Gap Changes Strategic Direction: No Longer Spinning Off Old Navy

Gap announced that it no longer intends to separate Old Navy into a standalone public company.

“The plan to separate was rooted in our commitment to value creation from our portfolio of iconic brands,” said Robert Fisher, Gap interim president and chief executive officer. “While the objectives of the separation remain relevant, our board of directors has concluded that the cost and complexity of splitting into two companies, combined with softer business performance, limited our ability to create appropriate value from separation.”

Last winter Gap announced the split with the stated goal of completing the spinoff in 2020. As part of the original plan Gap, Inc. would divide into Old Navy and a unnamed company, which will consist of Gap, Athleta, Banana Republic, Intermix and Hill City would be formed.

“The work we’ve done to prepare for the spin shone a bright light on operational inefficiencies and areas for improvement,” said Fisher. “We have learned a lot and intend to operate Gap Inc. in a more rigorous and transformational manner that empowers our growth brands, Old Navy and Athleta, and appropriately focuses on profitability for Banana Republic and Gap brand.”

Gap Executive Update

The retailer’s board of directors intends to appoint a new CEO to oversee the full portfolio of brands and corporate strategy. In the interim, four of the company’s senior leaders have been elevated and have taken on additional responsibilities reporting to Fisher.

Mark Breitbard, president and CEO, Banana Republic, will now lead Gap’s collection of specialty brands, including Gap, Banana Republic, Athleta, Janie and Jack, Intermix and Hill City. Sonia Syngal, president and CEO, Old Navy, will continue to lead the Old Navy business. Teri List-Stoll, executive vice president and chief financial officer, will lead corporate operations related to finance, supply chain, technology and real estate. Julie Gruber, executive vice president, global general counsel, corporate secretary and chief compliance officer, will lead corporate administrative functions including legal, corporate facilities and services, human resources and communications, loss prevention, sustainability, government affairs and foundation.

Additionally, the company announced that Neil Fiske, president and CEO of Gap brand, will leave the company.