UNIQLO is a Japanese company that ensures it provides casual clothes for all

kinds of people

OVERVIEW
Company name: Fast Retailing Co., LTD. (1963) Uniqlo Co., LTD.(2005) Established: May 1, 1963 Company Information: UNIQLO is a brand of FAST RETAILING and among the top ten
specialty apparel retailers in the world. The UNIQLO chain-store concept created by Yamaguchi-based Fast Retailing in the mid-1980s only saw explosive growth recently. The company successfully subverted the Japanese clothing business by sourcing overseas, primarily in China. UNIQLO currently has more than 680 stores across Japan, China and the UK.

Mission and Vision: To continuously provide fashionable, high quality, basic casual
wear at the lowest prices in the market - casual wear that anybody can wear whenever and wherever. In order to achieve this, we will focus on low cost operation and directly link production and marketing by the shortest and cheapest means. We will think hard about the kind of customer services that are expected from us and provide the best possible. We will provide an environment where global standard employees can happily work, and do innovative work as a team with human touch rather than like a bureaucratic team. And, as a result, we will become a global casual wear company, targeting high growth for both top-lines as well as bottom-line.

Head Office: 717-1 Sayama, Yamaguchi City, Yamaguchi 754-0894, Japan NUMBER OF FULL TIME EMPLOYEES: 15,915 (As of February 29, 2012) Paid in Capital: 10,273 million yen Number of Issued Shares: 106,073,656 (including holders of treasury stock) Line of Business: Control and management of overall group activities as owner and
holding company.

Stores:

Japan: 849 Overseas: 275 Niche Marketing Price range: Demographic: Age: 12 40 years old Profession: University Students, Young Working Audlts, Business Man, and Businesswomen Psychographic: People inclined with pop culture. People who supports mainstream clohing

Uniqlo

Yamaguchi-based Fast Retailing's UNIQLO (a combination of the words unique and clothing) store concept initially proved incredibly popular in Japan with the chain's 500+ stores in Japan seeing sales quadruple. The company has made basic staple fashion items acceptable to a highly brand conscious consumer group and has been credited with, among other things, 'turning fleece into fashion.' The company has thrived in the new age of consumer caution in Japan as consumer spending is limited in the recession (in Japan, UNIQLO is priced at approximately 30% below The Gap). However, UNIQLO's basic range of well-made, affordable and fashionable clothing has proved popular though less so in the last year. UNIQLO's limited ranges of basic clothing are available in predominant colours are black, navy, white, red and various shades of brown with no visible labels. Store design is based on a minimalist, 'pile 'em high, sell' em cheap' concept. UNIQLO is capitalizing on the fashion industries trend towards the post-logo phenomenon. The company has also established a new business model in Japan through sourcing clothing from China. All UNIQLO products are made under license in nearly 90 Chinese factories. The company has virtually subverted the traditional Japanese retail business model by retaining manufacturing, distributing, selling and marketing under one roof. (http://www.chinabookshop.net/fast-retailing-uniqlo-company-profile-p-1152.html)

Products and Business:

Basic clothing is not usually considered as a top priority in garment business. In 60 years Uniqlo still sells mainstream simple shirts and blouse that oppose in todays trends. Uniqlos parent company, Fast Retailing is Japans biggest clothing company with sales that reaches billions of dollars a year despite of todays recession. Fast Retailing has a distinctive business approach. Zara and H&M bring the latest fashions to the masses quickly, ordering new lines many times a year. Fast Retailing, by contrast, sells only around 1,000 items, far fewer than its rivals, and keeps them on the shelves longer. We dont want to chase after fast-fashion trends, explains Mr Yanai. This lets Fast Retailing strike lowerpriced, higher-volume deals with suppliers (most products cost $10-20) and makes managing inventory a much simpler and cheaper affair.( http://www.economist.com/node/16436304) Uniqlo makes up for the narrowness of its offering by selling the same item in many colours: socks come in 50 hues at its flagship store in Tokyo. Such basics, the firm believes, have the added benefit of appealing to a wider audience than the preppy Americana sold by Gap or the faddish wares of Inditex and H&M. With their innovative strategy Uniqlo revolutionize the clothing industries with their simple yet affordable t-shirts, sock and jeans. Uniqlo offers from casual wear for men, women, babies, and children. Its products primarily include fleece jackets, down jackets, polo shirts, footwear, home wear, and swimwear, as well as womens wear, including bra tops, jackets and coats, dresses, jeans and pants, skirts, sweaters and cardigans, blouses, tunics, T-shirts, swim wear and home wear, and lingerie, as well as accessories, such as bags and leather goods, shoes, scarves, and belts. Its basic clothing is in a limited range of colour from black, navy, white, red and various shades of brown with no visible labels. Uniqlo is a global apparel brand that does not dictate trends but allows individuals to express themselves by what they wear. With that desire of self-expression, UNIQLO offers a UT that is a Uniqlo T-shirt brand of PERSONAL EXPRESSION

UNIQLO collaborates with highly recognized names in the global pop culture in order to create a wide range of designs that captures people's imagination and desire for selfexpression. Yet despite the international stature of the design partners, UT products are priced affordably so that every Filipino can enjoy them. L. Ashley, Barbie, Hello Kitty,

CONCORD MUSIC GROUP, Metal Gear, and Gundam, are just some of the designs to choose from. Kids, teens, yuppies and young at heart - there is definitely one UT for everyone.

Interior Design:

Uniqlo offers a spacious space, which makes it easy customer selection. Its interior is base on minimalist, 'pile 'em high, sell' em cheap' concept. Their store front is bare in the eyes of a consumer where youll feel welcome with their ambiance that is bias to everyone.

