BCBG Future Plans

I think that BCBG should expand by building more stores in the US, Canada, and internationally. Designing a cheaper priced collection will bring in more consumers and the name will be more recognized.

Banana Republic's Future Plans

Gap Inc. plans to expand its international presence in 2010
The parent of the Gap, Banana Republic and Old Navy chains will open its first Gap store in China and launch online businesses in Canada and Britain. Gap Inc., parent to the Gap, Banana Republic and Old Navy chains, announced several moves Thursday to expand its international presence.
http://www.earth-stream.com/Earth/Back-to-the-Future/2009-to-2019/Gap-Inc-plans-to-expand-its-international-presence-in-2010_18_212_710_210795.html

BCBG Max Azria for a more sustainable environment

Some suggestions for BCBG Max Azria is to use sustainbale fabrics such as organic cotton, Hemp, Bamboo and Linen. There are also some man-made fabrics such as recycled polyester, Tencel and Lyocell that are sustainble in their production.

They could donate old clothing to a second hand store in exchange for a customer discount.

Banana Republic Plans for a more sustainable environment

Banana Republic's Organic Fashion
Committing to Eco-Friendly Clothing, Packaging & Stores

Banana Republic's new 50-piece eco-collection will be made from a variety of renewable of sustainable fabrics, including bamboo, organic linen, cotton and denim, and soy/silk knit blends. This line is part of multi-action plan focused on reducing their environmental impact.

Fashion for Earth Week

In an effort to demonstrate their commitment to making and encouraging environmentally-friendly products and practices, during Earth Week, Banana Republic has pledged one percent of all in-store sales – up to $100,000 – to Trust for Public Lands, a nonprofit, land conservation organization that conserves land for people to enjoy as parks, community gardens, historic sites, rural lands, and other natural places. Trust for Public Lands' primary mandate is to ensure livable communities for generations to come.

"Banana Republic is dedicated to reducing our environmental impact – and we think this is a solid first step," said Banana Republic president Jack Calhoun. "We’re strengthening our commitment to sustainability by promoting a cause that is authentic and relevant to our customers."
How Banana Republic is Going Green

The company says that it's strategy for "greening" its company is focused around three key areas: packaging, stores, and products. In an outline of their environmental efforts, they say that this means conserving energy, making smarter use of raw materials, and offering organic or sustainable products whenever possible.
Environmentally Friendly Packaging

Talk about setting a good example: much of Banana Republic's packaging is comprised of at least partially recycled material, with their recyclable shopping bags made of 15 percent recycled material, their recyclable shoe boxes made of 50 percent recycled material, their recyclable gift boxes are made of 35 percent recycled material, and their price tickets are fabricated from 100 percent recycled material.

Banana Republic presents eco-aware for S/S 09

The Banana Republic brand presents Heritage Collection to celebrate urbane style this spring.

A new line is of relaxed style, eco-aware pieces in a very complexion-enhancing, neutrals soft color lays of ecru, slate, cream and white. Pure stripes with animal prints are injected into the row to add a bit of importance.

Sustainability is the new luxury,” said Simon Kneen, executive vice president of design. He describes the collection as “signature sportswear for the really modern attitude.”

Mixing together the highstreet haven’s characteristic elegant esthetic with eco-aware credentials, the new collection is evidence that honourable fashion doesn’t have to offer design for going green.

At 50-pieces strong, 90% of the garments employ sustainable materials: organic cotton, bamboo and soy silk.


The Heritage Collection by Banana Republic , ranging from $39 to $150, features casual pantaloon shorts,breezy shirts, elegant blouses, airy knits which fit close to the body, and oversized shirts in light-as-air soy silk.

Some of the clothes include the Twill Heritage Blazer, the Safari Tunic and Bloomer Cargo Shorts in solids and stripes.

The 90% of the clothes use sustainable fabrics.

The collection hits stores this week.

Plans for BCBG Max Azria

I think that BCBG should consider making a clothing line that is eco-friendly to help the environment. They could consider having charity shows to give to breast cancer research as well as other organizations. I think that each step they make to help people the more they will be recognized for helping the world.

Banana Republic's Annual Report

SAN FRANCISCO – November 5, 2009 – Gap Inc. today reported net sales of $1.14 billion for the four-week period ended October 31, 2009, which is an increase of 5 percent as compared with net sales of $1.08 billion for the same period ended November 1, 2008. The company’s comparable store sales for October 2009 also increased 4 percent compared with a 16 percent decrease for October 2008.


