Ascena's expansion plans for Lane Bryant gain pace

Ascena Retail Group Inc. seems to be going steady ahead with its expansion plans for its brand Lane Bryant.

The store expansion plans of Ascena for its brand seem to be gaining pace this year, with 16 new stores opened since April.

Lane Bryant is a renowned curvy women's specialty apparel retailer, offering designer and high-quality fashion and comprising an extensive range of formal and casual apparel, together with accessories, footwear, hosiery and its intimate apparel range – Cacique.

Lane Bryant, which is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Ascena, operates over 775 full-line and outlet stores in 48 states across the United States, targeting plus-size women aged 30 to 45 and serves women's sizes 14–28.

Ascena currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (‘Hold’ recommendation).