J.Crew Group, LLC is a renowned American multi-brand, multi-channel specialty retailer known for its classic style and high-quality clothing. The company's journey began in 1947 when Mitchell Cinader and Saul Charles founded Popular Merchandise, Inc., which initially sold low-priced women's clothing through in-home demonstrations. Over the years, the company evolved, and by 1983, it had rebranded itself as J.Crew, Inc., marking the beginning of a new era in retail fashion.

The company's growth was fueled by its successful catalog operations, which offered a Ralph Lauren look at a more affordable price. This strategy led to explosive growth, with annual sales skyrocketing from $3 million to over $100 million within five years. In 1989, J.Crew opened its first retail store in South Street Seaport, Manhattan, setting the stage for a nationwide expansion.

Today, J.Crew Group operates under the ownership of Anchorage Capital Group and Leonard Green & Partners. It has established itself as an internationally recognized omnichannel retailer with a family of brands that includes J.Crew, J.Crew Factory, and Madewell. The company's product range is extensive, offering jewelry, accessories, footwear, and apparel for women, men, and children. It also sells home goods, office supplies, tableware, travel gear, and more.

J.Crew Group is particularly known for its signature categories such as cashmere, coats, blazers, and pants. It has also made a name for itself through collaborations with some of the coolest brands in the market. As of 2016, the company operated more than 450 retail stores across the United States, and despite facing challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to a bankruptcy protection filing in 2020, J.Crew has continued to be a staple in the American fashion industry.

The company's commitment to quality and its ability to stay in tune with the evolving fashion trends have allowed it to maintain a loyal customer base. With a focus on providing a Ralph Lauren look without the high-end price tag, J.Crew has carved out a niche for itself in the competitive world of retail fashion.

HanesBrands Inc., known as HBI on the New York Stock Exchange, is a global company with a rich history and a vast portfolio of brands that have become household names. Founded in 1901, HanesBrands has grown into a multinational clothing company headquartered in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA. The company employs approximately 65,300 people internationally and operates in 32 countries.

HanesBrands is renowned for its everyday apparel that is celebrated for comfort, quality, and value. The company's iconic brands include Hanes, the leading basic apparel brand in the United States; Champion, an innovator at the intersection of lifestyle and athletic apparel; and Bonds, which is setting new standards for design and sustainability.

The company's business model is unique in the apparel industry because it owns the majority of its manufacturing facilities, producing about 80 percent of the apparel it sells. This ownership allows HanesBrands to maintain a competitive advantage in terms of cost, scale, flexibility, and compliance with best-in-class management practices. The company operates a balanced supply chain across hemispheres, including fabric production, cut parts, and sewing.

HanesBrands products are sold in a variety of retail settings, including mass-merchandise, mid-tier, department stores, college bookstores, dollar stores, food and drug, and club stores, as well as directly to consumers through the Internet and nearly 1,000 company-owned retail stores worldwide.

In terms of corporate social responsibility, HanesBrands has a strong reputation for ethical business practices and workplace quality. It is the only apparel producer to ever be honored for its workplace practices in Central America and the Caribbean by the Great Place to Work Institute. Additionally, the company has been named Forbes Best Large Employer and is an 11-time honoree of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Energy Star.

HanesBrands has also set ambitious 2030 goals to improve the lives of people, protect the planet, and produce sustainable products. The company's Full Potential plan is a strategy to help HanesBrands become the most admired, consumer-centric everyday apparel company in the world. This plan focuses on four key pillars: growing the global Champion brand, reigniting innerwear growth, driving consumer-centricity, and focusing the portfolio.

In recent years, HanesBrands has expanded its brand portfolio through acquisitions, including the purchase of Maidenform for $575 million in 2013, the Australian-based clothing and underwear company Pacific Brands in 2016, and the acquisition of Alternative Apparel for $60 million in 2017.

