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J.Crew Inc. is planning to relaunch its flagship brand in September, having posted positive second-quarter same-store sales growth for the brand, for the first time in four years.
Total revenues for the quarter increased by 3 percent, to $587.6 million. Same-store sales, meanwhile, rose by 5 percent.
The J.Crew brand division's sales decreased by 5 percent, to $428.9 million, but grew by 1 percent on a same-store basis. The Madewell division reported total sales growth of 29 percent, to $121.7 million, and a same-store sales increase of 28 percent. “Madewell is solidly on a path to becoming a $1 billion brand,” said CEO Jim Brett during a conference call. The company intends to introduce menswear in the women's apparel chain.
The relaunch of the J.Crew brand is set for Sept. 10. “The focus is on classic, enduring American style reflected with a few key aesthetics,” Brett said. J.Crew will add a series of "subbrands" that are to reflect region-oriented aesthetics — such as preppy New England and relaxed West Coast. The merchandise will also feature “a bolder expression of fashion,” Brett said. “Color will return with a breadth of fits, sizes and proportions, and good, better [and] best prices.”
As of Aug. 28, the retailer operates 229 J.Crew stores, 122 Madewell stores and 175 factory stores.
By Brannon Boswell
Executive Editor, Commerce + Communities Today
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