LS&Co. Unzipped

Welcome to our blog. Here’s where you’ll find a “behind-the-seams” look at what’s going on with Levi Strauss & Co. You’ll hear from a variety of voices, from both inside and outside the company. And you have the chance to share your thoughts. So read on — and weigh in!

Nov 03 2011

Going Forth

After an incredible, almost 24-year career with Levi Strauss & Co., it’s time for a new chapter in my life, time for me to Go Forth!

I’m a blessed guy. My journey at Levi’s® has been a unique one, combining an iconic brand, incredibly passionate and talented people around the world, and amazing values into one, unstoppable force.

And, of course, we wouldn’t be here without you, the people who buy our products. Whether you’re a longtime fan or one drawn by our new styles and innovative products, thank you.

The last few years stand out to me for one simple reason: I’ve had the chance to work with my colleagues to elevate Levi’s® status as an iconic, beacon of creativity and innovation.

We’ve crafted a more innovative, sustainable and edited product assortment to earn your hearts and the respect of our competitors. Levi’s® Curve ID jeans for women, our Water<Less™ collection, the Cycling Commuter Series, and our fit leadership are examples of the innovations Levi’s® introduced to the market. We’re thrilled that you and other consumers have responded and appreciate your contribution to our growth and relevance around the world.

Our Go Forth campaign reminded people – first in the Americas and, now, globally – that a pair of Levi’s® is the uniform of progress. And, as former Chairman and CEO Bob Haas has said, “the embodiment of the energy and events of our times.”

What other apparel brand can say that?

We have elevated the design and service in our stores, shops & sites around the world so that you can have the best jeans buying experience possible.

And we’ve done all of this while also carefully stewarding our founder’s philosophy of “profits through principles,” through our important and influential work on sustainability, social justice and HIV/AIDS.

This has been, for me, more of a calling than a job. And it remains so. A quote from another former Chairman and CEO, Walter Haas, Sr., has inspired me to maintain my curiosity and pioneering spirit over the years:

“Each of us has a capacity to make business not only a source of economic wealth, but also a force for economic and social justice.  Each of us needs to recognize and use the power we have to define the character of our enterprises, so they nurture values important to our society.  Only then will business fulfill its obligation to help an economy worthy of a free society and civilization worth celebrating.”

Timing is never perfect, but my desire for a new chapter in my life makes this the right time to step out of my role as coach and into the role of a lifetime, an admiring fan.

As always, Go Forth!

Posted By: Robert Hanson, President, Global Levi's® Brand

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Tags: Levi Strauss & Co.,Levi's®


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Jess Moul (not verified) - Nov 12 2011

Please go back a few years and bring back the original JR. Cut Levi Jean with Tapered leg. Not one jean on the market anywhere with Tapered leg. The twill/fabric currently used does not last. I have jeans that are 10 years old that are in better shape than those I purchased a year ago. You can literally see through fabric. I would spend over 300 a year on average for jeans. The last pair of Levis I purchased over a year and will be the last pair. Please just bring back a good old fashion pair of jeans. Original fabric that screams quality. 550 Jr. cut Tapered Leg all three colors.

Editor's note: Thanks for your input. I've shared your comments with the Levi's® brand folks. Sorry you haven't been happy with recently purchased product, but please know that it is guaranteed against manufacturer's defects, so if you think that's the issue, please contact us here.


max (not verified) - Nov 11 2011

hi i am the buyer of a chain of clothing store that carry Levis products i have a lot of tourist coming to the stores and asking for a pair of 501 " made in USA" . about three years ago i suggested to my sales group to increase the cost of the 501 as long as LEVIS can have it produced here in the USA. all of us know that here in the USA people need the jobs and -us - the retail store can sell the jeans for a higher price if its made here please respond max

Editor's note: Hi Max, and thanks for your comment. I will share your input with the Levi's® brand team, so they understand the consumer demand that you're witnessing. You may also want to share this with your brand contact when you're in touch with that person on your next order. Thank you for taking the time to write.


Ron Sabo (not verified) - Nov 07 2011

Why has the company (Levi & Strauss) decided to stop offering the most popular color "Baby Blue" from the inventory? When I say "most popular" I am speaking with direct knowledge about California!!! Please give me a direction if you have one, I will pass the word !!! thank you, Ron

Editor's note: Hi Ron. Thanks for your comment. Will you please provide a bit more information? What product are you talking about -- jeans? We'll see what we can find out if you're able to elaborate a bit. Thanks again!


marina terragni (not verified) - Nov 05 2011

Please, Levi' Strauss should help Ligury and Genua destroyed from alluvional rains! It should have a symbolic value, too. Jeans are made with original "tela di Genova", its name come to Genua. It should be a wonderful way to solve the "debt"! Help Genua, please! We are crying, today!

Editor's note: Hello, and thank you for your important message. We've seen the news reports of the flooding and the resulting deaths. I will share your request for assistance with those in the company who make such decisions. Please know that you're in our thoughts during this difficult time of natural disaster.


NIcholas Biddlecome (not verified) - Nov 04 2011
Robert I am so glad to have gotten to be a part of your team, I hope the best for you in your journey going forward! Thnaks for making the brand what it is today and the work enviroment such a pleaseant one to be in.


Joseph V. Cane (not verified) - Nov 03 2011
Where will Levis go without you? Cannot believe they would let you leave. I know whatever you do next will be a big success. Good luck Robert Go Forthward and Kick Ass!


oldmanmike (not verified) - Nov 03 2011

Its damn UN-American to charge so much for American made products like you do. I believe it right to encourage American made products, but you sure put a dampener on that with the prices you charge.

Editor's note: Thanks, Mike, for your comment. I will pass it along to the Levi'® brand team. We always welcome feedback. It's our best gauge on consumer sentiment.


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