, he said, “(Local) malls are increasingly looking at becoming experience destinations. They may add unique dining and entertainment options. It’s not necessarily about retail. It’s adding the extra layer. Local malls and shopping centers are very invested in their community.”

For more information on holiday shopping hours for Tampa Premium Outlets, visit PremiumOutlets.com/outlet/tampa/about.

Published November 25, 2015

Opening day a hit

November 4, 2015 By Kathy Steele

Shoppers flock to Tampa Premium Outlets

Margie Hamman was one of the earliest birds to land at the Tampa Premium Outlets.

Almost too early.

Her 5:30 a.m. arrival at the fog-shrouded parking lot, off State Road 56, surprised one parking lot attendant who said she should come back later.

After being first in line at Coach, Margie Hamman of Homosassa makes her way through the crowd en route to Gap at the grand opening of Tampa Premium Outlets. (Fred Bellet/Photos)
After being first in line at Coach, Margie Hamman of Homosassa makes her way through the crowd en route to Gap at the grand opening of Tampa Premium Outlets.
(Fred Bellet/Photos)

As she began driving off, a man “in a suit and tie” flagged her down and ushered her back to the parking lot, she said.

She was rewarded for early arrival when she came away with a bag full of coveted handbags and the bragging right of being the first customer inside the Coach store when the mall opened at 10 a.m.

She got a steal for her 10 designer purses, and then she moved on over to Gap.

“I’ll be making a lot of trips to my car,” said Hamman, who drove from Homosassa to her daughter’s home in Odessa the night before. “I’m doing my Christmas shopping.”

She was among thousands who thronged the walkways on Oct. 29, the opening day for the highly anticipated outlet mall developed by Simon Property Group.

Hamman expects to be back, again and again.

The Ellenton Premium Outlets (also a Simon mall) is no longer her go-to destination, especially when she has a daughter living so close to Tampa Premium Outlets.

Fountains shoot water into the air as the Market Hall food court towers over the Lagoon Court at the Tampa Premium Outlets.
Fountains shoot water into the air as the Market Hall food court towers over the Lagoon Court at the Tampa Premium Outlets.

Like Hamman, there are others who will forego outlet malls in Ellenton and Orlando to jingle cash registers in Pasco County instead.

The outlet mall will be an economic shot in the arm, Pasco County Commissioner Chairman Ted Schrader, said during the ribbon-cutting ceremony.

“We know it’s going to be a very big success, building on this momentum,” he said. “We are so looking forward to shoppers spending so much time in Pasco, maybe looking around, staying and living here.”

About 800 people gained full and part-time jobs at the outlet mall, and local labor hired about 500 people to help build it.

The outlet mall adds cache to the Tampa Bay region and will help boost tourism, said Ed Caum, Pasco’s tourism manager.

Visitors to the area can be expected to spend their money in more than one county and at more than one venue, he said.

“It will have a regional influence,” said Caum. “People will fly in to Tampa International Airport. They may stay in Clearwater, but eat at Ulele (in Tampa), and come here to the mall.”

Foreign visitors, especially from Canada and Brazil, are frequent shoppers at the Orlando Outlet Mall. And, Caum said Pasco plans to focus some of its marketing on Central and South American countries including Venezuela, Argentina and Mexico.

With counties sharing in the tourism pool, Hillsborough County’s tourism agency, Visit Tampa Bay, will include materials on the Tampa Premium Outlets in its marketing packages at an upcoming trade show in London.

“Everything that’s in Pasco, we’re going to be working very closely with them,” said Kevin Wiatrowski, regional media relations manager for Visit Tampa Bay. “All of our materials have this built into it along with our regular stuff. It’s an impressive time to be here.”

Wesley Chapel resident Rita Faddoul came from Lebanon more than 20 years ago. She remembers when the community had “one store, one light.”

Now, she says relatives coming from Europe will enjoy something unique in her neighborhood.

