LORNA JANE MUSCLES ITS WAY INTO NORDSTROM

LORNA Jane is flexing its global footprint following a partnership with upmarket American department store, Nordstrom.

The initial deal compromises stores in Canada and Puerto Rico with expected expansion into nine mainland US locations.

Lorna Jane Clarkson, the founder of Lorna Jane Activewear, says investing in overseas markets is a key strategy for the growth of the business and is optimistic about having her products stocked in more of Nordstrom's 117 stores.

"Partnering with such a respected retailer will allow us to remain at the forefront of customers' minds when they think about fashion-forward activewear and the successful on-the-go lifestyle that goes with it," she says.

"The deal with Nordstrom will introduce the brand to millions of women and transform Lorna Jane from a home-grown Australian brand to a leading global one.

"Partnering with such an up-scale international fashion retailer will also reinforce Lorna Jane's position as a world-class company and that activewear is now recognised as a wardrobe essential for the modern woman."

The partnership with Nordstrom follows the opening of Lorna Jane's first store in Paris at French department store Galeries LaFayette.

In addition, Lorna Jane is stocked in 54 countries, has 150 stores in Australia, opened 42 stores in the US since 2012 and is stocked in European fashion department stores, including House of Fraser in the UK and Breuninger in Germany.

In 2014, the founder's wealth was estimated by the BRW Rich List at $50 million. However she fell off the list in 2015.

Jane, who founded the company 26 years ago, attributes growth to grass-roots beliefs and vision.

"We have remained true to what we believe; we continue to create the very best activewear and provide our customers with the online tools they need to live their very best active lives," says Jane.

"When you step away from selling just a product and provide your customers with an experience, you engage with them on a whole new level and really concrete your brand in their mind as the number one choice."