Hermès

About

Hermès International S.A. is a French luxury design house established in 1837. The company's history began when founder Thierry Hermès established a harness workshop in Paris, dedicated to serving European noblemen with high-quality wrought harnesses and bridles for the carriage trade. This foundation in exquisite craftsmanship and dedication to the finest materials became the cornerstone of the brand's enduring legacy. In 1880, his son, Charles-Émile Hermès, relocated the workshop to 24 rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré, which remains the company's global headquarters to this day. Under the leadership of subsequent generations, the house expanded beyond its equestrian origins, adapting to the evolving needs of society while maintaining its core values. Throughout the 20th century, Hermès methodically diversified its offerings. The introduction of the first leather handbags in 1922, followed by the first women's couture apparel collection in 1929, marked a significant evolution. Iconic products that have defined the brand's identity were created during this era, including the 'Sac à dépêches' in 1935, later renamed the 'Kelly bag', and the signature silk scarves (carrés) in 1937. The company rejects mass production and assembly lines, with each handbag being handmade by a single artisan, a process that can take 18 to 24 hours. Today, Hermès operates globally with fourteen product divisions, including leather goods, silk, ready-to-wear, perfumes, watches, jewelry, and home furnishings. The company remains family-owned, with a sixth-generation member, Axel Dumas, serving as the current CEO, ensuring the continuity of its heritage of craftsmanship, quality, and exclusivity.