Colors and Lighting The store colors should always suit the type of merchandise sold (J, Fernandez. 1997). In Uniclo, their combination of plain white walls, mirrors and wooden flooring draws much more attention to their pastel colored products. Lighting is an important aspect in stores; it gives mood and ambiance to a consumer where they will feel relaxed and comfortable. Uniqlo offers a homey feeling because of it wide open space where you can feel free to buy and fit their clothes and express who you are.

Security The degree of security to be provided in a shop will depend on the value of goods. Uniqlo offers a mid range clothing garments to the industry, were they provide fashionable, high quality, basic casual wear at the lowest prices in the market. Their security is not extensive enough but can protect its goods. Every corner of their post has its own CCTV Camera and mirrors that will insure their safety of their products. In their fitting room there is system provided, were one clerk will assist a customer give them tag to know how many garments she/he will fit. Its a indication of a good service plus security. Their six cashier is in the middle of store which you can easily see; it has touch of minimalism using materials such as metal and wood.

No label quality goods

OVERVIEW

Company name: Ryohin Keikaku Co., Ltd Established: June 1989 Company Information: MUJI, which started as a private brand of The Seiyu, Ltd. in
December 1980 with only 40 products, has grown and now offers more than 7,000 products. Ryohin Keikaku was spun off from Seiyu in 1989 and became a manufacturer/retailer for the planning, development, production, distribution and sale of MUJI products, which include diverse necessities such as clothes, household articles and food.

Philosophy: The Companys basic principle is to develop new simple products at

reasonable prices by making the best use of materials while considering environmental issues. Through the careful selection of materials, streamlining manufacturing processes and simplifying our packaging, we have continually introduced high quality Muji brand products onto the market, at lower than usual prices. Presently there are more than 5,000 Muji products sold in Japan. Muji's natural and simple design complements todays lifestyles perfectly.

Head Office: 4-26-3 Higashi-Ikebukuro, Toshima-ku, Tokyo, 170-8424 NUMBER OF FULL TIME EMPLOYEES: 5,197 (including 3,865 part-timers, at
end Feb. 2012)

Paid in Capital: 6,766,250,000 (at end Feb. 2012) Major Business: Operation of exclusive stores of MUJI / product planning /
development / production / wholesale / retail

Stores: Japan: Directly operated Stores: 256, outlets supplied: 116 (at end Feb. 2012)

Overseas: UK: 13, France: 8, Italy: 6, Germany: 5, Ireland: 1, Sweden: 7, Norway:

5, Spain: 5, Turkey: 2, Poland: 1, Portugal: 1, U.S.A.: 4, Hong Kong: 10, Singapore: 4, Korea: 11, China: 38, Taiwan: 23, Thailand: 10, Indonesia: 5, Philippine: 4 Total: 163 stores (at end Feb. 2012)

Niche Marketing Price range: Demographic: Age: 20 40 years old Profession: University Students, Young Working Audlts, Business Man, and Businesswomen, Housewife Psychographic: Customers who hate supporting corporate logos People who supports environmental friendly stance Consumers who are in a strict budget but looking for a high quality product.

History

The company name signals its policy -MUJI is short for Mujirushi Ryohin, which translates to no brand, good product. It began in the early 1980s as a private/generic brand of the Seiyu discount department store. The Mujirushi Ryhin product range was developed to offer cheap good quality products and was marketed using the slogan Lower priced for a reason. Products were wrapped in clear cellophane, plain brown paper labels and red writing. Mujirushi Ryhin's drive to cut retail prices for consumers saw the company cutting waste by for example selling U-shaped spaghetti, the left-over part that is cut off to sell straight spaghetti. In 1983, the first Mujirushi Ryhin store opened. And in 1985 it started overseas production and procurement, started to place direct factory orders in 1986, and in 1987 Muji started to develop material globally. When the first London shop opened in the summer of 1991, at the back of Liberty's of Regent Street, consumer response was instantaneous. Items sold too rapidly to be immediately restocked from Japan. The next summer a second, bigger store followed and Muji clothing featured a strong development in "one mile wear," meaning they were the comfortable clothes worn at home, or within a mile radius, for leisure or for popping out to the local shop. Traditional Japanese workwear inspired relaxed, deconstructed coordinates in comfortable, natural fabrics. In 1999, they started using the brand MUJI

Muji

Muji is a global retailing brand that hails from Japan with the motto: lower priced for a reason. Its one of the strongest brands in the world, and has created a sub category like Caf Muji, Meal Muji, Muji Campsite, florist and home furnishing. The concept is Japanese; its success has been international. Muji is proving a workable design formula for the 1990s and well into the 2000s. Its all about simplicity, moderation, humility and self restraint, the Muji philosophy is to deliver functional products that strive not to the best but enough. Enough does not mean compromise and resignation but a feeling of satisfaction knowing that the product will deliver what is needed but no more. Muji dictates the look, regulates the price and ensures the reliability of each and every product within the Muji range. The value of the Muji products is in its essence, which is why they are never visibly branded.

