Let’s meet Ilona Bełdowska, Leasing Manager Poland

-Read the interview in Spanish and Polish-

For the last interview of 2023, let’s travel to Poland to meet Leasing Manager Ilona Bełdowska. Since 2021, Ilona is responsible for Designer Outlet Sosnowiec as well as supports the leasing activities for the new development Designer Outlet Kraków together with the rest of the Polish leasing team.

Last year, Designer Outlet Sosnowiec introduced a new look & feel with a new green relaxation area, a redesigned parking area and an upgraded façade. What do you think these changes have meant for the outlet?

Absolutely groundbreaking. These changes are the beginning of a new future for Designer Outlet Sosnowiec.

The introduction of beautiful green natural relaxation areas has been an added value, offering visitors an oasis of peace. The newly redesigned parking area not only provides convenience, but also facilitates a more complete shopping experience. And when speaking of the renovated facade, imagine Designer Outlet Sosnowiec with a fresh face that draws you in and delights you with its new charm.

The construction works at Designer Outlet Kraków officially began last October. What would you say is the added value of the project?

Designer Outlet Kraków is a unique project for many reasons. Located in Poland’s most touristic city, just 15 minutes drive from the city centre, with two retail parks already in operation. It will be a hot spot for outlet shopping in the Małopolska region and for thousands of tourists visiting Krakow, with an offer of over 100 stores of well-known fashion and lifestyle brands.

In three words, how would you describe yourself to someone who doesn’t know you?

If I have to choose only three words then: peace, love and rock'n roll.

The Christmas season is in full swing, would you mind sharing a Christmas tradition you like to do?

Polish Christmas traditions are especially distinctive. We normally begin celebrating when the first star appears in the sky by sharing the traditional wafer with each other and exchanging good wishes.

A traditional Polish Christmas Eve dinner consists of 12 courses and each meal is supposed to bring you good luck for the next 12 months. You need to try each dish to enjoy good health and prosperity. I personally like to invite someone over who feels alone at that moment. For most of us it is just another dish to serve, for others it can mean a lot. Christmas Eve is a time of joy and togetherness, no one should spend it alone.

After dinner, we receive a visit from Santa Claus, who distributes gifts only if you have been good; otherwise you receive a birch rod. At night we watch "Home Alone" over and over again. At midnight it is tradition to talk to animals – I know something about that as I have dogs myself... Those who do not talk to animals go to church for the Midnight Mass.

What is a special dish that can’t be missing at a celebration in your opinion?

One of the 12 typical dishes is carp, which we mostly eat at Christmas. This fish is a symbol of good luck, so it cannot be missing.

Your wish for ROS in 2024

 I wish ROS a prosperous and successful 2024 full of opportunities and continued development. I sincerely hope that all my ROS colleagues are in good health and have many reasons to enjoy life.