With a net sales figure of $6.7 billion in 2020, HanesBrands continues to be a dominant player in the apparel industry, leveraging its world-class supply chain and focusing on strategic initiatives to unlock its full potential and deliver long-term growth that benefits all stakeholders.

Aritzia LP is a Canadian fashion retailer that caters to young women in North America. Founded in 1984 by Brian Hill, the company is headquartered in Vancouver, British Columbia. Aritzia is known for its design house and innovative global platform, reflecting its values and approach to the fashion retail industry.

The company prides itself on being creators and purveyors of Everyday Luxury, offering an extensive portfolio of exclusive brands designed to cater to various functions and individual aesthetics. Aritzia's approach is centered around designing immersive and highly personalized shopping experiences, which are available in over 100 boutiques across North America and through their online store, aritzia.com.

Aritzia distinguishes itself from other retailers by primarily selling its own in-house fashion brands. These include Wilfred, Wilfred Free, Le Fou by Wilfred, TNA, Talula, Babaton, The Group by Babaton, 1-01 Babaton, Sunday Best, Main Character, Community, and Super Puff. In addition to its own brands, Aritzia stores also carry clothing from other labels such as Citizens of Humanity, Mackage, New Balance, Levi's, A Gold E, Havaianas, J Brand Jeans, Adidas, Herschel Supply Co., and Rag & Bone.

The company's retail spaces are uniquely designed with a mix of local influences, natural materials, custom furniture, and art. Each store's interior and exterior architectural configurations are individually crafted by a team of architects and interior designers to create a bespoke look. This attention to detail extends to the shopping experience, where it is intentional that most dressing rooms do not have mirrors, encouraging shoppers to step into a communal space, although private options are available for those who prefer it.

In terms of corporate milestones, Aritzia went public on October 3, 2016. In 2019, the major shareholder Berkshire Partners, an American private equity firm, exited its stake. A significant acquisition occurred in June 2021 when Aritzia announced the purchase of Reigning Champ, a menswear-focused Canadian athleisure and streetwear brand, for $63 million. In May 2022, Jennifer Wong, who joined the company in 1987 and served as COO since 2007, took over as CEO, succeeding the founder Brian Hill.

Aritzia has seen substantial growth over the years, with reported revenues of C$2.20 billion and a net income of C$0.19 billion in 2022. The company's total assets were valued at C$1.84 billion, with total equity of C$0.69 billion. As of the latest data, Aritzia employs approximately 8,300 people.

The company continues to expand its reach and influence in the fashion industry, maintaining its commitment to providing high-quality, fashionable clothing and accessories at attainable prices, all while ensuring a unique and luxurious shopping experience for its customers.

Columbia Sportswear: Innovating Adventure and Outdoor Performance

Columbia Sportswear is a globally renowned outdoor and adventure apparel and footwear company, founded in 1938 by German immigrants Gert and Marie Boyle in Portland, Oregon, USA. Over the decades, it has grown into an iconic brand, synonymous with quality, innovation, and a passion for the outdoors. With a deep-rooted commitment to helping people enjoy the great outdoors to the fullest, Columbia Sportswear has become a trusted companion for outdoor enthusiasts worldwide.

The company's mission is simple yet profound: to design and create high-performance gear that empowers individuals to explore the outdoors comfortably and confidently, regardless of the weather conditions. Columbia Sportswear is known for its cutting-edge technology and innovative solutions that ensure customers stay warm, dry, and protected, whether they are hiking, skiing, fishing, or simply enjoying the fresh air.

Columbia's flagship product line, including jackets, pants, boots, and accessories, is carefully engineered to meet the demands of rugged terrains and extreme climates. Their patented technologies, such as Omni-Heat™, Omni-Tech™, and Omni-Shield™, provide superior insulation, breathability, and water resistance, ensuring that adventurers can conquer the elements with ease.

