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.

Sparc Group, the operator of fashion brands including Lucky, Eddie Bauer, Aeropostale, Forever 21 and Brooks Brothers, has merged with JCPenney to form a new company called Catalyst Brands, according to a release Wednesday afternoon.