LS&Co. Unzipped
May 30 2012
A Perfect Fit for the Levi's® Brand
You may have heard that we’ve just named a new president of Levi’s® brand: James Curleigh.
This was a critically important decision for us. And I want to tell you why I think James is the perfect fit for this iconic brand – and vice versa. If you’ve had the chance to hear him speak, and if you know anything about the Levi’s® brand, I think you’ll know what I mean.
James comes to us from Keen Footwear, where’s he’s president and chief executive officer. Keen’s a young company that, in a very short while, has had a significant impact on the outdoor industry. In fact, it’s one of the most innovative and fastest growing brands in that industry -- named by Outside Magazine in 2011 as one of the best places to work.
Keen has developed a following that is the envy of any shoemaker, as evidenced by the significant growth in revenue and focus on profitability under James’ leadership. He’s also helped bring Keen products to 60 countries around the world.
James’ approach to innovation really resonated with me. He’s all about listening to consumers to understand what they want, and then delivering something that far exceeds their expectations.
To me, that sounds just like how this company got started. Levi Strauss and Jacob Davis invented the blue jean, giving miners and other hard workers building the American West the perfect pant to wear on the job. And we’ve continued our product innovation to grow Levi’s® into an iconic brand that is more relevant today than ever before.
James’ business philosophy aligns perfectly with the Levi’s® brand. In addition to fostering innovation and building great teams, he has a strong commitment to the environment, embracing a sustainable approach to business. And he has a demonstrated record of giving back to the community.
As I said, a perfect fit.
I’m excited to bring James to the Levi’s® brand and to Levi Strauss & Co. I believe his fresh approach to business will inspire us to break new ground and continue to grow the brand. And I believe the people of Levi’s® are just the ones to welcome him and show him how we’ve gotten to where we are today.
Posted By: Chip Bergh, President & CEO, Levi Strauss & Co. |
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Tags: Levi's® |
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2013
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Ron (not verified) - Feb 02 2013
Yep. I must pile on. I've only wore Levi's almost my whole life. Bring them back or you'll lose another customer. I've never looked for another brand in 40 years. If I find another brand that I like, it may be another 40 years before I come back. I'm a loyal customer....as long as the service or product stil meets the original quality. You have forced me to look elsewhere. It was a good ride, now it's over.
Jon Mammenga (not verified) - Feb 01 2013
Hello, I have worn the old stype Levis Carpenter jeans for a very long time and absolutley loved them. The new style Levis carpenter jeans totally missed the mark on being even a close replacement. I have been a loyal Levis customer for a long time. I tried on the new style carpenter jeans and they don't evenr come close to fitting and the look of them is way off. I can't wear them. I turned to the 569 and they have been pretty good until my last trip to the store for a new pair to replace the worn out one. I tried on the same color and size 569 jeans and they fit totally different. What happened? Alot may say check your weight by my weight and build hasn't changed in years. The thighs and butt are tight and the waist is big. I was so confident in the 569 originally that I didn't evern try them on....just went into the store where I always get them and grabbed the size, model and color I normally get. NOw I have to drive back and figure out what I am going to do. PLEASE bring back the old stype carpenter jeans and quit changing how the Levis brand fits. I hate the trend to skinny jeans.
Keith (not verified) - Jan 27 2013
I see that you're pushing the 569 jeans, but it's not an acceptable substitute, I know I've owned some. Today's jeans are now coming equipped with small pockets that are useless, especially if you have normal size or larger hands. If I did manage to put something in there, (big IF), I'd never get it back out unless I took off the jeans first. How about something with nice deep pockets, hmmm, like the original carpenter jeans maybe, and something made with a quality denim that won't fall apart after a couple of washes, like say, the original carpenters, and something with plenty of leg room would be a great feature, like, I don't know, maybe the Original Carpenters! You can't get quality off the shelf anymore; you have to special order it off the website??? I like to be able to try something on before I commit money to it, yeah I'm sure I could always send it back if didn't fit right, but it's a major inconvenience. Oh I'm sure their saving a few cents in material by thinning the denim and shortening the pockets, and even making the legs fit tighter, BUT they're also losing loyal Levi's customers. I'm done with Levi's until they can get their act together. Final note: Skinny jeans should be banned in all 50 states and U.S. territories.
