Hermès invests in Normandy, but why now?

A new site in Colombelles could well reshuffle the cards in the French luxury goods industry. Through an ambitious industrial project, Hermès is strengthening its territorial presence and anticipating ever-increasing demand for its leather goods.

A first for Hermès in Normandy

The Maison Hermès has decided to locate its 27ᵉ French leather goods plant in Colombelles, in the Calvados region of France. A powerful move, marking the luxury leather goods manufacturer’s entry into a territory previously unexplored by the brand. The future factory will be located on a former Société Métallurgique de Normandie industrial wasteland, some ten kilometers from Caen.

The new site, scheduled to open in 2028, will be built according to sustainable principles, in line with the company’s environmental vision. A resolutely responsible approach, aimed at ensuring that the brand’s expansion is part of a territorial and ecological dynamic.

Considerable local economic impact

With 260 jobs announced, this new facility will have a structuring effect on the local economy. Recruitment will be carried out in conjunction with France Travail and regional partners. Hermès is also betting on training, with the support of the École Hermès des savoir-faire, a state-approved apprenticeship center.

This choice of investment is not insignificant: it reflects the Group’s determination toanchor its know-how in the region and develop centers of excellence, far from urban centers alone.

A long-term expansion strategy

Colombelles is just one piece of the puzzle: Hermès is planning four new leather goods factories by 2028. After L’Isle-d’Espagnac (Charente), Loupes (Gironde) and Charleville-Mézières (Ardennes), this new project is part of a strategy toincrease production capacity.

Why do you ask? Demand for its iconic bags – Kelly, Birkin, but also the more recent Médor and Mousqueton – continues unabated. In 2024, sales of Hermès leather goods jumped by +18%, accounting for over 40% of total sales.

Next: Towards a new map of French luxury?

Far from its historic strongholds, Hermès is redefining the geography of luxury. Will Normandy become a new pole of attraction for the major Houses? A question to keep an eye on, as the stakes go beyond craftsmanship: they affect the social and territorial model of French luxury.

Also read: Swiss watches back on the rise… but not everywhere