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  • Hermes Unveils Culture-Inspired Redesign of Expanded Osaka Store at Hilton Plaza East

    Hermes Unveils Culture-Inspired Redesign of Expanded Osaka Store at Hilton Plaza East

    Luxury fashion house Hermès has unveiled its newly revamped store at Hilton Plaza East, with a fresh design that pays homage to the surrounding culture and scenic beauty. Parisian architectural firm RDAI is credited with the store’s stunning redesign, which now extends over two storeys, each dedicated to an immersive display of Hermès’ 16 distinguished métiers.

    The updated store boasts an eclectic range of Hermès offerings, from their sought-after leather goods and chic fashion accessories to their signature perfumes and beauty products. Delicate jewellery, elegant watches, and a curated selection of home décor collections add to the store’s luxuriant appeal.

    Interplay of Culture and Nature in Design

    Incorporating a blend of geometric elements and dynamic materials, the store’s redesign has masterfully incorporated motifs inspired by Osaka’s local culture. These are complemented by a winged horse and floating clouds, symbolising Hermès’ annual theme, ‘Venture Beyond’.

    The store’s facade has been strikingly adorned with Mino-yaki ceramic tiles reflecting hues of green and blue, designed to imitate the shimmering reflections of water. This theme is carried into the store’s interiors which combine natural mineral surfaces in earthy tones with contrasting teal accents.

    Reimagined Storefront and Artwork Display

    The storefront windows bear the artistic touch of renowned French artist Matthieu Cosse. His art installations present an intriguing blend of celestial landscapes and theatrical elements, lending a dreamlike quality to the store’s exterior.

    The redesigned store also serves as a gallery for curated artworks from the Emile Hermès Collection and the Hermès Collection of Contemporary Photographs, seamlessly incorporated into the boutique’s inviting layout.

    This unveiling at Hilton Plaza East forms part of a broader renovation initiative by Hermès, with recently updated boutiques in Taipei and Hong Kong exemplifying the brand’s commitment to a refreshed and contemporary store experience.

    Questions & Answers

    What was the inspiration behind the redesign of the Hermès store at Hilton Plaza East?
    The store’s redesign was inspired by the local culture and natural landscapes of Osaka.

    Who was involved in the redesign process?
    Paris-based architecture studio RDAI was responsible for the store’s redesign, with French artist Matthieu Cosse reimagining the storefront windows.

    What can customers expect to find in the revamped store?
    The store offers a wide range of Hermès products, including leather goods, fashion accessories, perfumes, beauty products, jewellery, watches, and home collections. It also showcases curated artworks from the Emile Hermès Collection and the Hermès Collection of Contemporary Photographs.

  • Experience the Fusion of Innovation and Tradition at Hermes’ Revamped Sogo Fuxing Store in Taipei

    Experience the Fusion of Innovation and Tradition at Hermes’ Revamped Sogo Fuxing Store in Taipei

    The luxury brand Hermès recently celebrated the grand reopening of its outlet located in Sogo Fuxing Mall, Taipei. This event comes after a considerable period of renovations, reflecting the brand’s innovative and dynamic spirit that mirrors the vibrant essence of the city.

    Originating in 2007, the three-tiered store now boasts a modern look with its ceramic tile facelift. The French architectural firm, RDAI, is the mastermind behind the redesigned aesthetics of the Hermès store.

    Upon entering the establishment, visitors are instantly enveloped by a luxurious universe of silk. The space is tastefully arranged with fashion jewelry displays on the right and an enticing array of perfumes and beauty products on the left. Enhancing this opulent ambiance is the house’s signature Grecques lighting, adding a refined touch to the overall shopping experience.

    The redesign also features screen walls to define the space and accentuate Hermès’ commitment to local artisans. These walls are adorned with intricate thread compositions crafted locally and blended with Hermès silk offcuts, showcasing the brand’s marriage of traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design.

    As customers delve deeper into the store, they will come across an intimate and exclusive section dedicated to the brand’s exquisite jewelry and timepieces.

    Art connoisseurs will appreciate the store’s unique collection of artworks sourced from the Emile Hermès collection, as well as the Hermès ‘Collection of Contemporary Photographs’. These carefully curated pieces add an artistic touch, rendering the store not just a shopping destination, but a place of inspiration and creativity.

