Gap’s Sales Jump 12% After Katseye’s Viral ‘Milkshake’ Denim Ad

Gap Inc. has reported a 12% surge in comparable sales following the explosive success of its “Milkshake” denim campaign starring Katseye—the global girl group formed by HYBE and Geffen Records. The ad’s retro-meets-modern aesthetic and catchy soundtrack captivated Gen Z and millennials, breathing new life into Gap’s denim business.

Why the ‘Milkshake’ Campaign Went Viral

The “Milkshake” ad, featuring Katseye’s multicultural lineup (with members from the U.S., South Korea, Switzerland, and the Philippines), became an instant hit on TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube, amassing millions of views. Key factors behind its success:

• Nostalgic yet fresh styling, appealing to both Gen Z and millennial shoppers.
• Katseye’s massive fanbase, which amplified reach in North America and Asia.
• User-generated content, as fans recreated dance moves and shared denim looks.

Gap’s decision to collaborate with Katseye—a group born from HYBE’s The Debut: Dream Academy—proved to be a marketing masterstroke, positioning the brand as culturally attuned and inclusive.

How the Campaign Boosted Gap’s Sales

The viral buzz translated into measurable business impact:

• 12% rise in comparable sales, one of Gap’s strongest performances in years.
• Increased online searches for Gap denim, particularly among younger shoppers.
• Higher foot traffic in stores, driven by campaign-driven demand.

“This campaign proves that legacy brands can reinvent themselves with the right celebrity partnerships,” said retail analyst Priya Menon. “Katseye’s global appeal aligns perfectly with Gap’s push for relevance.”

Is This Gap’s Long-Awaited Comeback?

After years of struggling against fast-fashion rivals like Zara and Shein, Gap’s “Milkshake” success signals a potential turnaround. CEO Richard Dickson called it “just the beginning” of the brand’s strategy to reconnect with younger audiences.

What’s Next for Gap?

With denim leading the charge, Gap plans:
– More high-profile collaborations with global artists.
– Digital-first campaigns leveraging music and social trends.

For now, the “Milkshake” effect is giving Gap a much-needed sales boost—and proving that even heritage brands can thrive with the right mix of nostalgia, pop culture, and influencer power.