Most US Eddie Bauer stores likely to close as operator preps bankruptcy

Core Insights - The future of Eddie Bauer's physical retail locations is uncertain as its operating company is preparing to file for bankruptcy [1][2] - There are over 250 Eddie Bauer locations in North America, with most expected to close [1][3] - Catalyst Brands, responsible for Eddie Bauer's operations, is planning a bankruptcy filing, while e-commerce and wholesale licenses have been transferred to Outdoor 5 [2][6] Group 1 - Authentic Brands Group, which owns Eddie Bauer's intellectual property, has shifted the e-commerce and wholesale operations to Outdoor 5 [2][6] - Catalyst Brands was formed from a joint venture between Authentic and Simon Property Group, which acquired Eddie Bauer five years ago [4] - Less than three years ago, Eddie Bauer launched a new logo and growth strategy aimed at expanding wholesale and international sales [5] Group 2 - There are interested parties looking to take over some Eddie Bauer stores in the U.S. and Canada, but most locations are likely to close [3] - The U.S. operating company of Forever 21, also owned by Authentic, filed for bankruptcy last year, indicating potential challenges within the portfolio [6]