Hermès, the renowned luxury brand famous for its top-notch leather goods, has recently unveiled its latest addition to its impressive lineup of leather workshops. Located in Montereau, France, this workshop marks the brand’s 18th dedicated to the meticulous art of leather craftsmanship. The choice to establish the workshop in Montereau is highly significant, as it is situated in close proximity to a tannery that Hermès acquired in 1966, solidifying the brand’s unwavering commitment to its French origins.
The newly inaugurated leather goods workshop takes advantage of the expertise and close proximity of the Ile-de-France craft center, which boasts a talented workforce of 670 artisans. Although the site currently employs around 120 individuals, this number is projected to expand to 260 as the workshop grows. To support the local community, Hermès has joined forces with various partners, including the employment center, the Greta adult training center, and the Flora Tristan de Montereau high school, to recruit and train local talents. The brand even welcomes candidates who are new to the industry, offering them training and apprenticeship opportunities before integrating them into the group.
Aside from emphasizing its artisanal focus, the establishment of the new workshop also underscores Hermès’ commitment to sustainability. In order to bring this project to life, the brand has rehabilitated a 7.2-hectare industrial wasteland and beautified the adjacent garden with over 200 trees and thousands of shrubs. Furthermore, the site has been equipped with 250 square meters of hybrid solar panels and full LED lighting, showcasing Hermès’ dedication to eco-friendly practices.
This expansion of manufacturing capacity in France is not a novel move for Hermès. Since 2010, the brand has introduced nine leather goods factories throughout the country, providing employment to over 4,000 skilled saddler and leather-working artisans. This growth trajectory doesn’t halt there, as Hermès has already unveiled plans to launch yet another leather goods workshop in Guyenne, Gironde in September, along with three other manufacturing projects in Louviers (Eure), Tournes (Ardennes), and Riom (Puy-de-Dôme). This continuous expansion demonstrates Hermès’ unwavering commitment to preserving and promoting traditional craftsmanship while satisfying the ever-increasing demand for its exquisite leather products.
By establishing the new leather workshop in Montereau, Hermès further solidifies its position as a leading luxury brand that upholds the values of craftsmanship, sustainability, and its rich French heritage.
Helpful links:
1. Hermès Official Website: https://www.hermes.com/
2. Hermès Sustainability Initiatives: https://www.hermes.com/us/en/story/313908-sustainability/
