Profile: lululemon athletica inc. (LULU.O)

lululemon athletica inc., incorporated on November 21, 2005, is a designer and retailer of technical athletic apparel primarily in North America. Its yoga-inspired apparel is marketed under the lululemon athletica brand name. The Company offers a line of apparel and accessories, including fitness pants, shorts, tops and jackets designed for athletic pursuits, such as yoga, dance, running and general fitness. It offers a line of performance apparel and accessories for both women and men. The Company’s fitness-related accessories include an array of items such as bags, socks, underwear, yoga mats, instructional yoga digital versatile discs (DVDs), water bottles and headbands. As of February 1, 2009, the Company’s branded apparel was principally sold through its 113 stores that are primarily located in Canada and the United States. As of February 1, 2009, the Company has discontinued its operations in Japan.

On September 15, 2008, the Company reacquired in an asset purchase transaction two franchised stores in Victoria, British Columbia. On September 8, 2008, the Company reacquired in an asset purchase transaction a franchised store in Bellevue, Washington. As of February 1, 2009, the Company’s retail footprint included 43 stores in Canada, 65 stores in the United States and five franchise stores in Australia. The 108 stores in Canada and the United States include one franchise store in Canada and four in the United States. While majority of its stores are branded lululemon athletica, two of its corporate-owned stores are branded oqoqo and specialize in apparel made with sustainable organic or recycled fabrics. Its retail stores are located primarily on street locations, in lifestyle centers and in malls.

The Company competes with Nike, Inc., adidas AG, Under Armour, Inc., Lucy Activewear Inc., The Finish Line Inc. and bebe stores, inc.