Beyond functional excellence, Columbia Sportswear is dedicated to sustainability. They actively pursue eco-friendly materials and production processes, emphasizing their commitment to minimizing their environmental impact. By doing so, they encourage responsible exploration of the outdoors while preserving the very environments they love.

Columbia Sportswear's commitment to its customers extends beyond products. Their exceptional customer service ensures that every outdoor enthusiast receives expert advice, product knowledge, and support, making their adventures enjoyable and safe.

As a company rooted in the Pacific Northwest's stunning landscapes, Columbia Sportswear understands the transformative power of nature. Through their philanthropic efforts, they work to foster a deeper connection between people and the outdoors, believing that these experiences enrich lives and promote conservation efforts.

In conclusion, Columbia Sportswear is more than just a brand; it's a symbol of adventure, durability, and sustainability. With a legacy spanning over eight decades, it continues to inspire and equip outdoor enthusiasts with the gear they need to explore, discover, and appreciate the beauty of the natural world.

Lanius GmbH: A Sustainable and Fair Fashion Brand

Lanius GmbH is more than just a fashion company. It is a pioneer and a leader in the eco-friendly fashion industry, with a vision of creating beautiful clothes with a good feeling. Founded in 1999 by Claudia Lanius, who is also the designer of the brand, Lanius GmbH produces and sells high-quality women's clothing that respects people, animals, and the environment.

The company sources its materials from organic and natural fibers, such as cotton, wool, hemp, linen, silk, cashmere, and recycled polyamide. These materials are carefully selected and certified by labels such as GOTS, PETA, and Fairtrade, to ensure that they meet the highest standards of sustainability and ethics. Lanius GmbH also works with reliable and fair partners who share its values and adhere to its production standards.

Lanius GmbH offers a variety of products for different occasions and seasons, such as dresses, tops, trousers, jackets, coats, knitwear, activewear, and accessories. The products are designed with sophistication and elegance, combining classic styles with modern trends. The company also provides services to extend the lifespan of its clothes, such as care guides, repair services, resell platforms, and rental options.

Lanius GmbH has a strong online presence, with its own website and online shop, where customers can browse and order its products. The company also has social media channels and a blog, where it shares its stories, inspirations, and tips on sustainable fashion. Additionally, Lanius GmbH sells its products through selected retailers and partners in Germany and abroad, reaching a wide and diverse audience.

Lanius GmbH is not only a company, but also a community of people who care about fashion and the planet. It is a brand that inspires and empowers women to express themselves and make a positive impact on the world. Lanius GmbH is a sustainable and fair fashion brand that you can trust and love.

VF Corporation

VF Corporation is one of the world’s largest apparel, footwear and accessories companies connecting people to the lifestyles, activities and experiences they cherish most through a family of iconic outdoor, active and workwear brands.

History

VF Corporation was founded in 1899 by John Barbey and a group of investors as Reading Glove and Mitten Manufacturing Company in Reading, Pennsylvania. The company expanded into silk lingerie in 1913 and rebranded its products as Vanity Fair. The company name changed to Vanity Fair Mills in 1919 and went public in 1951.

In 1969, the company acquired H.D. Lee Company, a jeans maker, and changed its name to VF Corporation. Since then, VF Corporation has grown through acquisitions of various brands, such as Wrangler, JanSport, The North Face, Vans, Timberland, and Supreme.

In 1998, the company moved its headquarters from Wyomissing, Pennsylvania to Greensboro, North Carolina to be closer to more of its operations. In 2019, the company relocated its global headquarters to Denver, Colorado, while retaining its Greensboro office as the headquarters for its jeans and outlet businesses.

VF Corporation owns and operates 13 brands that are organized into three categories: Outdoor, Active and Work.

• Outdoor: The North Face, Timberland, Icebreaker, Smartwool, Altra and Eagle Creek
• Active: Vans, The North Face, Kipling, Napapijri, Eastpak, JanSport and lucy
• Work: Dickies, Timberland PRO, Red Kap, Bulwark, Horace Small and VF Solutions

These brands offer a wide range of products, such as apparel, footwear, backpacks, luggage, accessories, and workwear, for various consumer segments and markets.

