Gap Brings Banana Republic Back to the UK — Retail Bum

Gap plans to start reselling Athleta and Banana Republic in the U.K. and Ireland through its partnership with Next.

The two companies formed a joint venture last year, which allowed Next to host Gap branded concessions at select physical store locations in London, Birmingham, Manchester, and Glasgow, as well as the company’s online business through the Next Total platform. Next owns a 51% stake in the venture, while Gap owns the remaining share.

Gap stopped selling Banana Republic products in the U.K. earlier this year in response to a slowdown in sales in the country.

The company plans to begin offering a curated selection of Banana Republic clothing on Next.co.uk, offering timeless denim, jeans and cargo pants, in addition to tuxedos, blazers, sequin dresses and silk shirts.

“I am excited to embark on the latest part of our Joint Venture journey, with the re-introduction of two amazing brands to the market through the Next.co.uk platform,” said Jon Jeffery, managing director of the joint venture. “Both Banana Republic and Athleta are truly aspirational Gap Inc. brands, who individually offer a unique perspective and a strong design aesthetic that allows us to engage and delight new audiences and further expand our portfolio within the U.K. and Ireland.”

Originally published at https://retailbum.com on November 21, 2022.