“It’s better than the International Mall,” Faddoul said. “I want to stay until midnight.”

Cool vibe and good deals

When all of its stores have opened, the 441,000-square-foot mall, with its “Key West” décor, will boast more than 100 designer brand shops selling top-line merchandise at 25 percent to 65 percent discounts daily.

Many stores sweetened the bargains with larger discounts, coupons and giveaways during the mall’s opening weekend from Oct. 29 through Nov. 1.

Karen Jenkins, and her mother, Beth McDonald, sat on a bench studying a brochure and a map of the outlet mall.

“I’m really just looking to see what they have,” said Jenkins. “If I see something I like, I’ll buy it.”

Tampa Premium Outlets has some stores that shoppers won’t find at Ellenton, including Naturalizer and The Limited.
The duo registered with the Tampa outlet’s VIP Shopper, and got a few coupons including a discount on Ralph Lauren merchandise.

“We’re thrilled we’re not driving to Ellenton,” said Jenkins who lives in Land O’ Lakes. But, she added: “My husband’s not happy about this.”

Kaiya Davis and her son, Jamal McIntosh, had a quick hop to the mall, from their new home in Lutz.

Davis took the day off to check out the shops.

Stephen Yalof, chief executive officer of Premium OUtlets for Simon, talks about the opening of Tampa Premium Outlets, located on State Road 56, near Interstate 75.
Stephen Yalof, chief executive officer of Premium OUtlets for Simon, talks about the opening of Tampa Premium Outlets, located on State Road 56, near Interstate 75.

McIntosh is starting a job with the Florida Department of Transportation and soon could be working on highway projects to ease traffic woes at the interchange of Interstate 75 and State Road 56.

“Lots of new beginnings,” said Davis.

Besides a being new shopping venue, the new homeowner sees an added bonus from the mall.

“The price of property values are going to go up,” she said.

Another Lutz resident Karen Fortin, and her mother, Margaret Carreiro, left Columbia Sportswear, one of their favorite stores, carrying bags containing shoes and a fleece jacket.

The travel time to the shopping destination can’t be beat, they said.

“We’re right here, 2 minutes from home,” Fortin said.

Caralee and Charles Shapero had a longer trip, coming over from Clearwater. But, they might come back.

“We will see,” said Caralee Shapero. “It’s missing a Bath & Body Works, but it is closer. So far so good.”

They are Yankee Candle enthusiasts and were ready to snap up a deal – five candles for $50.

“We’ll be walking out with 10,” said Caralee Shapero.

Natalie Scheer and Blanca Jordan sat down on a bench with Disney Store Outlet bags at their feet. They rattled off stores they had been to and others they were ready to take on.

“We’re only halfway there,” said Scheer, who along with Jordan, works at Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel.

They expected to spend two hours to three hours scouring the mall for bargains.

“We threw our bags in the car already,” said Jordan. “This is our second round. It’s wonderful. We don’t have to go all the way to Orlando.”

Jordan said she sometimes goes to Westfield Citrus Park. But, she added: “Outlets are much better. You get better deals.”

The women liked the setting, too.

Jordan held out her cellphone showing off a picture of the two framed in the background by the mall’s blue water lagoon and bridge.

“It looks like we’re on vacation,” said Scheer.

Published November 4, 2015

 

Ready. Set. Go – Tampa Premium Outlets!

October 28, 2015 By Kathy Steele

Shopping season is set to open at Tampa Premium Outlets — no license is required.

The highly anticipated outdoor mall – in the bull’s eye of Pasco County development – will have its ribbon-cutting ceremony on Oct. 29 at 9:40 a.m.

Shop doors open at 10 a.m.

