Ascena Retail Group is buying Ann Inc., the owner of Ann Taylor and Loft, for about $2.16 billion, the company said on Monday. Ann Taylor and Loft will join a stable of women's brands owned by Ascena, including Lane Bryant Lane Bryant, Dressbarn and Cacique. The combined company will operate 4,900 stores with annual sales of more than $7.3 billion. "The transaction will make us part of a larger organization with a diversified portfolio of brands focused on the women's apparel market," said Ann CEO Kay Krill in a statement. In the cash and stock deal, Ann shareholders will receive $37.34 ...