In recent months, Ülemiste Centre has undergone significant changes – stores of several well-known fashion brands have opened, and further major developments are on the way. The centre’s director, Guido Pärnits, sees this as a clear sign of economic recovery and growing confidence of international brands in the Estonian market.
According to Guido Pärnits, shopping centres act as catalysts for economic growth. “The opening of new stores and the expansion of service offerings show that entrepreneurs trust the market – this is a clear sign of economic improvement,” he said.
As an example Pärnits cited the recently opened Calvin Klein Lifestyle concept store in the centre, which occupies 190 square meters and, for the first time, combines all the main categories of the brand under one roof. “When an international brand decides to invest specifically here, it demonstrates that the Estonian market appears reliable and capable of growth. It also sends a strong signal to other companies and investors – our economy is competitive and developing,” Pärnits added.
New concepts at Ülemiste Centre
According to Heinar Põldma, head of Põldma Kaubandus, the decision to open Estonia’s first Lifestyle concept store was based on the growing interest of customers in the brand and the desire to offer a wider assortment in one place. “Ülemiste Centre was chosen for the store thanks to its strong visitor numbers and broad target audience, which fits perfectly with Calvin Klein’s international positioning,” Põldma explained.
Heinar Põldma added that the investment is part of Denim Dream’s broader strategy to offer a high-quality and internationally recognized range of products in Estonia and to strengthen its market position focused on retail customers. “The investment in the new concept store reflects our commitment to exceed customer expectations, enrich the brand experience, and foster sustainability throughout the region,” said the head of Põldma Kaubandus.
In addition to the revamped Calvin Klein store, the well-known shoe store Deichmann also recently opened in the centre, occupying 410 square meters. Furthermore, Ülemiste Centre has expanded its range of children’s products and entertainment – in March, XS Mänguasjad opened Estonia’s first Build-A-Bear Workshop.
Guido Pärnits emphasized that the centre is not just a platform for retailers but also an active partner. “If a well-known brand wants to renovate its store, we also support this process, for example by offering a significant rent discount during the renovation period,” said Pärnits.
A large-scale H&M project is soon to be completed at Ülemiste Centre
At the beginning of summer, the previous H&M store was closed so that in autumn it could be replaced by the region’s first flagship store of the brand. “The decision to close the store for several months requires great courage from the brand. This, in turn, indicates that international clients and investors increasingly see the Estonian market as a potential growth area worth investing resources in,” Pärnits said.
