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Online luxury retailer Gilt Groupe, Inc. announces today the appointment of Carl Sparks as the company’s chief marketing officer, effective immediately. In this position, Mr. Sparks reports to Gilt Groupe Chief Executive Officer Susan Lyne and leads the Company’s marketing direction and function, including brand strategy and positioning, product and service innovation and consumer marketing and insights.
» ReadGilt Groupe, Inc. Names Carl Sparks as Chief Marketing Officer
New York, NY – October 19, 2009. Online luxury retailer Gilt Groupe, Inc. announces today the appointment of Carl Sparks as the company’s chief marketing officer, effective immediately. In this position, Mr. Sparks reports to Gilt Groupe Chief Executive Officer Susan Lyne and leads the Company’s marketing direction and function, including brand strategy and positioning, product and service innovation and consumer marketing and insights.
“Carl Sparks is a forward-thinking leader renowned in the industry for his innovative platforms, strong brand marketing skills and hands-on management style,” said Gilt Groupe CEO Susan Lyne. “His vast experience in developing and spearheading highly-successful consumer marketing programs and his expertise in the online space will be invaluable as Gilt.continues to expand its businesses and customer base. We are thrilled that Carl has joined the dynamic team here at Gilt Groupe.”
Mr. Sparks spent the past five years implementing innovative marketing programs for Expedia Inc., most recently serving as General Manager for Hotels.com North America. Prior to that he served as Chief Marketing Officer for Expedia.com where he led the Expedia brand to record website traffic and revenue and category gains. He also implemented an award-winning loyalty / rewards program and a website overhaul, which led the company to unprecedented profit and share growth. Before joining Expedia Inc., Mr. Sparks served as Vice President of Direct Business and Brand for the Auto Finance division at Capital One, creating new products and directing programming that led to profitable expansion and consumer growth. Mr. Sparks holds an M.B.A from the Harvard Business School and a B.S.E. in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering from Princeton University.
“As the first flash-sale retailer in the U.S., Gilt Groupe has established and maintained a precedent for success in the online luxury retail industry,” said Mr. Sparks. “I have long been impressed by the company’s consumer marketing and business models and it is an honor and privilege to join a team that leads such a widely respected, valued and innovative company. I look forward to being a part of Gilt Groupe’s continued successes.”
Mr. Sparks joins Chief Executive Officer Susan Lyne, Founder and President of Premium Products and Services Alexis Maybank, Founder and Chief Merchandising Officer Alexandra Wilkis Wilson, Founder and Chief Technology Officer
Michael Bryzek, Chief Operating Officer Jennifer Carr-Smith, Chief Financial Officer Ann Hailey, Head of Business
Development and International Operations Peter Glusker, Men’s Vice President and General Manager Nate Richardson, Home Vice President and General Manager Stefan Pepe and Chairman Kevin Ryan as the Gilt Groupe senior executive team.
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About Gilt Groupe, Inc.
Launched in November 2007, Gilt Groupe has rapidly established itself as one of the leading online fashion and travel retailers in the US. Gilt curates a broad range of daily sales to serve to its exclusive, invitation-only membership. Each sale lasts just 36 hours, and features many of the world’s most sought-after designers. Gilt Groupe is headquartered in New York City and currently serves over 1.5M members. To find out more please visit us at www.gilt.com
Media Contact: Amanda Graber I Gilt Groupe, Inc. I agraber@gilt.com I 646.929.6734
Gilt Groupe Inc. announces the expansion of their men’s platform with the launch of Gilt MAN (www.GiltMan.com), an extension which reveals new and expanded men’s categories in a one-stop-shop “guys only” e-tail destination. Debuting on October 19 at 12:00 p.m. EST, Gilt MAN’s initial sales include Strida, Bogner, Helly Hansen, Harry’s of London, Alexander McQueen, Porsche Design Adidas, Outdoor Research, Ducati Watches and Gianfranco Ferré.
» ReadFor Immediate Release
Gilt Groupe Inc. Announces Launch of Gilt MAN
GiltMan.com Features Expanded Offerings, New Categories
New York, NY – October X, 2009. Online luxury retailer Gilt Groupe Inc. announces the expansion of their men’s platform with the launch of Gilt MAN (www.GiltMan.com), an extension which reveals new and expanded men’s categories in a one-stop-shop “guys only” e-tail destination. Debuting on October 16 at 12:00 p.m. EST, Gilt MAN’s initial sales include Strida, Bogner, Helly Hansen, Harry’s of London, Alexander McQueen, Porsche Design Adidas, Outdoor Research, Ducati Watches and Gianfranco Ferré.
While Gilt MAN remains vested in Gilt Groupe’s heritage of bringing coveted luxury brands to its member base, the expanded site is designed to target a guys’ life, work and play styles in an easy-to-navigate shopping experience with a distinctly male voice. Gilt MAN serves as the go-to destination for men who appreciate the best of the best, from tech gadgets and sporting gear to apparel and lifestyle items.
“We recognized an opportunity in the men’s online retail space after hearing from our male members that they wanted a site that was distinctly theirs – and we answered them with Gilt MAN,” says Nate Richardson, vice president and general manager, GiltMan. “At GiltMan.com, guys now have a destination that caters to their interests and lifestyles in a way that is relevant, informative and easy-to-use. Gilt MAN gives the discerning man everything he needs to live the life he aspires to lead.”The launch of Gilt MAN builds previous brand and product offerings in the men’s category by 64%, providing access to a greater breadth of products with much deeper inventory across apparel, accessories, sports equipment and ‘experience’ categories. As with Gilt Groupe, Gilt MAN offers invitation-only access to sales each day at noon EST, with top brands available at up to 70% off retail lasting just 36 hours. Gilt MAN will also feature unique editorial content, including style and trend tips that correspond to upcoming sales – a first in the flash-sale e-commerce industry.
