Although not as big as mass market or department retailers, specialty retailers employ a large number of workers from sales associates to c-level executives across the globe. Here are the top 12 specialty retailers ranked by the number of full-time equivalent employees:
12. Aéropostale Inc./3,236
This speciality apparel retailer has struggled recently with top-line results, but last month it announced plans to expand in Asia via licensing deals.
11. Ann Inc./4,250
Known for its Ann Taylor and Loft brands, Ann Inc. is poised for a merger with Ascena Retail Group.
10. Finish Line Inc./4,300
This althetic shoes and apparel retailer recently posted strong sales and earnings as consumers increasingly key into swelling fitness trends.
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9. American Eagle Outfitters Inc./7,000
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A company that has won the hearts of teens and the wallets of parents, just posted robust sales and profits.
8. Chico’s FAS Inc./7,140
Despite having been hurt by West Coast port closures, Chico’s managed to deliver better margins in its most recent quarter.
7. Abercrombie & Fitch Co./8,000
Abercrombie has a new brand leadership team in place as it works to turn itself around and reconnects with shoppers.
6. Urban Outfitters Inc./8,880
Urban Outfitters recently posted lower earnings, but it beat estimates with results that surprised Wall Street.
5. The Cato Corp./10,000
The company’s brand tagline is “a new statement of style,” and in its most recent monthly sales report sees higher earnings on the horizon.
4. Ascena Retail Group Inc./14,000
Despite bumps in the road amid market repositioning, Ascena is looking at improved results in 2016.
3. Men’s Wearhouse Inc./18,600
This men’s wear retailer recently announced a new chief operating officer as it eyes growth in the market.
2. L Brands Inc./20,200
Both Victoria’s Secret and Bath & Body Works have seen strong same-store sales even in the face of robust year-ago figures.
1. Gap Inc./141,000
Gap’s total number of employees is larger than the combined workforce of each of the other retailers in this list. The company’s brands — Gap, Old Navy and Banana Republic — are found in 90 countries.
Source: SEC filings, company reports.