Maidenform Brands Inc. is a name that resonates with generations of women, primarily known for its lingerie and intimate apparel. While the company no longer exists in its original form as a publicly traded entity listed on Yahoo Finance, understanding its history and financial performance offers valuable insights into the evolution of the intimate apparel industry. Historically, Maidenform was a significant player in shaping how women perceived and purchased undergarments. Founded in 1922, the company initially focused on developing comfortable and supportive bras, a departure from the restrictive corsets that were prevalent at the time. Their early marketing campaigns, featuring slogans like “I Dreamed I…in My Maidenform Bra,” were groundbreaking, reflecting a shift in societal attitudes towards female empowerment and self-expression. For years, Maidenform successfully navigated the market, expanding its product line to include a wider range of lingerie, shapewear, and sleepwear. The company went public in 2009 and was listed on the New York Stock Exchange, becoming accessible to investors via platforms like Yahoo Finance. During its time as a publicly traded company, investors could track Maidenform’s stock performance (MFB), analyze its financial statements (including revenue, profit margins, and debt levels), and follow news reports related to its business operations and strategic decisions. Analyzing historical Yahoo Finance data on Maidenform would reveal fluctuations in its stock price influenced by factors such as quarterly earnings reports, overall economic conditions, and competitive pressures. The intimate apparel market is a dynamic landscape, with established players like Victoria’s Secret and Hanesbrands, as well as emerging brands, vying for market share. Maidenform faced challenges in maintaining its brand relevance and competing on price and innovation. Key aspects that impacted Maidenform’s financial performance, which were tracked on Yahoo Finance, included: * **Sales and Revenue Growth:** Investors would have monitored Maidenform’s ability to grow sales through its various distribution channels, including department stores, online retailers, and its own retail outlets. * **Profitability:** Margin analysis would have been crucial to assess how efficiently Maidenform managed its production costs, pricing strategies, and operating expenses. * **Market Share:** Maintaining or increasing market share in the competitive intimate apparel sector was a key indicator of the company’s success. * **Brand Strength:** Brand perception and loyalty are crucial in the fashion industry. Maidenform’s ability to connect with consumers and maintain a positive brand image would have been a factor in its financial performance. * **Innovation:** Introducing new products, materials, and designs to meet evolving consumer preferences was essential for staying ahead of the competition. Ultimately, in 2013, Hanesbrands Inc. acquired Maidenform Brands, effectively ending its run as an independent, publicly traded company. While Maidenform is no longer directly trackable on Yahoo Finance as a separate entity, its legacy continues. The brand is still available under the Hanesbrands portfolio, and its historical financial performance and market presence offer valuable case studies for students, investors, and industry professionals interested in the evolution and dynamics of the intimate apparel industry. Analyzing historical data from sources like archived Yahoo Finance pages (if available) can provide context and lessons learned from Maidenform’s journey.