RETAILING

Head of Esprit Steps Down: David Folkman, chief executive of Esprit de Corp., has resigned after a two-year effort to revive the company’s sagging fortunes. The 60-year-old retailing veteran tried to turn the company around by refocusing its designs, cutting prices and restoring relationships with key retailers such as Macy’s West. Folkman, who has held top positions at Emporium, Macy and other prominent companies, is the fourth CEO in as many years to leave San Francisco-based Esprit. A successor has not been named.