Tampa Premium Outlets is a 441,000-square-foot mall with more than 100 shops featuring brand names such as Calvin Klein, Nike, Saks Off 5th, Vera Bradley and PacSun. Courtesy of Tampa Premium Outlets
Tampa Premium Outlets is a 441,000-square-foot mall with more than 100 shops featuring brand names such as Calvin Klein, Nike, Saks Off 5th, Vera Bradley and PacSun.
Courtesy of Tampa Premium Outlets

Shelves will be stocked with upscale brand names at more than 100 shops, including Saks Off 5th, Calvin Klein, Nike, Coach and Michael Kors. Opening day is expected to bring thousands to check out typical discounts ranging from 25 percent to 65 percent on coveted merchandise.

Mall developers at Simon Property Group are planning a full weekend of special events, family-friendly activities, and Halloween Happenings.

As a regular feature, there is a play area for children.

“We want to encourage everyone to come out with their families,” said Stacey Nance, the mall’s general manager, who recently gave the media a sneak peek at the mall.

Reality television star Bethenny Frankel of The Housewives of New York will be a special guest on Oct. 31 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Frankel, also founder of Skinnygirl Cocktails, will greet shoppers, participate in interactive style segments and share fashion advice. She also will host two autograph sessions with fans at the VIP Shoppers Club Lounge.

To access the lounge, fans can enroll in Simon Premium Outlets VIP Shoppers Club at premiumoutlets.com/vip, or in person at the mall, outside the lounge.

Club members are eligible for exclusive deals, coupons and other benefits. The lounge will host several activities during opening weekend, including chair massages, a beauty bar and a photo station.

Other highlights during opening weekend include free entertainment, deals and giveaways.

Rush-hour traffic typically stacks up along State Road 56 at the Interstate 75 interchange. On opening day for Tampa Premium Outlets, 12 extra duty officers from the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office will help with traffic and security at the mall. FRED BELLET/PHOTO
Rush-hour traffic typically stacks up along State Road 56 at the Interstate 75 interchange. On opening day for Tampa Premium Outlets, 12 extra duty officers from the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office will help with traffic and security at the mall.
FRED BELLET/PHOTO

Rack Room Shoes, for instance, will give shoppers a chance to win a $500 gift card and other giveaways, including coupon books with discounts, according to a news release from the shoe company.

The 441,000-square-foot mall is designed with a “Key West” vibe, with airy pastel colors, a multitude of palm trees, covered walkways and water features.

The centerpiece is a clear blue lagoon outside the Market Hall, which houses customers services, the food court and a lounge where people can sit and watch television.

A bridge crosses the lagoon, which is surrounded by a deck with benches and bistro chairs. A fire pit and Adirondack chairs are nearby.

“I think it will be a feature where people will want to take their picture by,” Nance said.

Traffic in and out of the mall is expected to be heavy but Nance said talks have been ongoing for months with Pasco County Sheriff’s Office.

Typically, opening days at malls see parking lots turn over four or five times.

“It’s going to be a constant ebb and flow throughout the day,” Nance predicted.

The mall will offer valet parking on a trial basis. If successful, Nance anticipates the service will become permanent.

On opening weekend, 12 extra duty law enforcement officers, paid for by the mall, will be stationed at mall entrances as well as inside the mall, Pasco County Sheriff’s spokesman Kevin Doll said.

The officers will include two supervisors.

If more help is needed, Doll said the sheriff’s citizen patrol group could be tapped to help with traffic.

“We’ve handled big events in the past,” he said. “Hopefully this will go smoothly.”

Outlet mall openings are special events wherever they happen, said Linda Humphers, editor in chief of Value Retail News/International Council of Shopping Centers.

There are only about 100 or so outlet malls in the nation.

In the central Florida area, Tampa Premium Outlets is situated between outlet malls in Orlando and New Ellenton.

“That’s part of the mystique of them,” Humphers said. “You go there. You stay longer and spend more. It’s not like going to a mall and getting something you need.”

Outlet mall developers typically look for locations with easy access, high visibility, lots of rooftops and a solid tourism base, Humphers said.