The Gilt MAN executive team consists of General Manager Nate Richardson, formerly General Manager of Yahoo! Finance and Dow Jones Digital, Director of Merchandising John Auerbach and Director of Category Management Richard Mumby. Seth Howard, as the style editor.
About Gilt Groupe, Inc.
Launched in November 2007, Gilt Groupe has rapidly established itself as one of the leading online fashion and travel retailers in the US. Gilt curates a broad range of daily sales to serve to its exclusive, invitation-only membership. Each sale lasts just 36 hours and features many of the world’s most sought-after designers. Gilt Groupe is headquartered in New York City and currently serves over 1.5 million members. To find out more please visit us at www.gilt.com.
Media Contact:
Amanda Graber I Gilt Groupe
646.929.6734 I amanda@gilt.com
Gilt Groupe today announced the introduction of the Gilt on the Go App now available on the App Store. Gilt on the Go allows consumers to preview, browse and purchase their favorite Gilt Groupe looks while on-the-go, and utilizing Push Notifications, users can manage their sales experience. At long last, designer deal-hungry fashionistas can participate in the daily noon Eastern-starting sales regardless of where the nearest computer may be.
» ReadFor Immediate Release
Gilt Groupe Launches the Gilt on the Go App on the App Store
Gilt Groupe Sales Now Accessible Anywhere on iPhone and iPod touch
New York, NY – September 29, 2009. Online luxury retailer Gilt Groupe today
announced the introduction of the Gilt on the Go App now available on the App
Store. Gilt on the Go allows consumers to preview, browse and purchase their
favorite Gilt Groupe looks while on-the-go, and utilizing Push Notifications, users
can manage their sales experience. At long last, designer deal-hungry
fashionistas can participate in the daily noon Eastern-starting sales regardless of
where the nearest computer may be.
The Gilt on the Go App creates a seamless Gilt Groupe shopping experience, no
matter where daily travels may lead. Gilt on the Go allows members to shop
active sales with all the speed and simplicity they adore, letting them score their
favorite styles in minutes. With a single tap, they can select their favorite
categories. The fast-loading pages and quick checkout make mobile shopping
just as easy as shopping on Gilt.com.
The invitation-only site also grants instant Gilt Groupe membership to consumers
who download the app, marking a first for the exclusive flash-sale retailer that
has innovated online retail since its inception. Finally – an instant Gilt fix available
anytime, anywhere.
Gilt on the Go is available for free from the App Store on iPhone and iPod touch
or at www.itunes.com/appstore/
About Gilt Groupe
Launched in 2007, Gilt Groupe brings New York City-style sample sales to consumers around
the globe, offering invitation-only access to daily sale events of coveted designer fashion and
lifestyle brands at up to 70% off retail. Each sale lasts 36-hours and features hand-selected looks
from a single designer, with more than 30 designer sales per week in a range of categories,
including men’s, women’s and children’s fashion, accessories, lifestyle and home goods. Gilt
Groupe is headquartered in New York City. To find out more information or to submit a
membership request, please visit www.gilt.com or email membership@gilt.com.
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Media Contact:
Amanda Graber I Gilt Groupe
646.929.6734 I amanda@gilt.com
BOSTON – June 16, 2009 – Internet Retailer 2009 Conference & Exhibition (Booth #1317) – Quiet Logistics, the first multi-tenant robotic order fulfillment service provider, today announced that Gilt Groupe has chosen Quiet Logistics as their next-generation order fulfillment partner.
» ReadBOSTON – June 16, 2009 – Internet Retailer 2009 Conference & Exhibition (Booth #1317) – Quiet Logistics, the first multi-tenant robotic order fulfillment service provider, today announced that Gilt Groupe has chosen Quiet Logistics as their next-generation order fulfillment partner.
“Gilt’s growth trajectory has put demands on all aspects of our business,” said Susan Lyne, CEO of Gilt Groupe. “We have chosen Quiet Logistics to be our fulfillment partner because their solution offers the flexible scalability and supporting information technology systems that we need to manage our growth. Their capabilities across-the-board are impressive.”
Gilt Groupe provides access, by invitation only, to men’s, women’s and children’s coveted fashion and luxury brands at prices up to 70 percent off retail. Each sale lasts 36 hours and features hand-selected styles from a single designer.
“We are gratified that Gilt Groupe has chosen Quiet Logistics to help them manage their meteoric growth. By integrating robotics, an enterprise-class Warehouse Management System, and web-based data visibility and reporting tools, we deliver a high throughput fulfillment operation that is unique in the industry,” said Bruce Welty, CEO of Quiet Logistics. “This operation drives the highest service levels available today and positions Gilt to strengthen its standing as one of the fastest growing Internet retailers.”
Quiet Logistics delivers its on-demand order fulfillment services in a specially designed multi-tenant QuietCenter™ facility. A QuietCenter can store and ship a wide range of consumer products including apparel, healthcare, beauty, office supplies and similar consumer packaged goods. By significantly reducing touches and human involvement in the handling of goods, Quiet Logistics is able to reduce cycle times and opportunities for error while delivering a 2 to 3 times improvement in throughput.
