American Eagle to expand to Europe with new licensing agreement

By

Gabriella Lacombe

Published
Feb 19, 2019

American Eagle Outfitters, Inc. is planning to expand its American Eagle and Aerie brands throughout Europe, signing a multi-year license agreement with AEO EU, a partnership of European brand builders led by Sunil Shah. 

The first American Eagle stores in the European region are set to open in Ireland this summer, followed by the expected launch of an e-commerce site for the European Union and future brick-and-mortar locations across Germany, Switzerland, Austria, the Czech Republic, the UK and the Netherlands.

The AEO EU team has more than 30 years of experience launching and growing brands across European markets through a multi-channel distribution network. 

"Global expansion is a major growth opportunity for AEO Inc.," said Jay Schottenstein, chief executive officer of American Eagle, in a release. “The AEO EU team brings deep market expertise and strong connections enabling us to create the best possible brand experience for local consumers.”

In addition to American Eagle, AEO EU counts brands like Tommy Hilfiger, Pepe Jeans, Espirit, Guess Jeans and Skechers among its other partners.