NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--March 13, 2001--Coach (NYSE: COH) has announced today that Kate Buggeln will join the company as senior vice president, strategic planning and new business development, effective March 30, 2001. She will be responsible for strategic planning, licensing, direct marketing (mail order and Internet) and market research, reporting directly to Lew Frankfort, Coach chairman and chief executive officer.

Ms. Buggeln joins Coach from boo.com, (division of fashionmall.com) where she was president and chief executive officer. Previously she was the executive vice president and business leader for strategic management and E-Commerce at LakeWest Group Ltd., one of the largest retail consulting firms in the U.S. Ms. Buggeln has also held positions in retail and consulting with Coopers and Lybrand, Melville Stores and Bloomingdales.

"We are extremely pleased that Kate will be joining our management team and bringing her strategic marketing skills to Coach." said Lew Frankfort. "Clearly, we have numerous category expansion and geographic opportunities, among others, which Kate will help us to prioritize and develop in order to grow the Coach business. Her background and talents uniquely qualify her to add real value to Coach as we continue to leverage the strength of our brand."

"Coach is a brand I have always admired for its customer loyalty, product integrity and keen sense of market focus," Ms. Buggeln stated. " As Coach marks its 60th year, the company has evolved into a compelling fashion and lifestyle leader, while remaining true to the brand's legacy. I see great opportunity to continue the momentum and look forward to being a part of Coach's future,"

Coach, with headquarters in New York, is the leading American marketer of fine accessories and gifts for women and men, including handbags, business cases, furniture, luggage and travel accessories, wallets, footwear, watches and related accessories. Coach is sold worldwide through Coach stores, select department stores and specialty stores, through the Coach catalogue in the U.S. by calling 800-262-2411 and through Coach's website at www.Coach.com

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