About Gilt Groupe
Gilt Groupe offers online event-based sales of coveted fashion and designer brands at discounts of up to 70%. With more than 20 sales weekly, the site hosts over a million people in its rapidly growing membership who make it a daily habit to shop. Gilt Groupe was founded in November of 2007 by Alexis Maybank, an early employee of eBay, and Alexandra Wilkis Wilson, formerly of Bulgari and Louis Vuitton. Investors include leading venture capital firm Matrix Partners and Kevin Ryan, former CEO of DoubleClick who now serves as Gilt Groupe’s Chairman. More information about Gilt Groupe membership can be obtained by emailing the company at membership@gilt.com or by visiting www.gilt.com.
About Quiet Logistics
Quiet Logistics, Inc. is the industry’s first Third Party Logistics company to deliver a complete outsourced fulfillment solution that leverages the game-changing material handling robotics of Kiva Systems. Quiet Logistics’ “One Touch” fulfillment service is an alignment of best-in-class operations experience and a fully integrated technology platform with a simplified business model to improve distribution throughput, accuracy, scalability and flexibility at costs that are 30 to 50 percent lower than the competition. For more information on Quiet Logistics and its services, please visit www.quietlogistics.com.
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New York, June 4, 2009. The Abrams Research survey of over 100 leaders and experts in the luxury industry, including fashion editors, designers, merchandisers, business writers and industry analysts, released on Wednesday June 3, cited Gilt Groupe as one of the top two destinations for online shopping.
» ReadNew York, June 4, 2009. The Abrams Research survey of over 100 leaders and experts in the luxury industry, including fashion editors, designers, merchandisers, business writers and industry analysts, released on Wednesday June 3, cited Gilt Groupe as one of the top two destinations for online shopping. The report also cites Gilt Groupe as a resource for luxury information, as useful for browsing as for shopping. According to Abrams, Gilt Groupe inspired the most love in comments from their panel, i.e. “I am Obsessed with Gilt!!” Gilt Groupe also finds itself in the Best Brands list among illustrious luxury companies such as, Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Bulgari, Prada, and Gucci.
Abrams Research, a media strategy firm that connects business leaders with a global community of media professionals, released the Luxury Brands Survey and Report this week asking the question Has The Recession Killed The Luxury Industry? The survey’s conclusion finds that although the fundamentals of luxury remain the same, the parameter within which it is interacting with customers is changing. According to this survey Gilt Groupe, which provides access by invitation only to men’s, women’s and children’s coveted fashion and luxury brands at sample sale prices, was voted one of the best luxury sites for on-line shopping. In addition to a destination for luxury shopping on-line
About Gilt Groupe
Gilt Groupe was founded in November of 2007 by Alexis Maybank, an early employee of eBay, and Alexandra Wilkis Wilson, formerly of Bulgari and Louis Vuitton. Investors and CEO include Susan Lyne, formally of Martha Stewart Omnimedia, leading venture capital firm Matrix Partners and Kevin Ryan, former CEO, DoubleClick, who now serves as Gilt Groupe’s Chairman. More information about Gilt Groupe membership can be obtained by emailing the company at membership@gilt.com or by visiting www.gilt.com.
Gilt Groupe offers more than 20 sales weekly on its website with designers such as Valentino, Thom Browne and Kwiat. The site hosts over a million people in its rapidly growing membership who make it a daily habit to shop. In just over a year, Gilt Groupe has partnered with the CFDA through their business services network, been nominated by The Fashion Group International for their “ Rising Star Retail Award.”
About Abrams Research
Abrams Research is a media strategy firm that connects business leaders with a global community of media professionals. Their proprietary data networks and global contacts allow them to target strategically selected media insiders to offer insights, data and personnel never before available to businesses for image enhancement, branding, investigative reporting and the execution of the best media plan.
NEW YORK, NY – May 6, 2009 – Gilt Groupe, Inc. today announced that Ellin Saltzman, longtime fashion arbiter, will be lending her experience and expertise as a Fashion Consultant for the luxury web-based retailer effective on Friday.
» ReadFOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Gilt Groupe Hires Ellin Saltzman as Fashion Consultant
Gilt.com positioned for broader growth in luxury brand business
NEW YORK, NY – May 6, 2009 – Gilt Groupe, Inc. today announced that Ellin Saltzman, longtime fashion arbiter, will be lending her experience and expertise as a Fashion Consultant for the luxury web-based retailer effective on Friday.
Ms. Saltzman has a long and prominent career as a fashion director and consultant in New York City. With Ellin’s impressive record in the fashion business she will evidently be taking with her those long and enduring friendships she has made within the professional world.
From 2000 to 2008, Ms. Saltzman served as Fashion Director of Bluefly.com, where she opened designer doors, aided the merchandise team and identified trends. Coming directly from the Internet fashion site, she brings substantial knowledge to Gilt Groupe and creative ideas on how an ecommerce business should run.
Ms. Saltzman began her career as an Associate Fashion Editor for Glamour magazine, after which she spent 40 years climbing the fashion ladder. From styling and consulting to fashion directing at prestigious retailers such as Saks Fifth Avenue, Bergdorf Goodman, Macy’s and The Limited, she has a truly insightful view of how fashion appears today.
“We are thrilled to have Ms. Saltzman come to Gilt with all of her knowledge and experience, she is a veteran in the industry as so well respected,” stated Alexandra Wilkis Wilson.
“I am so excited to be part of a company that is not only growing at rapid speeds but that is so relevant in the fashion industry,” commented Ellin Saltzman.
About Gilt Groupe, Inc.
