NewRiver has signed a portfolio agreement with APCOA, Europe’s largest car parking solutions operator, to deliver an innovative Urban Mobility Hub concept across the company’s £1 billion portfolio of community shopping centres and retail parks.
The new concept will enhance the customer experience by offering customers convenient access to range of transport and on-demand services and facilities, including electric vehicle charging, cycle parks, multi-locker hubs for customers and local businesses, in car park car maintenance servicing and valeting, dark kitchens as well as many more innovative solutions.
It has been developed in response to evolving consumer habits, further accelerated by the pandemic, whereby shoppers seek amenity rich environments as part of their multi-purpose trips.
The Urban Mobility Hubs will enhance customer experience by expanding the range of services available at NewRiver’s community centred retail assets to meet the evolving needs of local communities for the long-term all in a single and conveniently located destination.
Emma Mackenzie, head of asset management at NewRiver said: “This is an exciting partnership for both NewRiver and our communities. Demand for new services and amenities that meet the needs of local people in a single convenient place has only accelerated following the pandemic.
“Being the first of its kind in the UK, the Urban Mobility Hubs will support the local communities, provide flexibility and offer exciting and user-friendly new transport and communication services that help customers make the most of every trip.
“We’re creating a sustainable future too. APCOA has committed itself to be fully electric by 2030. Car sharing is likely to become the norm and there will be plenty of car charging points available to customers as we move away from petrol and diesel vehicles. All of this will contribute to the creation of a brighter, sustainable future for the next generation.”
Kim Challis, regional managing director of APCOA UK & Ireland said: “APCOA is delighted to be partnering with NewRiver in this exciting new venture. Urban Mobility Hubs is APCOA’s answer to some of the greatest trends of this day and age: the significant growth of online and on-demand commerce. We will create an integrated ecosystem for the future-ready and sustainable use of parking spaces.
“The APCOA brand has long been synonymous with a comprehensive digital strategy and Urban Mobility Hubs will build upon this strength to expand our range of innovative services and products.
“Utilising APCOA’s infrastructure and network across Europe, we can anticipate and help to shape and adapt fundamental economic and societal changes as well as support local communities.”
