Quality or Quantity? Factory Outlet Center Planning and Development as a Retail Innovation in Beijing

Since the introduction of factory outlet center, the Yansha Outlet, to China in 2012, over five hundred retail centers have been constructed under the name of "outlet". As a new format of retailing and due to the "over-construction" of it, factory outlet has caught large attention of developers, consumers as well as professionals. Based on previous research, this thesis examines the macro factors, including government regulations and transportation and micro factors, including institutional characteristics that may influence the development and performance of factory outlet center. The thesis analyzes four outlet shopping centers in Beijing and collects data through government documentation, second hand data, interview, site visit and survey. The analysis shows that government regulation and planning, driving convenience, discounts and other factors have large effects on the development and performance of factory outlet center. Finally, suggestions are given from planners' perspective.