When Did Hermes Open in China?

Hermes, the French luxury fashion brand known for its iconic Birkin and Kelly bags, opened its first store in China back in 1997. This was a significant milestone for the brand as China’s luxury market was just beginning to emerge.

The Early Years

During the early years of Hermes in China, the brand experienced a slow and steady growth. The country was still developing its luxury market, and consumers were more focused on practicality rather than high-end fashion. However, Hermes remained committed to building a strong presence in China by opening more stores across the country.

Expansion in the 2010s

In the 2010s, Hermes saw a significant increase in sales as China’s economy continued to grow rapidly. The brand’s popularity among Chinese consumers grew steadily, and Hermes began to expand its offerings to cater to this new market.

The year 2014 was a significant year for Hermes in China as it opened one of its largest stores worldwide in Shanghai. This store occupies over 900 square meters of retail space and features an extensive collection of products ranging from handbags to jewelry.

Collaborations with Chinese Artists

Hermes has also made efforts to connect with Chinese culture by collaborating with local artists. In 2018, the brand teamed up with Chinese artist Zhang Guangyu to create a limited edition scarf collection inspired by traditional Chinese landscapes.

Another collaboration that gained widespread attention was with Chinese artist Xu Bing, who created an installation at Hermes’ flagship store in Guangzhou. The installation featured over 300 handcrafted bird sculptures made from natural materials like bamboo and mulberry bark.

The Future of Hermes in China

Today, Hermes continues to thrive in China’s luxury market. With the country’s growing middle class and increasing consumer appetite for high-end fashion products, there is no doubt that Hermes will continue to expand its presence in China.

In recent years, the brand has also made efforts to appeal to younger consumers by launching a streetwear-inspired collection called “Hermesmatic.” This collection features bold prints and bright colors, a departure from the brand’s classic designs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Hermes opened its first store in China back in 1997 and has since grown steadily to become one of the most popular luxury brands in the country. With its commitment to quality and craftsmanship, it is no surprise that Hermes has found success among Chinese consumers who value these qualities. As China’s luxury market continues to evolve, we can expect to see even more exciting developments from Hermes in the years to come.