American Eagle Outfitters Inc. (Pittsburgh) plans to expand its international retail presence with a series of retail stores in Israel. The company has signed a multi-year franchise agreement with Fox-Wizel Ltd., which operates approximately 170 FOX stores in Israel, as well as 250 FOX stores internationally.
The agreement includes American Eagle Outfitters flagship stores as well as freestanding aerie stores. The first stores are slated to open in spring of 2012. The retailer introduced its brand in the Middle East earlier this year and has also announced plans for stores in Hong Kong and China beginning in early 2011.
“International expansion is an important part of AEO’s growth strategy,” says Chris Fiore, executive vp for international, American Eagle Outfitters Inc. “As with our other international locations, customers in Israel have embraced the American Eagle Outfitters and aerie brands through extensive travel in North America as well as online at ae.com.”
Fox-Wizel operates FOX men’s and women’s apparel, FOX kids and baby, and a launch next month of FOX home. It also has substantial interest in the personal care retailer Laline and the upscale apparel retail and wholesale brand Sacks.
American Eagle Outfitters operates more than 1000 stores worldwide.