Banana Republic

Banana Republic was a chain of American stores known for updating and adapting the clothing of exotic travel, safaris, and the military. It became famous for bush jackets, Bermuda shorts, large blouses, overalls, and large multi-pocket jackets. The brand made its début in 1978. It came from an idea dreamed up by Mel and Patricia Ziegler, a married couple that worked for the San Francisco Chronicle, he as a reporter and she as an illustrator. On his various assignments, Mel would purchase military clothes in the shops and Patricia would alter them. They opened their first store in Mill Valley, California. The success was such that they were able to open more locations. In 1983 the brand was purchased by The Gap Inc. and is now their top line.
For the first time after two years of free fall, the brand registers a 6% growth in sales, following the general trend of The Gap Inc, owner of the brand, which in the last quarter saw an increase in sales of $300 million compared to the same period of 2001.
The positive trend in sales is confirmed by an 11% increase at the beginning of the year, due mainly to a reduction in operating costs and an updating of the shops and the brand image.