EDINBURGH — One of the largest shopping complexes in south central Indiana has changed its name.
Edinburgh Premium Outlets became known as Indiana Premium Outlets on Monday.
The new name is designed to bolster the shopping complex’s reputation as a premier destination for visitors from across the state, according to a press release from Simon, which has operated the outdoor shopping mall since 2004.
Besides the name change, enhancements undertaken this year include a new archway featuring public artwork, a food truck plaza with shaded seating; and a playground plaza with interactive equipment and shaded picnic tables, the release stated.
All renovations, which include new digital directories and upgraded offices, are set to be completed in time for the kickoff of the holiday shopping season after Thanksgiving.
“Our updated moniker better reflects the geographic makeup of our visitors and, combined with the current renovation, will offer shoppers a more engaging atmosphere to enjoy,” Indiana Premium Outlets general manager Heather Little said.
Stores at the Indiana Premium Outlets include national clothing retailers such as American Eagle Outfitters, Kate Spade New York, Old Navy Outlet, Vera Bradley and Under Armour, as well as other types of retailers.
The shopping complex, with more than 65 stores, is located at the U.S. 31 exit on Interstate 65 and opened in 1989. Along with online shopping, a number of former and current retailers have cited the popularity of the outlet mall as one reason why a number of conventional stores have been struggling in Bartholomew County.
But the shopping complex has also been credited for helping the community. For example, the outlet mall completed renovations at its Simon Youth Academy last July. The educational facility, operated in partnership with Edinburgh Community School Corp., is co-sponsored by the Simon Youth Foundation.
In June, one of the academy’s local graduates, Madelyn Cracchiolo, was awarded a four-year scholarship worth an estimated $32,000. Another local academy graduate, Tyler Short, received an $8,000 scholarship to attend Ivy Tech Community College.
