JCP's Foundry makes big (and tall) debut

PLANO, Texas -- JCPenney's big-and-tall concept will debut next month, and from the company's description, it seems as much a sports bar as it is a clothing store -- without beers on tap. The 5,000 sq.-ft.Foundry Big & Tall Supply Co. stores will featureflat screen TVs tuned to sports, an oversized poker table and comfortable seating, where, according to the company "[customers] can relax, enjoy themselves and shop some of the biggest names in menswear -- in sizes that fit. "

The Foundry will open its first10 stores in Dallas and Kansas City on May 14 and May 21, respectively. JCPenney plans to expand the concept nationwide to100 stores by 2013, reaching a total of 300 stores over the next five years.

Inside the stores, customers will find an assortment of brands including Calvin Klein, Izod, Levi's, Nautica and Nike, as well as The Foundry's own line of polos, tees, woven sportshirts, shorts, socks, underwear, belts, dress shirts, ties, casual bottoms and activewear, the company reported. Footwear sizes will range from 10 regular to 16 wide, with extended sizes available at www.FoundryBigandTall.com. Sportswear will be available in sizes up to 10X, and suits will be available for up to size 60.Items are priced from $20 to $35 for a tee to $175 to $200 for specialty suit coats.

"We simply want to provide classically styled, quality clothing for the man who has style but is frustrated with not being able to find the clothing and brands he desires in his size," said Steve Lossing, president of The Foundry Big & Tall Supply Co. "The Foundry Big & Tall Supply Co. isn't simply a clothing store for men of stature, it is a place that understands the unique challenges of the hard-to-fit man and provides him with a comfortable shopping environment, associates who are attentive and most importantly clothes that make him look good."