• Banana Republic North America: positive 5 percent versus negative 17 percent last year
Financial Performance Highlights

* Second quarter diluted earnings per share increased to $0.33 from $0.32 last year.
* Second quarter gross margin increased by 150 basis points driven by improved merchandise margins.
* Operating expenses in the second quarter of fiscal year 2009 were down about $50 million compared with the second quarter last year. Since the beginning of fiscal year 2007, operating expenses are down about $650 million.
* Year to date, free cash flow was an inflow of $589 million, leaving the company with more than $2 billion in cash and cash equivalents.

Sales Results

Second quarter net sales were $3.25 billion, compared with $3.50 billion for the second quarter of last year. The company’s second quarter comparable store sales decreased 8 percent, compared with a decrease of 10 percent for the second quarter of last year. The company’s online sales for the second quarter of 2009, which includes Athleta, increased 17 percent to $224 million, compared with $191 million for the second quarter of last year.

BCBG Max Azria's Last Ditch Effort To Avoid Bankruptcy

Posted by Tyler Durden at 9:28 AM
Iconic fashion house BCBG Max Azria is setting off on a last ditch effort to avoid bankruptcy. As I wrote last, the company has a $20 million March loan payment due which it will find next to impossible to make. As a result, market sources report BCBG has decided to launch a tender offer for its secured term loan at a huge discount, in the 30-40 cent ballpark. As the illiquid loan was last offered at 42 according to loan connector, management will need to step up the repurchase price for the tender to be attractive.

An earlier amendment, which had increased the interest on the loan to L+750 of which L+300 is PIKing, allowed discounted loan buy backs.

By launching this tender, the company puts itself at the mercy of its lenders. If the later perceive the company's asset value is higher than the $10 million BCBG is willing to spend on the buyback, they may simply wait until the company is forced to default and equitize their loan interest and take over the company with no debt overhang.

BCBG Max Azria Structure

BCBGMAXAZRIA is the lifetime vision of one man: founder, designer, chairman and chief executive officer Max Azria. Named for the French phrase 'bon chic, bon genre,' a Parisian slang meaning 'good style, good attitude,' the BCBGMAXAZRIA brand embodies a true combination of European sophistication and American spirit. http://www.bcbg.com

Banana Republic's Structure

Banana Republic
Two Folsom Street, San Francisco, CA 94105
Tel: (650) 952-4400
Internet: http://www.bananarepublic.com
President Jack Calhoun
Education: Purdue BS; Harvard MBA
Career: Executive Vice President, Brand Management and Advertising, Charles Schwab & Co., Inc.; Executive Vice
President, Merchandising and Marketing, Banana Republic (2003-2007)
(650) 952-4400
Executive Vice President, Design and Creative Director Simon Kneen
Career: Head Designer, Pret-a-Porter, Maison Balmain; Creative Director, Maska; Creative Design Director, Retail Brand
Alliance, Inc.
(650) 952-4400
Senior Vice President, Merchandising Nick Coe
Career: Vice President, Men’s Merchandising, Gap Inc. (2005-2007)
(650) 952-4400
Senior Vice President, Stores and Operations Steve Stickel (650) 952-4400
Vice President, Women’s Merchandising Jenna Renfrew (650) 952-4400

Dress up this season in BCBG!

This cocktail dress has assorted jewel embellishments and girlie features. It's perfect for an evening event. It has removable spaghetti straps, assorted jewel embellishments at the bodice and a full skirt with draped detail. This dress has a bubble hem and a back center zipper with a hook-and-eye closure. It costs $348.00. So turn some heads this season in this elegant dress.

Warm up this season with comfort and joy at Banana Republic!

Add some sparkle, twinkle, and shine this holiday in these bejeweled suede flats. Pair these with a sweater dress or a skinny jean for a truly feminine and girlie look. These flats are $120 and come in a variety of colors such as sugar plum,taupe, and black. So wear some sparkle today!





















Winter is around the corner and the weather is getting chilly. So why not add a pop of color to your winter wardrobe. This striking red wool-blended pea coat with a double-breasted front is a classic choice. This coat is $180 and ranges in size from extra small to extra large.

Designer BCBG Shoes and Clothing on a Budget

Money doesn't grow on trees, right? Well, at least that is what we were all told as children growing up and now as adults, most of us have come to realize that if our parents were ever 100% right about anything in the world it was that one statement alone! So how can you get designer BCBG shoes and clothing at prices that are affordable? Shop around! Unfortunately, like the fact that money doesn't grow on trees, our parent's were also right when they said the second most infamous statement of all, "There's just not enough time in the day!"

