We’re in this together.
See what steps we’re taking to respond to COVID-19.
COVID-19 Response
The events of the last year have changed our lives in ways that were previously unimaginable. The COVID-19 pandemic has taken a heavy toll on businesses, the economy, and our communities. We have had to make many difficult decisions, but we continue to stay true to the heart of our purpose-OPTIMISM.
From day one we have prioritized the health and well-being of our associates and customers. We also have taken proactive measures to ensure the financial strength of AEO Inc and care for our communities.
We continue to implement new health and safety measures across our operations and make informed decisions based on the direct advice of medical experts and CDC guidelines. We remain dedicated to ensuring that our customers feel safe, heard and respected and our associates feel prepared, at ease and valued.
While this is not business as usual, we are nimble and ready for the new future of retail. We would like to thank our dedicated teams and loyal customers. Together, we will get through this and emerge stronger than ever.
Our Approach
We continue to take a thoughtful approach through carefully coordinated efforts that adhere to all government regulations, the CDC and the direct advice of medical experts. We have innovatively transformed the in-store customer journey and associate experience, based on meticulous health and safety measures that allow us to provide a best-in-class experience for our guests and prioritize the well-being of our associates. This includes:
- A reimagined store layout that allows for social distancing
- Rigorous cleaning protocols & cleaning kits for every store
- Curbside pick-up and buy online, pick-up in store capabilities in all US stores
- An innovative line queuing app to support customer capacity
- A new line management system that allows customers to shop, make exchanges or returns, and purchase gift cards without having to set foot inside the store
- A touchless return process, plus steaming of all returned or tried-on merchandise
- A robust associate onboarding to review store changes and updated AEO Safety Protocols
- Health checks, temperature screening, customized masks, and photo name badges
Take a look at how we are keeping the health and well-being of our associates and customers our top priority:
How we’re supporting our associates
COVID-19 Associate Assistance Fund
The AEO Foundation has created the COVID-19 Associate Assistance Fund to support:
- AEO Associates and their immediate families who have experienced financial hardship as a result of being diagnosed with the virus; and
- AEO Associates who are experiencing food or housing insecurity or another financial emergency as a result of the current economic circumstances.
AEO Associates in good standing with the company, both full time and part time, at any location, are eligible. To request an application email BetterWorld@ae.com.
How we’re giving back to our communities
At AEO, we believe that taking care of our associates and customers also means taking care of the communities where they live and work.
At the very core of AEO is a strong purpose built on doing the right thing and the optimism of a better future. In the midst of the most challenging times our AEO family has come together with inspiration, passion and support. Our hearts go out to all those affected by COVID-19.
Together, with the AEO Foundation, American Eagle and Aerie, AEO has contributed more than $1 million to COVID-19 relief efforts.
AEO used its supply chain capabilities to source protective gear, including 1 million+ masks for first responders and public health workers in communities most in need.
AEO also donated nearly 20,000 yards of elastic to Sew Helpful to make face masks for those in need.
American Eagle and Aerie engaged customers to help raise funds for America’s Food Fund and Feeding America to assist those impacted by COVID-19.
Have provided more than $100k to associates in need and their family members through the AEO Foundation COVID-19 Assistance Fund.
With deep gratitude to health care workers on the frontlines, 2,000+ American Eagle and Aerie gift cards were distributed to medical personnel in New York City.
To help global communities in need, AEO made an early contribution to Good360’s COVID-19 assistance fund.
AEO and the AEO Foundation have also made significant contributions to the City of Ottawa, KS, the Hazleton Revitalization Fund, Mississauga Food Bank, and Trillium Health Partners Foundation.
AEO provided meals and assistance to help associates with food and supplies in Distribution Center communities in Hazleton, PA, Ottawa, KS and Mississauga, Ontario.
How we’re giving back to our communities
Want to chat? We’re here for you! We’re all in this together.
CALL US: 1-888-232-4535
EMAIL US: customerservice@aeo.com