Products and Business:

Over the last 20 years, Muji have developed a worldwide following with a guiding philosophy that emphasizes innovative and simple materials, processes, and packaging. The resulting products are streamlined, environmentally friendly, and beautiful in their simplicity. Muji is all about simplicity in daily life. Their primary goal is to have a product that ensure the consumer basic necessities. Their strategy is to sell quality products at reasonable price. Clothes, household goods, food, furnitures and stationery are staples and the emphasis is on necessity, not superfluityMuji caters to needs, not wants. The Muji concept is about lifestyle. "Kanketsu," the belief in simplicity which forms the heart of the Japanese art of living, guides the design and retail of the products. Packaging is in simple brown paper bags, swing tags are made of recycled paper and clearly describe the product, in Japanese. The shops are strictly utilitarian: each one is different, but most of the materials and objects used in the construction are taken from local sources, such as scrap yards. Their product is purely functional it lacks distinct graphic identity or code task. Like Haydn Sweterlitsch (2009) said Muji is the "No Brand" brand, its agenda is to sell their products to a consumers needs not wants. Function defines design-and becomes essence with MUJI products. MUJI aspires to modesty and plainness, the better to adapt and shape itself to the styles, preferences, and practices of as wide a group of people as possible. This is the single most important reason people embrace MUJI. Its selling methods is categorize in an assisted service and self service. They have sales staff at hand for providing general information, service and sales.

SELECTION OF MATERIALS

For MUJI the materials they use to make the products are of the utmost importance; consequently, considerable attention is given to their selection. They search worldwide for the most suitable raw materials. It uses many industrial materials as well as recycling unused materials where possible. The overriding selection criteria is always quality. These activities underpin our ability to create lowpriced, high-quality products.

PACKAGING
When packaging products, MUJI seeks not to adorn them but rather to highlight their natural colours and shapes. For this reason, we use bulk packaging and place products in plain, uniform containers. Faithful to our philosophy of simplicity, this approach is also in keeping with our policy of conserving resources and reducing waste. Thus, all Muji products appear on store shelves in simple packaging bearing only product-related information and a price tag.

Interior Design

Muji interiors offers more of a Zen type, its all about clear straight lines, open spaces with concealed storage and minimal decoration. It Entrance boast wide space for consumer to see what their selling. They h. ave specific gondola for each category of their product, and it much more easier for the consumers see the goods. Many commentators have describe Mujis design style as having mundanity, being no-frill, being minimalist and as Bauhaus-style, which reflect the interior of the store.

Storage Their cabinet and shelving systems is classed in medium to heavy duty which carry all types of dry goods such as books, household goods, hardware, stationary and accessories. Muji uses track lighting and spotlight to highlight their products. Counters are usually provided with a glass top and with display shelves, but in Muji their counter is in wooden top with display counter and it has a space under the register pedestal can be used to store paper bags and stationary. Adjoining the cash register it has a space allocated for packing and wrapping.

British retailer operating under a department store format in the UK, Ireland and Denmark, and franchise stores in other countries

OVERVIEW
Company name: Debenhams Plc Established: 1905
Debenhams Plc is one of the United Kingdom's longest continuously operating clothing and goods retailers. The company owns and operates nearly 100 department stores, primarily in England. In the British market, Debenhams' annual sales of more than 1.3 billion place it among the country's top five retailers.

Company Information:

Mission statement: Debenhams has a clear strategy to drive future profitability and
grow market share. This is being achieved by increasing our sales to our existing customers, attracting new customers and moving into new markets. Debenhams is Britain's Favourite department store group, with 108 stores in the UK and Republic of Ireland.

Head Office: 1 Welbeck St. London W1G 0AA, United Kingdom NUMBER OF FULL TIME EMPLOYEES: 27,187 (As of 2011) Revenue: 2,209.8 million (2011) Operating Income: 183.7 million (2011). Stores: uk: 167 Overseas: 61

Niche Marketing

Price range: Demographic:

Age: 12 60 years old Profession: University Students, Young Working Adults, Business Man, and Businesswomen

Psychographic:
People who fond of the latest trends People who supports mainstream clohing Wedding Lovers

History

The first incarnation of what would later become known as Debenhams started up in 1778 as Flint & Clark, a London-based seller of clothing and other items. In 1813, William Debenham became a partner and the corporate name changed to Clark and Debenham. The first store outside London was opened in Cheltenham in 1818, an exact replica of the Wigmore Street store. In the ensuing years the firm prospered from the Victorian fashion for family mourning by which widows and other female relatives adhered to a strict code of clothing and etiquette. Clement Freebody invested in the firm in 1851 it was renamed Debenham & Freebody. As well as its retail stores, a wholesale business was established selling cloth and other items to dressmakers and other large retailers. Many acquisitions of retail, wholesale and manufacturing businesses were undertaken in the remainder of the nineteenth century and offices opened in South Africa, Australia, Canada and China. In 1919, the business merged with Marshall & Snellgrove and in 1920 purchased Knightsbridge retailer Harvey Nichols. Seven years later the involvement of the Debenham family finally ended and the business became a public company for the first time in 1928. By 1950, Debenhams was the largest department store group in the UK, owning 84 companies and 110 stores. It continued to grow and in 1966 central buying was introduced for the first time. From 1985 to 1998, Debenhams was part of the Burton Group. During that time the business was repositioned with the introduction of exclusive merchandise most notably Designers at Debenhams which was launched in 1993 and a significant increase in the number of stores. In 1997 the first international franchise store opened in Bahrain. Following demerger from the Burton Group, Debenhams was listed on the London Stock Exchange until 2003 when it was acquired by Baroness Retail Ltd. In September 2007, the Company acquired nine stores from Roches in the Republic of Ireland. In November 2009, Debenhams acquired Magasin du Nord, the leading department store chain in Denmark.

