The French “Textile News” reported that the Hermès Group’s sales (calculated at fixed exchange rates) increased slightly by 1.7% in the fourth quarter of 2008, and sales in specialty stores increased by 4.5%. Sales were particularly active during the Christmas period. In terms of geographical distribution, turnover has increased, with the Americas growing by 1.4%; Europe (except France) falling by 1.6%, and France continuing to grow by 3.2%; Japan falling by 13%, but Asia grew by 25% in the fourth quarter of 2008, stimulated by China. , an annual growth rate of 22% in 2008.
According to reports, according to statistics from the Hermès Group in the first nine months of 2008, revenue increased by 10.2% to 1.7 billion euros. 12 new stores were opened and 13 stores were renovated and expanded, which is less than the original plan of 40 new stores. Regions with significant business growth in the first nine months of 2008 were the Americas, which grew by 15%; Europe (except France), which grew by 7%, and France by 7.7%; Asia (except Japan), which grew by 22%, and Japan which fell by 3%. In terms of product sales distribution, clothing and accessories increased by 10%; in terms of leather goods and harnesses, leather bags increased by 21%, with an overall increase of 14%; silk textiles increased by 11%.
According to reports, Hermès Group will not announce full-year data for 2008 until March 2009. For 2009, the group believes that due to the unpredictable economic environment, it is difficult to clearly predict the expected activities. The group’s goal is to at least maintain turnover at 2008 levels regardless of currency changes, but there is a possibility that main business profits will decline. The group’s 2009 investment plan will maintain the opening and expansion of 20 new stores, and is expected to open stores in Doha and Qatar in mid-February.
