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| Industry | Apparel |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1994 |
| Founder | Fritz Howard |
| Headquarters | Leadville, Colorado |
| Products | Outdoor clothing |
Number of employees | 124 |
| Website | melanzana |
Melanzana (formerly Eggplant) is an American clothing retailer headquartered in Leadville, Colorado. [1]
In 1994, Melanzana was founded by Fritz Howard as an outdoor clothing company named Eggplant. Following a trademark dispute, the company was renamed Melanzana, the Italian word for eggplant. [2]
Melanzana products are cut and sewn by hand at the company's Harrison Avenue facilities using Polartec polar fleece. [6] Fabric rejected by Melanzana may be donated to other small Colorado businesses through the ReMelly initiative. [7] The company has a "Smelly Melly Trade-In" program that allows customers to trade in worn gear in exchange for in-store credit. [5]
Melanzana primarily sells its products through its physical store on Harrison Avenue, while also offering items available for purchase online. [8] [9] The company operates both an open retail area, where a selection of products is available to the general public, and an appointment-only store that provides access to its full product line. [10]
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Melanzana briefly introduced the Lock Out Lottery (LOL), a system through which customers could enter for a chance to receive a shopping code for its temporary online store. [2] The brand's limited availability and retail model have contributed to a devoted following among outdoor recreation enthusiasts. [11] [12] [13]
Melanzana does not engage in traditional advertising and eschews the use of social media influencers and other paid promoters. [14]
Melanzana donates a portion of its profits to 15 local non-profits through its PB & Melly program. [15]