Pasco scores on all counts for Tampa Premium Outlets, which is off State Road 56 and the Interstate 75 interchange. And the county recently released a report showing a record number of tourist visitors and revenues in the past year.

Marketing for the Tampa Premium Outlets extends into the Tampa Bay region, but in future could spread a wider net, Nance said.

“We’ll definitely be looking at that when we get further along in our marketing plan,” she said.

Pasco’s future is set on a course for more retail and rooftops as developers saturate commercial corridors such as State Road 54 and State Road 56.

New shops are coming to property northeast of the Shoppes at Wiregrass. The Florida Center Ice sports complex is expected to open in 2016. Cypress Creek Town Center is anticipating openings for Chick Fil A, Culver’s and Cheddar Café. And the town center’s representatives recently met with county planners to discuss construction of a retail building, parking space and a boat storage area.

Speculation is that sporting goods retailer, Cabelas, is on the way to Wesley Chapel, too.

And there is a lot of buzz swirling around Tampa Premium Outlets’ opening day, Humphers said.

“Retail begets retail,” she said.

 

Tampa Premium Outlets grand opening

Grand opening: Oct. 29 through Nov. 1

Hours: Ribbon cutting Oct. 29 at 9:40 a.m.; extended hours from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. opening day through Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Sunday.

Regular hours begin Nov. 2 from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Monday through Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday.

Celebrity guest: Reality television star, Bethenny Frankel, on Oct. 31 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

 

Published October 28, 2015

Mall leader enjoys building relationships

September 9, 2015 By Kathy Steele

Relationships are what Stacey Nance cares about the most.

It explains why she grew up and then settled on a career in her native Indiana.

And it is also why, after nearly two decades with Simon Property Group, she is taking the next big step in her life and her career.

Nance took the reins as general manager of Tampa Premium Outlets in May.

Stacey Nance is the general manager of Tampa Premium Outlets. The regional mall, off State Road 54 near the Interstate 75 interchange, is scheduled to open on Oct. 29. (Fred Bellet/Photo)
Stacey Nance is the general manager of Tampa Premium Outlets. The regional mall, off State Road 54 near the Interstate 75 interchange, is scheduled to open on Oct. 29.
(Fred Bellet/Photo)

The regional outlet mall is the first major retail development in Pasco County since The Shops at Wiregrass opened in October 2008.

For Nance, the job opportunity is her first move away from Indiana, and her first time to take the lead in opening a Simon mall.

She graduated from Ball State College in Muncie, Indiana.

For 18 years, Nance has carved out a fast-paced career in marketing and later in mall management with Simon Property Group, again in Muncie.

She stayed in Muncie, despite working for a company that is the largest mall owner in the nation and also owns real estate properties all over the world.

“For the longest time I didn’t want to leave, because I wanted to raise my son in one community and in one school (district),” Nance said.

But, with her son’s graduation from college, the time felt right for a change. So, Nance jumped at the challenge to be in charge at Tampa Premium Outlets.

She knew after one quick visit that she wanted to set down roots in a new community.

“From the moment I was in the Wesley Chapel area, it made me feel so welcome,” Nance said. “My personality is that I love to form relationships and partnerships. That’s exactly what I want to continue here.”

The 441,000-square-foot outlet mall is set to open the weekend of Oct. 29 through Nov. 1.

The “Key West” style outlet center will feature 110 shops with widely known brands, such as Ralph Lauren, Saks Off Fifth, Michael Kors, Donna Karan and Vera Bradley.

The mall is in the spotlight as a driver of the local economy, a job generator and a regional draw for shopaholics.

Since arriving in May, Nance has put together a management team and immersed herself in the daily details and long-range planning for opening the mall.

Now, with the mall’s opening less than two months away, the anticipation is growing.

“We can’t imagine the amount of pride we’re going to have cutting the ribbon (for the mall),” Nance said.

At a recent job fair, Nance and her team oversaw logistics for an event that attracted more than 3,000 applicants in the hunt for more than 800 jobs the mall offers.

