Hermès, the renowned luxury fashion house, is enjoying impressive growth in the first quarter of 2021, particularly in Asia excluding Japan, where sales have increased by an astonishing 94%. In response to this surge in demand, the brand has been expanding its production capacity and recently introduced a new leather workshop in Montereau-Fault-Yonne, Seine-et-Marne.
Situated close to the Montereau tannery, which Hermès acquired in 1996, this new workshop is dedicated to the production of exceptional leather goods and also serves as a training center for aspiring artisans. Through collaborations with Pôle emploi, Greta, and the Flora Tristan High School in Montereau, the workshop provides training in leather craftsmanship.
Hermès recognizes the importance of trade skills, training, versatility, and employability in creating high-quality and sustainable jobs. Last year, the Maroquinerie-Sellerie segment accounted for 50% of the company’s revenue, making it crucial to develop artisans with expertise in cutting and assembling techniques.
By establishing this workshop, Hermès strengthens its artisanal hub in the Île-de-France region and expands its network of regional hubs to a total of nine. The brand is committed to responsible practices and has rehabilitated an industrial wasteland and installed solar panels at the workshop site. Since 2010, Hermès has opened a total of nine leather workshops in France.
In addition to the Montereau workshop, Hermès has plans to inaugurate a leather workshop in Guyenne, Gironde in September. Three other workshops in Eure, Ardennes, and Puy-de-Dôme have already been announced. This expansion serves as a testament to Hermès’ dedication to preserving traditional craftsmanship, creating employment opportunities, and maintaining its strong manufacturing roots in France.
Useful links:
– Hermès Official Website
– Reuters article on Hermès
