Vera Bradley (VRA) – Based in rural Indiana, this company has carved out a valuable niche for quilted bags that have a highly loyal following among women and girls. Sales are generated through 145 full-line and factory outlet stores across most of the United States, as well as through its on-line store and a selection of third-party retailers. In 2019, Vera Bradley acquired for $75 million a controlling interest in Pura Vida, a California-based bracelets and accessories brand. While Pura Vida sales and profits look promising, the core Vera Bradley revenues continue their slow but steady decay while corporate costs continue to rise. These issues have helped drive the shares down 92% from their 2011 peak to near all-time lows. Recently, however, the long-time CEO, who ran the company since 2013, is stepping down. A national search that includes insiders and outsiders is underway.