Outlets stores are owned and operated by the manufacturer, allowing for substantial discounts due to the elimination of the middleperson.

The majority of merchandise is first quality and in-season. Irregular and damaged merchandise accounts for less than 15 percent of all Outlets goods. Outlets stores are different than off-price stores, which sell a variety of quality, name-brand goods at reduced prices. Off-price stores are not owned and operated by the manufacturer and typically buy over-allotments from department stores. Marshall's and T.J. Maxx are examples of off-price stores. Outlets stores are also different than discount stores, which sell inexpensive merchandise at reduced prices due to large quantities purchased. K-Mart and Wal-Mart are examples of discount stores.

Do Shoppers Really Save?

On any given day, a consumer visiting a Prame Outlets center will receive between 20-35% off of manufacturer's suggested retail prices. While these prices are comparable to what a consumer would receive if they visited a department store sale, these are an Outlets center's base prices and everyday values.

When Outlets go on sale, consumers can expect to receive up to 70% off of regular retail prices. This includes savings on apparel, accessories, shoes and home furnishings.

Facts About Outlets Centers in America

• The Outlets industry represents approximately $15 billion in total retail sales, which is less than 2% of total non-auto retail sales.
• 260 Outlets centers, with a gross leasable area of 55.5 million square feet, were open as of December 31, 2002.
• More than 14,000 stores were open in manufacturers' Outlets centers as of December 31, 2002
• The average size of manufacturers' Outlets center was 213,461 square feet as of December 9, 2002.
• Outlets centers/stores nationwide offer excellent value every day of the year.
• Merchandise at Outlets is a combination of current-season factory overruns, last season styles, seconds and samples. The majority of merchandise at Outlets is first quality.
• Outlets centers can be found in a variety of architectural styles ranging from theme villages to indoor malls to outdoor strip centers.