American Eagle Outfitters Inc has announced its plans to further expand its international retail presence with a series of retail stores throughout Israel. The company has signed a multi-year franchise agreement with Fox-Wizel Ltd, a leading retailer and wholesaler that operates approximately 170 FOX stores in Israel, as well as 250 FOX stores internationally.
The agreement includes American Eagle Outfitters flagship stores as well as free-standing aerie stores. The first stores are slated to open in the spring of 2012. American Eagle Outfitters introduced its brand in the Middle East in March of this year with stores in Dubai and Kuwait, and recently announced plans for stores in Hong Kong and China beginning in early 2011.
“International expansion is an important part of AEO’s growth strategy,” said Chris Fiore, executive vice president for international, American Eagle Outfitters Inc. “As with our other international locations, customers in Israel have embraced the American Eagle Outfitters and aerie brands through extensive travel in North America. They are eager to shop our retail stores at home to complete the lifestyle experience,” he added.
The FOX brands include FOX men’s and women’s apparel, FOX kids and baby, and a launch next month of FOX home. Fox-Wizel also owns substantial interest in personal care retailer Laline, and upscale apparel retail and wholesale brand Sacks.
The model for the Israeli stores is similar to that of AEO’s other international locations, where the partner handles local operational functions, with American Eagle Outfitters assuming creative approval for assortment, marketing and store locations.
American Eagle Outfitters operates 1,000-plus stores worldwide, and through its e-commerce business, ships merchandise to 76 countries.
American Eagle Outfitters Inc, through its subsidiaries, offers high-quality, on-trend clothing, accessories and personal care products at affordable prices. The American Eagle Outfitters brand targets youngsters in the 15-25 age group, with 936 stores in the US and Canada.
— IndiaRetailing Bureau