Gilt Groupe provides access, by invitation only, to men’s, women’s and children’s high end fashion and luxury brands at prices up to 70% off retail. From Valentino to Marc Jacobs and John Varvatos, Gilt Groupe offers more than ten sales weekly on its website, www.gilt.com. It hosts hundreds of thousands of people in its rapidly growing membership who make it a daily habit to shop for products as varied as Kwiat fine diamond jewelry to Dolce Gabbana gowns and men’s Lambertson Truex briefcases. Its sales can effectively move upwards of five dresses a second to members from Manhattan to Anchorage, Alaska.
In just one year, Gilt Groupe has partnered with the CFDA through their business services network, been nominated by The Fashion Group International for their “ Rising Star Retail Award” and been promoted across the nation from the likes of Forbes to Departures to ABC-TV’s The View.
Gilt Groupe was founded in November of 2007 by Alexis Maybank, an early employee of eBay, and Alexandra Wilkis Wilson, formerly of Bulgari and Louis Vuitton. Investors and CEO include Susan Lyne, formally of Martha Stewart Omnimedia, leading venture capital firm Matrix Partners and Kevin Ryan, former CEO, DoubleClick, who now serves as Gilt Groupe’s Chairman. More information about Gilt Groupe membership can be obtained by emailing the company at membership@gilt.com or by visiting www.gilt.com.
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Gilt Groupe Contact:
Christian Leone
917-476-5282
christian@gilt.com
NEW YORK, NY – February 10, 2009 – Gilt Groupe, Inc. and InStyle today launched a partnership offering millions of savvy consumers exclusive access to Gilt.com sales previews – an online first, available only at InStyle.com. This is the first fashion magazine partnership for Gilt.
» ReadNEW YORK, NY – February 10, 2009 – Gilt Groupe, Inc. and InStyle today launched a partnership offering millions of savvy consumers exclusive access to Gilt.com sales previews – an online first, available only at InStyle.com. This is the first fashion magazine partnership for Gilt.
InStyle.com now features a Designer Sales shopping area (http://www.instyle.com/designersales), powered by Gilt Groupe. Exclusive previews of future sales are now available up to a week in advance on InStyle.com. Since merchandise generally sells out within the first hour of the sale, this provides unparalleled service to consumers seeking designer brands sold at up to 70% off retail.
InStyle.com will offer Gilt Groupe members real-time links to sales as well as weekly special offers which could include monies off, percentage off purchase or free shipping. In addition to benefitting from a revenue share, InStyle edit will have a presence on Gilt.com.
This unique Gilt/InStyle shopping collaboration is the first phase of an exclusive partnership between Gilt Groupe and the Time Inc. Style and Entertainment Group. The next phase includes People.com and Celebrity Baby Blog.
“Gilt Groupe and InStyle are providing consumers with a distinct advantage when shopping for fabulous designer products,” said Fran Hauser, President, Digital, Time Inc. Style and Entertainment Group. “We recognize the increasing demand for top quality at a discount, and are delighted to bring this extraordinary access and service to millions of consumers.”
“We are thrilled to partner with InStyle,” said Gilt Groupe CEO Susan Lyne. “This is a strategic move combining Gilt Groupe’s luxury e-commerce with a fashion media leader such as InStyle.”
About Gilt Groupe
Gilt Groupe (www.gilt.com) provides access, by invitation only, to Men’s, Women’s and Children’s coveted fashion and luxury brands at prices up to 70% off retail. Each sale lasts 36 hours and features hand selected styles from a single designer. In just one year, Gilt Groupe has partnered with the CFDA through their business services network, been nominated by The Fashion Group International for their “ Rising Star Retail Award” and been promoted across the nation from the likes of Forbes to Departures to ABC-TV’s The View.
Gilt Groupe was founded in November of 2007 by Alexis Maybank, an early employee of eBay, and Alexandra Wilkis Wilson, formerly of Bulgari and Louis Vuitton. Investors and CEO include Susan Lyne, formally of Martha Stewart Omnimedia, leading venture capital firm Matrix Partners and Kevin Ryan, former CEO, DoubleClick, who now serves as Gilt Groupe’s Chairman. More information about Gilt Groupe membership can be obtained by emailing the company at membership@gilt.com <mailto:membership@gilt.com> or by visiting www.gilt.com <http://www.gilt.com/>
About InStyle.com
InStyle.com continues to lead the fashion/beauty set with an average ‘time spent’ of over 8-minutes per visitor and an average of 28 page views per visitor (Source: comScore Media Metrix). With 85% original content, InStyle.com delivers celebrity style, beauty and service daily. The site also features engaging, experiential applications including InStyle Shopping, Celebrity Makeup Match and the Hollywood Hair Makeover, a Folio Eddie Award Winner for Best Online Tool, generating over 71 million hair try-ons to date.
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Contacts:
Zoë Lampel
InStyle
212.522.5721
zoe_lampel@instylemag.com
Christian Leone
Gilt Groupe
646.214.8928
Christian@gilt.com
NEW YORK, NY – December 9, 2008 – Gilt Groupe, Inc. announced today that V. Ann Hailey has been named Chief Financial Officer of the fast-growing luxury web-based retailer, effective January 5, 2009.