Responsibility

VF Corporation is committed to driving a more equitable and sustainable world through its business and the industry. The company has a vision to be the most sustainable and purpose-led apparel and footwear company in the world.

The company has four pillars of responsibility: Empowered People, Circular Products, Responsible Sourcing and Thriving Communities.

• Empowered People: The company aims to foster a diverse, inclusive and equitable culture that respects and values human rights, dignity and well-being. The company also supports the development and empowerment of its associates, suppliers and communities.
• Circular Products: The company strives to design and make products that are circular by nature, meaning they can be reused, repaired, recycled or regenerated. The company also seeks to reduce its environmental impact and carbon footprint across its value chain.
• Responsible Sourcing: The company works to source its materials and services responsibly and ethically, ensuring that they meet the highest standards of quality, safety and sustainability. The company also collaborates with its suppliers and partners to improve their social and environmental performance.
• Thriving Communities: The company contributes to the social and economic development of the communities where it operates and sources. The company also supports causes and initiatives that align with its purpose and values, such as education, health, environment and social justice.

The company reports its progress and performance on its responsibility goals and initiatives through its annual Made for Change report and other disclosures.

Investors

VF Corporation is a publicly traded company listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol VFC. The company has a market capitalization of about $36 billion as of November 2021.

The company has a diversified and balanced portfolio of brands that generate strong and consistent cash flows and returns. The company also has a disciplined capital allocation strategy that prioritizes investing in its organic growth, paying dividends, making strategic acquisitions and repurchasing shares.

The company has a long history of delivering shareholder value and increasing its dividend. The company has paid dividends for 49 consecutive years and has increased its dividend for 48 consecutive years. The company has a current dividend yield of about 2%.

The company also has a robust corporate governance structure and practices that ensure accountability, transparency and alignment with its stakeholders. The company has a board of directors composed of 12 members, 11 of whom are independent. The company also has four board committees: Audit, Compensation, Nominating and Governance, and Finance.

The company communicates with its investors and analysts through quarterly earnings releases and conference calls, annual reports and proxy statements, investor presentations and events, and other filings and disclosures. The company also provides guidance and outlook for its financial performance and key metrics.

Wolverine Worldwide, Inc.

Wolverine Worldwide, Inc. stands as a global leader in the footwear and apparel industry, boasting a diverse portfolio of renowned brands that cater to a wide spectrum of consumer needs. Established in 1883, the company's enduring commitment to excellence is complemented by its progressive approach to sustainability, particularly in materials and practices.

Brands Representing Excellence

Wolverine Worldwide's impressive array of brands includes:

• Bates: Known for its military and tactical footwear, prioritizing durability and performance.
• Cat Footwear: Offers rugged work boots and casual footwear designed for lasting comfort and reliability.
• Chaco: Renowned for outdoor adventure sandals, with an emphasis on adjustable straps and functionality.
• Harley-Davidson Footwear: Blends style and durability, capturing the essence of the iconic Harley-Davidson brand.
• Hush Puppies: A symbol of casual and comfortable footwear with classic designs for various occasions.
• HYTEST: Specializes in safety footwear, providing protective solutions for diverse work environments.
• Merrell: Offers high-performance outdoor footwear and apparel for hiking and trail running enthusiasts.
• Saucony: A leader in athletic footwear, especially running shoes, with a focus on innovation and design.
• Stride Rite: Specializes in children's footwear, prioritizing comfort and support for young feet.
• Sweaty Betty: A go-to brand for activewear and athleisure, combining style and functionality.
• Wolverine: Known for work boots and outdoor footwear, delivering durability and reliability.

