Playtex: Buying its way from function to fashion.

The article discusses International Playtex Inc.'s expansion plans as of July 1980. It states that Playtex produces tampons, rubber gloves and women's undergarments, is a subsidiary of Esmark Inc. and run by Donald P. Kelly, its president and chief executive. Though its performance has reportedly been lackluster to date, it allegedly plans to boost sales through the launch of new products, such as higher end fashion clothing with Hubert de Givenchy, and has made new acquisitions, such as the purchase of Danskin Inc., a producer of women's dance costumes.