It was the first time Nance had the chance for face-to-face meetings with some of the mall’s tenants.

That personal connection was right up her alley.

“It gives them the opportunity to meet with me and start direct relationships,” she said. “I’m very much a people person.”

At Ball State, Nance earned a Bachelor of Science degree in marketing and management, with a specialization in sales and promotion. Her first job was as marketing director for a financial institution.

But, she said, “I needed additional challenges and professional growth.”

She started with Simon Property Group as marketing director at Muncie Mall. She worked there for nine years and then shifted into mall management. She was put in charge of overall operations at Muncie Mall, Muncie Plaza and Northwood Plaza in Indiana.

Management is her niche now.

“It’s so diverse,” Nance said. “I’ll work with a team, but on any given day I’ll do marketing, public relations or community relations.”

In the past, she has been part of a team that has pitched in to pull off opening day at a mall. This is her first time being in charge.

“When somebody really thinks about that, from below ground to the top of the roof, is our responsibility,” she said. “It’s an entire team that can pull off the opening of the entire center.”

The goal is to create a mall that feels as if it’s a gathering place.

“We want them (people) to come, and meet friends and family, just congregate,” Nance said. “Have a nice day out, and hang out in the mall.”

As she settles into her job, Nance also is planting roots in her new Florida community.

She recently closed on a new house, and expects to stay here for a long time.

“Now, this is my home,” she said. “I’m not a mover.”

Published September 9, 2015

Tampa Premium Outlets to have ‘Key West’ vibe

August 26, 2015 By Kathy Steele

Tampa Premium Outlets will have water, water, everywhere.

The mega-outlet mall will have a center court lagoon, five fountains, and buildings and interiors painted in soft pastels, to give shoppers a “Key West” experience.

Special events and celebrities will punctuate an opening weekend slated for Oct. 29 through Nov. 1.

Palm trees and a pastel color palette throughout Tampa Premium Outlets will give shoppers a ‘Key West’ experience. (Artist renderings courtesy of Simon Property Group)
Palm trees and a pastel color palette throughout Tampa Premium Outlets will give shoppers a                              ‘Key West’ experience.
(Artist renderings courtesy of Simon Property Group)

General Manager Stacey Nance gave guests at the Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce’s monthly breakfast a peek at the soon-to-open mall, off State Road 56, near Interstate 75.

The breakfast marked the first formal event by Nance who was tapped as general manager in May. She began her career with Simon Property Group 18 years ago, as director of marketing at Muncie Mall, in Muncie, Indiana. She later moved into retail management, overseeing operations at Muncie Mall, Muncie Plaza and Northwood Plaza.

Nance also introduced her staff members, including Office Administrator Kelly Holmes and Operations Manager Dallas Stevens.

“We are very excited to be part of your community for many years to come,” Nance said.

The 441,000-square-foot mall will have 110 outlet shops, though not all will be part of the opening weekend. Among announced tenants are Adidas, Brooks Brothers, Coach, Fossil, Puma and Samsonite.

About 92 percent of the mall will be filled on opening day, Nance said. The extra open space is needed, she said, to allow room for the special events.

Details on the events and the as-yet-unnamed celebrities will be announced later.

A job fair for more than 800 jobs will take place on Aug. 27 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., at Embassy Suites, at 3705 Spectrum Blvd., in Tampa. The Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce and Career Central at Pasco Hernando State College are event coordinators.

All of the announced tenants will participate in the job fair, Nance said.

Stacey Nance is the general manager of Tampa Premium Outlets that will open on Oct. 29. (File Photo)
Stacey Nance is the general manager of Tampa Premium Outlets that will open on Oct. 29.
(File Photo)

On opening day, shoppers can try out a valet service. Not all Simon properties have valet parking, but Nance said plans are to see how it is utilized.

Marketing is under way also for outparcels that could bring in more tenants.

