Bloomberg Talks Catalyst Brands CEO Marc Rosen Talks Holiday Shopping
Dec 1, 2025
Marc Rosen, CEO of Catalyst Brands, oversees a diverse portfolio, including JCPenney and Brooks Brothers. He shares insights on the strong consumer turnout during Black Friday, particularly among Gen Z shoppers at Aeropostale. Nostalgia plays a big role in driving sales, with Y2K denim trends making a comeback. Rosen highlights the demand for popular sweaters from Brooks Brothers and discusses how the brand's value-focused strategy helps manage tariffs and keep pricing steady. He predicts a holiday season where value reigns supreme as consumers prioritize family moments.
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Busy Black Friday Morning At JCPenney
- Marc Rosen describes lines at JCPenney at 5 a.m. where customers waited for nostalgic giveaways and coupon books.
- He notes Gen Z was visibly present and engaged in stores on Black Friday, especially for Aeropostale trends.
Nostalgia Meets Affordable Fashion
- Rosen links brand nostalgia with affordable fashion to attract customers across demographics.
- He points out specific trend-driven demand, like Y2K denim for Gen Z and sweaters at Brooks Brothers.
Leverage Combined Sourcing For Better Pricing
- Combine sourcing across brands to increase volume and negotiate lower costs with suppliers.
- Use those savings to deliver matched or better pricing during key moments like Black Friday and back-to-school.