Aeropostale (ARO) is a retailer focused on the teenage demographic. The company suffered declining earnings in 2012 as struggling competitors cut prices and customer preference moved away from Aeropostale’s traditional strength in core basics towards higher fashion content. We believed that the Aeropostale’s brand was still relevant and that the company would benefit as improving inventory positions at competitors eased price competition and as the addition of a new head of design improved the company’s fashion offerings. This did not materialize, however, and the company continued to struggle. We exited the position at a loss to invest in other companies with greater growth potential.
From Meridian Funds's semi-annual report ended December 31, 2013.
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