1. The Humble Beginnings
Did you know that American Eagle Outfitters began as a menswear shop? Brothers Jerry and Mark Silverman originally launched it as 'Silverman's Menswear' in 1904 before relaunching it as 'American Eagle Outfitters' in 1977 where it aimed to serve the untapped market for casual, outdoor-type clothing.
2. Their First Successful Clothing Line?
Their first made a great commercial leap as American Beagle Outfitters in an innocent prank. Worth mentioning is that the company announced a faux line of dog clothing on April 1st, 2014, which was a huge hit among the consumers. They were intrigued and asked for it to be real, which eventually came into existence.
3. Did You Know They Owned Bluenotes?
AEO owned Canadian retailer BluNotes, another clothing line initiative, from the mid-1980s until 2000. The company decided to sell it to better focus its resources on its flagship American Eagle Outfitters and then-start-up Aerie brands.
4. Ranked High Among The People
According to Forbes, American Eagle Outfitters positions as one of the top 1000 brands globally, making it one of the most successful retail brands - a position it has held consistently over the years.
5. Role in Sustainability?
American Eagle Outfitters also plays its part in protecting the environment. To promote sustainability, more than fifty percent of its denim products are crafted with techniques that save water.
6. AE Introduces RealPower]
In an attempt to redefine the advertising norms, AEO introduced ‘RealPower’ campaign in 2019 aimed at inspiring customers to express their individuality and ‘realness’.
7. An Innovative Partnership
In 2019, American Eagle Outfitters partnered with Green Growth Brands to bring CBD-infused personal care products to its nearly 500 stores across the US.
8. Expanding the Canvas
American Eagle Outfitters operates world-wide with over 1,000 stores in 25 countries. Now that’s spreading wings in true sense!
9. The Birth of Martin + Osa
Trying to hunt a niche in the 28-to-40-year old demographic, AEO introduced 'Martin + Osa' in 2006. It didn't make a huge splash though, leading to its closure in 2010.
10. The Rise of Aerie
Did you know that the hugely successful Aerie started as a lingerie sub-brand of American Eagle? It’s gained immense popularity since its launch in 2006 for its dedication to promoting healthy body images.
11. A Award Winning Company
American Eagle Outfitters won the Apparel Magazine’s Top Innovator award in 2016. The award recognized the retailers that have shown great innovation in their business model and practices.
12. AEO's Amazing App
In the era of digital consumerism, AEO’s app is heralded as one of the best in terms of customer engagement and user experience.
13. Jeans are its Top Seller
The most popular American Eagle product? Jeans! American Eagle Outfitters sells more than half a million pairs every week.
14: More than Just Apparel
American Eagle Outfitters is more than a clothing line. It also sells footwear, accessories, and personal care products under American Eagle and Aerie.
15. Huge Online Presence
Boasting an enormous online presence, AEO has 7.5 million followers on Instagram, 2.4 million Facebook likes, and more than a million Twitter followers.
16. The Launch of 77KIds.
The company attempted an entry into the kids segment with its brand 77Kids in 2009. It was eventually sold off in 2012.
17. A Recognizable Logo
AEO’s attractive eagle logo was designed in 1999. Ever recognized the resemblance of the logo with the American dollar?
18. Their Very Own College Program
They have a program that supports college students interested in pursuing a career in fashion. It provides opportunities for both working in their corporate office and at their stores.
19. Customer Service Expertise
Conversocial ranked American Eagle Outfitter’s Twitter service as top-notch among 100 retailers surveyed in 2016.
20. AEO's Music Responsibility
You might know that AEO supports new artists. Through AEO’s YouTube channel, it promotes and introduces young talents to the rest of the world. It certainly believes in empowering art through fashion.