ONTARIO, CA—Ontario Mills is the largest outlet and value retail shopping destination in California and one of the hottest shopping centers in the Inland Empire. As part of GlobeSt.com's Thought Leadership program with San Bernardino County and as build-up to the RECon event, we spoke with Amanda Shewan (Kvigne), corporate director of tourism of The Mills, one of Simon Property Group's five real estate platforms. She spoke to us about how the asset is doing and retail trends in the area.

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GlobeSt.com: Being that Ontario Mills is California's largest outlet and value retail shopping destination, how do you think the Inland Empire retail market is fairing post-recession?

Amanda Shewan (Kvigne): The good news is that the economy has improved and people are more confident in spending. Ontario Mills enjoys continued success, welcoming millions of residents and area visitors annually who are seeking quality, name brand merchandise at a great value. We are meeting shopper demand with more than 200 popular outlet and value retail stores. Our success speaks for itself as a major economic force in the City of Ontario, fueling thousands of jobs, impacting tourism to the region and generating increased tax revenues.

GlobeSt.com: What types of new retailers are showing interest in coming to Ontario Mills and why?

Shewan: Ontario Mills continues to evolve, adding the best names in retail, dining and entertainment. Our growing Fashion District showcases our appeal to more name brand retailers such as Michael Kors Outlet, Kenneth Cole Company Store and Tommy Bahama Outlet, as well as larger stores like Nordstrom Rack, Neiman Marcus Last Call and Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5TH. These fashion forward retailers understand Ontario Mills' established shopper base, our prime location in the Inland Empire and our growth potential to further draw those traveling from around the globe who aspire to have the best brands for less.

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GlobeSt.com: You have an aggressive focus on appealing to international tourists. Is the region ripe for attracting this segment?

Shewan: Nearly 15 million international tourists travel to California each year from all over the world, including China, Canada, Australia, Brazil, India, Japan, Mexico and United Kingdom. International visitors are enjoying even more access to the area with more direct flights to the region. Our strategic location in the Inland Empire, just 38 miles from Los Angeles, gives us great positioning to showcase our unique brand of shopping with outlet and value retail stores paired with family dining and entertainment options. The area has a lot more potential so we believe that the future is bright for Ontario Mills as the largest of its kind in the state.

GlobeSt.com: Is your customer base changing? Please explain.

Shewan: Ontario Mills continues to welcome millions of visitors each year. As many as 20 million consumers, within an hour and a half drive, understand the value of shopping at Ontario Mills with stores offering up to 70% off everyday retail prices. The visitor market continues to grow as word of mouth spreads about our great store selection and incredible deals on name brand and designer goods. Plus, as we advance our efforts to communicate directly with specific geographic areas of the world alongside Visit California, Discover IE and other attractions in the area, we expect to see a good return on our investment with more shoppers.

GlobeSt.com: How are you reaching these customers?

Shewan: As part of Simon Shopping Destinations, which is a huge initiative to attract and serve tourists to an impressive retail portfolio, Ontario Mills has increased its exposure around the globe with a network of support communicating with consumers, tour operators and trip planners, as well as visibility at tourism trades shows such as IPW and World Travel Market. We have also expanded our regional advertising to include the Southern California drive market. One step further, we have better aligned ourselves with Visit California, Discover IE, local hotels and other tourism industry partners to offer and promote Shop 'N Stay packages and consumer promotions. Visitors feel at home at Ontario Mills with value added incentives and shopper amenities, including access to complimentary coupon books, motorcoach parking and more.

Join the County of San Bernardino at ICSC RECon 2014 in Las Vegas May 18–20 at booth number C183H.