Three new retailers, including Tommy Bahama, are set to open at Waikele Premium Outlets early this year — a shot in the arm for the struggling retail sector.

"Outlet centers like Waikele are well-positioned to ride out challenging times now more than ever, as people are looking for bargains," said Maura Eggan, senior director of marketing for mall owner Chelsea Property Group, a unit of Simon Property Group.

In addition to Tommy Bahama, a Zales Outlet and True Religion are slated to open in Waikele early in the year, she said.

Tommy Bahama will fill the space being vacated by Big Dog Sportswear. Zales Outlet will replace Waikele Jewelry Mart.

Fragrance Outlet will relocate from its current Waikele space into the site formerly occupied by the Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory. True Religion will then take the space vacated by Fragrance Outlet.

In addition, the Coach Factory outlet will expand into part of the space being vacated by Geoffrey Beene. Coach, which currently fills 4,500 square feet of space, will add another 1,500 square feet. The remaining Geoffrey Beene space will be filled by a store yet to be named, Eggan said.

The moves mean Waikele Premium Outlets, with 50 stores and seven kiosks, will remain 100 percent occupied, she said.

"Occupancy rates are high throughout our portfolio," Eggan said. "Outlet centers in general are able to attract customers, especially at this time of year."

Chelsea is the world's largest owner and operator of outlet centers, with 43 retail complexes in 23 states. Chelsea also has 10 properties in Japan, South Korea and Mexico.

Simon Property Group is the largest owner of North American shopping centers.