Casual

NASHVILLE, Tenn.  — Nashville Apparel Company announced that it is re-introducing its Duck Head brand to the retail market in time for the back-to-school season.

Originally founded in 1865 by Nashville-based O'Brien Brothers, Duck Head was popular in the 1980s and 90s.

NEW YORK — Parigi Enterprises LLC, a subsidiary of Parigi Group Ltd, a children’s branded apparel company, announced that it has purchased certain assets of the Hartstrings brand and name, in addition to assuming the leases of 23 retail outlet stores. The Little Maven by Tori Spelling clothing line was not among the assets acquired.

HOUSTON — Men's Wearhouse has named Douglas Ewert president and CEO of the company, succeeding George Zimmer.

As previously announced, Zimmer will continue as executive chairman of the board of directors.

Zimmer stated, "I am excited to turn over the day-to-day reins of Men's Wearhouse to Doug. I know he has the same passion for this company and its people as I do. With him leading our efforts, we will continue to provide the highest level of service to our customers and our unique culture will thrive."  

GREENSBORO, N.C. and STRATHAM, N.H. — VF Corp., owner of the Wrangler, Lee, 7 For All Mankind, among other big name apparel brands, has added another apparel juggernaut to its ranks. The company announced that it has signed a definitive merger agreement with The Timberland Company. VF will pay Timberland shareholders $43 per share, representing a total enterprise value of approximately $2 billion net of cash acquired. The merger agreement was unanimously approved by both companies’ boards of directors.

SEATTLE — Recreational Equipment Inc. announced that it will open its first Indiana store in Indianapolis next spring.

According to the company, the one-story, approximately 23,800 sq.-ft. store will offer products from the top brands of outdoor gear and apparel for camping, climbing, cycling, fitness, hiking, paddling, snow sports and travel. The Indianapolis store will also house a bike shop for quick assemblies and repairs, and a seasonal gear rental department for customers looking to test new activities, REI reported. 

HINGHAM, Mass. — Talbots announced that it has named Lesli Gilbert SVP stores, effective June 27. In this role, Gilbert will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of Talbots core retail operations in the United States and Canada, as well as supporting the implementation of the company’s store reimage and rationalization programs. She will report directly to Trudy Sullivan, president and CEO of the Talbots.