Department store chain JCPenney has merged with Sparc Group LLC to create a new firm that includes Seattle-based Eddie Bauer and other well-known retail brands.

Sparc Group, the parent company of Forever 21 and Aéropostale, announced it merged with JCPenney to create a new company called Catalyst Brands.

Retailers are banding together for a massive operation based out of Texas that will see JCPenney merge with the parent company of Forever 21. Known as Catalyst Brands, the new company includes Aéropostale,