American Eagle
American Eagle Outfitters, Inc. · United States
American Eagle is a US casual clothing brand best known for jeans, founded in 1977 and owned by American Eagle Outfitters, Inc., which is led by executive chairman and chief executive Jay Schottenstein. The Pittsburgh based company also owns Aerie, OFFLINE, Todd Snyder and Unsubscribed.
| Founded | 1977 |
|---|---|
| Founders | Jerry and Mark Silverman |
| Owner | American Eagle Outfitters, Inc. |
| Headquarters | Pittsburgh, United States |
| Chief executive | Jay Schottenstein (executive chairman and CEO) |
| Group revenue | 5.261 billion US dollars (fiscal 2023) |
| Website | ae.com |
What is American Eagle?
American Eagle is an American apparel brand for teens and young adults, centred on denim and casual wear. It is the flagship of American Eagle Outfitters, Inc. (AEO), headquartered at SouthSide Works in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. AEO's portfolio also includes the intimates and lifestyle brand Aerie, the activewear line OFFLINE, menswear label Todd Snyder and Unsubscribed.
History
The company was founded in 1977 by brothers Jerry and Mark Silverman. The Schottenstein family bought half of it in 1980 and the remainder in 1991, and Jay Schottenstein serves as executive chairman and chief executive. AEO moved its head office to Pittsburgh in 2007 and acquired Todd Snyder in 2015.
Products and positioning
Denim is at the heart of American Eagle's offer, which includes:
- Jeans in a wide range of fits
- T shirts, shirts and knitwear
- Outerwear and accessories
- Seasonal campaigns aimed at Gen Z customers
In July 2025 the brand launched a campaign with actor Sydney Sweeney built on a pun between great jeans and great genes. It drew criticism from some commentators and support from others, including President Trump, and the company said the campaign was always about the jeans. Management later credited it with strong new customer acquisition. A second campaign with Sweeney followed in April 2026.
Business model and distribution
AEO is a vertically integrated specialty retailer selling through its own stores and e-commerce. In February 2024 the group ran 1,182 stores and employed about 40,000 people. It reported revenue of 5.261 billion US dollars for fiscal 2023. In 2021 it bought fulfilment specialist Quiet Logistics for 350 million dollars to strengthen its supply chain and delivery capabilities.
Why it matters
American Eagle is a bellwether for US youth fashion and denim. Its family led ownership, its large store base and its high profile marketing make it one of the most closely followed mall based retailers in the United States.
Frequently asked questions
Who owns American Eagle?
American Eagle is owned by American Eagle Outfitters, Inc., a publicly listed company headquartered in Pittsburgh. The Schottenstein family acquired the business between 1980 and 1991, and Jay Schottenstein is executive chairman and chief executive.
Is Aerie part of American Eagle?
Yes. Aerie is a sister brand within American Eagle Outfitters, Inc., focused on intimates, loungewear and activewear. The group also owns OFFLINE, Todd Snyder and Unsubscribed.