    In conclusion, Hermès stated: “This revitalized store welcomes both our loyal patrons and newcomers alike to explore Hermès’ timeless creations and craftsmanship within a bold, innovative setting.”

    Questions & Answers

    When was the Hermès store in Sogo Fuxing Mall, Taipei, first opened?
    The Hermès store in Sogo Fuxing Mall, Taipei, initially opened its doors in 2007.

    Who was behind the renovation and redesign of the Hermès store?
    The renovation and redesign of the Hermès store were carried out by the French architecture agency, RDAI.

    What unique features does the renovated Hermès store offer to its customers?
    The renovated Hermès store offers a luxurious shopping experience with its silk universe, fashion jewelry, perfumes and beauty products. It also showcases locally crafted thread compositions and a selection of artworks from the Emile Hermès collection and the Hermès ‘Collection of Contemporary Photographs’.

  • Hermès Soars with Robust Q1 Sales Amid Global Economic Uncertainties: A Revealing Peek into Luxury Fashion Resilience

    Hermès Soars with Robust Q1 Sales Amid Global Economic Uncertainties: A Revealing Peek into Luxury Fashion Resilience

    Despite geopolitical tensions affecting the Middle East, Hermès, the renowned French luxury fashion brand, has reported a strong performance in its Q1 sales. The company’s consolidated revenue stood at €4.1 billion (US$4.8 billion) for the quarter ending March 31, marking a 6% increase at constant exchange rates. However, on a reported basis, revenue dipped by 1% due to the adverse effects of currency fluctuations.

    Regional Performance

    The company attributed much of its growth to impressive gains in Japan, the Americas, and Europe, excluding France. Japan saw a 10% increase in sales, while the Americas and Europe, excluding France, each reported a 17% and 10% sales increase, respectively.

    Sales in Asia, excluding Japan, also rose slightly by 2%, with Greater China maintaining its marginal growth. However, France’s revenue decreased by 3%, a decline influenced by a reduced tourist flow, particularly in March. This downturn is mainly linked to the unfolding situation in the Middle East.

    The Middle East, classified under the ‘Other’ region in the company’s report, experienced a 6% decline in sales. The geopolitical developments in countries such as the UAE, Kuwait, Qatar, and Bahrain have had a significant impact on the region’s performance.

    Sales Channels

    Despite these challenging conditions, sales in the group’s stores increased by 7%. In contrast, wholesale activity was significantly affected, recording lower sales to concession stores, especially in the Middle East and airports.

    According to Axel Dumas, Executive Chairman of Hermès, the brand remains steadfast in its long-term strategy, even amidst a tense geopolitical environment. The company’s abundant creativity, unwavering quality standards, and loyal customer base enable Hermès to continue its profitable growth trajectory into 2026 with confidence. He further emphasized that the fundamentals of the Hermès model are a distinguishing strength more than ever.

    In the medium term, the group has confirmed its goal to achieve revenue growth at constant exchange rates. This is notwithstanding the persistent economic, geopolitical, and monetary uncertainties that pervade the global landscape.

    Questions & Answers

    What were Hermès’ consolidated revenue figures for Q1?
    The consolidated revenue for Hermès in Q1 stood at €4.1 billion (US$4.8 billion), marking a 6% increase at constant exchange rates.

    Which regions reported the most growth for Hermès?
    The regions that reported the most growth for Hermès were Japan, the Americas, and Europe (excluding France), with sales increases of 10%, 17%, and 10% respectively.

    How did the geopolitical situation affect Hermès’ sales in the Middle East?
    The geopolitical situation in the Middle East led to a 6% decline in Hermès’ sales in the region. This was particularly notable in countries such as the UAE, Kuwait, Qatar, and Bahrain.

  • Hermes Unveils Upscale Boutique in Hanoi’s Heart: A New Chapter in Luxury Retail Expansion in Southeast Asia

    Hermes Unveils Upscale Boutique in Hanoi’s Heart: A New Chapter in Luxury Retail Expansion in Southeast Asia

    Hermes, the renowned French purveyor of luxury goods, has revitalized its presence in Hanoi by relocating its boutique to a fresh, new spot on Trang Tien Street.

    Moving to a Classic Setting

    Having been in its previous location for several years, the Hermes store has now found a new home within an impressive Art Deco structure situated in the heart of Hanoi’s commercial hub. The multi-level space is set up to elegantly display the full gamut of Hermes’s 16 distinct business areas, including leather goods, fashion, and accessories.

