The Finish Line Inc. is reportedly going to dip their toe into the women’s business in a more meaningful way, launching a new mall-based banner that is expected to open for the 2005 holiday season. The retailer’s official line is “no comment,” but sources close to the company suggest that about a dozen locations have been identified for the initial rollout.

The new 4,000 sf format is expected to be more activewear-focused.

The Finish Line saw its women’s business post a mid-single-digit gain in the fiscal first quarter, while the men’s business was flat, thanks to the decline in licensed sales.

FINL has been working to diversify its business of late, acquiring the Man Alive chain in January for $12 million in cash plus earn-outs. The urban apparel retailer has 38 stores and FINL is expected to add another 10 to 15 stores over the next year.

Apparel is currently about 90% to 95% of the merchandise mix at The Man Alive chain. Cohen said he might see that moving to 20% to 25% footwear “very easily,” but stressed that the format will remain apparel-centric.