The Talbots, Inc. is a national specialty retailer and cataloger of women's and children's classic apparel, accessories and shoes. During 2000, Talbots issued 29 separate catalogs with a combined circulation of approximately 58 million. In November 1999, the Company began offering its merchandise on the Internet, at www.talbots.com. Talbots offers a distinctive collection of classic sportswear, casual wear, dresses, coats, sweaters, accessories and shoes, consisting almost exclusively of the Company's own private-label merchandise, in misses, petites and woman's sizes. Talbots Kids & Babies offers an assortment of classic clothing and accessories for infants, toddlers, boys and girls. The Company's stores, catalogs and Internet site offer a variety of key basic and fashion items and a complementary assortment of accessories and shoes that enable customers to assemble complete wardrobes.