Coach, Inc. Investor Relations

Coach was founded in 1941 as a family-run workshop. In a Manhattan loft, six artisans handcrafted a collection of leather goods using skills handed down from generation to generation. Discerning consumers soon began to seek out the quality and unique nature of Coach craftsmanship.

Now greatly expanded, Coach continues to maintain the highest standards for materials and workmanship. Coach’s exceptional work force remains committed to carefully upholding the principles of quality and integrity that define the company. We attribute the prominence of the Coach brand to the unique combination of our original American attitude and design, our heritage of fine leather goods and custom fabrics, our superior product quality and durability and our commitment to customer service.

During the last decade, Coach has emerged as America's preeminent designer, producer, and marketer of fine accessories and gifts for women and men including handbags, business cases, luggage and travel accessories, wallets, outerwear, eyewear, gloves, scarves and fine jewelry. Continued development of new categories has further established the signature style and distinctive identity of the Coach brand. Together with our licensing partners, we also offer watches, footwear, and office furniture bearing the Coach brand name.

Coach’s distribution strategy is multi-channel. There are currently over 300 Coach stores in the United States, with more expected to open this calendar year. In addition, Coach has built a strong presence in the U.S. through Coach boutiques located within select department stores and specialty retailer locations. The catalogue is an important advertising and sales vehicle for Coach, both domestically and abroad. In 1999, Coach launched its on-line store at www.coach.com.

While Coach continues to be one of the best recognized accessories brands in the United States, its long-term strategic plan is to increase international distribution and target international consumers, with an emphasis on the Japanese consumer. Through Coach Japan, Inc., now wholly owned by Coach, the company is leveraging a significant growth opportunity in this important market. Intent on maintaining a consistent brand strategy domestically and abroad, this ownership structure provides Coach with complete control of its distribution in Japan. With a global vision in place, Coach now operates stores and shops in nearly 200 locations in nineteen countries outside the United States.

Coach’s corporate headquarters remain in mid-town Manhattan on 34th Street, in the location of our former factory lofts. Coach is a publicly traded company listed on the New York Stock Exchange, traded under the symbol COH.