WAL-MART LAUNCHES LOW-COST APPAREL BRAND

Just when you thought the giant retailer couldn’t swallow up any more retail territory, it sets its sights on the contemporary apparel market. Wal-Mart launched an exclusive contemporary apparel collection called Metro 7. They have in-store POP and appearances featuring former Miss Universe, Dayanara Torres. Torres will also star in TV, print and online marketing for the brand.

Metro 7 offers feminine and contemporary clothing at prices from $10-$29 retail, in misses and plus sizes. “The brand represents the first step in Wal-Marts new apparel strategy, which focuses on addressing the needs of Wal-Marts diverse customer base. The strategy has involved customer research, opening a New York trend office to identify apparel trends and integrate it with their other brands. They hope to train merchandisers to improve the apparel-shopping experience.”

The launch comes amid rumors that Wal-Mart could be interested in acquiring Tommy Hilfiger, which Wal-Mart is not commenting on now.

Let’s just hope they don’t start selling cars, insurance policies and homes, then we’ll all be out of work!