Business

Debenhams state that they are, Britains favourite department store (Debenhams website). They operate approximately 108 stores across Great Britain and the Republic of Ireland. As far as their international expansion is concerned, they lag behind their competitors. They seem, in fact, to have concentrated their efforts, mostly in the domestic market. Currently, they are present in 15 countries, except Britain, and their strategy for international growth is through franchising only. Debenhams product range includes their own brand as well as international brands. Although, they havent really focused on international expansion, like their competitors, they have been doing really well domestically. In fact, it seems they have created the right product mix that appeals to the larger audience. Debenhams is the favorite retail department chain in the United Kingdom for fashion & home wares for the whole family - with over 100 Debenhams stores throughout the country. As well as developing and offering a diverse selection in their popular own brands each Debenhams store also offers a wide collection of highly-respected designer fashion & home wear including ranges by Coast, Jasper Conran, Jane Norman and John Rocha. As well as popular UK brands Debenhams stores also offer over 500 internationally well-recognised brands such as Denby, Le Creuset, Meyer, Playtex, Ben Sherman and Yves Saint Laurent. Overall this mix of popular international & British designer, own label and exclusive brands both complement & enhance Debenhams reputation for contemporary quality fashion and furnishings. Since launching in 2001 the Debenhams online website has expanded greatly to offer some of their additional services (some of which have received awards for their high standards) such as their Debenhams wedding services which enable guests to gain access (either online or in-store) to the bride & grooms gift wish list - reducing the possibility of awkward duplications & unwanted presents on the day. Debenhams Internet shopping is for a wonderful range of quality contemporary products from the UK High St. where people can buy their good is just a click of a finger.

DISABILITY AWARENESS CAMPAIGN

In 2010 Debenhams became the first high street retailer to use disabled models in campaign photography. Shannon Murray, who has been a wheelchair user since breaking her neck in her teens, starred in campaign for the launch of new brand Principles by Ben de Lisi. We are committed to using disabled models in future campaigns. (the location of accessible entrances, passenger lift facilities, accessible washroom facilities, availability of personal shopper services).

Target Market
They operate in the following segments: clothing; electricals; home & furniture. In addition, they offer wedding services and online flowers orders and delivery.

Products
Their product ranges include: womenswear; lingerie; meanswear; childrenswear; electrical goods (televisions, fridges), furniture and houseware. They also offer wedding services; e.g. they help you maintain a wedding gift list; through their website you can also order flowers and have them delivered. Accessories - watches, hats gloves and scarves, womens belts, fossil, principles. Debenhams Sale - womens clothing, mens accessories, kids, cookshop, home accessories. Electricals - cookers and microwaves, KitchenAid, washers and dryers, audio, small electricals. Flowers - sympathy flowers, seasonal flowers, with love, luxury bouquets, flower delivery. Gift Ideas - gifts for her, audio gifts, mobile phones. health and beauty, flowers, handbags and purses. Home & Furniture - bath, kitchen, cabinets, rocha. john rocha, fitness and leisure. Kids - butterfly by matthew williamson, babbleboom, spiderman, umbro, older girls. Lingerie - push up bras, DD-G sizes, basques and bodies, maidenform, splendour. Mens - jumpers and sweatshirts, coats and jackets, trousers and shorts, jeff banks, mantaray. Weddings - wedding stationery, wedding guide, wedding services, wedding gift list.

Womens - Principles petite, Matthew Williamson, tailoring, Red Herring, Pearce ii fionda.

Competitions
Their competitors are: other department stores; high street shops; electrical goods shops and furniture stores.

Interior design

UKs number leading retailer with around 21 million customers visiting our stores each week.

OVERVIEW
Company name: Marks and Spencer Group plc Established: 1894

Company Information: Marks and Spencer p.l.c. is the largest retailer in the United
Kingdom, with nearly 300 company-owned Marks & Spencer (M&S) stores in its home market. The stores sell clothing, footwear, gifts, home furnishings, and food, with many of these items sold under M&S's private-label St Michael brand. The company also owns and operates nearly 100 additional Marks & Spencer stores in Europe, Hong Kong, and Canada, and franchises 85 Marks & Spencer stores in Europe, the Far East, Australia, the Middle East, the Bahamas, and Bermuda. Marks and Spencer also owns the Brooks Brothers chain of men's clothing stores, which consists of more than 170 units in the United States and Japan, and the 20-store, New Jersey-based Kings Super Markets grocery store chain. The fast-growing Marks and Spencer Financial Services unit offers its customers credit cards, personal loans, life insurance, and savings, investment, and pension plans.

Mission statement: Their mission statement is divided into three parts; their vision
which is to set a standard against which others are measured, the mission is to make aspirational quality accessible to all and the value which is to attain a Quality value, service, innovation and trust.

Head Office: Waterside House, 35 North Wharf Road London, W2 1NW, United Kingdom NUMBER OF FULL TIME EMPLOYEES: 76,250 (2010) Revenue: 9,740.3 million (2011) Operating Income: 836.9 million (2011) Profit: 598.6 million (2011)

Stores: Uk: 600+ Overseas: 200+ Niche Marketing Price range:

Demographic: Age: 12 40 years old Profession: University Students, Young Working Audlts, Business Man, and Businesswomen Psychographic: People inclined with pop culture. People who supports mainstream clohing

Mark & Spencer

Marks & Spencer's unique retailing formula is proving successful in an increasing number of markets around the world. Our strategy is to accelerate expansion overseas while continuing to exploit the many opportunities for growth here in the U.K. Mark & Spencer are one of the UKs leading retailers, with over 21 million people visiting our stores each week. It offer stylish, high quality, great value clothing and home products, as well as outstanding quality foods, responsibly sourced from around 2,000 suppliers

globally. We employ over 78,000 people in the UK and abroad, and have over 700 UK stores, plus an expanding international business. They are the number one provider of womenswear and lingerie in the UK, and are rapidly growing our market share in menswear, kidswear and home, due in part to our growing online business. Overall, our clothing and homeware sales account for 49% of our business. The other 51% of our business is in food, where iy sell everything from fresh produce and groceries, to partly-prepared meals and ready meals.

