Outlets at Anthem to change name for Phoenix moniker

Anyone headed for the Outlets at Anthem will need to enter a new name into their GPS system.

The landmark outdoor shopping center is changing its name to Outlets North Phoenix.

The name change is in response to the explosive growth in the northern reaches of Phoenix and increased shopper demand.

“As anyone who lives in the area knows, growth in the north Phoenix area has been tremendous, especially the last five years,” said Steve Craig, property developer and owner of Craig Realty Group.

The realty group owns and operates Outlets at Anthem.

Officials are changing the name to reflect the fact the center touches the northern boundaries of Phoenix, Craig said.

The center is located within Phoenix city limits, not Anthem. 

The center was renamed Outlets at Anthem in 2002 as an outdoor open-air, family- and pet-friendly destination.

It was a popular place to shop for deals at designer retailers and a must-stop location for Valley residents heading north to Flagstaff or heading back to the Valley. 

In 2002, the shopping center staked its claim as a festive destination during the holidays featuring the state’s largest Christmas tree.