Pros
Athleta's motto is POWER TO THE SHE, and it aims to attract similar demographic to Lululemon's by celebrating active lifestyle and mind-body balance. Athleta stores offer free weekly drop-in fitness classes and participate in local events such as yoga festivals. Employees enjoy a generous discount - 50% OFF across all Gap Inc. brands! In the store that I worked at employees also received an in-store credit as a welcome gift upon being hired. I loved wearing fitness clothes to work and trying out new fitness trends thanks to free weekly classes!
Cons
I think there is a mismatch between what Athleta claims to represent and the decisions they make when it comes to hiring managers. If the brand tries to identify with women who are fit and healthy they should also promote health and fitness among its staff - especially management; otherwise the store experience does not resonate with its marketing efforts. I think this company struggles to retain its identity after being acquired by GAP. There is also a lot of frustration around scheduling - if a store is not doing well the management will have to cut payroll hours. When they cut payroll, management has fewer hours for sales associate, customers are not being helped and chaos ensues (especially on the weekends). You might get a last minute call cancelling your shift, or asking you to come in on a Saturday afternoon.