WASHINGTON — Old Navy is dealing with a big old controversy.
A woman launched a petition drive on Change.org after discovering plus-size women’s jeans cost $12 to $15 more than smaller women’s sizes, while men of all sizes pay the same price.
Tens of thousands of people have signed the petition so far.
In response, the company says plus-size women’s clothes cost more to make, because they require special designs and materials, such as four-way stretch fabrics, not usually found in men’s clothes.
On Thursday, the woman who organized the petition drive, Renee Posey, posted that she had a conversation with a representative from Gap Inc., Old Navy’s parent company.
The representative told Posey her petition prompted an internal discussion and multiple meetings at Gap, and the company is considering big changes.
The company also wants to hear the public’s opinions on the topic. People can tweet at the company using hashtag #OldNavyPlus.
As a former employee #OldNavyPlus y'all picked the wrong retailer, @OldNavy doesn't deserve it, they're #amazing!
— JosShavaughn (@JosShavaughn) November 14, 2014
If it's because it takes more fabric. I expect to see the prices in bikinis drop waaaaaay down to that of a one piece. #OldNavyPlus #Lies
— Colleen Marie Olson (@OlsonClan77) November 14, 2014
I would love to see plus size back in stores.I'm a size 24 & I work for old navy and can't get the jeans.Only online.Come on! #OldNavyPlus
— Jennifer Taylor (@jenntaylor26070) November 13, 2014
Also, Posey is urging Old Navy to put plus-size women’s clothing back in stores. They were removed in 2007. Plus-size options can be purchased online.
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