Those parties included apparel chains Express (NYSE: EXPR) and American Eagle Outfitters (NYSE: AEO) , according to The Wall Street Journal (subscription required). What happened Shares of Abercrombie & Fitch (NYSE: ANF) popped 10% last month, according to data provided by S&P Global Market Intelligence , on hopes that the struggling teen clothing retailer will be acquired. The retailer will likely be forced to close more of its stores in the years ahead -- which will further reduce sales -- while wage inflation and intense competition continue to pressure margins.