American Eagle Outfitters is an American clothing and accessories retailer based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. It was founded in 1977 by Mark and Jerry Silverman as a subsidiary of Retail Ventures, Inc., a company which also owned and operated Silverman's Menswear. The Silvermans sold their ownership interests in 1991.
American Eagle targets older teens and young adults. Some of the best selling products of American Eagle Outfitters are Low-rise jeans, Polo Shirts, Graphic T-shirts (with the AE logo and year established), and swimwear.
American Eagle expanded internationally by entering into Canada. A second store is open in the White Oaks Mall in London, Ontario, after acquiring some Dylex divisions in 2000 (Thrifty's, Braemar, & National Logistics). There are now American Eagle stores open all across Canada.
In 2006, 42 new American Eagle stores opened and 65 remodels were
completed. Together with five new MARTIN + OSA stores and three new
aerie stand-alone test stores, total gross square footage increased 8%
for the year. In 2007, the company planned to open 45 to 50 more
American Eagle stores, at least 15 aerie stand-alone, and approximately
12 new MARTIN + OSA stores. Additionally, approximately 45 American
Eagle store remodels are planned which, combined with new store
openings, will generate total 2007 square footage growth of
approximately 10%.