History
Marks & Spencer started life more than 125 years ago when the Jewish immigrant Michael Marks came to the north of England. He arrived with little money and spoke poor English. Beginning as a pedlar, he soon owned a market stall in Kirkgate Market in Leeds. He classified everything by price, but quickly stopped selling more expensive items when the penny section thrived.

Michael decided to look for a partner to help manage his growing business. He initially approached Isaac Dewhirst, who had loaned money towards his original start up costs. Isaac declined but recommended Tom Spencer his senior cashier. Tom agreed, and on 28 September 1884 Marks & Spencer was born. Tom Spencer invested 300 and brought considerable skills in administration and accounts, which complemented Michael Marks flair for merchandise, selling and dealing with people extremely well. Marks & Spencer called their new stores Penny Bazaars, keeping the penny price slogan and adding the words Admission Free. This was a successful marketing ploy, encouraging customers to browse without any obligation to buy. Whilst this is the norm now, it was unheard of then. By 1900, Marks & Spencer had expanded to include 36 Penny Bazaars and 12 high street stores. The business philosophy that Marks and Sieff shared was associated with social change even in years of economic depression. As Marks put it in 1936, "Goods and services once regarded as luxuries have become conventional comforts and are now almost decreed necessities. A fundamental change in people's habits has been brought about. Millions are enjoying a substantially higher standard of living. To this substantial rise in the standard of living our company claims to have made a definite contribution." By 1974 there were 17 overseas stores--the first of them opened in Canada in 1972. A Paris store was opened in 1975. Also in the early 1970s came the acquisition of three Canadian chains: Walker's clothing stores, which were eventually converted to Marks and Spencer stores; D'Allaird's women's clothing stores; and Peoples general merchandise stores. Between 1974 and 1977 exports tripled to more than 40 million and the company won the Queen's Award for Export Achievement. It was deeply committed also to another national achievement--supporting British producers whenever it could and encouraging them to develop efficient new lines of business. In 1999, online shopping was introduced to their website for customers to enjoy in the comfort of their own home. The internet had just started to become known and more and more people were staring to use it, so Marks and Spencer took this opportunity and set this up at the correct time. In 2000, M&S brought out their healthy Count on us range, for the healthier people on diets or who were just watching what they ate. Their 1st Simply food stores opened in Surbiton & Twickenham in 2001, selling nothing but healthy food, no home furnishing or clothes like the normal stores.

They also launched Per Una a brand of clothing specifically targeting the fashionconscious women. Shortly after in January 2001, Blue Harbour

Product and Business

Marks and Spencer's business activities are concentrated in UK retail, overseas retail and financial services. Through its own product range and branding the Group offer clothing, footwear, gifts, home furnishings and foods. Products are available through stores and on-line.

Marks and Spencer Group plc engages in the retail sale of food, homeware, and clothing products. It offers clothing products, such as womens, mens, school, and kids wear; shoes, slippers, accessories, bags, purses, jewelry, watches, socks, tights, and summer essentials; and beauty products, such as bath, body, hair care, make up, perfume, nails, and skincare products, as well as men's and kids' toiletries, travel and beauty accessories, and gifts. The company also provides home and furniture products comprising bath linen and accessories, bedding, curtains and blinds, cushions and throws, domestic appliances, home accessories, kitchen and dining, lighting, luggage, rugs, small appliances, and storage products; and furniture products for living and dining rooms, bathrooms, kids, bedrooms, office, kitchen, and conservatory and garden, as well as mattresses, divans, sofas, and armchairs. In addition, it offers various TVs and accessories; computing and gaming products, iPad, tablets, e-readers, satellite navigation and GPS, and phones and accessories; shavers and grooming products, and electric toothbrushes; domestic appliances, small appliances, and sewing machines; audio and iPods; Blu-ray, DVD, and home theater products; CDs, DVDs, and Blu-ray discs; digital photography; personal alarms; and headphones. Further, the company provides flowers and gifts that comprise books and DVDs, flowers and plants, cards, and stationery products; and food and wine gifts, gift cards, single bottle gifts, personalized cards, and wedding cakes, as well as offers procurement and financial services. Marks and Spencer Group plc operates 731 owned and franchised stores in the United Kingdom; and 387 owned and franchised stores in 43 territories in Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, as well as sells its products through online and telephone.

Packaging
Packaging sustainability is part of an encompassing agenda for the environment that debuted as Plan A two years ago. Mark & Spencer uses an independent auditing company to ensure that all its sustainability claims is accurate and true. Mark & Spencer recognizes compostable materials as an emerging market, and it supports their development by working with the materials in terms of technical

applications while ensuring that food safety remains priority number one. It also seeks to drive clarity of messaging where these materials are concerned. Terms such as biodegradation, degradable, compostable, industrially compostable, and home compostable and oxy-degradable confuse the customer and can affect how the materials are disposed of. So M&S has set a clear direction by striving for home-compostable materials only, a message clearly understood by consumers.

