In response to the surging global demand for luxury leather goods, French fashion house Hermès is preparing to inaugurate a new production site in the Ardennes region. This state-of-the-art workshop, covering a substantial 5,000 square meters, aims to bolster Hermès’ production capabilities in the Grand-Est area of France. Since its establishment of the first workshop in Bogny-sur-Meuse in 2004, the company has steadily expanded its presence in the region.
Situated in the Ardennes Emeraude business zone in the Tournes and Cliron municipalities, the new site will concentrate on the intricate craftsmanship required to create two iconic Hermès bags: the Birkin and the Kelly. With an estimated investment of approximately €10 million, the Atelier will house around 250 highly skilled artisans who will strive to maintain the brand’s reputation for unparalleled quality.
Prior to joining the workshop, all artisans will undergo 18 months of specialized training at Hermès facilities. This intensive training program has become necessary due to the shortage of skilled recruits from existing training programs, as Guillaume de Seynes, General Director of Upstream and Acquisitions at Hermès, pointed out last year.
This ambitious endeavor aligns with Hermès’ strategy to establish a strong presence in various regions across France, including Nouvelle-Aquitaine, Franche-Comté, and the Seine and Eure zone. By expanding its production network, Hermès aims to meet the ever-growing demand for its prestigious products. In the first half of 2019, Hermès reported an impressive 15% increase in revenue, reaching a total of €3.284 billion. The Leather Goods and Saddlery division showcased remarkable growth during this period, with a growth rate of 12%, closely trailing the Clothing and Accessories division’s impressive 15% growth.
The establishment of the new workshop in the Ardennes region not only signifies Hermès’ commitment to meeting the demands of its discerning clientele, but also its dedication to supporting the local economy. This investment will not only create job opportunities for the region’s skilled artisans, but will also contribute to the overall economic development of the area.
Useful Links:
1. Official Hermès Website
2. Hermès Career Opportunities