The internet has a vast list of shops that claim to offer designer BCBG clothing and BCBG shoes at affordable prices, but it could take you hours and hours to hunt through and find the best and most affordable deals online. I have done all of the work for you, I have shopped and shopped, searched and searched, and found the best internet deals on BCBG shoes and clothing that is at affordable prices to fit nearly any budget. Save some time and maintain that trendy, fresh off the runway look you always dreamed of without breaking the bank by shopping these sites for the best deals on designer BCBG shoes and clothing.

Affordable BCBG Shoes: Overstock is an excellent resource for low cost BCBG apparel including shoes. The BCBG shoe prices on Overstock will always fluctuate with what they happen to have available but they tend to stay in the $150 or less range which is about half of the regular retail price of these designer shoes. This site even has some BCBG shoe styles that are well under $100 and closer to the $50 range making designer shoes very affordable!

Designer BCBG Shoes: DSW also has some really great deals on BCBG shoes and apparel. The BCBG shoes on this site are all under $100 making them some of the most affordable designer shoes available on the market. Not only are these shoes absolutely affordable and budget friendly, they look GREAT too! BCBG shoes have been commended for being comfortable, affordable and trendy and stylish all in one!

BCBG Apparel at a Budget Friendly Price: Designer Apparel is the best site to check out for low cost, highly affordable BCBG clothing that will turn heads. From dresses to mini skirts, this site has got it all and there are many different style BCBG dresses to choose from that are priced under $100. A great night on the town in a trendy and stylish dress with a matching pair of shoes from BCBG can be put together for less than $200 for the entire outfit! That's a great deal!

What's great about Designer Apparel is that the site searches the best deals on BCBG clothing and shoes all over the internet and compiles a list for you immediately. You don't have to waste time searching Bloomingdale's, Nordstrom and all those other retail sites looking for that perfect BCBG dress because Designer Apparel has got the list for you!

June 02, 2009 by Mary N. L.
http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/1789854/designer_bcbg_shoes_and_clothing_on_pg2_pg2.html?cat=46


When shopping for BCBG, don't pay those outrageous prices when you can get the clothing and shoes at a budget. The internet is a great source for finding bargain prices on designer fashions. Overstock is a great site to keep your budget at $150 and lower. Stores such as DSW and dillards offer more affordable prices on BCBG. Consumers are getting the same quality and garments at these lower costs then they would at the BCBG Max Azria store. So save some cash and spend it wisly. Shop around and find those deals today!

Spring is Skirted By BCBG Max Azria

Hard To Find A Pair Of Pants In The Entire Spring 2010 Collection

CBS) It's all about dresses for spring for BCBG Max Azria: There was a nary a pair of pants on the collection's runway Thursday at New York Fashion Week.

But there was enough variety in the silhouettes to make it feel like a comprehensive lineup of clothes for the new season, with styles ranging from a loosely tacked white T-shirt to a mesh, abstract, floral-print bandage gown. (The many bandage-style dresses make you wonder if co-designers Max and Lubov Azria are getting their signals crossed with one of their other brands, Herve Leger, the bandage-happy line that will be shown at the Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week tents on Sunday.)

Starlets in the front row, including Amanda Bynes and Theodora and Alexandra Richards, nodded approvingly as some of the nightclub-worthy dresses made it down the catwalk.

The Azrias said in their notes to the editors, retailers and stylists at Bryant Park that they were looking for balance "where the unprecious becomes precious."

There certainly was something artful in the draping and a lightness in the fabrics that evoked both ease and sexiness while not being overly simplistic. A gray jersey dress with handkerchief hem, for example, had subtle quilting on the straps, and a patch of printed fabric on a light taupe asymmetrical dress was reminiscent of python skin.

The designers were aiming for a "carefree spirit that embodies a modern piece of art," they said.

Suze Yalof Schwartz, executive fashion editor at large for Glamour, zeroed in on outfit No. 6 — a fuschia one-shoulder number with a block of printed fabric. It is perfect for the BCBG customer, she said. "It's young, it's sexy, it's feminine and it's high fashion without a high-fashion price."

All the dresses were paired with teetering, leather wrap-up sandals that were toned down and made more sophisticated than the gladiator style popular last summer.





http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2009/09/10/entertainment/main5301140.shtml

Dresses are sure to be a must have this spring. The loose silhouettes and popping bright colors and florals are some of my favorites.

