The fast-fashion retailer H&M, short for Hennes & Mauritz, is a major player in the global retail industry. H&M was founded by Erling Persson in Västerås, Sweden, in 1947. Inspired by a trip to New York City, Persson established a womenswear store named Hennes, meaning “hers” in Swedish. This initial store embodied the founder’s vision of making the latest fashion trends affordable; by 1952, the business expanded to the Swedish capital, Stockholm.
From its modest beginnings in Sweden to becoming the world’s second-largest fashion retailer, H&M‘s journey is a testament to its strategic vision, dynamic leadership, and relentless evolution in the fashion industry. Here’s an in-depth look at H&M’s history and ownership from its inception to today.
Founding and Early Years: 1947s-1952s
1947: Swedish entrepreneur Erling Persson, inspired by his trip to New York City, opens a womenswear store in Västerås, Sweden, named Hennes, which means “Hers” in Swedish. Persson…
himself designs the Hennes logotype. 1952: The first Hennes store opens in Stockholm, Sweden’s capital, marking the beginning of the brand’s expansion. Expansion and Rebranding: 1960s-1970s 1968: Hennes acquires Mauritz Widforss, a Stockholm-based hunting apparel and fishing equipment retailer.
This acquisition leads to the store’s rebranding as Hennes & Mauritz, and the introduction of menswear and children’s clothing to the product range. 1969: Rapid growth sees the establishment of 42 Hennes & Mauritz stores.
1973: Hennes & Mauritz begins offering underwear, and ABBA’s Anni-Frid Lyngstad becomes the brand’s first “supermodel.” 1974: The company is listed on the Stockholm Stock Exchange and officially adopts the abbreviation “H&M.” 1977: The Impuls concept, targeting teenagers, is launched, and cosmetics are added to the inventory.
Global Growth: 1980s-1990s This period witnesses H&M’s international expansion into markets such as Norway, Denmark, the UK, and Switzerland. The brand continues to open five or six new stores annually…
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