    The interior design of the relocated store has been masterfully executed by RDAI, a renowned architecture firm based in Paris. The building’s architectural features, such as large windows and an open layout, have been utilized to their full capacity to ensure maximum natural light penetration.

    Hermes’s Growth in Southeast Asia

    Hermes first ventured into the Vietnamese market in 2008 and has been operating several additional stores, including one in Ho Chi Minh City’s Union Square. This recent boutique relocation is part of Hermes’s strategy to augment its expansion in Southeast Asia.

    In a similar vein, Hermes has recently reopened its store in Bangkok’s IconSiam mall. The newly designed, larger store space reflects the escalating demand for luxury retail in the Thai capital.

    Questions & Answers

    When did Hermes first enter the Vietnamese market?
    Hermes first made its entry into the Vietnamese market in 2008.

    What are some of the features of the new store location in Hanoi?
    The new Hanoi store, housed in an Art Deco building, boasts large windows and an open layout, designed to maximize the use of natural light. It showcases the full range of Hermes’s 16 métiers, or business areas across several floors.

    What is Hermes’s overall strategy in Southeast Asia?
    Hermes’s strategy in Southeast Asia involves expansion and growth, reflected in the relocation and redesign of its stores in high-demand areas such as Hanoi and Bangkok.

  • Hermes Unveils Lavish Expansion at IconSiam: A Testament to Bangkok’s Rising Luxury Retail Scene

    Hermes Unveils Lavish Expansion at IconSiam: A Testament to Bangkok’s Rising Luxury Retail Scene

    Hermes, the renowned French luxury brand, has announced the reopening of its renovated store at Bangkok’s IconSiam mall. The new upscale space responds to the rapidly increasing demand for luxury retail in Thailand’s capital city.

    The Hermes boutique in IconSiam, initially introduced in 2018, is one of three Hermes outlets in Bangkok. The redesigned store features a double-height layout, accentuated by a full-glass facade that presents a scenic view of the Chao Phraya River.

    The store now houses all 16 categories of the French luxury brand’s offerings. The first floor of the store displays women’s silk and jewelry, men’s silk, beauty products, ready-to-wear apparel, and footwear. The ground floor is designated for watches, jewelry, equestrian items, leather goods, and homeware.

    The renovation process was spearheaded by the esteemed Paris-based architecture firm RDAI. The updated design thoughtfully integrates local Thai craftsmanship, showcased through rattan columns and bespoke carpets, creatively representing the flow of the nearby river.

    The revamped store also features curated artwork selections from the Emile Hermes collection and contemporary photography, including “Nocturne 3” by Marie Joubert. Additionally, the store exhibits rattan-and-metal horse sculptures crafted by Thai artist Terawat Teankaprasith.

    The reopening of this Hermes store signals the brand’s ongoing expansion in Thailand’s luxury sector. It underscores the targeting of Bangkok’s affluent consumers and the city’s burgeoning tourist traffic by international luxury brands.

    Questions & Answers

    What does the redesigned Hermes store in Bangkok’s IconSiam mall entail?
    The store has a double-height layout with a full-glass facade overlooking the Chao Phraya River. It houses all 16 categories of Hermes products, with different sections of the store dedicated to different types of goods.

    Who was responsible for the redesign of the store?
    The Parisian architecture firm RDAI led the redesign of the store, incorporating local Thai craftsmanship in the form of rattan columns and custom carpets.

    What does the reopening of this store signify for the Hermes brand?
    The reopening highlights Hermes’s continued expansion in Thailand’s luxury retail sector, targeting the city’s high-spending consumers and growing tourist traffic.

  • Hermès Hopes For China Demand Revival Despite Slight Slip In Quarterly Sales

    Hermès Hopes For China Demand Revival Despite Slight Slip In Quarterly Sales

    Renowned for its Birkin bags, Hermès reported a potential upturn in demand from China, despite quarterly sales falling slightly short of estimates, resulting in a 4% decline in its shares on Wednesday.

    The mild optimism regarding Chinese demand, which contributes to approximately a third of worldwide luxury sales, is also reflected by competitors LVMH and L’Oreal.