» ReadGilt Groupe Names V. Ann Hailey Chief Financial Officer
Gilt.com positioned for broader growth in online retailing
NEW YORK, NY – December 9, 2008 – Gilt Groupe, Inc. announced today that V. Ann Hailey has been named Chief Financial Officer of the fast‐growing luxury web‐based retailer, effective January 5, 2009. Ms. Hailey brings 30 years of finance, retail and operating experience to the company. She was most recently at Limited Brands, where she served as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer from 1997‐2006 and Executive Vice President, Corporate Development from 2006‐2007. “We are thrilled that Ann has chosen to join Gilt Groupe,” said CEO Susan Lyne. “Her broad experience in strategic, financial and merchandise planning will be enormously valuable as we expand the company’s footprint. We welcome her enthusiasm for our business and her steady hand at this important juncture in our growth.” Prior to joining Limited Brands, Ms. Hailey spent her career in consumer businesses including PepsiCo, Pillsbury and RJR Nabisco. While she has primarily served in financial roles, she has a broad base of business experience which encompasses strategic planning, human resources, marketing and retail inventory planning. Her accomplishments and expertise will be of great value to Gilt Groupe as it commences its second year of business. “It is rare to see a business so quickly embraced by consumers and vendors alike,” said Ann Hailey. “Gilt’s customers are passionate about the company and its innovative model presents an opportunity to create great long‐term value. I am very excited about the chance to be part of the team at Gilt Groupe and look forward to contributing to its future success.” Ms. Hailey has recently been elected to the Board of Directors of Avon, Inc. and serves on their Audit Committee. She is also a Director of W.W. Grainger, Inc., Realogy Corporation and the Cleveland Federal Reserve Board where she chairs the Audit Committee. Ms. Hailey holds an M.B.A. from the Harvard Business School and a B.A. in Business Administration from the University of Georgia. Gilt Groupe (www.gilt.com) provides access, by invitation only, to Men’s, Women’s and Children’s
coveted fashion and luxury brands at prices up to 70% off retail. Each sale lasts 36 hours and features hand selected styles from a single designer. With a rapidly growing membership, Gilt Groupe has become a daily habit for hundreds of thousands of consumers nationwide. Gilt Groupe was founded in November of 2007 by Alexis Maybank, an early employee of eBay, and Alexandra Wilkis Wilson, formerly of Bulgari and Louis Vuitton. Investors include leading venture capital firm Matrix Partners and Kevin Ryan, former CEO, DoubleClick, who now serves as Gilt Groupe’s Chairman. More information about Gilt Groupe membership can be obtained by emailing the company at membership@gilt.com or by visiting www.gilt.com.
Gilt Groupe, Inc. today announced that Susan Lyne has been named Chief Executive Officer of the luxury web-based retailer.
Ms. Lyne succeeds Alexis Maybank, Gilt Groupe’s founding Chief Executive Officer. Ms. Maybank has been named Founder and Chief Strategy Officer; and Alexandra Wilson remains Founder and Chief Merchandise Officer. The new executive appointments are effective immediately.
A strong executive with broad managerial experience, Ms. Lyne brings more than 20 years of media, merchandising and business leadership to the Company.
» ReadFOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Gilt Groupe Names Susan Lyne Chief Executive Officer
Gilt.com positioned for broader growth in luxury brand business;
Company Founders Remain in Key Management Positions
NEW YORK, NY – September 15, 2008 – Gilt Groupe, Inc. today announced that Susan Lyne has been named Chief Executive Officer of the luxury web-based retailer.
Ms. Lyne succeeds Alexis Maybank, Gilt Groupe’s founding Chief Executive Officer. Ms. Maybank has been named Founder and Chief Strategy Officer; and Alexandra Wilson remains Founder and Chief Merchandise Officer. The new executive appointments are effective immediately.
A strong executive with broad managerial experience, Ms. Lyne brings more than 20 years of media, merchandising and business leadership to the Company.
“Susan’s vision for the convergence of retail and the Internet will further our success in redefining how fashion and design goods are marketed and distributed. She is the right leader for Gilt Groupe at this period in its expansion,” said Ms. Maybank. “Her extensive media and entertainment background and her history of successful brand building will be invaluable. Her strong management experience and commitment to the Company’s core values will help shape Gilt Groupe’s growth and the industry’s as it advances. She is also one of the most respected women in business today, and we know our brand partners will look forward to working with her.”
Gilt Groupe provides access, by invitation only, to men’s, women’s and children’s high end fashion and luxury brands at prices up to 70% off retail. From Valentino to Diane Von Furstenberg and John Varvatos, Gilt Groupe offers more than ten sales weekly on its website, www.gilt.com. With more than 500 sales annually, the Company hosts hundreds of thousands of customers in a rapidly growing membership who make it a daily habit to shop on www.gilt.com for products as varied as Kwiat fine diamond jewelry to Dolce & Gabbana gowns and men’s Lambertson Truex briefcases. Its sales can effectively move upwards of five dresses a second to members from Manhattan to Anchorage, Alaska.
“As a passionate customer of Gilt Groupe, I understand why members describe it as an addiction,” Ms. Lyne said. “I have been enormously impressed by the Gilt team, the viral growth of its business, its brand partnerships, and the leadership position that Alexis Maybank and Alexandra Wilson have captured since the company’s launch last November. I am thrilled by the opportunity to work alongside them to drive Gilt Groupe to its full potential.”
From November 2004 to July 2008, Susan Lyne served as President and CEO of Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia (MSLO), where she led the company’s recovery and return to profitability. Under her leadership, MSLO significantly grew its media business with the relaunch of marthastewart.com and new publishing ventures. She also diversified its merchandising portfolio with a number of new partnerships, including the Martha Stewart Collection at Macy’s. With the acquisition of Chef Emeril Lagasse’s company, MSLO became a recognized leader in lifestyle content and products.
