Is It Cheaper to Buy Hermes in Paris?

Are you a fan of Hermes luxury goods? Many people dream of owning their iconic Birkin or Kelly bag, but the high price tag can be a major deterrent.

If you’re planning a trip to Paris, you may have heard rumors that it’s cheaper to buy Hermes products in their home country. But is it really true? Let’s take a closer look.

Why Paris?

Paris is home to the flagship Hermes store on Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré. This location is not only the largest Hermes store in the world, but it’s also where most of their products are made. As such, many people assume that buying from this store would be cheaper than purchasing from other locations around the world.

The Reality

While it may seem like a no-brainer to head straight to the source for your Hermes fix, the reality is a bit more complicated. Prices for luxury goods are determined by a variety of factors, including production costs and taxes.

In France, there is a Value-Added Tax (VAT) on all goods and services, including luxury items like those sold at Hermes stores. As of 2021, this tax rate is 20%. This means that if you purchase an item from an Hermes store in Paris, you’ll be paying an additional 20% on top of the listed price.

Refund Policy

However, there is some good news for international travelers. In France, tourists who live outside of the European Union are eligible for VAT refunds on purchases over €175. This refund can save you up to 12% on your purchase.

To receive the refund, you’ll need to present your passport and fill out some forms at the point of sale. You’ll then need to get those forms stamped by customs when leaving France and mail them back to obtain your refund.

Exchange Rates

Another factor to consider is exchange rates. The value of the euro can fluctuate greatly against other currencies, including the US dollar. This means that even if an item is priced the same in euros in Paris as it is in dollars in New York, the actual cost can differ due to exchange rates.

Conclusion

So, is it cheaper to buy Hermes in Paris? The answer is a bit complicated.

While you may be able to save on VAT if you’re a non-EU tourist, you’ll still be paying a premium for the brand’s luxury products. Additionally, exchange rates can impact the final cost.

Ultimately, whether or not it’s worth it to buy Hermes products in Paris will depend on your personal preferences and budget. However, one thing’s for sure: visiting the flagship store on Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré is an experience all luxury lovers should have at least once in their lifetime.