Loft Reaches Inflection Point, Unveils Subscription Box Service, Other Initiatives

Loft has reason to celebrate. The brand logged its second consecutive period of double-digit comp sales growth and built capabilities such as speed-to-market, allowing it to deliver more quickly styles informed by consumers’ preferences. Its new loyalty program is gaining traction; Loft is launching a size-inclusive subscription rental service, Infinitely Loft, and introduced Loft Little, a mommy and me collection for Mother’s Day. Loft, along with Ann Taylor, is part of Ascena Retail Group‘s premium portfolio, which has been leading the way as the $6.5 billion company struggles with uneven performances at Dressbarn, Justice, Cacique and Lane Bryant. Earlier this month, Gary Muto, president and chief executive officer of Ascena Brands, was named ceo of the company when David Jaffe, who also held the title of chairman, retired. Comp-store sales in the most recent holiday period increased by 14 percent, and advanced 10 percent in the second quarter ended Feb. 2. “This is about recognizing that we’re on a bit of a roll,” said Loft president Andrew Clark. “We’re pretty proud of our double-digit comps. Our strategies are starting to work and are gaining momentum. We’re connecting with clients in new and unexpected ways. “Give us another quarter,” Clark said about making a definitive declaration

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