Abercrombie Case Study

Abercrombie & Fitch

BUS 530

Sunday, July 31, 2016

Abstract

Abercrombie & Fitch

        Abercrombie and Fitch was founded in 1892 by David T. Abercrombie. The first store was located on Water Street in lower Manhattan. Ezra Fitch, a lawyer and one of Abercrombie’s best customers became a partner in 1907. A & F managers promoted the store as “The Finest Sporting Goods Store in the World.” It was a place where the youth of America could go and purchase goods at a great price with nice material attached to their bodies. It was not just a place to purchase sporting goods or rugged apparel. The lifestyle of the clothing store was youthful and a positive look on life and things. It promoted the existence of friendship and unity while also having a cool cozy look for guys and girls. It was also a place where individuals could learn new skills and get involved in the community. A & F had its share of problems and some were typical of all retailers that included them being low on inventory to them having major competitors.

        Difficulties in early days

        During the early 1940’s A & F stores were low on inventory, commerce had been disrupted by the war effort. It was difficult to import goods from abroad and manufacturers were busy making things that would satisfy soldiers rather they were war gadgets or things that they could by while at war that reminded them of home. Abercrombie wrote to their customers asking if they would like to sell items back to the seller so that they can be refurbished and reused. Their inventory was extremely low due to the war.