Founded in 1947 by Erling Persson in Västerås, Sweden, H&M
The Early Days
H&M started as "Hennes," which means "hers" in Swedish. Initially, the store exclusively sold women's clothing. However, in 1968, Persson acquired Mauritz Widforss, a hunting equipment retailer, and began offering men's and children's wear. This acquisition led to the brand's name change to Hennes & Mauritz, later shortened to H&M.
Global Expansion
H&M's first store outside Sweden opened in Norway in 1964, marking the beginning of its international journey. By the 2000s, H&M had established a significant presence in Europe, North America, and Asia. Today, the brand operates in over 74 countries and boasts thousands of stores worldwide, complemented by a robust online presence.
Sustainability and Innovation
In recent years, H&M has made strides in sustainability. The company has launched initiatives like the Conscious Collection, which uses eco-friendly materials such as organic cotton and recycled polyester. H&M also encourages customers to recycle old clothes through its garment-collecting program.
Diverse Product Range
H&M offers a wide range of products, from everyday basics to high-fashion collaborations with designers like Balmain and Versace. For a detailed look at H&M's product offerings, check out this comprehensive spreadsheet
Conclusion
Over the decades, H&M has evolved into a global fashion leader, blending affordability with style. By embracing innovation and sustainability, the brand continues to influence the fashion industry while staying true to its mission of making fashion accessible to everyone.