Prior to joining MSLO, Ms. Lyne spent eight years from 1996 to 2004 as an executive at The Walt Disney Company, principally at ABC where, as President of Entertainment, she oversaw the development of such hits as Desperate Housewives, Lost, Grey’s Anatomy, and Extreme Makeover: Home Edition. During her tenure, ABC’s movies and miniseries dominated the ratings and earned numerous awards, including the Peabody, Golden Globe, Humanitas and DGA awards, as well as multiple Emmys. Earlier in her career, she created Premiere Magazine, where she served as Editor-in-Chief and Publication Director for eight years. Ms. Lyne has received numerous awards and honors and was recently named by The Wall Street Journal as one of its “50 Women to Watch.”
About Gilt Groupe, Inc.
Gilt Groupe is the leading provider of exclusive merchandise at sample sale prices with a rapidly growing membership of consumers nationwide. A daily habit for hundreds of thousands of consumers, Gilt Groupe’s innovations have earned the Company numerous industry citations, from Forbes and InStyle Magazine to ABC-TV’s The View.
Gilt Groupe was founded in November of 2007 by Alexis Maybank, an early employee of eBay, and Alexandra Wilkis Wilson, formerly of Bulgari and Louis Vuitton. Investors include leading venture capital firm Matrix Partners and Kevin Ryan, former CEO, DoubleClick, who now serves as Gilt Groupe’s Chairman. More information about Gilt Groupe membership can be obtained by emailing the company at membership@gilt.com or by visiting www.gilt.com.
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Gilt Groupe Contact:
Christian Leone
christian@gilt.com
Gilt Groupe announced today their involvement with the CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund finalist, Costello Tagliapietra, at this season’s Mercedes-Benz New York Fashion Week.
» ReadNew York (August 28, 2008) – Gilt Groupe (www.gilt.com), which provides access by invitation only to coveted fashion and luxury lifestyle brands at prices up to 70% off retail, announced today their involvement with the CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund finalist, Costello Tagliapietra, at this season’s Mercedes-Benz New York Fashion Week. Gilt Groupe has come together with Costello Tagliapietra to support them as they take the stage to exhibit their Spring/Summer 2009 collections. This show will be shortly followed by the designer’s sale on Gilt.com.
Gilt.com has been able to offer the finest designer fashions and accessories by way of its partnership with the CFDA since January 31 2008. By joining the CFDA’s Business Services Network, Gilt Groupe offers CFDA members a quick discrete online distribution channel for excess inventory, overstock and vendor returns. By providing a web-based business model which partners with designers to increase sales by reaching their nationwide customer base, Gilt.com redefines sample sales from what we once knew.
“Fashion shows are critical in extending a designers reach with buyers and editors yet the cost to produce can be prohibitive. Gilt Group’s extension in supporting the CFDA Business Service Network with sponsorship of designers’ shows is an additional resource that compliments its on line sales for our members and demonstrates Gilt Group’s true efforts to strengthen our industry.” Steven Kolb, Executive Director of the CFDA
The Costello Tagliapietra show will imitate their innate ability to fuse their elegant and timeless aesthetics into a concise ready-to-wear collection, beautiful both inside and out, resulting in expertly tailored clothing perfect for the modern woman. This brand continues to be one to watch and, like Gilt Groupe, Costello is very excited about this partnership:
“We are really excited about partnering with Gilt Group this season. Gilt has created an environment online where our customers from all over the nation can enjoy the same privileges as those who have easy access to the sample sales in New York. The selection of styles that they curate for their sales are a great opportunity to broaden the consumer base for a young company offering new, never-worn pieces at a sample sale price.” Costello TagliapietraAbout Gilt Groupe
Headquartered in New York, and founded in November of 2007 by Alexis Maybank, formerly of EBay and Alexandra Wilkis Wilson, formerly of Bulgari and Louis Vuitton, Gilt Groupe has forged a partnership with the CFDA and recently sponsored Mercedes Benz Los Angles Fashion Week. Investors include leading venture capital firm Matrix Partners as well as Kevin Ryan, former CEO, DoubleClick, and Dwight Merriman, former CTO and Founder, DoubleClick.
Gilt Groupe announced today their screening of Paramount Vantage Films’ THE DUCHESS, starring Keira Knightley, Ralph Fiennes, Dominic Cooper and Hayley Atwell. The private screening will take place at Chicago’s AMC River East 21 Theatre with a cocktail reception directly to follow at The James Hotel, featuring Moet Hennessy wines and spirits.
» ReadNew York (September 2008) – Gilt Groupe, Inc. (www.gilt.com), which provides access by invitation only to men’s, women’s and children’s coveted fashion and luxury brands at sample sale prices, announced today their screening of Paramount Vantage Films’ THE DUCHESS, starring Keira Knightley, Ralph Fiennes, Dominic Cooper and Hayley Atwell. The private screening will take place at Chicago’s AMC River East 21 Theatre with a cocktail reception directly to follow at The James Hotel, featuring Moët Hennessy wines and spirits.
Hosted by Chicago’s “it girls” Susu Block, Lisa Cotton, Kate Fitzgerald, Stephanie Harris and Jennifer Kasten, the evening’s events will take the windy city by storm and signify the beginning of a partnership between Gilt Groupe, Inc. and Paramount Vantage Films.
THE DUCHESS is the story of an extraordinary woman who rose to fame by staying true to her passions in a world of protocol, gossip and social rules – and paid the price. Long before the concept existed, the Duchess of Devonshire, Georgiana Spencer, played by Academy Award nominee, Keira Knightley, was the original “It Girl”. While her beauty and charisma made her name, her extravagant tastes and appetite for gambling and love made her infamous. Married to the older, distant Duke of Devonshire, played by Academy Award winner Ralph Fiennes, Georgiana became a fashion icon, a doting mother, a shrewd political operator and darling of the common people.