Gearing Up: Banana Republic Fall 2009

by WWD Staff

Posted Thursday March 26, 2009

From WWD.COM



Forget urban Zen. Angst and aggression informed Banana Republic’s fall collection, which, as creative director Simon Kneen put it, was about “being prepared for anything and everything in the face of adversity.” Thus, there were chunky knits, tailored military jackets, skinny leather pants and silk dresses fit for the tough city sophisticate.



In men’s, Banana is planning to cozy up to its customer. Thus, chunky sweaters, soft scarves and plush outerwear were designed to “make people feel like they’re in a cocoon,” said Kneen. The collection was heavy on black, but there were pops of brights to help provide a bit of hope. “It’s sort of like a modern Heathcliff,” Kneen said, “romantic and optimistic at all costs.”

http://www.wwd.com/fashion-news/gearing-up-banana-republic-fall-2009-2082852?src=rss/fashion/20090326

Cold weather is around the corner and what better way than to warm off in scarves, coats and gloves from the fall banana republic collection.

Gap Inc. Names Julie Rosen Head of Banana Republic Merchandising

SAN FRANCISCO--(Business Wire)--
Gap Inc. (NYSE:GPS) today announced that Julie Rosen is returning to the company
as senior vice president of merchandising for Banana Republic, reporting to Jack
Calhoun. A 15-year veteran of the company, Rosen will lead all product
merchandising for Banana Republic, including men`s, women`s and accessories, as
well as manage licensing relationships with third-party vendors.

"Julie is a tremendously talented merchant and leader who keenly understands our
brand and customer," said Banana Republic President Jack Calhoun. "We`re
thrilled to have her back, especially during these challenging economic times
for consumers where product differentiation and distinct assortments are so
vital to a brand`s success."

Rosen held a similar role at Banana Republic during much of the 1990`s, and was
part of the team that successfully repositioned the brand as an `affordable
luxury` shopping destination. Between 1991 and 2006, she held merchandising
roles of increasing responsibility at Gap Inc., including her role as head of
merchandising for Gap brand. After leaving Gap in 2006, Rosen served as a
strategic consultant to several apparel retail brands including Theory, Nike and
luxury brand Chrome Hearts.

"I grew up here, and I`m delighted to be back," said Rosen. "Banana Republic is
a strong brand with an incredible legacy, and I`m looking forward to helping the
team take the brand forward."

She starts on May 26th.

About Gap Inc.

Gap Inc. is a leading global specialty retailer offering clothing, accessories
and personal care products for men, women, children and babies under the Gap,
Banana Republic, Old Navy, Piperlime and Athleta brand names. Fiscal 2008 sales
were $14.5 billion. Gap Inc. operates more than 3,100 stores in the United
States, the United Kingdom, Canada, France, Japan and Ireland. In addition, Gap
Inc. is expanding its international presence with franchise agreements in Asia,
Europe, Latin America and the Middle East. For more information, please visit
gapinc.com.





Gap Inc.
Media Relations:
Louise Callagy, 415-427-3502
Investor Relations:
Evan Price, 415-427-2161



Copyright Business Wire 2009

Tue May 5, 2009 1:00pm EDT

http://www.reuters.com/article/pressRelease/idUS180153+05-May-2009+BW20090505

I think that Banana Republic will benefit from Julie Rosen returning to the company as senior vice president of merchandising for Banana Republic. I am excited to see her new ideas that she has for this company. She is very excited to be back in position and ready to help out her team to make positive changes for Banana Republic.

Banana Republic Gets Eco-Friendly

Banana Republic is ushering in Earth Day with their second eco-friendly collection. The full Heritage line will be available on May 12th but for now you can find certain items, like a leopard print dress and a taupe Dolman sleeved top on their website. As you're browsing through, look for a green elephant icon which means the garment has been made in a more sustainable way.

All 45 pieces in this collection are created out of materials like soy silk and sustainably farmed bamboo. BR is also doing their jeans in eco-friendly way, requiring the facilities that produce the denim to follow strict clean water guidelines.

It's good to be green.

Posted Apr 22nd 2009 at 1:01PM by Kyle Hepp (Subscribe to Kyle Hepp's posts)

http://www.stylelist.com/2009/04/22/banana-republic-gets-eco-friendly-again/

Going Green is what consumers keep seeing over these past few years. Banana Republic decided to go eco-friendly and make a collection created out of materials like soy silk and sustainably farmed bamboo. Many companies are making this drastic change to bring in consumers who want to save the environment. Banana Republic is smart to add this collection along with there other traditional products because this will bring in sales for consumers who want eco-friendly products.

