Martin + Osa
 |
 | |
| Company type | Division |
|---|---|
| Industry | Retail |
| Founded | September 6, 2006 |
| Defunct | 2010 |
| Fate | Closed |
| Parent | American Eagle Outfitters, Inc. |
Martin + Osa (Martin & Osa) was a brand concept developed by American Eagle Outfitters. The store's name and inspiration came from Martin and Osa Johnson, a husband and wife team who explored Africa and the South Pacific Islands, chronicling their travels in photographs and diaries.
Martin + Osa targeted 21- to 60-year-old customers and offered classic and contemporary clothing, with an emphasis on denim.
The first retail store opened at Tysons Corner Center in McLean, Virginia, on September 6, 2006. Stores were designed by Michael Neumann Architecture in NYC ranging in size from 6,500 to 7,500 square feet.
On March 10, 2010, American Eagle Outfitters announced it would close down its 28 Martin + Osa stores and online store. Although performance improved from fiscal 2008, management determined that the brand was not achieving performance levels that warrant further investment. In fiscal 2009, MARTIN+OSA generated an after-tax loss of approximately $44 million, including a non-cash impairment charge of approximately $11 million, net of tax. The company will focus its efforts and resources on the American Eagle family of brands including, AE, aerie and 77kids, which have a greater potential of creating long-term shareholder value.
As of late July 2010, the Martin + Osa online store and all retail stores had closed. For a time customers could still visit the Martin + Osa website for Gift Card and E-Gift card balance look up, order tracking and customer service contact information. However now the site redirects to American Eagle