CARTERS Company

Carter's Company: A Comprehensive Overview

1. Company Overview

Founding Date and Background

Carter's, Inc. was founded in 1865 by William Carter in Needham, Massachusetts. Originally established as the William Carter Company, the firm initially focused on manufacturing children's clothing. Over the years, it has evolved into one of the largest branded marketers of apparel exclusively for babies and young children in North America.

Parent Company/Ownership Structure

Carter's operates as a public company, traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol CRI. The company is not a subsidiary of any larger corporation, allowing it to maintain independence in its operations and strategic decisions.

Headquarters Location

Carter's is headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia. The company moved its headquarters to the Buckhead area of Atlanta in December 2012, consolidating its operations and creating a central hub for its business activities.

Global Business Scope

Carter's has a significant presence in North America, with over 1,000 company-operated stores across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The company's products are also sold through various third-party retailers, including major department stores and online platforms.

Main Regulatory Bodies

As a publicly traded company, Carter's is subject to regulations by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Additionally, it adheres to standards set by various consumer protection agencies and industry-specific regulatory bodies related to product safety and labor practices.

2. Company History and Development

Key Milestones

• 1865: Founded by William Carter in Needham, Massachusetts.
• 1990: The Carter family sold the business, marking a significant transition in ownership.
• 2005: Acquired OshKosh B'gosh, a well-known competitor in children's apparel, for $312 million.
• 2017: Acquired Skip Hop, a global lifestyle brand for families with young children, enhancing its product portfolio.

Business Expansion Journey

Carter's has continuously expanded its operations since its founding. The company has grown through strategic acquisitions and by establishing a strong retail presence. It has developed exclusive clothing lines for major retailers such as Target and Walmart, significantly broadening its market reach.

Customer Base Growth

Carter's has become a household name among parents and caregivers, with market research indicating that around 90% of millennial parents and 80% of baby boomer grandparents have shopped at Carter's in the past year. This widespread recognition has contributed to a loyal customer base.

Platform Development History

Carter's has developed a robust online presence to complement its physical stores. The company operates its own e-commerce platforms alongside partnerships with major retailers, which have become increasingly important as consumer shopping habits shift toward online purchasing.

Important Awards or Recognitions Received

Carter's has received numerous accolades for its commitment to quality and customer service. The company is often recognized in industry reports for its market share in children's apparel, particularly in the sleepwear and newborn clothing segments.

3. Trading Services Offered

Forex Trading Options

Carter's does not engage in forex trading as it primarily focuses on the retail and marketing of children's apparel. Therefore, it does not offer currency pairs or related trading services.

Stock Trading Options

As a publicly traded entity, Carter's shares are available for purchase on the New York Stock Exchange. Investors can buy and sell shares through various brokerage platforms.

CFD Trading Products

Carter's does not offer Contract for Difference (CFD) trading products, as its business model is centered around retail and consumer goods rather than financial services.

Other Financial Instruments

Carter's is not involved in trading cryptocurrencies or commodities. Its core business is the design and marketing of children's clothing, which does not encompass financial instruments.

Special Services or Unique Advantages

Carter's unique advantage lies in its strong brand recognition and extensive product offerings tailored to infants and children. The companys commitment to quality and safety in its products has established a trusted reputation among consumers.

4. Regulatory and Legal Background

Detailed Regulatory Information

Carter's is regulated by:

• U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC): Oversees public company reporting and compliance.
• Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC): Ensures product safety standards are met.
• Federal Trade Commission (FTC): Regulates advertising and marketing practices.

Legal Entity Structure by Region

Carter's operates primarily as a corporation in the United States, with subsidiaries and legal entities in Canada and Mexico to manage its operations in those regions.

Client Fund Protection Measures

While Carter's does not handle client funds in the traditional sense, it adheres to strict consumer protection laws and regulations regarding product safety and quality assurance.

Countries/Regions Served

Carter's primarily serves customers in North America, with a focus on the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Its products are also available through international retailers and online platforms.

Compliance History

Carter's has generally maintained a strong compliance record, adhering to industry regulations and standards. The company regularly reviews its practices to ensure alignment with regulatory requirements and consumer expectations.

5. Competitive Landscape

3-5 Main Competitors

• OshKosh B'gosh: Acquired by Carter's, it remains a significant brand in the children's apparel market.
• Gymboree: A competitor offering a wide range of children's clothing.
• The Children's Place: Another major player in children's apparel, known for its affordability.
• H&M: Offers a children's line that competes with Carter's in terms of price and style.
• Target and Walmart: While primarily retailers, they offer exclusive children's lines that compete with Carter's offerings.

Positioning in the Industry

Carter's is positioned as a leading brand in the children's apparel market, known for its quality, safety, and extensive product range. The company has carved out a niche in the newborn and toddler segments, which are critical for its business model.

Market Differentiation Factors

Carter's differentiates itself through:

• Brand Loyalty: A strong reputation among parents for quality and safety.
• Diverse Product Range: Offers a wide variety of clothing and accessories for infants and young children.
• Strategic Partnerships: Collaborations with major retailers to enhance market reach and visibility.
• Innovation: Commitment to sustainable practices and product development to meet evolving consumer demands.

For more information on Carter's Company, including its latest updates and product offerings, learn more here.

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