Banana Republic has a new ‘Edition’ to the family

While scaling the escalators of the Westfield San Francisco Shopping Centre, you may have noticed something that resembles an unopened birthday gift. Wrapped in what appears to be a hybrid of linked D’s and E’s is the soon-to-be storefront of Banana Republic’s new concept store, Edition.
On May 15, the wrapping will expose a chic buffet of women’s accessories including handbags, shoes and swanky baubles and beads (check out the slideshow below for some of their items). Jack Calhoun, the president of Banana Republic, is more than excited to have Edition open in San Francisco.
“San Francisco is the heart of what we do – it’s a stylish city,” says Calhoun. “It has a real mix of people, but it is a casual lifestyle. It’s the perfect place to launch Edition.”
Banana Republic (or BR as it’s known to many professional hipsters), is a part of Gap, Inc. which is based in San Francisco. That said, it’s only understandable that Edition launches its name in the birthplace of their parent company.
“Banana Republic has a phenomenal past, it was originally based on the idea of discovery and travel,” says Calhoun. “As the brand expanded, it moved with the consumer. It became a high quality casual brand. We want to be current and fashionable providing versatile wardrobe.”
Needless to say, Edition is adding fuel to their versatile wardrobe fire for professionals. I had the chance to talk more with Calhoun about Edition, it’s aesthetic and whether or not they will offer something for us guys who are dying for a new man bag.
What made BR want to start Edition?
There’s a lot of high-end jewelry that’s not really accessible. There was a big opportunity in the market to fill that white space and offer accessible and affordable accessory. (Banana Republic) has grown a lot in accessories, shoes, bags and jewelry. Edition is going to offer a full mix of accessories.
Where did the name come from?
We picked it out of a hat (laughs). Actually, naming the store one of the most difficult things. The name came out of “limited edition.” Part of the idea is that 40 percent of the items are exclusively available at this store.
What kind of woman would shop at Edition?
A woman in her 30’s and who is career-oriented. They have a very active lifestyle. They are interested in clothing in accessories but fashion isn’t the center of their life.
What is the general aesthetic of the store and it's accessories?
It’s feminine and softer. From casual to dressed up, there is a very balanced assortment of jewelry. We have a phenomenal design team with a lot of horsepower.
Do you think that right now is the perfect time to start a spin-off store?
I think where we are positioned in the market of affordable accessories. We have a lot of items under $100. We are also seeing a lot of women gravitating to small accessories – and Edition is good for that. Obviously with the economy, we have to offer people a great product at a good price point. It’s a tough time, but we offer incredible products. We are so proud of what we have to offer to our customers.
Do you think Edition will ever carry men’s items?
This store is a test, so we are starting with women’s accessories – and we are going to learn from that. From there, we will listen to our customers and take their thoughts into consideration. We are going to learn from We currently carry men’s accessories in our Banana Republic stores.
Edition opens its doors on May 15 at the Westfield San Francisco Shopping Centre, 865 Market Street.

http://www.examiner.com/x-508-SF-Fashion-Examiner~y2009m5d11-Banana-Republic-has-a-new-Edition-to-the-family


May 11, 5:54 PM SF Fashion Examiner Dino-Ray Ramos

Banana Republic History

Banana Republic, began in 1978. It is a luxury brand which offers high-quality apparel and accessories collections for both men and women. This brand offers accessories, shoes, personal care products, intimate apparel, handbags, jewelry, men's wear, men's big and tall, women, petites, and women’s tall. The feeling Banana Republic evokes is sophistication. Just visit your local Banana Republic to provide you with work wear and evening wear. It offers a wide variety of styles making you look chic and ready for the day. The comfort and style of this brand will raise your confidence and get you noticed.

BCBG Max Azria history

BCBG comes from the french phrase meaning bon chic, bon genre which means good style, good attitude. It was founded in 1989. It has a combination of European sophistication as well as American spirit. This company is known for clothing for women, which includes separates, suiting, evening dresses, denim, footwear, eye wear, swimwear, and handbags. In addition to woman's ready-to-wear, their lines include BCBG Contemporary, 3 junior lines, and menswear. The feeling the brand evokes is elegance, youthful, east to wear and a bit of an edge. The essence of the brand is taking the modern women from day to night, work to weekend.

www.bcbg.com