Chris.. Landscape Contractor (not verified) - Jan 27 2013
I am so frustrated ! I have probably purchased 50 original carpenter jeans.. There is nothing out there that can replace these comfotable quality work jeans. I purchased a couple used pairs on ebay around $46 each.. Only one pair was descent... Come on guys do u need a brick to hit u in the head.... Start making them again.. raise the price, we don't mind paying more for quality ! Chris
Kyle Munz (not verified) - Jan 26 2013
So how many more comments do you guys need before bringing back the Carpenter Jeans?
Suzette (not verified) - Jan 23 2013
My husband has been wearing Levi's Loose Straight Carpenter jeans on a daily basis for over ten years, absolutely refusing to wear anything else. We have always purchased 6 to 7 pairs at a time, as the quality and durability is beyond compare; however, he's now down to the last 5 pairs of the 40+ we've purchased over the years and desperation has set in. The knock-off Levi's Signature carpenter jeans from Wal-Mart proved to be an unacceptable substitute, due to the cheap-looking wash and inferior quality. I recently purchased a pair of the new version of the carpenter jeans, which he refuses to wear, because he insists they look like "stretchy girl jeans," and the small cell phone pocket is useless. Sadly, after all these years, our only option at this point is to try to find another brand of carpenter jeans. So, along with all the other longstanding, loyal ORIGINAL Loose Straight Carpenter jean fans, we implore you, Levi's, PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE consider bringing back the old, tried-and-true, much-loved ORIGINAL version of the Loose Straight Carpenter jeans -- you won't regret it!!!
Editor's Note: Hi Suzette, and thanks for your message. I will definitely pass it along to the Levi's® brand team. I'm told the 569™ has the same fit as the previous carpenter, just not the "carpenter details." And it comes in various denim weights, one of which may work for your husband. Thank you again!
Keith Wilson (not verified) - Jan 20 2013
I'm glad to see that I'm not the only one. I loved the loose fit carpenter jeans. They were AWESOME! I work almost everyday of the year. With two jobs (needed in todays economy), I need jeans that are comfortable and long lasting. I used to buy a new pair every 3-6 months. I stopped being able to find them. I need the extra pockets for tools while on the job. The "cell phone pocket" in the last iteration (which I own two pairs of) really isn't good for much except perhaps a writing utensil, a ruler, or a set of earbuds (what I use it for). After searching for the jeans I wanted, but was unable to find anywhere, I finally broke down and bought two pairs of that last kind of carpenter pants. All my life, I have worn Levi's jeans, and the loose fit carpenters were the most comfortable, jeans I had ever owned. That is why I purchased 20 or so pairs of them over the approximately 5 years that they were available. Since 2009, when I was no longer able to find them on store shelves in my area, I've purhcased two pairs of pants (the newer, much less comfortable, much less usable carpenters). I've always loved Levi's, but I'll have to start looking elsewhere if I can't find a pair of jeans from your company that aren't based on a pair of skinny jeans, and actually have some pockets and pocket space.
Editor's note: Hi Keith, and thank you. I'll share your feedback with the Levi's® brand team, so they know how you've used the jeans and why the carpenter fit worked so well for you.
Paul (not verified) - Jan 18 2013
I just returned the Levi 569 "girl" jeans I got for Christmas and will never buy Levi jeans again. I noticed the denim getting thinner over the last few years, but now it's girl jean fabric! Complete with girl jean small pockets and a different cut. Maybe you should have considered a 669 metro man jean and left the 569 I have been buying for 16+ years alone!
