Rue21 CEO acknowledges plus measurement clothes for the Pittsburgh-based chain’s current success – CBS Pittsburgh

By: KDKA-TV News Staff

WARRENDALE, PA (KDKA) – Retail stores really took a hit during the coronavirus pandemic.

A young people-centric clothing store – rue21 – headquartered in Warrendale has weathered the storm and will open 15 new locations across the country.

The company’s new CEO, Bill Brand, appeared on the Sunday Business Page with Jon Delano and said rue21 survived by reducing inventory and advertising – and then prepared to reopen by adding more sizes to customers added.

rue21 says that while 70% of American women are size 14 or higher, only 20% of goods in most clothing stores are in those taller sizes.

According to Brand, rue21’s decision to add more plus sizes is paying off.

“Our brand size stands for style,” said Brand. “It’s about value and inclusivity. This inclusivity is also about body positivity, and when we’re serving 15-25 year olds there are many different shapes and sizes. It is not our job to judge. Our job is to support, respect and love. ”

You can see Jon’s full interview on the matter on the KDKA Sunday Morning News this Sunday.