Abercrombie & Fitch Co.
Publicly traded American fashion retailer operating multiple brands including Abercrombie & Fitch, Hollister, Gilly Hicks, and Victoria's Secret.
Company Type
public
Founded
1892
Headquarters
Columbus, Ohio, USA
Stock
NYSE: ANF
About Abercrombie & Fitch Co.
Abercrombie & Fitch Co. is a publicly traded American fashion retailer headquartered in Columbus, Ohio. The company operates multiple fashion brands across different market segments. Abercrombie & Fitch is listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: ANF).
The company operates retail stores and e-commerce platforms across the United States and internationally. Abercrombie & Fitch maintains a focus on fashion, quality, and customer experience. The company employs thousands of people across its operations.
Abercrombie & Fitch's business strategy emphasizes brand portfolio diversification, retail expansion, and digital innovation. The company invests in technology, supply chain, and talent to maintain competitive advantages in the global fashion market.
History of Abercrombie & Fitch Co.
Abercrombie & Fitch was founded in 1892 by David Abercrombie and Ezra Fitch as a sporting goods retailer in New York City. The company established itself as a quality retailer for outdoor and sporting equipment. Abercrombie & Fitch became known for quality products and customer service.
Throughout the 20th century, Abercrombie & Fitch evolved from sporting goods to fashion retail, establishing itself as a major fashion retailer. The company expanded its operations, establishing retail stores across the United States and internationally. Abercrombie & Fitch became one of America's leading fashion retailers.
Abercrombie & Fitch went public on the New York Stock Exchange, allowing public investors to own shares in the company. The company continued to expand its brand portfolio, acquiring and launching additional fashion brands. Abercrombie & Fitch established itself as a major player in the global fashion retail market.
In 1998, Abercrombie & Fitch acquired Limited Brands' Hollister brand, expanding its fashion portfolio. In 2007, the company acquired Gilly Hicks, another fashion brand. In 2015, Abercrombie & Fitch acquired Victoria's Secret and related brands from Limited Brands, significantly expanding its portfolio.
Throughout the 2010s and 2020s, Abercrombie & Fitch has continued to invest in its brands, retail operations, and e-commerce capabilities. The company has maintained its position as one of America's largest fashion retailers.
Brands Owned by Abercrombie & Fitch Co.
Abercrombie & Fitch Co. owns 1 brand in our database.
Stock Information
Abercrombie & Fitch Co. Ownership: Pros & Cons
Advantages
- +Publicly traded status ensures transparency and accountability
- +Strong brand portfolio with global recognition
- +Significant investment in retail and e-commerce infrastructure
- +Professional management and corporate governance standards
- +Diversified product offerings across multiple brands
- +Established presence in major global markets
Considerations
- -Regulatory oversight from fashion and retail authorities
- -Competition from other fashion retailers and direct-to-consumer brands
- -Exposure to changing consumer preferences and fashion trends
- -Challenges from e-commerce competition and retail market volatility
- -Dependency on supply chain and manufacturing partners
- -Economic conditions affecting consumer spending
Frequently Asked Questions About Abercrombie & Fitch Co.
Is Abercrombie & Fitch publicly traded?
Yes, Abercrombie & Fitch Co. is publicly traded on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: ANF).
When was Abercrombie & Fitch founded?
Abercrombie & Fitch was founded in 1892 by David Abercrombie and Ezra Fitch.
Where is Abercrombie & Fitch headquartered?
Abercrombie & Fitch is headquartered in Columbus, Ohio, USA.
What brands does Abercrombie & Fitch own?
Abercrombie & Fitch owns Abercrombie & Fitch, Hollister, Gilly Hicks, and Victoria's Secret brands.
How many retail stores does Abercrombie & Fitch operate?
Abercrombie & Fitch operates hundreds of retail stores globally across its various brands.
Jobs at Abercrombie & Fitch Co.
Latest News About Abercrombie & Fitch Co.
Related Articles About Abercrombie & Fitch Co.
View more articles
News & Updates
Monthly M&A Roundup: February 2026 Brand Ownership Changes
From Keurig Dr Pepper's planned split to the Netflix-WBD saga, here is every major brand ownership change and deal in February 2026.
Who Brands StaffFeb 12, 2026
m-and-a-roundupacquisitionsnews
Industry Analysis
The Most Acquired Categories: Tech vs CPG vs Pharma
Which industries see the most brand acquisitions? We compared technology, consumer goods, and pharmaceuticals to find out where the most M&A activity happens and why.
Who Brands StaffFeb 11, 2026
acquisitionsindustry-analysistechnology
Consumer Education
The Truth About 'Made in America' Brand Claims
Many brands market themselves as American-made. But what does that actually mean when the parent company is foreign, the parts come from overseas, and 'assembled in USA' is not the same as 'made in USA'?
Who Brands StaffFeb 11, 2026
made-in-americaconsumer-educationbrand-claims