Editor's note: Hi Paul, and thanks for your comment on the 569™. I'm sorry your new pair doesn't work for you. The 569™ does come in several different denim weights, so if your gift pair is lighter than you like, there are others available. Currently on the Levi's® website, I find weights ranging from nine to 12.8 oz. If the style doesn't work for you, then the weight won't help, but I wanted to at least share that information. Thank again for sharing your feedback.
dan ferrari (not verified) - Jan 16 2013
very unhappy with no carpenter jeans. So i should have to get used to a cheap knockoff from w.mart. Please bring back the last version of jeans. Just because h.wood or the runway doesn't give them props.doesn't mean there isn't an audience............working people. carpenter jeans ..........carpenter jeans ........loose straight carpenter.
Editor's note: Hi Dan. I've passed along your comment -- and others on this topic -- to the folks in the brand. One note that may be helpful to all is that the carpenter jean was based on the fit of the Levi's® 569™, and we still make the 569™. It won't have the carpenter details, but it should fit the same.Thanks for your comment.
Rodger (not verified) - Jan 16 2013
I have been a faithfull wearer of the Levi's carpenter jeans for as long as I can remember. Ther are many in the construction field that really enjoed the look and fit as well as the durability of the original carpenter jeans. I'm not aware of who's decision it was to discontinue these, but it certainly wasn't anyone who wears them. I think i speak for all of us with bigger thighs that we need these back!!. I too hope Mr.Curleigh will see this and re-consider the decision. I am not into wearing jeans that look like I borrowed them from my 15 year old daughter.
Mark Normandin (not verified) - Jan 16 2013
BRING BACK THE LEVI LOOSE FIT CARPENTER JEAN!!!! I BEG you, please! Its the only jean I like and the only jean that I wear. I have seven pair and need a few new ones - Wearing out a few of them after many years....I am in my forties and in great shape, but you'll never catch me in skinny jeans, really!
Amanda N (not verified) - Jan 13 2013
My husband has several Levi's carpenter jeans and they have finally worn out. I've been looking for them everywhere and am just learning that Levis discontinued them. This is surprising because I see people wearing the style everywhere and even my infant son's clothes feature this style. Disappointed that Levi's seems to continue to ignore their customers or has disregarded the casual jeans wearers rather than the hipster crowd. I'll be looking into your competitors for this favored style.
John Deniro (not verified) - Jan 11 2013
PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE bring back the carpenter jeans. Obviously your NOT listening to some your most loyal customers. I have been wearing these jeans for years, best jeans on the market. I am truly depressed and can not find another pair that wears the same.
Ruined it Levi (not verified) - Jan 06 2013
You might want to consider changing your companies values and vision since you don't really care to listen to your customers feedback on the old carpenter jeans. I'm hoping that another company can duplicate the carpenter style you once made so they can become the leader in the jean sales.
Lance (not verified) - Jan 05 2013
Thought I was the only REALLY disappointed member of the Levis carpenter style jeans no longer being available group. Listen up Levis, and bring them back.
Michael (not verified) - Dec 29 2012
Bring back the old carpenter jeans (the 640's, not the 22077's). Bring back the old carpenter jeans. And not in a lighter weight denim or a different style, or with a poorly designed, extra cellphone pocket. Bring back the old carpenter jeans. I'm really disappointed with Levis over this. I was (and still would be) a very loyal Levis customer if not for this development. Bring back the old carpenter jeans. How many emails and letters will it take?
josh (not verified) - Dec 28 2012
I literally will not wear anything but carpenter jeans, I love the fit and comfort I own over 30 pairs of lee carpenter jeans. I used to love levis but when you feel skinny jeans for men is a good look or even comfortable , I don't even have the words . If yall would bring back the carpenter style back I would gladly switch back but until then I will probably never own another pair of levis , Sorry
Tony (not verified) - Dec 26 2012
Original carpenter jeans!!!!!!!!!!!! Not the 2nd gen or the signature. For at least 10 years I have bought them and wore them out and been happy to buy more, now the signature series? Please if we wanted to buy clothing at Wal-Mart we would not filling up this page with comments. Some one that wears skinny jeans and a blazer must not have thought this through, please consider looking at potential and already lost revenue from the real working people that like and expect a great quality Carpenter Jean with the ORIGINAL pockets and quality denim. Thank you and put me on your email list when you begin offering a quality product that has a real use, not to look fashionable on a runway in Paris.
