These stores feature merchandise of a specific designer, for example, Ralph Lauren. Each store is independently owned as opposed to corporate ownership. Designers are provided the opportunity to merchandise their lines cohesively, unlike department stores that may divide garments into several departments. By the year 2000, many corporations were beginning to "buy back" their franchised stores and have complete control over their product at retail.
See also Retailer.
Historical Dictionary of the Fashion Industry. Francesca Sterlacci and Joanne Arbuckle.