“If you all come out and spend lots of money, there will be more development,” Nance said.

She anticipates opportunities for local businesses to bid for contracts including for special events, banners and lighting for the parking lot. Signarama, a Wesley Chapel-based company and a “podium sponsor” of the chamber’s breakfast, was among local businesses that provided items for the outlet mall’s groundbreaking.

“Basically, the sky’s the limit,” Nance said.

Published August 26, 2015

Eatery trio in the serving line at Tampa Premium Outlets’ food court

August 19, 2015 By Kathy Steele

A trio of food court restaurants at the Tampa Premium Outlets is slated for completion by Oct. 5, about three weeks before the mall’s opening day.

Green Leafs, Bananas Smoothies & Frozen Yogurt, and South Philly Steaks & Fries are a package deal for Eclipse Building Corp. The South Florida-based company, with additional locations in Fort Lauderdale and Tampa, is a frequent contractor at malls built by Simon Property Group, the developers behind the outlet mall at State Road 56 and the Interstate 75 interchange.

Eclipse Building Corp. is in charge of construction of 40 percent of the food court at Tampa Premium Outlets including Green Leafs and Bananas Smoothies & Frozen Yogurt. (Courtesy of Eclipse Corp.)
Eclipse Building Corp. is in charge of construction of 40 percent of the food court at Tampa Premium Outlets including Green Leafs and Bananas Smoothies & Frozen Yogurt.
(Courtesy of Eclipse Corp.)

The mall will have 110 outlet stores including Michael Kors, Gymboree, J. Crew, Calvin Klein, Ralph Lauren and PacSun.

Franchisee Raitom LLC hired Eclipse to build the three gourmet eateries in the mall’s food court, which represent about 40 percent of the mall’s food court.

The grouping of these particular eateries is a first for Raitom, which hopes to market them similarly at other malls.

“They all kind of complement each other,” said Todd Whalen, founder and president of Eclipse.

Green Leafs specializes in fast food, healthy dining with fresh made-to-order and signature salads, wraps, grilled paninis and homemade soups. Bananas Smoothies creates fruit smoothies and nonfat yogurt treats. South Philly serves a heartier menu with classic cheese steaks, salads, loaded potatoes and potato skins.

Eclipse is bidding on contracts for retail vendors at the outlet mall as well as an Asian-themed food court eatery, also part of Raitom’s franchises. With that contract, Eclipse would be responsible for 65 percent of the food court.

Other Eclipse clients include For Eyes, J. McLaughlin, Build-A-Bear, Fresh Healthy Café and Perfumania.

Whalen said his company takes a unique approach in its bidding by offering a two-year warranty including maintenance services. The industry standard generally is for one-year warranties, he said.

“We just keep the place looking brand new,” Whalen said.

The Oct. 5 completion date for the eateries allows time to stock the restaurants and train employees, he added.

“It’s going to be a very, very exciting shopping experience for everyone,” Whalen said.

Published August 19, 2015

Coming soon: outlet mall’s job fair

July 29, 2015 By Kathy Steele

In a sign that Tampa Premium Outlets is gearing up for its October opening, planning is under way for a job fair to fill approximately 800 positions.

The hiring event is scheduled for Aug. 27, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., at Embassy Suites, at 3705 Spectrum Blvd., in Tampa.

Tampa Premium Outlets Job Fair will help fill more than 800 jobs. (File Photos)
Tampa Premium Outlets Job Fair will help fill more than 800 jobs.
(File Photos)

The Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce and Career Central at Pasco-Hernando State College are event coordinators.

The chamber will invite retailers to a private breakfast before the fair. Members also are helping promote the event.

“It’s so exciting to see this,” said Hope Allen, the chamber’s executive director.

Career Central at Pasco-Hernando State College is preparing for a job fair that’s expected to attract between 1,000 to 2,000 applicants, said Ana Segovia, a business consultant with Career Central.

