Ann Taylor LOFT Launches Program to Support Teachers

'LOFT Loves Teachers' Initiative Provides Retail Discount and Educational Funding

NEW YORK, Ann Taylor LOFT, a division of Ann Taylor Stores Corporation (NYSE: ANN), announced the re-launch of the "LOFT Loves Teachers" program.

Just in time for the fall season, LOFT Loves Teachers is a membership program exclusively for educators. Beginning September 30, 2008, educators who visit AnnTaylorLOFT.com/teachers can receive an introductory 20% discount for LOFT's hip, stylish fashions. Members also receive a 15% coupon for future purchases all year long, valid in-store with school ID. In addition, the AnnTaylorLOFT.com/teachers website features style tips and a community blog where educators can connect.

"We felt that this program was an excellent opportunity to support the valuable contributions that educators make to our children and our society," said Diane Holtz, Executive Vice President and General Merchandising Manager for Ann Taylor LOFT. "Teachers deserve high-quality, stylish fashions that are both affordable and comfortable for the classroom," she added.

More relevant than ever in a difficult economy, LOFT provides high-quality, fashionable-yet-casual style at surprising value, fitting the needs of teachers nationwide. LOFT began a one-time shopping discount for teachers in 2007, and the concept developed into a more robust membership program with content, community, and charitable funding in fall 2008.

Through the company's ANN Cares charitable arm, LOFT has partnered with DonorsChoose.org, a non-profit organization dedicated to addressing the scarcity and inequitable distribution of learning materials and experiences in public schools. LOFT Loves Teachers will link to DonorsChoose.org, a website where educators can request materials needed for classroom projects. LOFT has pledged $20,000 to fund 50% of all LOFT Loves Teachers members' classroom projects posted on DonorsChoose.org. In addition, LOFT Loves Teachers will distribute $8,000 in DonorsChoose.org GivingCards, which allow recipients to help fund other educators in need.

The LOFT Loves Teachers membership program begins September 30, and is only valid at Ann Taylor LOFT stores.


ABOUT LOFT

Ann Taylor LOFT is the relaxed, casual, fun, fashion destination for women. LOFT offers the current trends and the newest items, with great quality at surprising prices. LOFT operates 519 stores across the United States, as well as online at AnnTaylorLOFT.com. LOFT is a division of Ann Taylor Stores Corporation (NYSE: ANN).


ABOUT ANN CARES

ANN Cares is the philanthropic and social responsibility program of Ann Taylor Stores Corporation (NYSE: ANN) that supports causes to which the Company is firmly committed--women, children, the environment, and Ann Taylor associates. For more information, visit ANNCares.com.


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Ann Taylor LOFT