Laura Canada announces acquisition of Liz Claiborne retail locations

MONTREAL , Jan. 19 /CNW Telbec/ - Laura Canada , a leading national women's retailer, is pleased to announce that it will be acquiring 38 Liz Claiborne retail locations across Canada . This comes as a result of a strategic business decision to acquire prime real estate in key markets from coast-to-coast. The acquired locations will be converted to either a Laura concept or a Melanie Lyne concept store beginning as early as mid-March 2010 and carrying through to mid-October 2010.

" Laura Canada is truly a success story. We have grown from one stand alone boutique into one of the most successful women's clothing stores across Canada with soon to be approximately 170 stores before the end of the year," states Kalman Fisher, President, Laura Canada . "As a result of the expansion we see a tremendous opportunity to penetrate the market further and offer our customers more convenience to enhance their shopping experience. We look forward to continually servicing their needs."

New Locations

The acquired stores are in six provinces. Ontario (17) Alberta (7) Quebec (6) British Columbia (5) Nova Scotia (2) Manitoba (1)

Laura Superstore:

Targeting women 35 plus, the Laura Superstore concepts will feature fashions from Laura (regular sizes 6-18), Laura Petite (sizes 2-16 proportioned for women 5'4" and under), Laura Plus (plus sizes 14-24) and Laura Plus Petite (plus sizes 14-24 proportioned for women 5'4" and under). Recognized for delivering exceptional quality, superior fit and size selection as well as depth of product, Laura Superstores make it effortless for customers to meet all of their fashion needs with ease. Each store offers updated and moderately priced suiting pieces, business casual and weekend wear, coats and a full assortment of accessories from stylish handbags to dazzling jewellery, hosiery, hats, and scarves making the store a true one-stop shopping destination for all occasions. Collections will include the exclusive Laura, Laura Petites, Laura Plus and Laura Plus Petites private labels.

Melanie Lyne Superstore:

Specializing in career wear, day and evening dresses, casual wear and accessories, Melanie Lyne offers contemporary fashion styled and interpreted with a sophisticated twist - everything you need to get you through the week in style! The collections, ranging in sizes 2-16, feature quality fashions that are current and fashion right, featuring the exclusive Melanie Lyne private label and designer brand labels.

About Laura Canada

Laura Canada is a national Canadian women's retailer with over 140 stores across Canada . Founded in 1930 in the heart of Montreal , Quebec , Laura Canada has increased its holdings over the years by expanding throughout Quebec , into Ontario, British Columbia, Alberta, Manitoba, Nova Scotia and Newfoundland. Operating under the banners of Laura, Laura Petites, Laura Plus and Melanie Lyne , Laura Canada is a privately owned company.

For further information: Brenda Wilson, Vice-President, Marketing, Laura Canada, 1 [phone] Ext. 2394, [email protected]