It proved difficult finding a venue in Pasco large enough to accommodate the event, Segovia said.

“The job fair is really important to us and to our retailers who want to fill all these jobs,” said Les Morris, spokesman for Simon Property Group. “Our motivation is to have a large, centrally located venue that people can get to easily.”

Work is heading into the home stretch at the soon-to-open Tampa Premium Outlets.
Work is heading into the home stretch at the soon-to-open
Tampa Premium Outlets.

Retailers are beginning to send in job descriptions with positions expected in retail, management, security, maintenance and food preparation.

Segovia said fliers and social media are among the various ways the word will be spread about the job fair.

In other news, developers of the outlet mall have released the first official list of stores set to open on Oct. 29.

In a July 22 news release, 14 stores are identified, out of more than 110 stores expected to open at the center.

Stores identified by the mall so far are Adidas, Banana Republic Factory Store, Brooks Brothers Factory Store, Coach, Cole Haan, Disney Store Outlet, Ecco, Express Factory Outlet, Fossil, Gap Factory Outlet, Hartstrings, Nike Factory Store, Puma and Samsonite.

Saks OFF 5th was announced previously as the mall’s anchor.

More announcements are anticipated in coming weeks from Simon, the global real estate company that is building the mall, off State Road 56, at the Interstate 75 interchange.

While store announcements are trickling out, nearly 80 stores have applied with Pasco County for building permits and have been identified in media reports in recent weeks.

Among the newest ones – not included in the news release – are Forever 21, Kitchen Collection, The Cosmetic Company, PacSun, Tillys, Guess, Motherhood Maternity, the Luggage Factory, The Limited and Aldo Shoes.

For information about the job fair, call Career Central at (352) 200-3020.

Published July 29, 2015

Details emerging for Tampa Premium Outlets

July 8, 2015 By Kathy Steele

Pasco County is awash in building permit applications for Tampa Premium Outlets, a project under construction off State Road 56 at the Interstate 75 exchange.

As construction proceeds, the fence along State Road 56 gives passersby a peek at a sign with a rendering of the interior of Tampa Premium Outlets. The grand opening is set for Oct. 29. (Fred Bellet/Photos)
As construction proceeds, the fence along State Road 56 gives passersby a peek at a sign with a rendering of the interior of Tampa Premium Outlets. The grand opening is set for Oct. 29.
(Fred Bellet/Photos)

The anchor store, Saks Off 5th, is eyeing more than 27,000 square feet for its merchandise, according to county records. Others that have filed initial applications include Calvin Klein, Michael Kors, Gap, American Eagle Outfitters, Fossil, J. Crew, Ann Taylor, Vera Bradley, Banana Republic, Ralph Lauren and Papaya.

The food court will go eclectic.

GreenLeafs & Bananas, Asian Chao, Villa Italian Kitchen and South Philly Steaks & Fries have all signed on.

Official announcements of the store lineup are anticipated over the next weeks in phases, probably in batches of 10 or 15, said Les Morris, spokesman for the Simon Property Group.

“We’re excited,” he said. “I’m not aware of another market…where the interest has been so high for so long.”

A job fair is in the works, Morris said.

These towers provide a point of interest at Tampa Premium Outlets, a project taking shape on State Road 56, just off Interstate 75.
These towers provide a point of interest at Tampa Premium Outlets, a project taking shape on State Road 56, just off Interstate 75.

Mall construction has generated between 300 and 400 jobs. Retail shops are expected to more than double that, with an estimated 800-plus jobs for the community.

Typically, job fairs are six to eight weeks prior to the grand opening.

Since Tampa Premium Outlets opens on Oct. 29, Morris expects an announcement of the job fair’s date and location to be made around August.

“We want it to be accessible and well-known so people can get their jobs,” he said.

