By: Business in Kansas City, MO

Kansas City, MO, located in the heartland of America, offers a promising landscape for various industries. In recent years, the growth of the retail sector has led to a surge in interest for outlet malls. This article aims to shed light on the potential of this industry in Kansas City, discuss the approximate investment needed to start an outlet mall business, highlight the expected return on investment, and propose suitable locations for outlet mall stores.

Overview of Kansas City, MO:

With a population of over 482,000 residents, Kansas City, MO serves as a bustling economic hub in the Midwest. The city boasts diverse neighborhoods, each with unique characteristics and preferences. Major residential areas such as Country Club Plaza, Brookside, and Westport are known for their affluent inhabitants who appreciate highquality products at competitive prices.

Commercial District Distribution:

Kansas City, MO has several prominent commercial districts that attract both local and tourist shoppers. The Country Club Plaza, a premier shopping destination, stands out with its upscale retail stores. With its Spanishinspired architecture and luxury boutiques, it draws in discerning shoppers seeking premium brands. Additionally, Zona Rosa, located in the Northland area, is a thriving openair shopping district, attracting a wide range of consumers.

Opportunity for Outlet Malls:

Kansas City, MO presents a promising market for outlet malls due to its diverse and discerning consumer base. Residents and visitors alike are constantly seeking valueformoney deals on quality products. Offering discounted prices on reputable brands, outlet malls provide an attractive option for budgetconscious shoppers.

Investment Requirements:

To start an outlet mall business in Kansas City, MO, an approximate capital investment of $510 million will be required. This includes expenses related to land acquisition, construction, store interiors, marketing, and initial inventory. It is essential to allocate a significant portion of the investment towards securing prime locations and creating an appealing shopping environment for consumers.

Return on Investment (ROI):

Return on investment in the outlet mall industry can vary, depending on factors such as location, competition, and effective marketing strategies. However, a wellmanaged outlet mall in a strategic location can expect a return on investment within 35 years. By attracting a steady flow of customers and maintaining strong relationships with brand partners, outlet mall owners can generate substantial profits.

Suitable Locations for Outlet Malls:

When considering potential locations for outlet malls in Kansas City, MO, the following areas show promising prospects:

  1. Legends Outlets: Situated near the Kansas Speedway, this openair shopping center already attracts a significant number of visitors due to its proximity to entertainment venues. Expanding the existing outlet mall features could be a lucrative opportunity.
  2. Metcalf South: This former shopping mall in Overland Park offers a versatile space to convert into an outlet mall. Located in a highly populated area, it has the potential to attract customers from neighboring communities.
  3. Independence Center: Positioned in close proximity to residential areas, this mall has experienced some setbacks in recent years. Converting it into an outlet mall could revitalize the area and bring back customers.

Opening an outlet mall business in Kansas City, MO holds great potential for entrepreneurs looking to tap into the city’s thriving retail sector. With a competitive investment range of $510 million and a suitable location, entrepreneurs can expect a substantial return on investment within a few years. Understanding the local demographics and strategically targeting commercial districts will be pivotal in capitalizing on the outlet mall industry’s possibilities in Kansas City, MO.