A New York Era For The Bicester Collection: Belmont Park Village

Families gathered to spend quality time together, sipping on indulgent hot chocolates—some thoughtfully gifted—before heading to a Disney on Ice show at the neighbouring UBS Arena. This was the scene to set the tone for my first visit to Belmont Park Village, evoking a sense of familiarity. The entire experience evoked echoes of its sister venue, Bicester Village, nestled in Oxfordshire, UK: family-friendly yet undeniably luxurious. Free parking, exceptional service, and thoughtful details like beautifully designed restrooms impressed visitors even on a bitterly cold day.

Among the crowd was a UK tourist, traveling on business but inspired by TikTok to make a significant detour to be among the first shoppers at Belmont Park. After a successful shopping trip, she reflected, “I can’t wait for my next visit.” Her sentiment reflects the slow and steady build of what could become a landmark in the New York retail landscape—a destination that respects its community while inviting global brands and audiences to be part of its story.

A New Model For New York

Belmont Park Village offers a fresh chapter for retail in a city already synonymous with fashion and commerce. Located in Elmont, New York, this destination represents the first North American venture by The Bicester Collection, a global leader in luxury outlet shopping.

The Village takes cues from New York’s rich and diverse aesthetics, blending influences from the edgy, industrial vibes of SoHo to the breezy sophistication of the Hamptons. This thoughtful integration of design ensures the space feels distinctly local while leveraging the global expertise of its parent company.

What sets Belmont Park apart is its focus on delivering an experience that goes beyond discounts. With over 150 boutiques—offering up to 65% off previous-season collections—Belmont Park prioritizes curation and quality. Brands such as Vivienne Westwood, Missoni, and Thom Browne are among those launching their first off-price boutiques in the U.S., signaling the Village’s appeal to both consumers and luxury labels.

TikTok And The Digital Edge

The influence of TikTok in driving foot traffic is a testament to Belmont Park’s understanding of today’s consumer. Much like Bicester Village’s reinvention as a digital destination, Belmont Park has recognized that storytelling and engagement online can translate into tangible results in-store. Social media allows the Village to connect with a younger, tech-savvy audience who seek value without sacrificing style.

This isn’t just about driving global tourism—it’s also about making Belmont Park a destination that resonates with locals. The appeal lies in creating a space where New Yorkers can enjoy exceptional service, free parking (a rarity in the region), and an experience that feels just as special as a trip to Manhattan’s luxury hubs.

Retail That Respects Its Community

Belmont Park Village isn’t just about luxury; it’s about integrating thoughtfully into the local area. Located near the iconic Belmont Stakes racetrack and UBS Arena, the development builds on the region’s storied history while delivering a modern retail experience. From its eco-conscious design, achieving BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) certification, to its blend of fashion, dining, and leisure, the Village strikes a balance between ambition and community respect.

This consideration is reflected in its amenities: from hands-free shopping to curated dining options like Ladurée and Le Botaniste, Belmont Park feels like a day out, not just a shopping trip. The presence of family-friendly services and spaces ensures that it appeals across demographics, further cementing its role as a local hub.

Shaping The Future of Retail

Belmont Park Village is more than just a retail destination; it’s a case study in how to adapt and evolve physical retail. In a world increasingly dominated by e-commerce, the Village demonstrates that there is still a space for brick-and-mortar stores—but only when they can offer something online shopping cannot.

Key trends converge here:

• Experiential retail: Shoppers want their visits to be memorable and worth their time.
• Sustainability: Environmental consciousness is no longer optional for new developments.
• Community focus: A destination thrives when it feels integral to its region, not imposed upon it.

A Global Concept Refined Locally

What makes the destination particularly compelling is its ability to merge global expertise with local sensibilities. The Bicester Collection’s experience in Europe and Asia provides a foundation, but the Village’s design feels distinctly New York. This balance may well be the secret to its future success.

Belmont Park Village is still in its early days, but the ingredients are in place for it to become a retail success story. As brands continue to join and visitors share their experiences online, the momentum will grow. For now, it stands as a reminder of what’s possible when retail evolves to meet the demands of modern consumers—while staying grounded in the region it serves.