French Connection Snapshot
French Connection connects with youth -- perhaps that's why it's edgy. The fashion-forward apparel company gained notoriety from its FCUK branding campaign (since discontinued). French Connection designs, makes, and markets men's, women's, and children's fashions and accessories, such as sunglasses, hats, backpacks, fragrances, and cosmetics. It sells its own brand apparel in more than 300 French Connection, Great Plains, Toast, and YMC stores primarily in Europe and North America. Sales to wholesale customers in some 50 countries worldwide account for roughly one-third of the company's revenue. French Connection was founded in 1972 by chairman and CEO Stephen Marks, who owns about a 40% stake in the company.