Editor's note: Hi Tony, and thanks for your message. I've shared it -- and those messages below on this same, carpenter jeans topic -- with a colleague in the Levi's® brand. It's important for those in the brand to hear from consumers, and I know they enjoying doing so, even when the news isn't positive.
Dan White (not verified) - Dec 26 2012
Bring back the carpenter jeans. Bring back the carpenter jeans. Bring back the carpenter jeans. Bring back the carpenter jeans. Bring back the carpenter jeans
Keith (not verified) - Dec 21 2012
The original carpenter jeans are the ONLY jeans I will wear. Now all you can seem to find are these "signature brand" carpenters which I'm glad I read reviews before buying because everyone says they fall apart, seems rip and fray, belt loops break, button falls off, and thats only the first day of use. Now that I've added a few pounds, I can't find any original carpenters to replace mine anywhere but ebay. So now I'm buying USED jeans at RETAIL PRICE there because everyone else knows that the only place you can get'em and it drives the price up. I agree with the other posts, these "skinny jeans" are a fad that never happened. No working man is going to wear this crap. Bring back the old carpenters in a few different colors PLEASE!!! I just finished 20+ years of service in the military and can finally wear real clothes again, HELP!!!
Leigh (not verified) - Dec 18 2012
Bring the old carpenter jeans back! They were my husband's favorite jeans!
Doug (not verified) - Oct 24 2012
Another vote for Carpenter Jeans Love the fit and the look AND Use the extra pocket to hold my insulin pump
Adam Thompson (not verified) - Sep 24 2012
Carpenter pants seem to be on everyones mind. I won't say it was a big mistake, that would be an opinion. Without them I won't be buying much from levi's anymore. They were my favorite and my only choice for working jeans. Like some people there are not many days in my life that I am not working. That being said I have no use for skinny jeans that i can't move in. Judging by the reviews on the new skinny jeans looks like I am not the only one looking for a new brand. SORRY LEVI'S.
Editor's note: Hi Adam, and thanks for your comment. I'll make sure the folks in the Levi's® brand know that you're partial to the carpenter jean.
Christopher McDowell (not verified) - Jun 21 2012
I have always worn jeans, not just Levi's, I've tried many brands. The ONLY jeans that I have consistantly come back to and can say are my favorite jeans are the LEVI'S CARPENTER FIT. I never wore my Levi's carpneter jeans to work because they were my favorite and I didn't want to put a hole in them. (I weld). However I will point out that LEVI'S were made for the working man.
Tracy (not verified) - Jun 05 2012
Hopefully Mr. Curleigh will restore the perfect fit of the original Levis 505 jeans, and restore the faith of the very large number of disappointed former customers. Of course, it will require some advertising to let us all know things were fixed... most have have found something else.
Nancy Bond (not verified) - Jun 01 2012
I had to think for a moment because the name Keen seemed familiar. Now I know why, I'm wearing Keen sandals as I write these words. They're so soft and comfortable, with plenty of cushioning for my high arch. I had never heard of Keen before finding them at TJ Maxx a few months ago. The style is soft brown leather with adorable pink stitched rosettes. So cute. So, if James Curleigh had anything to do with approving these sandals, and is on his way to Levi Strauss . . . Welcome! I'm thinking this will be a great match with someone who really knows marketing and what we grown woman want in style. Nancy Bond
Mark Reneau (not verified) - Jun 01 2012
If he's so perfect then why don't he start catering to a few of the people that has supported Levis for 45 years like I have! All I'd like is to have the original carpenter jeans back. All you can find are the stupid looking skinny jeans that the kids wear where most of them can't afford Levis anyway. I am so disgusted with Levis ( and I have spent thousands of dollars on Levis) I will never buy another pair until you give the carpenter jeans ( and a good quality pair) back to the middle class adults and not 100 different styles of skinny jeans!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I have many friends that loved the carpenter jeans. I can only hope that Mr.Curleigh listens.
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