Aeropostale launches tween store concept

NEW YORK Teen retailer Aeropostale is venturing into younger territory with the launch of its new store concept, "P.S. from Aeropostale." The new concept will offer casual clothing and accessories for kids ages 7 to twelve.

According to the company, "P.S. from Aeropostale" will draw from the core competencies of Aeropostale by offering the customer trend-right merchandise at compelling values. The first "P.S. from Aeropostale" store is planned to open in

June , with an online launch at www.ps4u.com shortly thereafter.

Though it is too early to determine how successful this new concept will be, Aeropostale's recent quarterly performance indicates that it understands its core customer. The company reported fourth quarter net income of 

$68.2 million , or $1.01 per diluted share, compared to net income of $64.7 million , or 95 cents per diluted share, in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2007, and same-store sales growth of 6%.

The tween market is still a crucial for apparel retailers, and if this new Aeropostale concept performs well, the company could see significant growth.