Morrison Outlets development specialist Dominic Browne has jumped ship to assist Ram Euro Centers in establishing its first outlet centre in mainland Europe.
Browne, appointed as Ram Euro Centers' marketing and operations director, was involved in the formation of Morrison Outlets in the mid- 1990s. He was also instrumental in developing the Royal Quays and Stirling Mills schemes in the UK, as well as outlet centres in Germany, Ireland and Italy.
Ram is due to begin building its Ardennes Outlet Centre in Belgium in the spring. The scheme marks the return of the US factory outlet specialist to the European market.
Ram was responsible for the development of the Yorkshire Outlet in Doncaster, but withdrew from Europe because it was unable to get to grips with the complexities of the UK planning system, as well as the Continental market.
The 10,500 sq m Ardennes scheme, which has a complete range of planning approvals, as well as economic and building permits in place, will occupy a former railway siding site at Verviers, between Liege and the German border.
It will provide 40 outlet stores and is due to open in autumn next year.
Subject to further planning approval, an additional 5,000 sq m of retail floorspace could be built. Other sites are under consideration for Ram schemes in Northern Italy and France.
DTZ Debenham Tie Leung has been appointed as agent for the Ardennes scheme.
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