george zimmer

They both sell suits, but in consumers' minds Jos. A. Bank Clothiers and The Men's Wearhouse are distinct brands. That's an advantage that the two biggest menswear chains should strive to keep as they join forces in a $1.8 billion deal, retail experts said.

In a surprise move, Men's Wearhouse on Tuesday turned the tables on Jos. A. Bank Clothiers Inc. and proposed buying its rival for $1.2 billion.

Investors are hoping to breathe new life into Jos. A. Bank Clothiers Inc.'s failed $2.3 billion bid for Men's Wearhouse Inc., pressuring other investors to join a campaign to re-start merger talks.

The Men's Wearhouse rejected a bid by Jos. A. Bank Clothiers Inc. to buy the rival men's apparel chain for $2.3 billion, saying the $48 per share offer significantly undervalues the company.