    “There was a very mild improvement in the third quarter,” commented Eric de Halgouet, the Finance Chief of Hermès, attributing this to stable real estate prices in major cities and positive trends in the stock market.

    Last week, LVMH’s sales report initiated an $80 billion surge in luxury shares, fostering hopes of a revival of the industry in China. However, analysts have expressed caution, stating it might be premature to declare an end to the industry’s two-year decline.

    Meanwhile, in the United States, foot traffic in Hermès stores has increased evenly across all regions, de Halgouet reported, adding that the company plans to continue investing in the US, having recently inaugurated a new store in Nashville.

    The brand has refrained from raising prices domestically this year, following a 5% increase in May intended to pass the burden of tariffs onto its customers, as per de Halgouet.

    Growth Falls Short of Expectations

    The sales for the quarter ending in September totaled 3.88 billion euros ($4.52 billion), a 9.6% increase, bolstered by growth in the US. However, this was marginally below the predicted 10% growth, as per the Visible Alpha consensus cited by UBS.

    Hermès shares decreased by 4.2% at 0832 GMT, following the trading update. The company’s control over its production, which has served as a buffer against a broader downturn, is anticipated to restrict its growth rate as consumer demand recovers more generally.

    Sales of leather goods, including the signature Birkin, Constance, and Kelly handbags, grew by 13.3%, slightly below expectations. De Halgouet attributed this to limited inventory, which he assured would be replenished before the Christmas season and Chinese New Year.

    While Hermès’ consistent performance may be viewed as uninteresting compared to the ongoing transformations at other brands, its shares briefly surpassed LVMH’s earlier this year, making it the largest luxury group in terms of market capitalisation. Nevertheless, the company’s shares have trailed competitors in the past three months, as investors shifted their focus to the improving performance of LVMH and Kering, which have increased by 31% and 65% respectively.

    Unlike competitors such as Chanel and Dior, Hermès, which raised its prices less aggressively during the post-pandemic surge, increased its prices globally by 7% this year.

    Sales of clothing, jewellery and silk scarves, products that appeal to a broader customer base than the exclusive handbags, experienced a slight increase in the third quarter.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the cause of the slight increase in Hermès’ sales?
    The sales growth is attributed to the steady foot traffic in Hermès stores across all regions in the United States and a potential increase in demand from China.

    What is the company’s response to the slight shortfall in sales growth?
    Hermès plans to continue its investments in the United States and replenish its inventory of leather goods before the Christmas season and Chinese New Year to boost sales.

    How did Hermès’ shares compare with its competitors?
    While Hermès’ shares have trailed its competitors in the past three months, they briefly surpassed LVMH’s earlier this year, making it the largest luxury group in terms of market capitalisation.

  • Hermes Iconic Menswear Director Nichanian Steps Down Amid Luxury Fashion Industry Shake-up

    Hermes Iconic Menswear Director Nichanian Steps Down Amid Luxury Fashion Industry Shake-up

    Veronique Nichanian, renowned artistic director of men’s fashion at Hermes, is set to leave the brand after a remarkable 37-year tenure. Her departure, officially confirmed by Hermes, comes as part of an industry-wide shake-up, with numerous luxury fashion labels including Chanel and Dior also bringing on board fresh design talent.

    Nichanian has been a cornerstone of Hermes’ menswear division since 1988, designing iconic styles that have left an indelible mark on the label’s identity. Her final fashion show is set to take place in January, marking the end of an era for the French fashion brand.

    This extensive overhaul of creative leadership within the luxury industry comes as upscale labels grapple with a prolonged financial downturn. They are striving to revive interest among their customers, many of whom are facing inflation-related constraints.

    However, Hermes has managed to buck this trend. The iconic luxury brand, famous for its Birkin-bag collection, has seen consistent sales growth, thanks largely to its affluent customer base who remain loyal to the brand’s timeless handbags.

    Questions & Answers

    Who is Veronique Nichanian?
    Veronique Nichanian is a celebrated artistic director who served at Hermes for 37 years, primarily focusing on men’s fashion.

    When will Veronique Nichanian’s last fashion show at Hermes take place?
    Her final fashion show is scheduled to occur in January.

    What is the current situation in the luxury fashion industry?
    The luxury fashion industry is experiencing a major shift in creative leadership amid a prolonged financial downturn. However, Hermes continues to thrive, seeing consistent sales growth.

