Jay L. Schottenstein to Be Inducted into World Retail Hall of Fame

The American Eagle Outfitters CEO Will Be Honored in April for His Industry Achievements and Contributions, Alongside Other International Retail Visionaries

Jay L. Schottenstein, Executive Chairman of the Board, CEO of American Eagle Outfitters, Inc., will be inducted later this month into the World Retail Hall of Fame, which celebrates the achievements of leaders who have contributed significantly to the industry’s greatest companies and brands. The Hall of Fame is an integral part of World Retail Congress’s annual program and Schottenstein is being inducted this year alongside two other retail visionaries, Jean-Paul Agon, Chairman of L’Oréal, and Supaluck Umpujh, Chairwoman of The Mall Group.

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Jay Schottenstein, Executive Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer - AEO Inc. / Photo courtesy of AEO Inc.

Schottenstein and the other inductees were selected for their talent, perseverance and commitment to leading truly high-performing retail businesses. The inductees will accept the accolade at the exclusive World Retail Congress Hall of Fame ceremony on April 15, 2024, in Paris, joining 51 other Hall of Fame members.

“It is an incredible honor to be recognized alongside retail’s most influential global leaders and innovators,” said Schottenstein. “My induction into the World Retail Hall of Fame is an acknowledgement of my family’s lasting impact on – and deep love for – this industry. I am especially appreciative of the many people, businesses and brands I have had the great fortune to work with and guide over my career. Our associates’ passion for creating exceptional products and delivering the very best experiences to our customers is what inspires me to lead with purpose, integrity and determination each day. I’ve never considered this business ‘work’ – it is my life’s passion. I’ve dedicated myself to the retail industry and am proud to continue helping shape its future alongside the next generation of leaders.”

“It’s a true pleasure and privilege to celebrate the outstanding contributions Jay Schottenstein has made to the retail industry,” said Ian McGarrigle, Chairman of World Retail Congress. “Jay has been a respected industry leader for more than four decades. He is well known as an innovator and has built multiple iconic brands through an unwavering commitment to quality, value and exceptional customer service. Jay’s career is a testament to what it truly means to lead with foresight and agility, and we know his remarkable achievements will continue to inspire retailers all over the world to embrace change and navigate the future with confidence.”

This year’s Hall of Fame is proudly supported by Deloitte, Royal Bank of Canada and eshopworld (ESW).

About Jay L. Schottenstein

Since 1992, Schottenstein has been the visionary leader of AEO, guiding its evolution from a single-brand company to a multibrand global business. He has been instrumental in the growth of American Eagle as the preeminent destination for jeans and in the rapid expansion of Aerie as the fastest-growing intimates and lifestyle brand. His unparalleled business acumen and vast expertise across apparel merchandising, operations, retail, real estate and brand development have enabled him to position multiple private and public companies for unprecedented success.

Schottenstein also serves as the third-generation Chairman of American Signature, Inc., a family-led furniture business. He is the Executive Chairman of Designer Brands, Inc., a leading footwear and accessories retailer, and served as the company’s Chief Executive Officer from 2005 to 2009. In addition, he is the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of SB360 Capital Partners and Chairman of Schottenstein Stores Corp., a family business founded by his grandfather more than a century ago.

Among the many honors he has received are Father of the Year, presented by the National Father’s Day Council; American Apparel and Footwear Association’s Retailer of the Year; and American Red Cross of Central Ohio Humanitarians of the Year, which he was awarded alongside his wife, Jeanie.

Schottenstein’s resolve and values are deeply rooted in faith, family and creating positive change for people and communities. He is an esteemed philanthropist, supporting causes that improve the world – from arts, culture and Jewish studies to mental health advocacy and cardiovascular research.

About American Eagle Outfitters, Inc.

American Eagle Outfitters, Inc. (NYSE: AEO) is a leading global specialty retailer offering high-quality, on-trend clothing, accessories and personal care products at affordable prices under its American Eagle® and Aerie® brands. Our purpose is to show the world that there’s REAL power in the optimism of youth. The company operates stores in the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Hong Kong and ships to approximately 80 countries worldwide through its websites. American Eagle and Aerie merchandise also is available at more than 300 international locations operated by licensees in approximately 30 countries. To learn more about AEO and the company’s commitment to Planet, People and Practices, please visit www.aeo-inc.com.

About World Retail Congress

Founded in 2007, World Retail Congress provides an unrivalled high-level forum for senior retailers to learn, share insight, form powerful connections, and shape the future of global retail. World Retail Congress is a global platform that connects the retail sector’s leaders, stakeholders, advisors, and influencers to connect, create solutions and drive progress within the industry.

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