Client: Le Mystère
Business: Luxury intimate apparel, primarily bras known for their superior fit. Founded in 1998 with headquarters on Madison Avenue in New York.

Key players: Michael Rabinowitz, an intimate apparel CEO who had a vision for a better-fitting bra.

The Challenge:
The wide expanse of bra sizes (32A-42G) and array of styles, coupled with long purchasing lead times mean that Le Mystère must carry huge amounts of inventory year round. Though the company was growing rapidly and showed strong financials, their existing bank refused to loan against inventory collateral, a common problem for growing companies.

The Gerber Approach:
Gerber specializes in financing inventory, understanding that small, growing companies must leverage their own resources in order to grow revenues. In 2001, Gerber started Le Mystère with a line of credit against existing inventory, allowing the company to purchase additional inventory and continue the sales and marketing practices needed to grow a successful consumer brand.

Results:
Le Mystère has grown into a multi-million dollar company and enjoys a terrific reputation among consumers and retailers alike. The brand can be found at fine retailers including Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, Saks Fifth Avenue and numerous specialty boutiques. At many of its retailers, Le Mystère is the top selling brand. The company has extended their line to include additional intimate apparel products and has plans to extend the now powerful Le Mystère name to products outside of intimate apparel in the coming year. Gerber continues to finance Le Mystère’s inventory today.

“Gerber kept us on track for growth,” said Michael Rabinowitz, CEO and Founder of Le Mystère. “Were it not for Gerber, we would be three years behind where we are today.”

Website: www.lemystere.com

To learn more about Le Mystère’s success, click here.