  • Hermès Unveils Stunning Expanded Flagship Store in Seoul: A New Era for Luxury Retail!

    Hermès Unveils Stunning Expanded Flagship Store in Seoul: A New Era for Luxury Retail!

    In a grand unveiling that is sure to turn heads, Hermès has launched its newly relocated and expanded store within the Galleria department store at Apgujeong Rodeo in Gangnam, South Korea. This West Hall location shines as a beacon for luxury, showcasing all sixteen of the brand’s crafts in a lively and contemporary setting.

    The store’s façade is a stunning display itself, featuring anodized metal stripes that draw inspiration from South Korea’s traditional Dancheong decorative art. A fusion of ancient motifs and sleek modernity sets the tone for what lies inside.

    Once inside, guests are greeted by a vibrant environment where the layout is as striking as the products. A central silk section serves as the heart of the store, flanked by meticulously organized sections dedicated to men’s and women’s fashion, leather goods, jewelry, watches, and home and equestrian collections — all enriched by a palette of cheerful pastels that invites exploration.

    The architectural vision comes courtesy of the Parisian design agency RDAI, seamlessly blending heritage with modern aesthetics. Notably, the store includes locally crafted elements like elegant silk walls and pleated paper lighting designed by Jungmo Kwon, adding a distinct Korean touch to the luxurious experience.

    Art enthusiasts will find themselves delighted as well, with a selection of artworks from Hermès collections and contemporary artisans such as Mamadou Cissé and Jan Bajtlik adorning the space. The artistic narrative extends to the store’s window displays as well, where the 2025 theme “Drawn to Craft,” curated by Korean artist Miju Lee, invites passersby to reflect on creation and memory through the lens of everyday moments.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the significance of the store’s design elements?
    The store’s façade features anodized metal stripes inspired by South Korean Dancheong, showcasing a blend of traditional artistry with modern design, which resonates with local culture while enhancing the luxury experience.

    Who was involved in the store’s design?
    The store was designed by the Parisian agency RDAI, incorporating unique local elements crafted by Jungmo Kwon, which enrich the Hermès aesthetic with a distinctly Korean flair.

    What is the theme of the 2025 window displays?
    The theme “Drawn to Craft,” spearheaded by Korean artist Miju Lee, creatively explores the concepts of creation and memory, encouraging viewers to find significance in everyday moments.

  • Hermes Unveils Expanded Boutique In Seoul: A Fusion Of French Luxury And Korean Tradition

    Hermes Unveils Expanded Boutique In Seoul: A Fusion Of French Luxury And Korean Tradition

    The renowned brand, Hermes, has recently reopened its enlarged boutique in the high-end shopping zone, Apgujeong Rodeo, within Seoul’s Galleria department store. This area is famously known as a luxury buying hub in the Gangnam district.

    Design and Aesthetics

    The storefront, crafted by the Parisian architecture agency RDAI, is beautifully wrapped in oxidizing metal stripes. This design is an homage to the traditional Korean decorative painting known as Dancheong, creating a perfect blend of modern and traditional. Hermes, the French luxury powerhouse, refers to this as a lively interaction between culture and modernity.

    Upon entering, visitors are greeted with the emblematic ex-libris of the house, embedded into the signature terrazzo Faubourg pattern. The boutique layout accentuates different merchandise categories, with silk items occupying the central space. On the right side, there are men’s shoes and ready-to-wear sections, while home and equestrian collections are located toward the back.

    Showcasing Products

    The goods on display include leather items, jewellery, and watches, which are showcased in dedicated intimate spaces. Women’s ready-to-wear and shoe collections are exhibited against a backdrop of pastel blue terrazzo and silk partitions.

    The interior design incorporates local custom craftsmanship, such as pleated paper lighting created by Jungmo Kwon. This is in addition to pieces from the Emile Hermes collection and contemporary photography.

    The statement from the company further elucidates, “As the store moves to a new location, the two window scenes also lead the viewer on a poetic journey. This narrative transforms the mundane details of daily life into thought-provoking reflections on our collective imagination.”

    The luxury brand extends an invitation to its loyal clientele and prospective customers to explore their timeless creations in a vibrant environment that mirrors the unique culture of Seoul and the impeccable craftsmanship of the house.

    Questions & Answers

    What does the new design of the Hermes store symbolize?

