USA : Wal-Mart to introduce new urban menswear line

Wal-Mart Stores Inc, the US retail giant, this summer is going to introduce new Exsto clothing line for 18 to 35 year old men.

The introduction of the new urban menswear line for young men under the ‘Exsto’ brand will be available in 300 select Wal-Mart stores in July 2006 and promises to customers and shareholders to deliver its comprehensive apparel strategy on a national scale.

With styles that are fashion-forward and in demand by today's young men, Exsto features innovative designs that give them the freedom to express their individuality and style at affordable prices. Initially including T-shirts, polo shirts, knit shirts, denim and jackets, the line will be augmented with outerwear and hats this fall.

Andy Barron, Wal-Mart's Senior Vice President and General Merchandise Manager of men's apparel said, "As we continue to match our brands to the style preferences and needs of our customer, we will address gaps in our brand geography."

"With the addition of Exsto, we can better serve a distinct segment of our customer base by offering a true young men's brand with a sense of urban flair. Exsto mirrors the design and quality of urban brands offered in department stores at the excellent value customers expect from Wal-Mart," he added.

Prices for the first collections range from $10-$12 for T-shirts and $15- $17 for polo shirts to denim for $20-$24 and jackets for $23-$40.

Exsto joins the growing portfolio of Wal-Mart's trend-right exclusive brands that includes George and the Metro 7 missy apparel line successfully launched last year. Wal-Mart's comprehensive apparel strategy is driven by a number of key components including: