Gap, Inc., the American fashion stalwart, has announced that it will be taking its workout brand Athleta to Canada sometime this summer.
The launch, reportedly, will be followed by opening of Athleta stores in North York, Ontario, and West Vancouver, British Columbia.
This also marks Athleta’s first expansion outside the United States.
Gap’s move is being seen as a part of its business strategy to help Athleta grow and bring it to a point wherein it can generate net sales of US $ 2 billion by 2023.
Notably, the athletic apparel brand for women had crossed US $ 1 billion in 2020 despite all challenges – which was a rise of 16 per cent from what it was a year before.
More on the expansion, Mary Beth Laughton, CEO and President, Athleta told media that global expansion is a key component of company’s growth strategy.
Like Gap’s arch rival Lululemon, Athleta brand too is one of those few brands to have gained a lot due to the pandemic – all thanks to its leggings, tank tops and stretchy pants that are favourites with women.
What remains to be seen now is how successfully Gap is able to bring Athleta to Canada as previously many other retail bigwigs like Target and Best Buy have struggled in the country and have had to close down their stores.
With the exception of Lululemon, it’s been a struggle for many!
Will Gap’s Athleta be able to do it? Let’s wait and watch!
Also Read: Gap’s key growth driver Athleta expands sizing across collections