    The new design brings together the elements of traditional Korean decorative painting with modern aesthetics, symbolizing a playful dialogue between heritage and modernity.

    What kind of products are highlighted in the store layout?

    The store layout emphasizes different categories including silk at the center, men’s shoes and ready-to-wear to the right, and home and equestrian collections toward the rear. Leather goods, jewellery, watches, and women’s ready-to-wear and shoes are also showcased.

    What local elements are incorporated in the interior design of the store?

    The interior design incorporates local custom craftsmanship, such as pleated paper lighting by Jungmo Kwon, displayed alongside pieces from the Emile Hermes collection and contemporary photography.

  • Hermès Chairman Confirms Recovery of Missing $16B Stake by Heir is Impossible

    Hermès Chairman Confirms Recovery of Missing $16B Stake by Heir is Impossible

    During an earnings call on Wednesday, Executive Chairman Axel Dumas revealed an unsettling update regarding Nicolas Puech, the great-grandson of Hermès founder Thierry Hermès. “I’ve had the certainty for a long time that Nicolas Puech no longer holds his shares,” Dumas stated, suggesting the luxurious legacy has spiraled into complex legal battles. Dumas further expressed skepticism about the possible restoration of Puech’s stake and disclosed that the firm has initiated legal proceedings to address the issue.

    This insight from Dumas is the most comprehensive yet on the ongoing saga surrounding Puech’s missing fortune, a topic that has stirred intrigue among luxury retail watchers. Puech inherited a 5.7% stake in Hermès following the deaths of his mother in 1996 and sister in 2004, yet his relationship with the family and the company has grown increasingly fraught.

    A Pivotal Moment Amid a Takeover Attempt

    In 2010, as LVMH’s Bernard Arnault attempted a discreet takeover of Hermès, Puech turned against his family by quietly facilitating the transfer of some Hermès shares to Arnault, which allowed the business mogul to acquire a 23% stake in the luxury powerhouse. However, Arnault’s ambitions crumbled, resulting in a resolution in 2014 that saw him unwind his stake. That same year, Puech stepped down from Hermès’ supervisory board, but the fate of his shares has since become shrouded in mystery.

    The Complications of Bearer Shares

    Things took a turn for the complicated when it was revealed that Puech’s shares are bearer shares, a type of stock traditionally less transparent than registered shares. Unlike his family members who hold shares in their names, Puech’s stock does not disclose ownership, leading to challenges in tracing who currently possesses them and distributing dividends through intermediaries.

    A Legal Twist in 2023

    The plot thickened in 2023 when Puech claimed in court that he no longer owned the shares, placing the blame on his former wealth manager, Eric Freymond. According to reports, Puech accused Freymond of mismanaging his financial affairs, prompting intrigue about the control and governance of the inherited wealth. However, a Geneva court dismissed these claims, emphasizing that Puech had ceded control of his affairs to Freymond and could have revoked their arrangement at any time. The court found Puech’s accusations to be vague and lacking in substantial evidence.

    Freymond, who staunchly denied any wrongdoing, recently passed away in Switzerland, leaving behind an even more tangled narrative around the Hermès shares. Meanwhile, LVMH confirmed it has divested all its holdings in Hermès, closing the door on any former entanglements.

    The Broader Implications for Hermès

    If Puech still retains his stake, he would emerge as the largest individual shareholder of Hermès, a brand that carries a staggering market value of over US$300 billion as of February. The Hermès family, a network of over 100 members, remains one of Europe’s most affluent dynasties, and the repercussions of this saga could resonate far beyond just one heir’s misfortune. After all, in a world where luxury can be as elusive as it is sought after, such tales weave a compelling narrative that captivates the imagination.

    Questions & Answers

    What prompted the current dispute over Nicolas Puech’s shares?
    The dispute emerged from Puech’s alleged lack of ownership of his inherited shares after he assisted Bernard Arnault during a failed takeover of Hermès, raising questions about the ultimate fate of those shares.

    Why are Puech’s bearer shares significant?
    Bearer shares lack registered ownership details, complicating the process of tracking dividends and ownership, which poses challenges for the company in determining who rightfully holds the shares.

    What was the outcome of the recent legal proceedings involving Puech?
    A Geneva court ruled against Puech, stating he ceded control to his wealth manager and failed to provide sufficient evidence to support his claims of mismanagement.

