Charlotte Russe Holding

Charlotte Russe Holding, Inc. is a distinguished specialty retailer of women's clothing and accessories. With a rich history that dates back to **1975**, the company was originally incorporated as Lawrence Merchandising Corp. by the Lawrence brothers, who opened their first store in Carlsbad, California. The company's namesake, Charlotte Russe, is not just a reference to a delightful dessert from the founders' childhood but also a symbol of the sweet blend of fashion-forward thinking and accessible pricing that characterizes their stores. Aimed at women aged **15 to 35**, Charlotte Russe stores have been designed to project fashion attitudes that resonate with a broad spectrum of customers, regardless of socioeconomic, demographic, or cultural backgrounds. Charlotte Russe operates two primary retail chains: the eponymous **Charlotte Russe** and **Rampage**. While Charlotte Russe stores focus on providing trendy yet affordable fashion, Rampage caters to a market seeking more avant-garde and higher-priced clothing and accessories. In 1999, the company ventured into a third concept, Charlotte's Room, which expanded their offerings to include accessories and home fashions. The company's expansion has been strategic and significant. After establishing a strong presence in San Diego County, the Lawrence brothers expanded throughout California and later into Arizona and Nevada. By April 2000, Charlotte Russe operated a total of **113 stores** across **17 states** and Puerto Rico. Charlotte Russe Holding went public in **1999**, marking a new chapter in its growth story. However, the retail landscape has been challenging, and in 2019, the company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. Emerging from this, Charlotte Russe was acquired by Toronto-based retailer **YM Inc.**, which has since expanded the brand's footprint, primarily targeting the Generation Z demographic. As of September 2023, Charlotte Russe operates **196 stores**, predominantly located in malls and shopping centers. The company's success hinges on its ability to anticipate, identify, and capitalize on the fashion preferences of its target customers. This customer-centric approach, combined with a keen eye for fashion trends, has allowed Charlotte Russe to maintain its relevance and appeal in the competitive retail fashion industry.