Christopher & Banks rolling out combined store format to 37 locations

Minneapolis -- Christopher & Banks announced the Oct. 6 grand opening of 37 stores that reflect the company’s updated retail strategy of bringing its plus-sized CJ Banks brand under the Christopher & Banks banner. The stores combine missy, petite and women's sizes in one shopping location.



Following these openings, Christopher & Banks will operate approximately 190 stores with the combined merchandise format. The retailer’s previously separate websites also have merged into a single e-commerce site at Christopherandbanks.com



The new missy-petite-women store concept was launched and tested in approximately 20 locations across the United States in 2013, after converting the retailer's flagship store at Mall of America in 2011. Initial results were very positive, leading to the decision to convert 190 stores by the end of 2014.



"We are thrilled to bring this concept to more locations," said LuAnn Via, Christopher & Banks president and CEO. "It allows women to find what is most flattering, regardless of size.”



Christopher & Banks' new retail strategy is a direct response to consumer insights from focus groups, surveys and national research studies conducted from 2012-2014 indicating women want to shop the same fashion selection in all sizes in one location.



"Nearly 30% of our customers shop both Christopher & Banks and CJ Banks brands," said Via. "Women aren't always the same size on top as on bottom and this combined store model makes shopping for a woman's body size and shape easier.”