NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--May 5, 2004--Aeropostale, Inc. (NYSE:
ARO), a mall-based specialty retailer of casual and active apparel for
young women and men, today announced that Robert B. Chavez, President
and Chief Executive Officer of Hermes of Paris Inc., has been
appointed to the Aeropostale Board of Directors.
Hermes of Paris is one of the world's leading upscale accessories
brands known for its fine selection of scarves, ties, fragrances and
home products. Mr. Chavez joined Hermes of Paris Inc., as President
and Chief Executive Officer in August 2000 and oversees all of Hermes
U.S. retail and wholesale divisions. Prior to Hermes of Paris Inc.,
Mr. Chavez served as Chief Executive Officer of Etienne Aigner from
1992 to 2000, a manufacturer and retailer of women's shoes and
accessories. Prior to then, Mr. Chavez held various positions from
1986 to 1992 at R.H. Macy & Co., Inc., most recently as President of
Merchandising.
Julian R. Geiger, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer said,
"Bob's appointment represents a meaningful addition to our Board of
Directors. He brings tremendous leadership, having served in a number
of top management positions with several of the world's best-known
consumer brands. We look forward to Bob's insight and direction, and
believe his experience will be invaluable to Aeropostale."
About Aeropostale, Inc.
Aeropostale, Inc. (www.aeropostale.com) is a mall-based specialty
retailer of casual apparel and accessories that targets both young
women and young men aged 11 to 20. The company provides customers with
a selection of high-quality, active-oriented, fashion basic
merchandise in a high-energy store environment. The company maintains
complete control over the proprietary brand by designing and sourcing
all of its own merchandise. Aeropostale products can be purchased only
in its stores, which sell Aeropostale merchandise exclusively.
The first Aeropostale store was opened in 1987. The company
currently operates 489 stores in 42 states.
Special Note: Safe Harbor Statement Under the Private Securities
Litigation Reform Act of 1995: Except for historical information
contained herein, the statements made in this release constitute
forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the
Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act
of 1934. Such forward-looking statements involve certain risks and
uncertainties, including statements regarding the company's strategic
direction, prospects and future results. Certain factors, including
factors outside of our control, may cause actual results to differ
materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements.
These factors include the company's ability to implement its growth
strategy successfully, changes in consumer fashion preferences,
economic and other conditions in the markets in which we operate,
competition, seasonality and the other risks discussed in the
company's Form 10-K for the year ended January 31, 2004 filed with the
Securities and Exchange Commission, which discussions are incorporated
in this release by reference.
CONTACT: Aeropostale, Inc.
Michael Cunningham/Kenneth Ohashi, 888/363-2825
or
Integrated Corporate Relations, Inc.
Investor Relations:
James Palczynski/Chad A. Jacobs, 203/222-9013
SOURCE: Aeropostale, Inc.