About Paramount Vantage
Paramount Vantage is the specialty film division of Paramount Pictures Corporation (PPC), a global producer and distributor of filmed entertainment, is a unit of Viacom (NYSE: VIA, VIA.B), a leading content company with prominent and respected film, television and digital entertainment brands. The company’s labels include Paramount Pictures, Paramount Vantage, Paramount Classics, MTV Films, Nickelodeon Movies and DreamWorks Studios. PPC operations also include Paramount Digital Entertainment, Paramount Home Entertainment, Paramount Pictures International, Paramount Licensing, Inc., Paramount Studio Group and Worldwide Television Distribution.
About Gilt Groupe
Headquartered in New York, and founded in November of 2007 by Alexis Maybank, formerly of EBay and Alexandra Wilkis Wilson, formerly of Bulgari and Louis Vuitton, Gilt Groupe has forged a partnership with the CFDA and recently sponsored Mercedes Benz Los Angles Fashion Week. Investors include leading venture capital firm Matrix Partners as well as Kevin Ryan, former CEO, DoubleClick, and Dwight Merriman, former CTO and Founder, DoubleClick.
Gilt Groupe Launches Children’s Category with Lucy Sykes Inaugural Sale
Top Children’s Brands Added Following Successful Debut of Women’s and Men’s Sales
» ReadNew York (June 25, 2008) – Gilt Groupe (www.gilt.com), which provides access by invitation only to coveted fashion and luxury lifestyle brands at prices up to 70% off retail, announced today the launch of its new Children’s category; the first Children’s sale is scheduled for Tuesday, July 15th, commencing at 12:00 PM EST. The launch of the Children’s category complements the 100+ men’s and women’s fashion and luxury brands that have been featured on www.gilt.com.
Gilt Groupe will be offering a variety of styles and sizes for the tiniest tots to little ladies and gents. In true Gilt Groupe style, their buyers have hand-selected pieces from the hottest names in children’s fashion to bring an impressive lineup of labels. The Children’s category will launch with Lucy Sykes, renowned in the fashion world as a leading fashion director turned designer.
Instantly named the “must-have” for babies of chic moms, celebrity clients (such as Shiloh Jolie- Pitt), and fashion editors after launching her first line in 2005, Lucy’s European sensibility is channeled into a wearable, yet aspirational offering of chic pieces “with a twist”. This sale will combine Lucy’s Riviera, English Garden and Traveller collections…Think St Tropez, English tea parties and patterns inspired by the Rajasthan region of India, something for everyone- from babies to 12yr olds. Additional children’s sales include Kico Kids, Hickey Freeman Boys and Cacharel. All Gilt Groupe sales are 36 hours and feature hand-selected styles from a single designer. Upcoming sales will be announced through Gilt Groupe’s website as well as a weekly e-newsletter.
“Our brand is constantly growing and evolving into different arenas. Children’s clothing is the strategic next step for Gilt Groupe. It is an exciting market which we are thrilled to be getting involved with,” said Alexis Maybank, CEO and Founder. “With the fast paced life that the modern day parent leads, Gilt Groupe’s goal is to provide a tool that enables them to access the world of luxury and fashion online for themselves and their families.”
Gilt.com is able to offer the finest designer fashions and accessories by way of its partnership with the CFDA, providing its members a discrete and efficient distribution channel for excess inventory, overstock, and vendor returns.
About Gilt Groupe
Headquartered in New York, and founded in November of 2007 by Alexis Maybank, formerly of EBay and Alexandra Wilkis Wilson, formerly of Bulgari and Louis Vuitton, Gilt Groupe has forged a partnership with the CFDA and recently sponsored Mercedes Benz Los Angles Fashion Week. Investors include leading venture capital firm Matrix Partners as well as Kevin Ryan, former CEO, DoubleClick, and Dwight Merriman, former CTO and Founder, DoubleClick.
Gilt Groupe Launches Men’s Category with John Varvatos Inaugural Sale
Top Men’s Brands Added Following Successful Debut of Women’s Sales
» ReadNew York (April 15, 2008) – Gilt Groupe (www.gilt.com), which provides access by invitation only to coveted fashion and luxury lifestyle brands at prices up to 70% off retail, announced today the launch of its new Men’s category; the first mens’s sale is scheduled for Wednesday, April 16th, commencing at 12:00 PM EST. All Gilt Groupe sales are 36 hours and feature hand-selected items from one designer. The launch of the Men’s category complements the 70 + fashion and luxury brands that have been featured on www.gilt.com
Gilt Groupe launches their Men’s category with John Varvatos, a designer who’s universally appealing sportswear has earned him top honors including the Council of Fashion Designers of America’s 2005 Men’s Designer of the Year and Designer of the Year. Additional men’s sales include Hickey, Dolce & Gabbana, Lambertson Truex, Bobby Jones, John Hardy and Earnest Sewn. All upcoming sales are announced through the Gilt Groupe’s website as well as a weekly e-newsletter.
“Gilt Groupe is the first website to offer men the most desirable designer clothing and accessories at 50-70% off of retail, “ said John Auerbach, Director, Men’s division. “Gilt Groupe affords members the finest brands, ultimate convenience, ease of service, and great value.”
Gilt.com is able to offer the finest designer fashions and accessories by way of its partnership with the CFDA, providing its members a discrete, efficient distribution channel for excess inventory, overstock, and vendor returns.
