Many of you may be surprised to hear on TV that the Chitose Outlet Mall Rera, a longtime favorite of many, will cease operations in January 2024. The outlet mall, which is only about an hour's drive from Sapporo City, had been popular as a place to enjoy casual shopping. We look back at the circumstances that led to the termination of the operation and the history of Rera.

Opened in 2005 as one of the largest outlet malls in Hokkaido

Chitose Outlet Mall Rera, which started in 2005 with 95 stores, opened as one of the largest outlet malls in Hokkaido on a vast site of 227,000 m2. Rera means "wind" in the Ainu language. The mall underwent expansion in 2006 and 2010, and at its peak had more than 150 stores. The mall was used for weekend shopping and date nights, and gained popularity as a place where a wide range of people, from young people to families, could enjoy shopping.

Connected to New Chitose Airport by a free shuttle bus and a 3-minute walk from JR Minami Chitose Station, the mall is also well known as a shopping destination for inbound tourists. In addition to stores, various events are held in the facility. In the past, events featuring local vegetables and kitchen cars, as well as live performances by artists from Hokkaido, have made it a popular place for not only tourists but also local residents to relax and have fun in peace.

Changes in the environment that led to the decision to end operations

In the 19 years since its opening, however, the environment surrounding Chitose Outlet Mall Rera has changed dramatically. 2010 saw the opening of Mitsui Outlet Park Sapporo Kitahiroshima in Kitahiroshima City, which is located closer to Sapporo. In addition, the past few years have seen a slowdown in tourist traffic due to the impact of Corona, and other difficult circumstances for Rera.

Upon the closing of the facility, the operator said, "Due to changes in the surrounding environment, such as the increase in the number of competing facilities in the neighborhood, the competitiveness of our commercial facilities has been declining. The company also said, "We have been facing a difficult business environment.