  • Hermes Records Impressive Growth With €8 Billion Revenue In First Half Of Year

    Hermes Records Impressive Growth With €8 Billion Revenue In First Half Of Year

    Hermes, the esteemed French luxury brand, has demonstrated impressive sales growth in the first half of the current year. This surge in revenue was experienced across all regions as affluent customers continued their patronage of the brand’s distinguished leather products.

    The brand recorded a revenue of €8 billion (US$8.78 billion) for the half-year period concluding on June 30th. This performance marks an 8% increase in profits, calculated at a constant exchange rate when compared to the same timeframe in the previous year.

    Sales saw a 9% rise in the second quarter itself, which was bolstered by an excellent performance in the markets of the United States, Japan, and the Middle East.

    According to Hermes, the growth was widespread across all geographical regions, with each one reporting gains. Japan led the way with a robust 16% increase, followed by the Americas with a 12% rise. Sales in France experienced a 9% increase while Europe, excluding France, witnessed a 13% acceleration.

    Axel Dumas, the Executive Chairman of Hermes, has expressed his satisfaction, attributing the firm’s first-half success across all regions to the strength of the Hermes model.

    On behalf of the company, he expressed gratitude to all their customers for their continued trust and to all the employees for their dedication, adding, “We will continue to invest and recruit to ensure the group’s sustained success.”

    The primary driver of growth for Hermes is its core leather goods and saddlery division, which includes the highly coveted Birkin and Kelly bag lines. The brand also reported significant increases in the sales of jewellery and homeware. However, the sales of watches and perfumes exhibited a decline.

    Hermes has laid out plans to persist with investments in craftsmanship, to broaden production, and to reinforce its global retail presence in order to meet the escalating demand for its exclusive merchandise.

    Questions & Answers

    What was the revenue of Hermes for the first half of this year?
    The French luxury brand Hermes recorded a revenue of €8 billion (US$8.78 billion) for the first half of the year.

    Which regions showed significant growth for Hermes?
    Every geographical region posted gains for Hermes. Japan led with a 16% increase, followed by the Americas with a 12% rise. Sales in France experienced a 9% increase, whilst Europe, excluding France, witnessed a 13% rise.

    Which product categories drove the growth for Hermes?
    The primary growth driver for Hermes was its core leather goods and saddlery division, including the popular Birkin and Kelly bags. The brand also reported double-digit increases in jewellery and homeware.

  • Hermes reopens expanded Macau store with playful, nature-inspired design

    Hermes reopens expanded Macau store with playful, nature-inspired design

    Hermes, the renowned French luxury brand, has recently re-opened its expanded store in Macau. The newly renovated space is a unique blend of natural materials and symmetrical design elements, subtly incorporating references to traditional games in a nod to the city’s playful spirit.

    The store, which initially opened its doors in 2008, now proudly displays all 16 of the brand’s métiers within its redesigned interior. The renovation was orchestrated by RDAI, a leading Parisian architecture firm.

    New Design Elements

    The re-envisioned space introduces a new colour palette, a soothing blend of greens that transition from cool to warm hues. The store’s interior is adorned with jade-coloured ceramic bricks that are cleverly arranged to resemble mahjong tiles, adding a unique touch of local culture to the aesthetic. This design is further enhanced by large windows framed with sliding triangular panels.

    The interior is marked by earthy tones and the use of luxurious materials, creating a welcoming environment for its visitors. The store’s signature Faubourg mosaic serves as a striking centrepiece, anchoring the women’s silk and home collections. The terrazzo flooring, embedded with fragments of green, amber, and ochre, seamlessly connects the men’s silk, fashion jewellery, and beauty and fragrance departments.

    Contrasting Themes

    The watches and jewellery salon feature a rich lacquered green wood finish, forming a contrast with the darker cherrywood used in the sections housing equestrian and leather goods. These sections are framed by diamond-patterned panels reflecting influences from the traditional game of backgammon.

    The rear portion of the store is dedicated to women’s and men’s ready-to-wear and footwear collections. These are tastefully presented in zones delineated by shaded carpets and intricate timber detailing. A private salon and fitting rooms complete the store’s new layout.

