These outlet retailers are joining the shopping center's 230-store roster: Coach, Coach Men, True Religion, Calvin Klein Accessories, Tommy Hilfiger (which will be the largest outlet in the country), Lego and Century 21 Department Store. Existing tenants include the likes of Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5TH, Neiman Marcus Last Call, Lord & Taylor Outlet and Victoria's Secret.

The Outlet Collection brand is designed to create fashion outlet centers that feature a collection of premier retailers, Glimcher said – a concept that is paying off in Elizabeth.

“The new designer aesthetic, continued rapid growth in the sector, and a strong tourism base have contributed to elevating the center's reputation and are leading the way toward exceeding $750 per square foot in sales,” Glimcher said.

“The new brand name better reflects the premium tenants that are now opening in our outlet properties,” he added.

Tourist Destination

The Outlet Collection can be reached by bus and rail service throughout the region. Buses leave Manhattan's Port Authority bus terminal throughout the day, stopping directly at The Outlet Collection | Jersey Gardens. New Jersey Transit passengers can take the train to either Elizabeth or Newark and catch a NJT bus to the mall.

The Outlet Collection is minutes from Exit 13A of the New Jersey Turnpike, which sees 180,000 cars per day.

Due to a global marketing program and the mall's proximity to Newark Liberty International Airport, overseas visitors account for 36% of shopper traffic at the outlet center. Marketing director Crystal Stell works with international tour operators to market shopping packages that include The Outlet Collection/ Jersey Gardens, Area hotels also offer packages for visitors.

Despite a weak global economy, in each of the past several years, international shoppers spent an average six hours at the mall and spent $650 each.

The center, built on the site of a former landfill, employs 5,000 people. Last year, over $90,000 was contributed to various community groups and non-profit organizations. The mall is a major supporter of the Newspapers in Education initiative.

This fall, The Outlet Collection | Jersey Gardens will host: The Magical Season of Giving for local charities; The Jingle Bell 5K Run on behalf of Specialized Children's Hospital Foundation; and Sensitive Santa, a specially planned visit with Santa for children with autism.