Mark and Spencer is working with their suppliers and partners to improve the percentage of their packaging that is recyclable. Here is the list of their sustainable packaging materials: Aseptic packaging This is the name for packaging used for longlife product including the square boxes used for liquids (eg juice cartons). The most common brands are Tetra Pak and Elopak. These can be made from complex layers of plastic, metal and paper. The actual recycling process is expensive at the moment, so it's only available in a very few places. M&S has worked with Tetra Pak to increase the number of collection points for this type of material. Mater-Bi This biodegradable plastic is made from a number of different materials. It's best known in the UK for making compostable sacks for local authority kitchen and garden waste collections. M&S uses this to make garden sacks. rPETA Clear plastic that's good for chilled products. Typically, rPET contains 50% recycled content, which can either come from plastic waste generated in the manufacturing process (pre-consumer waste) or waste that consumers have generated after using the product (post-consumer waste). At M&S, we're aiming to use post-consumer waste where possible. In 2007 63% of our PET had a minimum of 50% recycled content. For example, we now use rPET in most of our juice bottles, smoothie bottles and salad bowls. RHDPE HDPE stands for High Density Polyethylene, which is used to manufacture milk bottles. The r at the beginning of rHDPE stands for recycled - M&S is now able to use recycled post consumer material in its HDPE. Although we're currently only using 10% recycled content at the moment. Plantic

This blend of bioplastics is an alternative to plastic that works well with dry food products such as biscuits and confectionery. It dissolves easily in water so we don't use it for any products which contain moisture.

Interior Design

American specialty retailer offering clothing, accessories and personal care products for men, women, children and babies.

OVERVIEW
Company name: Gap Inc. Established: August 21, 1969 Company Information: The Gap, Inc. (Gap Inc.), incorporated in July 1969, is a global
specialty apparel company. Gap Inc. offers apparel, accessories, and personal care products for men, women, children, and babies under the Gap, Old Navy, Banana Republic, Piperlime, and Athleta brands. The Company operates in two segments: Stores, which includes the

operations of the retail stores for Gap, Old Navy, and Banana Republic, and Direct, which includes the operations for its online brands, both domestic and international. It has Company-operated stores in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, France, Ireland, Japan, China, and Italy. It also has franchise agreements with unaffiliated franchisees to operate Gap and Banana Republic stores throughout Asia, Australia, Eastern Europe, Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa.

Mission and Vision: Gap, Inc. is a brand-builder. We create emotional connections with
customers around the world through inspiring product design, unique store experiences, and compelling marketing

Head Office: 2 Folsom St. SAN FRANCISCO, CA . 94105 NUMBER OF FULL TIME EMPLOYEES: 132,000 (28 January 2012) Revenue: $ 14.5 billion (FY 2011) Net Income: $ 833 million (FY 2011) Total Assets: $ 7.4 billion (FY 2011) Divisions: Gap, Banana Republic, Old Navy, Piperlime, Athleta Stores:
USA: 2,551 Overseas: 525

Niche Marketing Price range: Demographic:

Age: 6 40 years old

Profession: University Students, Young Working Audlts, Business Man, and Businesswomen

Psychographic:
People who likes corporate and casual. People who supports mainstream clothing.

GAP INC.
The Gap, Inc. operates as a specialty apparel company. The company offers apparel, accessories, and personal care products for men, women, children, and babies under the Gap, Old Navy, Banana Republic, Piperlime, and Athleta brands. It also issues and redeems

gift cards through its brands. As of January 28, 2012, the company had 3,263 companyoperated and franchise stores in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, France, Ireland, Japan, China, and Italy. Gap, Inc. remains the largest specialty apparel retailer in the U.S., though it has recently been surpassed by the Spanish-based Inditex Group as the world's largest apparel retailer It also has franchise agreements with unaffiliated franchisees to operate Gap and Banana Republic stores throughout Asia, Australia, eastern Europe, Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa. Brands Gap: Gap is the companys primary brand and an iconic apparel brand in the marketplace. The brand stands for casual, American style at accessible price points. Assortments include well-designed apparel for men and women, including denim, khakis, outerwear, tees, and accessories. In addition to designing its own merchandise, Gap offers limited capsule collections in partnership with various fashion industrys designers and other third-party merchandise. Gap entered the childrens apparel market with Gap Kids and baby Gap. The company also offers Gap Body, which provides loungewear, sleepwear, intimates, and active apparel for women. Gap products are available worldwide in its specialty and outlet stores, online, and in franchise stores.

History
On August 21, 1969, Donald and Doris Fisher opened the first Gap store on Ocean Avenue in San Francisco. Don Fisher said there was a simple idea

behind the store: "to make it easier to find a pair of jeans." The store's merchandise consisted of Levi's and LPs. The Fishers had raised $63,000 to open the store, and in one year, Gap's sales had reached $2 million. In 1970, Gap opened its second store, in San Jose, California, and established its first corporate headquarters in Burlingame, California, with just four employees. Gap grew rapidly. By 1973, it had more than 25 stores, including areas outside Californiaentering the East Coast market with a store in Voorhees, New Jersey. In 1974, Gap began to sell private-label merchandise. The company expanded into separates for men and women, and added proprietary brands, throughout the 1970s; went public on NYSE, 1976; added retail stores throughout the U.S. and abroad; purchased Banana Republic chain, 1983; Gap Kids introduced, 1986; Baby Gap, 1989; Gap Shoes, 1993; Old Navy Clothing Company launched, 1994; bath and body products introduced, 1994; Body Gap established, 1998; reached 2,600 stores and sales of $9 billion, 1999; flagship Paris store opened, 1999; flagship London store, opened 2001; added sizing for larger women, 2001.

