As first reported this morning in a PPB Newslink Breaking News alert, Avenel, New Jersey, supplier Vantage Apparel (PPAI 113235, S10) has hired retail apparel executive Marc Loeb as chief operating officer. Loeb joined the company on September 9 and leads Vantage’s production and customer experience teams.
Prior to joining Vantage, Loeb was the CEO for NewYorkDress.com and TheDressWareHouse.com, a global designer dress retailer. There, he was responsible for streamlining operation expenses, renegotiating domestic and international deals, and strengthening the company’s brand equity internationally.
“Marc has an impressive zest for the apparel industry and has been a proven leader in shaping the direction of companies—from boosting online sales processes to innovations in operational efficiencies,” says Ira Neaman, CAS, Vantage’s president and CEO. “Vantage led the industry when it offered single-piece decoration services to distributors, and with Marc’s vision, we’ll be able to bring even more innovations to the market.”
As COO, Loeb will lead all operating groups including the customer service, merchandising, sourcing and production teams at all three Vantage facilities in New Jersey, Missouri and California. This role was previously being handled as part of Neaman’s responsibilities.
Speaking to PPB Newslink, Loeb says, “I am excited to join this dynamic company and help to streamline our operations, grow our apparel sourcing, and define Vantage Apparel as the go-to decorator in our industry. At Vantage, we see huge growth in single-piece decoration and the company is set for success in this arena. I am looking forward to strategically positioning Vantage for our distributors to take advantage of our strengths as we grow. As I move forward in the role, I am working on designing, planning and implementing business strategies that will leverage our craftmanship and 1,200 heads of embroidery in all three locations.”
Since joining Vantage, Loeb’s focus has been on taking a deep dive into Vantage’s diverse business operations and setting comprehensive goals for business growth. He says, “I have thoroughly enjoyed getting to know the staff and our business partners.”
Loeb adds, “I am looking forward to the growth opportunity for Vantage Apparel. With all the consolidation and changes in our industry, Vantage is poised to be the leader in apparel decorating, whether it be new techniques, a larger assortment of apparel product or more automation—I am looking forward to the challenge.”