About Gilt Groupe
Headquartered in New York, Gilt Groupe provides access by invitation only to men’s and women’s coveted fashion and luxury lifestyle brands at prices up to 70% off retail. Each 36-hour sale features hand selected items from just one designer. Past sales include Valentino, Diane von Furstenberg and Dolce & Gabbana. As preview of every upcoming sale, Gilt Groupe’s production team creates a short reel showcasing must-have pieces and the featured designers or brand.
Founded in November of 2007 by Alexis Maybank, formerly of EBay and Alexandra Wilkis Wilson, formerly of Bulgari and Louis Vuitton, Gilt Groupe has forged a partnership with the CFDA and recently sponsored Mercedes Benz Los Angles Fashion Week. Investors include leading venture capital firm Matrix Partners as well as Kevin Ryan, former CEO, DoubleClick, and Dwight Merriman, former CTO and Founder, DoubleClick.
Today Gilt Groupe (www.gilt.com), which brings the invitation only “sample sale”
online, and to its national membership, announced a partnership with the Council of Fashion Designers of America as a
Business Affiliate. By joining the CFDA’s Business Services Network Gilt Groupe offers CFDA members a quick
discrete online distribution channel for excess inventory, overstock and vendor returns.
Gilt Groupe Partners with the Council of Fashion Designers of America
Online Sample Sale Website the newest member of CFDA Business Services Network
NEW YORK (January 31 2008) – Today Gilt Groupe (www.gilt.com), which brings the invitation only “sample sale”
online, and to its national membership, announced a partnership with the Council of Fashion Designers of America as a
Business Affiliate. By joining the CFDA’s Business Services Network Gilt Groupe offers CFDA members a quick
discrete online distribution channel for excess inventory, overstock and vendor returns. Moreover every Gilt Groupe sale
is designer specific, held over a one day period and is introduced by a short video reel to educate their membership about
the featured designer or brand.
“As CFDA’s newest Business Service Network member, Gilt Groupe redefines sample sales by providing a web-based
business model that partners with designers to increase sales by reaching Gilt Groupe’s important customer base. Their
corporate affiliation with the CFDA will provide tangible benefits for our members, " explained Steven Kolb, Executive
Director of the CFDA.
In addition, Gilt Groupe and the CFDA will co-host educational events and roundtables, which will be announced later
this month.
“We are very excited to be partnering with the CFDA to offer its existing members the opportunity to reach consumers
(existing and new) online and continue to be the leading online outlet to distribute excess inventory and overstock in a
discrete and efficient manner” Alexis Maybank, Co-founder and CEO, Gilt Groupe.
About Gilt Groupe
Headquartered in New York, Gilt Groupe is a privately held company dedicated to providing its members with access to
coveted fashion and luxury lifestyle brands at sample sale prices. Each Gilt Groupe sale (3x per week) is designer-specific
and held over a one day period. The Gilt Groupe production team creates a short video reel to introduce each designer and
brand to its membership. There is no fee associated with joining Gilt Groupe; membership is by invitation only. Investors
include leading venture capital firm Matrix Partners and prominent private investors such as Kevin Ryan, former CEO,
DoubleClick, and Dwight Merriman, former CTO and Founder, DoubleClick.
Gilt Groupe (www.gilt.com) announced that it has secured $5.0 million in financing from top venture capital firm Matrix Partners.
» ReadOnline Sample Sale Gains Rapid Following by Providing Access to Luxury and Fashion Brands at Preferred Pricing
NEW YORK (November 27, 2007) – Today Gilt Groupe (www.gilt.com), which brings invitation
only ‘sample sales’ to its national membership, announced that it has secured $5.0 million in
financing from top venture capital firm Matrix Partners.. The ‘sample sale’, a New York
phenomenon where consumers line up around the block on a single day to buy top designer items
at steep discounts, is now available for the first time online and to shoppers nationally through
Gilt Groupe.
Gilt Groupe was founded in mid 2007 by CEO Alexis Maybank, former eBay and AOL
executive, and CMO Alexandra Wilkis Wilson, former Louis Vuitton and Bulgari executive. Gilt
Groupe features up to three top designer sales per week, and each sale lasts just one day on its
website. The Company features brands from American designers like Zac Posen and Marchesa to
Italian designers like Alessandro Dell’Acqua.
Working directly with the designer or brand, Gilt Groupe ensures the best product mix and often
showcases top end designers who never discount their products or sell online. Membership is by
referral, and there is no fee associated with joining Gilt Groupe. The existing membership base
hails from all 50 states and since the Company’s November launch multiple thousands of
members join daily.
“Consumers flock en masse to New York sample sales and are passionately committed to their
favorite brands,” explained Maybank. "Gilt Groupe brings the sample sale phenomenon and hard-
to-access brands to all consumers nationally for the first time, and we offer the sales exclusively
online. Consumers who have always heard of ‘sample sales’, but have never been able to attend
one, can now do so through our site”.
As a result of the financing, Nicholas Beim, General Partner at Matrix Partners, will join the
board of directors of Gilt Groupe
About Gilt Groupe
Headquartered in New York, Gilt Groupe is a privately held company dedicated to providing its
members with access to coveted fashion and luxury lifestyle brands at sample sale prices. Gilt
Groupe hand selects both established and up and coming brands relevant to its membership base.
Each Gilt Groupe Shopping Event is designer-specific and held over a one day period. The Gilt
Groupe production team creates a short video reel to introduce each designer and brand to its
membership. There is no fee associated with joining Gilt Groupe; membership is by invitation
only. Investors include leading venture capital firm Matrix Partners and prominent private
investors such as Kevin Ryan, former CEO, DoubleClick, and Dwight Merriman, former CTO
and Founder, DoubleClick.