Good market position and diversity as the largest specialty apparel retailer in the U.S. and the third largest globally; Strong brand recognition for its major brands; and Participation in the intensely competitive, fashion-sensitive, and highly promotional specialty apparel retail industry. Consistent and solid cash flow generation; and Moderate financial policy that supports credit metrics that are consistently in line with an "intermediate" financial risk profile. The stable rating outlook on The Gap Inc. reflects our expectation that operating performance will remain stable in the very promotional apparel retail environment in the U.S., as its global expansion and key operating strategies help somewhat offset margin pressure. We also expect credit metrics will continue to be in line with an "intermediate" financial
