H&M, short for Hennes & Mauritz, is a global fashion brand known for its trendy and affordable clothing. Founded in 1947 by Erling Persson in Västerås, Sweden, the brand initially started as a women's wear store called "Hennes," which means "hers" in Swedish. Over the years, H&M has evolved into one of the world's leading fashion retailers, offering a wide range of products for men, women, teenagers, and children.
Erling Persson was inspired to create H&M after a trip to the United States, where he observed the success of high-volume, low-cost retail stores. He brought this concept back to Sweden and opened the first Hennes store, focusing exclusively on women's fashion. The brand quickly gained popularity for its affordable yet stylish clothing.
In 1968, Persson acquired Mauritz Widforss, a Stockholm-based hunting and fishing equipment store, which allowed him to expand his product line to include men's clothing. This acquisition led to the rebranding of the company as Hennes & Mauritz, or H&M as it is commonly known today. By the 1970s, H&M had established itself as a major player in the European fashion market and began to expand internationally.
Today, H&M operates in over 74 countries and continues to grow, with new stores opening regularly. The brand is renowned for its collaborations with high-profile designers and celebrities, such as Karl Lagerfeld, Stella McCartney, and Beyoncé, which have helped to keep the brand at the forefront of fashion trends.
In recent years, H&M has made significant strides in sustainability. The company has committed to becoming 100% circular and climate-positive by 2030, meaning they aim to use only recycled or sustainably sourced materials in their products. H&M also offers a garment collecting program, where customers can bring in old clothes to be recycled, further promoting a more sustainable fashion industry.
H&M's product range is vast, encompassing everything from casual wear to formal attire, and even home decor. For those interested in exploring H&M's latest collections, you can check out this comprehensive spreadsheet
As H&M continues to innovate and adapt to the changing landscape of the fashion industry, its commitment to offering stylish, affordable, and sustainable clothing remains unwavering. With a rich history and a clear vision for the future, H&M is poised to remain a global fashion leader for years to come.