Sustainability at the Core

Wolverine Worldwide, Inc. places a strong emphasis on sustainability, incorporating eco-friendly practices and materials across its brands. The company actively engages in gots-certified initiatives, utilizing sustainable materials such as hemp, organic cotton, and other environmentally conscious options.

Commitment to Responsible Practices

Wolverine Worldwide implements sustainable practices throughout its supply chain, ensuring ethical sourcing and production. The company's dedication to responsible manufacturing extends to the utilization of recycled materials, minimizing environmental impact.

Embracing Certifications

The company aligns with globally recognized standards such as GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard), emphasizing the use of organic fibers and environmentally friendly manufacturing processes.

Transparency and Innovation

Wolverine Worldwide maintains a commitment to transparency, regularly communicating its sustainability efforts to the community. The brand's innovative approach includes a focus on new technologies and sustainable solutions that contribute to reducing its carbon footprint.

In essence, Wolverine Worldwide, Inc. not only stands as a beacon of excellence in the footwear and apparel industry but also as a trailblazer in sustainable practices, consistently prioritizing the well-being of both consumers and the planet.

ECOALF RECYCLED FABRICS, S.L.

Mission and vision

ECOALF's mission is to create a new generation of recycled fabrics with the same quality, design and technical properties as the best non-recycled ones. The company's vision is to show that there is no need to use natural resources in a careless way, and that waste can be a valuable source of raw materials.

Products and services

ECOALF offers a wide range of products for men, women and kids, including coats, jackets, sweatshirts, knitwear, shirts, pants, shorts, dresses, skirts, swimwear, footwear, bags, backpacks, accessories and more. All the products are made from recycled materials, such as plastic bottles, fishing nets, tires, coffee grounds, wool, cotton and down feathers. ECOALF also provides a service called ECOALF Foundation, which is a non-profit organization that promotes environmental awareness and supports clean-up initiatives in the oceans.

History and achievements

ECOALF was founded in 2009 by Javier Goyeneche, who was inspired by his son Alfredo (whose name is the origin of the brand) and his concern for the future of the planet. The company started as a research and development project to find innovative ways to transform waste into high-quality fabrics. In 2012, ECOALF launched its first collection of outerwear made from recycled plastic bottles. Since then, the company has expanded its product portfolio and its sources of recycled materials. Some of the company's achievements are:

• In 2015, ECOALF became the first Spanish fashion brand to be certified as a B Corporation, which means that it meets the highest standards of social and environmental performance, transparency and accountability.
• In 2016, ECOALF launched the project "Upcycling the Oceans", which involves collaborating with fishermen to collect plastic waste from the Mediterranean Sea and turn it into yarn and fabric.
• In 2017, ECOALF won the European Business Award for the Environment in the category of Product and Services for Sustainable Development, for its innovative use of recycled materials.
• In 2018, ECOALF opened its first flagship store in Madrid, which showcases the company's commitment to sustainability and design.
• In 2019, ECOALF partnered with Swatch to create a watch strap made from recycled plastic bottles, as part of the Swatch x You collection.
• In 2020, ECOALF launched its first vegan collection, which uses plant-based materials instead of animal-derived ones, such as corn, bamboo and algae.

Values and principles

ECOALF's values and principles are based on the following concepts:

• Because there is no planet B: This is the company's slogan and motto, which reflects its awareness of the environmental challenges and its responsibility to act accordingly.
• Quality and innovation: ECOALF strives to create products that are not only sustainable, but also durable, functional and stylish, by using the latest technologies and processes.
• Transparency and traceability: ECOALF ensures that its products are made in a ethical and respectful way, by working with certified suppliers and partners, and by providing information about the origin and composition of its materials.
• Education and collaboration: ECOALF believes that change is possible through knowledge and cooperation, by raising awareness among consumers and society, and by supporting initiatives that share its vision and values.

