J. Crew CEO Millard "Mickey" Drexler thinks he's found the solution to cutomers' reluctance to splurge and spree on new clothes: an online outlet. Yes, a J.Crew e-outlet is slated to launch later next month. We're guessing it is coincidence the announcement comes at the same time that the company announced it expects next quarter's earnings to fall short of expectations.
While the concept of a snagging embellished tees, stripey scarves and jaunty blazers at a deep discount is alluring, savvy shoppers don't seem to believe the hype.
In a recent article, Wall Street Journal used the language "outlet-store clothing," which raises some questions: Will the online offerings be pieces from past seasons that failed to sell in J. Crew stores or will the clothing be lesser-quality goods such as the kind often created especially for out-of-the-way factory outlets?
A quick peek at commentary on J.Crew Aficionada, a blog run by a twenty-something woman "smitten" with the brand, reveals that would-be shoppers won't be shopping there.
As for us, we plan to log on next month (anything for the sake of research).
