Profile: Buckle Inc (BKE)

The Buckle, Inc., incorporated in 1948, is a retailer of casual apparel, footwear, and accessories for men and women. As of January 28, 2012, the Company operated 431 retail stores in 43 states throughout the United States under the names Buckle and The Buckle. The Company markets a selection of brand name casual apparel, including denims, other casual bottoms, tops, sportswear, outerwear, accessories, and footwear. As of January 28, 2012, the Company offered denims from brands, such as Big Star, Big Star Vintage, Miss Me, Rock Revival, Silver Jeans, and Buffalo Jeans. Other key brands include Hurley, Billabong, Affliction, Sinful, Archaic, Obey, Roar, RVCA, Fox, and Fossil.

The Company purchases products from manufacturers within the United States, as well as from agents, who source goods from foreign manufacturers. As of January 28, 2012, its stores were in four downtown locations, nine strip centers, 47 lifestyle centers, and 371 shopping malls.

The Company competes with Abercrombie & Fitch, American Eagle Outfitters, Aeropostale, Hollister, Gap, Pacific Sunwear, Dillards, Macy’s, Bon-Ton stores, Nordstrom, Express, Maurices, Wet Seal, Forever 21 and Vanity.