Authentic Brands Group LLC: Shaping the Future of Brand Management and Retail

Authentic Brands Group LLC (ABG) is a dynamic and forward-thinking brand development and brand management company. ABG has positioned itself as a global leader in the business of revitalizing and enhancing iconic brands across various industries, including fashion, entertainment, sports, and more. With a commitment to innovation and a portfolio of renowned brands, ABG is shaping the future of brand management and retail.

Key Aspects of Authentic Brands Group LLC:

1. Brand Portfolio:

ABG boasts an impressive portfolio of globally recognized brands, including Marilyn Monroe, Elvis Presley, Muhammad Ali, Sports Illustrated, and many others. Their diverse brand lineup spans various sectors and appeals to a wide range of consumers.

2. Licensing and Brand Management:

ABG specializes in brand management and licensing, leveraging its expertise to breathe new life into iconic brands. This includes strategic partnerships, merchandising, marketing, and consumer engagement.

3. Retail Strategy:

ABG takes an innovative approach to retail, often blending digital and physical retail experiences to engage consumers and create meaningful brand interactions. Their strategy includes collaborations with retailers, e-commerce platforms, and pop-up stores.

4. Celebrity and Entertainment Brands:

ABG manages a significant number of celebrity and entertainment-based brands, preserving legacies and creating opportunities for these brands to evolve and thrive in contemporary markets.

5. Global Reach:

ABG's brands are not limited to one region; they have a global presence, appealing to consumers worldwide. This reach allows them to explore diverse market opportunities.

6. Sustainability Initiatives:

ABG has taken steps to incorporate sustainability and responsible business practices into its operations, reflecting a commitment to environmental and ethical concerns.

7. Innovation and Adaptation:

The company is known for its ability to adapt to changing consumer preferences and market trends. ABG embraces innovation and technology to stay at the forefront of brand development.

8. Collaborations and Partnerships:

ABG frequently collaborates with other brands, designers, and influencers to create unique and engaging products and experiences.

9. Authenticity and Legacy:

The core of ABG's mission is to maintain the authenticity and legacy of the brands they manage while infusing them with new life and relevance.

10. Customer-Centric Approach:

ABG is dedicated to delivering value to its customers, whether through high-quality products, engaging experiences, or innovative marketing strategies.

In summary, Authentic Brands Group LLC is at the forefront of brand management and revitalization, breathing new life into iconic brands while preserving their legacies. With a diverse portfolio and a commitment to innovation and sustainability, ABG is shaping the future of brand management and retail, creating meaningful connections with consumers across the globe.

René Lacoste, a legendary tennis champion in the 1920s, embodied elegance in everything he did. As a visionary free thinker, he defied given rules to innovate, invent and reinvent throughout his life. One example is the creation of the very first short-sleeved polo shirt in breathable fabric that he designed to increase freedom of movement during play. This piece led to the founding of a brand capable of liberating fashion codes with elegance as its founding value.

The values that inspired René in his life are those that focus on others, fair play, and generosity. This is the story of a daring player whose tenacity saw him nicknamed “the crocodile.” This symbol then became his logo – the very first to be displayed on clothing – and went on to gain worldwide recognition. This is the story of friendship and teamwork: a spirit of cooperation that continues today in the brand’s collaborations with leading artists and designers.

At the crossroads of sport and fashion, Lacoste librates and creates movement. In each collection and every line, the timeless elegance of Lacoste is captured by a combination of creativity and tradition. A blend that enables everyone to develop their personal style by absorbing and reinterpreting the brand’s rich heritage. By making it their own. In a world that often highlights things that separate us, Lacoste's elegance brings us together. It unites those who are looking for a different path through life. Both universal ad timeless, it crosses cultures, oceans, and generations to leave its mark on each and every person. Elegance transcends differences. Universal, accessible to all. A creative, inventive elegance that allows you to play and to dare. And which inspires us to go beyond established norms to invent our own lives while remaining faithful to who we really are.

Lacoste invites you to realize your dreams, but not on your own. Instead, by joining a wider community in which everyone respects and recognizes each other’s elegance.