Product and Business

Gap Inc were synonym to Gap stores since it was the only segment in the company not until Gap In bought Banana Republic as its second division to their clothing company. Gap is a well known brand in casual apparel retail store. Gap is considered as the parent

member of Gap Inc, it was considered as the base for the success of the other segments, including Old Navy, Banana Republic, and Piperlime. It offers a massive selections of classically styled, high quality, casual apparel at moderate price points. Gap Inc.s products are also available to customers online in over 90 countries through the Company-owned Websites and using a United Sates-based third party that provides logistics and fulfillment services. Most of the products sold under the Companys brand names are designed by it and manufactured by independent sources. It also sells products that are designed and manufactured by branded third parties. As of January 28, 2012, the Company-operated stores aggregated approximately 37.2 million square feet. The Company also issues and redeems gift cards through its brands. Gap, Banana Republic, and Old Navy each has a private label credit card program and a co-branded credit card program, through which frequent customers receive benefits. Private label and co-branded credit cards are provided by a third-party financing company. Gap The Companys flagship brand, Gap stands for casual, American style apparels. Assortments include apparel for men and women, including denim, khakis, outerwear, tees, and accessories. In addition to designing its own merchandise, Gap offers limited capsule collections in partnership with designers and other third-party merchandise. It operates in the childrens apparel market through GapKids and babyGap. GapBody offers loungewear, sleepwear, intimates, and active apparel for women. Gap products are available globally in its specialty and outlet stores, online, and in franchise stores.

MARKETING
Gap, which successfully marketed to young adults in the 1990s with classic khakis and swing-dancing ads, is hoping that demographic will again buy into its brand. That may be a

mistake, according to Bloomberg, which pointed out that the 18-to-34 population is weighed down by higher-than-average unemployment, student loan debt and concerns about the economy. Most importantly, they're increasingly reluctant to shop, according to researcher WSL Strategic Retail. Gap has recently released ads depicting real residents in young, hip areas and started a collaboration with popular fashion blogs in which bloggers display the retailers' colored jeans and striped sweaters as examples of fashionable looks. However, analysts think it will take more than clever ads to get the hipsters to spend their money. The age group Gap is marketing to, 18- to 34-year-olds, is only drawn in by sales and promotions," said Eric Beder, an analyst at Brean Murray Carret & Co. in New York. "Maybe they want to be wired and fashion-driven, but they're not willing to pay for it.

Public Figures in Ad Campaigns

Gap frequently features public figures in its print and television advertisements. They have featured over 308 celebrities of various stature in their campaigns. Their commercials featuring songs such as "Lovely Day" remain some of the most successful and memorable usages of television advertising in history.

INTERIOR DESIGN

Banana Republic is an accessible-luxury brand that brings modern, soulful, effortless style to men and women around the world.

OVERVIEW
Company name: Banana Republic, LCC

Established: 1978 Company Information: Banana Republic, LLC engages in retail of apparel, shoes, and
accessories for men and women. The company provides a range of products, including denim, khakis, t-shirts, fashion apparel, winter wear, shoes, bags, belts, accessories, jewelry, intimate apparel, and personal care products for men, women, teens, and children. The company also offers products through a Web site.

Company perspective: Banana Republic reflects an American sensibility with a

positive and optimistic viewpoint. The timeless style captures a modern interpretation of classic fashion and its relaxed attitude expresses a comfortable and confident quality. The adventurous spirit of the line is built from its heritage in travel and living a life full of passion that is open to discovery.

Head Office: 2 Folsom St. San Francisco, CA 94105 NUMBER OF FULL TIME EMPLOYEES: 7800 Subsidiary company: Gap Inc. Stores: Overall: 610

Niche Marketing Price range: Demographic:

Age: 25-40 years old Profession: Blue Collar jobs ,Business Man, and Businesswomen

Psychographic:
People who likes corporate and casual. People who supports trendy fashion.

Banana republic
A subsidiary of The Gap, Inc. since 1983, Banana Republic Inc. "has long been to khaki what Levi's was to denim," according to Mel Ziegler, who, along with his wife, Patricia, founded

the company in 1978. Part of a growing wave of national retailers, Banana Republic has, in recent years, branched out to sell housewares, personal care items, footwear and dressy as well as casual clothes and is one of The Gap's most successful ventures in the specialty fashion market. Banana Republic's niche is with high-income, over-25, white-collar professionals, 32 percent of whom have an annual household income of more than $100,000. Another 22 percent of the company's customers earn at least $75,000, and yet another 19 percent are in the $50,000 to $75,000 range. Banana Republic has grown from a two-store wannabe safari outfitter to an empire in its own right, though no pith hats or fake palm trees can be found now at its stores. Instead, the well-known retailer of men's and women's mid-scale (not high-dollar, but far from discount) casual and tailored apparel has a sprawling territory some 610 stores in North American, Europe, and Asia, and a website, through which it distributes its well-puttogether look. It's also expanding in Latin America and the Middle East via franchise agreements. Several Banana Republic Factory stores carry similar merchandise at lower prices.

