// Banana Republic will start selling within the UK and Ireland again through Next.co.uk
// US activewear brand Athleta will also enter the UK market in early 2023 through the same website
Gap Inc’s Banana Republic and Athleta will be available to shoppers in the UK once more through Next.co.uk, Drapers has reported.
In September 2021, Next agreed to manage Gap’s business in the UK and Ireland under a joint venture where Next owns 51% while Gap owns 49%.
Banana Republic, first founded in 1978 was acquired by Gap Inc in 1983, closed its UK website in May this year, bringing an end to its UK business.
It had nine stores across the UK but made the decision to close them all in 2016 due to poor sales.
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The fashion retailer has launched 135 products including T-shirts, jumpers, trousers, shirts, dresses and jackets on Next’s website with prices starting from £25 to £295.
US women’s sports and activewear brand Athleta, acquired by Gap in 2008, will also enter the UK market in early 2023 when it launches on Next.co.uk.
Gap UK and Ireland managing director Jon Jeffery said: “I am excited to embark on the latest part of our joint venture journey, with the re-introduction of two amazing brands to the market through the Next.co.uk platform.
“Both Banana Republic and Athleta are truly aspirational Gap Inc. brands that individually offer a unique perspective and a strong design aesthetic that allows us to engage and delight new audiences, and further expand our portfolio within the UK and Ireland.”
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