The first school initiated within the luxury house, Hermès, has undergone significant changes and upgrades one year after its launch. This new curriculum supports the continued growth of Hermès, which has been fueled by the unprecedented success of its leather goods.
Known as the “Cutting and Stitching” curriculum, Hermès’ school launched in the fall of 2021. Accredited by the National Education and authorized to award the Certificate of Professional Aptitude in Leather Goods, the school was initially established within the Hermès manufacturing plant in Fitilieu, Isère. This was the first step in a larger operation aimed at providing each leather goods division within the brand with its own training structure.
Since its inception, the École Hermès des savoir-faire has seen tremendous growth, with over 450 apprentice artisans currently enrolled. As a testament to its success, the institution has now announced the upcoming opening of a new training program. This program, known as the Certificate of Professional Qualification in “Cutting and Stitching,” is expected to accommodate approximately 200 students each year. It is set to open in early 2023 and will consist of three months of preparation followed by one year of intensive training. This program will be offered in six out of the nine Hermès leather goods divisions.
The aim of this curriculum is to transfer the passion and ancestral know-how that are integral to the Hermès brand. By preserving and passing on these skills, Hermès ensures that its craftsmanship continues to excel. Gabrielle Milhau, the Training Manager at the Fitilieu workshop, emphasizes the importance of demanding work and a passion for materials as the fundamentals for an artisan.
In addition to preserving and transferring craftsmanship, the expansion of Hermès’ school also aligns with the brand’s goal of increasing production capacity. Leather Goods and Saddlery, which is a historic segment of the Parisian house, has experienced an impressive 12.5% increase in sales since the beginning of the year. This segment alone accounts for 42.5% of Hermès’ total sales value during the same observation period, with sales reaching over 3.6 billion euros.
Despite achieving record results, Hermès has acknowledged its previous “capacity constraints” and difficulties in recruiting qualified labor. However, with the launch of its school and plans to open five new leather goods workshops, Hermès is demonstrating its commitment to overcoming these challenges and ensuring continued growth.
Useful Links:
1. Hermès Official Website
2. Hermès Official Online Store
