Research

Old Navy

Description

Old Navy operates a prolific chain of more than 1,000 family clothing stores throughout North America, offering items under its own brand name at discounted prices. (The apparel retailer also operates a Web-based store at oldnavy.com.) Products include men's, women's, and children's (even dogs') apparel and accessories. Founded in 1994, Old Navy is a division of the ailing king of casual apparel Gap Inc. and is known for advertising that plays up the kitsch factor of various celebrities. Old Navy, which has suffered from steep sales declines in recent years, has extended its brand to include maternity and women's plus-size apparel, as well as accessories and personal care products.

Gap INC.

Description

From Flauntywood to Slouchville, no slots are left exposed by ubiquitous clothing retailer Gap. The company has built its brand on basic, casual styles for men, women, and children (T-shirts, jeans, and khakis), but over the years has expanded through the urban chic chain Banana Republic and fast-growing budgeteer Old Navy. Gap runs 3,100-plus stores worldwide. Other chains include GapBody, GapKids, and babyGap; each chain also has its own online incarnation. All Gap clothing is private-label merchandise made specifically for the company. From the design board to store displays, Gap controls all aspects of its trademark casual look. The founding Fisher family owns about a third of

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