Shops at Tampa Premium Outlet, and food court fare, include:

Adidas

American Eagle Outfitters

Ann Taylor

Asian Chao

Asics

Banana Republic

Calvin Klein

Carter’s

Christopher & Banks

Coach

Cole Haan

Columbia Sportswear

Converse

Easy Spirit

Ecco Shoes

Express

G.H. Bass & Co.

Gap

Godiva Chocolates

Famous Footwear

Fossil

Fragrance Outlet

GreenLeafs & Bananas

Gymboree

Haagen Dazs

Hanes

Helzberg’s Diamonds

Hurley

Janie & Jack

J.Crew

Jockey

Kay Jewelers

Levi’s

Lucky Brand Jeans

Michael Kors

Naturalizer

New Balance

Nike

Nine West

New York & Co.

O’Neill

OshKosh B’gosh

Papaya

Perfumania

Puma

Rack Room

Ralph Lauren

Reebok

Robert Wayne Shoes

Saks Off 5th

Samsonite

Seiko

Skechers

South Philly Steaks & Fries

Sperry

Swarovski

Talbot’s

The Loft

Tommy Hilfiger

Van Heusen

Vera Bradley

Villa Italian Kitchen

Wilsons Leather

Published July 8, 2015

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05/26/2022 – Food distribution

Farm Share, the Pasco Sheriff’s Office, Pasco Sheriff Charities, the Pasco County NAACP, and the Boys & Girls Clubs of Tampa Bay will partner for a free food distribution on May 26 starting at 9 a.m., at the Boys & Girls Club of Lacoochee, 38724 Mudcat Grant Blvd., in Dade City. Food will be given out on a first-come, first-served basis, while supplies last. The event is a drive-thru, rain or shine. … [Read More...] about 05/26/2022 – Food distribution

05/28/2022 – Memorial Day Concert

The “Let’s Do Good Memorial Day Concert” is scheduled for May 28 from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m., at Land O’ Lakes Heritage Park, 5401 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., to benefit the Tunnel to Towers Foundation. Tunnel to Towers provides mortgage-free homes to Gold Star and fallen first responder families with young children, and builds custom-designed smart homes for catastrophically injured veterans and first responders. The foundation is committed to eradicating veteran homelessness and aiding the victims of major U.S. disasters. The event will include vendors, gifts, a Forget-Me-Not Garden, and more. Entertainment will be provided by Fred Chandler, Charles Goodwin, Cruz Er Mac, Mike Henderson, and Travis White. Special guests include Congressman Gus Bilirakis and State Sen. Danny Burgess. Rain date is Sept. 10. … [Read More...] about 05/28/2022 – Memorial Day Concert

05/28/2022 – Seafood Festival-CANCELLED

The North Tampa Bay Chamber’s Summer Seafood Festival is scheduled for May 28 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., at the Tampa Premium Outlets, 2300 Grand Cypress Drive in Lutz, between the outlets and At Home. There will be seafood, crab races, a kids zone, live bands, craft beer, a local market, a Nautical Art Show, and a crab claw-eating contest. For information, call 727-674-1464. … [Read More...] about 05/28/2022 – Seafood Festival-CANCELLED

06/04/2022 – D-Day reenactment

The Zephyrhills Museum of Military History, 39444 South Ave., in Zephyrhills, will present “D-Day, Invasion of Normandy” on June 4 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. There will be an opening ceremony at 11 a.m. The event will include skydivers, reenactors, World War II veterans, and WWII vehicles/aircraft on display. Visit zmmh.org/events, for additional information. … [Read More...] about 06/04/2022 – D-Day reenactment

06/11/2022 – Community cleanup

Save the date: A Dade City Community Cleanup is scheduled for June 11 from 8 a.m. to noon. The city will provide two garbage trucks and one roll-off to dispose of household waste. Residents will be able to drop off unwanted items at three locations. Volunteers also are needed and can register online at DadeCityFl.com. More information will be forthcoming. … [Read More...] about 06/11/2022 – Community cleanup

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