    Aesthetic Touches

    The revamped space is further enhanced by artworks from the Émile Hermes collection and the Hermes Collection of Contemporary Photographs. These pieces, featuring botanical prints, equestrian imagery, and Douglas Lance Gibson’s Esi Ni Daimani-inspired by playing cards, add layers of visual depth to the store. The overall design is tied together with elements like the ex-libris motif, Grecque lighting, and game-inspired aesthetics.

    Questions & Answers

    When was the Hermes store in Macau initially opened?
    The Hermes store in Macau was initially opened in 2008.

    What are the new design elements introduced in the renovated store?
    The renovated store introduces a green-toned colour palette, jade-coloured ceramic bricks arranged like mahjong tiles, large windows with sliding triangular panels, and a signature Faubourg mosaic among other features.

    What collections are presented in the renovated store?
    The renovated store presents all 16 of Hermes’ métiers, including women’s and men’s silk, home collections, fashion jewellery, beauty and fragrance departments, ready-to-wear and footwear collections, and equestrian and leather goods.

  • Hermes opens new Indonesia store

    Hermes opens new Indonesia store

    Hermes has opened a new store in Jakarta, Indonesia, located in Plaza Indonesia.

    Designed by Paris-based RDAI, the space showcases the French luxury house’s 16 metiers (artisinal expertise) in a setting that blends traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design.

    The store’s facade features teal-green ceramic tiles and semi-sheer rattan screens, offering glimpses into the interior. Inside, the layout is arranged by category, with fashion jewellery, silks, home collections, beauty, and fragrance near the entrance.

    Leather goods and equestrian collections are framed by fabric-covered panels, while dedicated areas present ready-to-wear and footwear. A jewellery and watch salon, adorned with hand-carved lacquered panels, adds a “refined touch”, while hand-tufted carpets introduce texture throughout the space.

    The store also incorporates locally sourced materials, including hand-woven wall fabrics and wooden furniture. Curated artworks from the Emile Hermes collection and contemporary photography further enhance the interior.

    In collaboration with Indonesian art collective Tromarama, the window displays merge the label’s equestrian heritage with Jakarta’s rail network, offering a unique artistic interpretation.

    “We invite visitors to explore our collections in a space that reflects Indonesia’s cultural and artistic heritage,” said Hermes.

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  • Hermes achieves double-digit sales growth in fourth quarter

    Hermes achieves double-digit sales growth in fourth quarter

    Hermes has posted double-digit sales growth for the fourth quarter and the full fiscal year, which management described as a solid performance in an “uncertain” environment.

    The company’s revenue surged 18 percent to €4 billion (US$4.2 billion), both on a reported and constant currency basis, during the quarter ended December 31. This extended the 11.4 percent uplift in the third quarter.

    Sales in Asia excluding Japan were up 10 per cent despite the downturn in traffic in Greater China. In Japan, sales jumped 20 per cent driven by the loyalty of local clients.

    The Americas rose 21.4 percent, while Europe increased 16.9 percent.

    For the full year, revenue rose 13 percent (15 percent in constant currency) to €15 billion, and consolidated net profit increased 7 percent to €4.6 billion.

    “In 2024, in a more uncertain economic and geopolitical context, the solid performance of the results attests to the strength of the Hermes model and the agility of the house’s teams,” said executive chairman Axel Dumas.

    “While preserving the group’s major balances and its responsibility as an employer, the house is staying the course, attached more than ever to its fundamental values of quality, creativity and savoir-faire,” he added.

    The company expects to record continued revenue growth in the medium-term despite the economic, geopolitical and monetary uncertainties.

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  • Hermes reopens Lee Gardens store in Causeway Bay

    Hermes reopens Lee Gardens store in Causeway Bay

    Hermes has reopened its expanded store at Lee Gardens in Causeway Bay, Hong Kong.

    The store first opened in 1997 and is one of the luxury brand’s six stores in the metropolis.

    Hermes partnered with Parisian architecture agency RDAI for the expanded store’s design, which draws inspiration from nearby natural landscape.

    The expanded store now features three storeys, with its curves and ridges inspired by Hong Kong’s masonry wall trees and the interior showcasing metallic panels.

    A triptych of horses in motion by Japanese artist Ryu Mitarai is displayed at its three windows, which can be seen from the outside.

    The lower floor flaunts Hermes’ men’s and women’s ready-to-wear items, equestrian goods, home collection, and has two private rooms.

    A wooden cocoon on the first floor presents leather, watches, and jewellery metiers.

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