Ann Taylor Parent Said to Be Working With JPMorgan on Sale

Ann Inc., the $1.6 billion owner of the Ann Taylor and Loft women’s clothing stores, is exploring a sale and has reached out to potential buyers, people with knowledge of the matter said.

The New York-based company, which said in an October regulatory filing it planned to review strategic options, is working with JPMorgan Chase & Co. and has contacted potential suitors including rival retailers in recent weeks, said the people, who asked not to be named because the talks are private.