Citycon’s major project for redeveloping the Koskikeskus shopping centre in Tampere, begun in the spring of 2011, is now complete. The shopping centre has been totally redeveloped both inside and out. Investment in the project approached 40 million euros.
The redevelopment project was realised in several phases. The most extensive and visible of these consisted of alterations to the façades and entrances. The outward look of the building was harmonised and lightened, while access was made more spacious and modern. Redevelopment of the second entrance was sufficient to earn it the new name of ”Sorinportti”.
Pedestrian connections have also been improved, while movement within the centre itself has been eased through realignment of the former routes. New glass components and structures give the entire building the impression of spaciousness.
In shedding its former corners, the circular central plaza has become more functional, both as a stage for various events and as a meeting point for the city’s inhabitants.
“Koskikeskus is now a more attractive and up-to-the-minute meeting and shopping experience, right in the heart of town,” says Kai Niinimäki of Citycon Finland, the shopping centre’s manager. “The centre is one of the city’s most famous landmarks, and its redevelopment is a positive boost for Tampere’s image.”
The total leasable retail area of Koskikeskus after redevelopment is approximately 28,600 square metres. Visitors in 2011 totalled 5.8 million, while sales reached 116.5 million euros.
A flood of new shops
The changes have boosted the shopping centre’s retail area by around 1,500 square metres, making room for over ten new shops. This brings the total range of shops at Koskikeskus to more than 90.
New fashion shops opened in Koskikeskus include the first Finnish outlet of the French fashion chain Promod, as well as footwear shop Skopunkten, Nordic clothing chains Cubus and Zizzi, shoe shop Crocs and the Nordic clock and jewelry shop Ur&Penn. Men’s fashion has also been complemented by the clothing chain Brothers. By Thursday, 15 November, Koskikeskus will have opened its doors to its latest newcomer, Selected.
New at the beginning of 2013 will be Norwegian Varner Group’s Bik Bok chain, offering a range of trendy women’s fashion.
The third floor of the shopping centre sees big changes with the extensive range of party fashion complemented by several restaurants, including Manhattan Steakhouse, Rax Buffet and Delisushi. This floor also houses the Angry Birds play area, a great favourite with the younger members of the family.
Celebrations to mark the completion of the new Koskikeskus will be held over four days from Thursday to Sunday, 15–18 November.
For further details, please contact:
Petteri Huomo, Project Development Manager, Citycon Finland, tel. +358 40 178 4227
Kai Niinimäki, Shopping Centre Manager, Citycon Finland, tel. +358 40 729 8144