History

Mel and Patricia Ziegler founded the company in 1978. According to Mel, the idea for the store came about in a very innocuous way. Mel wanted to replace his old and tattered military surplus jacket. It was an impossible item to find, and after much searching Mel purchased a British Burma jacket in a secondhand store. Patricia made some alterations to the jacket, creating a less-military look, and a more comfortable, sensible garment. It wasnt long before the Zieglers friends, quite taken with the look and style of Mels jacket, gave the couple the impetus they needed to create Banana Republic in Mill Valley, California. Banana Republic, from 1978 to 1983, was one of the most successful outfitters of travel and safari clothing. The company caught the eye of the then-struggling Gap, who purchased Banana Republic, and immediately enjoyed a boon in sales. The company owes it origins to Mel Ziegler's search for a replacement for his well-worn military surplus jacket. Ziegler finally purchased a British Burma jacket in a Sydney "disposal" store, which his wife altered to downplay the garment's military look and "play up its sensibility as a comfortable, utilitarian, everyday garment," as stated in Banana Republic's historical documents. Family and friends admired the jacket's look, prompting the couple to create and open the Banana Republic Travel and Safari Clothing Company in Mill Valley, San Francisco. From the start, Banana Republic sold a concept as well as clothing; the look was unique, and trade dress identity strong. The company's original catalogues stood out for their ink and watercolor drawings of flight jackets, photo-journalist's vests, paratrooper briefcases, and gurkha shorts--all of which were accompanied by travelogue-type copy highlighting the theme of travel and adventure. All items were constructed of natural fibers. As the premier outfitters of travel and safari wear from 1978-1983, Banana Republic was a forerunner in the specialty fashion market which appealed to the 25-44 year old crowd of young professionals. By late 1983, when The Gap--under president Millard S. Drexler and chairman Donald G. Fisher & m dashquired Banana Republic, there were five Banana Republic stores in California, and the company's annual sales had grown to $10 million. The new subsidiary was an immediate boon to the thenfloundering Gap, which was struggling to broaden its market beyond a well-established teenage customer base. Banana Republic experienced meteoric sales growth and rapid expansion for the next three years, with sales per square foot peaking in 1986 at about $750, compared to an industry average of about $235. New stores were opened whose interiors were designed to recreate the adventurous setting of the outback. Bush planes hung from ceilings; thatched-roofed huts, jeeps and ersatz wild animals were arranged on the display floor. Catalogue publications increased. The Zieglers stayed on as president and vice president of the new Banana Republic subsidiary, with creative autonomy to run the company.

Products and business

Banana Republic is a global accessible luxury brand that delivers the best in city style. Characterized by elevated design and luxurious fabrications, the Banana Republic lifestyle collections include apparel, handbags, jewelry, fragrance and eyewear. Banana Republic is committed to becoming a more environmentally-conscious brand. The ideal of a clean planet is one we share with our customers and our community, which is why we're proud of our multi-action plan focused on reducing our environmental impact, while still providing our customers with the same standard of high-quality, affordable luxury we always have. Our business is dependent on our earth's limited natural resources, so with a few changes and your support we're doing our part to conserve and protect the environment. We understand that what's good for the earth is ultimately good for us too. Our environmental strategy is focused on greening three key areas: our packaging, our stores, and our products. Specifically this means conserving energy, making smarter use of raw materials, and offering organic or sustainable products whenever possible. By sustainable, we mean products that are developed primarily from renewable resources in ways that have less impact on the environment. Although we've already taken many steps to become more eco-friendly, our green program is just getting started, and we plan to grow it as much as we can. Together, we can help to reduce our environmental impact and preserve our natural resources, while running a business that's as good for the earth as it is for our customer one step at a time. After all, the ultimate luxury, and one we should all be able to afford, is a healthy planet.

Banana Republic is committed to becoming a more environmentally-conscious brand. The ideal of a clean planet is one we share with our customers and our community, which is

why we're proud of our multi-action plan focused on reducing our environmental impact, while still providing our customers with the same standard of high-quality, affordable luxury we always have. Our business is dependent on our earth's limited natural resources, so with a few changes and your support we're doing our part to conserve and protect the environment. We understand that what's good for the earth is ultimately good for us too. Our environmental strategy is focused on greening three key areas: our packaging, our stores, and our products. Specifically this means conserving energy, making smarter use of raw materials, and offering organic or sustainable products whenever possible. By sustainable, we mean products that are developed primarily from renewable resources in ways that have less impact on the environment. Although we've already taken many steps to become more eco-friendly, our green program is just getting started, and we plan to grow it as much as we can. Together, we can help to reduce our environmental impact and preserve our natural resources, while running a business that's as good for the earth as it is for our customer one step at a time. After all, the ultimate luxury, and one we should all be able to afford, is a healthy planet.

Specialties Banana Republic is an accessible luxury brand, offering high-quality apparel and accessories collections for men and women.

Delivering elevated design and luxurious fabrications at approachable prices, Banana Republic has been credited with helping make fashion more accessible. The brand offers elevated essentials and sophisticated seasonal collections of accessories, shoes, personal care products and intimate apparel. From work to casual occasions, Banana Republic offers covetable, uncomplicated style.

Banana Republic at Oakbrook Center carries one of the widest selections including the limited-edition Heritage collection for men and women and the largest petites collection in the Chicago suburbs.

Visit us on Facebook for the most up to date information: Banana Republic - Oakbrook Center. History Established in 1983 Gap Inc. acquired Banana Republic, a two-store, mostly catalog business, from Mel and Patricia Ziegler in 1983. The stores were safari-themed and featured a Jeep and tropical foliage. Following the acquisition by Gap Inc., the company began to re-brand as an affordable luxury brand.

Today, Banana Republic product is sold across the world including Japan, UK, Canada. The brand will soon be operating stores in Italy and China. Meet the Manager: Banana R. Collectively, the Leadership Team at Banana Republic - Oakbrook Center boasts over 30 years of experience with the Gap Inc. family. We believe in delivering a customer service level that is above and beyond any other Banana Republic store, in an environment that is inspiring and unique. Banana Republic Also Recommends