Ascena

Ascena is an American retail company that operates a range of women's retailers, including Ann Taylor, Loft, and Justice. The company was formed in 2011 through the merger of Maurices and AS Store Program, but its roots date back to 1986 when Southern Comfort, Inc. was founded.

Initially, Ascena focused on acquiring and operating mid-market retailers in the women's clothing space. Over the years, the company acquired several other retailers, including Lane Bryant, Ann Taylor, and Justice. Today, the company operates over 2,500 stores across the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico.

Ascena's portfolio of brands targets a diverse range of customers, from young girls to professional women. Affinity, a plus-size clothing brand, and Catherines, a plus-size specialty retailer, cater to women of larger sizes. Lane Bryant offers trendy clothing for curvy women, while Ann Taylor and Loft focus on more professional and stylish outfits.

The company operates a significant e-commerce platform, offering online shopping for many of its brands. Ascena investors include private equity firms, venture capitalists, and individual investors. The company has faced financial challenges in recent years, including significant operating losses. Despite these difficulties, Ascena remains a prominent force in the women's retail market, with a strong presence in many malls and shopping centers across North America. As consumer behaviors continue to shift, the company may need to adapt to changing market conditions to remain competitive.