New York & Company

New York & Company is an established American women’s fashion brand with a history dating back to 1918, when it began as Lerner Shops. Over the decades, the company became a familiar presence in shopping centers and urban retail districts, known for accessible workwear and casual styles. A notable milestone occurred in 2002, when New York & Company separated from Limited Brands and became a publicly traded company, further solidifying its role in the national retail landscape.

For many years, New York & Company operated a large network of stores, peaking at over 500 locations across the United States. The brand was recognized for its broad appeal and consistent traffic, making it a significant anchor in malls and retail corridors. In the past five years, however, the company underwent a major transformation. After its parent company, RTW Retailwinds, filed for bankruptcy in 2020, all physical stores were closed by early 2021. As of February 2021, New York & Company had fully exited brick-and-mortar retail and shifted its focus to e-commerce.

Following its acquisition by Saadia Group in October 2020, New York & Company now operates exclusively online. The brand continues to serve a national customer base through its website, maintaining its reputation for stylish, affordable fashion. Recent years have seen the company invest in digital growth and seasonal product launches, adapting to changing consumer habits and retail trends.

For commercial real estate professionals, New York & Company’s evolution from a major mall tenant to a digital-only retailer illustrates how legacy brands are responding to shifts in the retail environment. Its transition has influenced shopping center occupancy and tenant mix, and its ongoing digital presence reflects broader changes in retail formats and growth strategies.