Hermes Faces Lawsuit Over Alleged Customer Profiling and Discrimination
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- March 24, 2024
Luxury fashion house Hermes is under scrutiny after a recent lawsuit alleges discriminatory practices in customer selection. The lawsuit, filed in California, claims that Hermes engages in profiling potential customers based on factors such as race, ethnicity, and perceived wealth, often denying entry or limiting access to high-demand items for certain individuals.
The lawsuit cites specific instances where individuals were allegedly turned away from Hermes stores or prevented from purchasing desired items despite having the financial means to do so. Plaintiffs claim that Hermes employees made discriminatory assumptions about their ability to afford luxury goods.
This isn’t the first time Hermes has faced criticism for exclusivity. The brand is known for its limited production runs and notoriously long waitlists for iconic handbags like the Birkin and Kelly. However, the lawsuit alleges that these practices go beyond supply constraints and venture into discriminatory territory.
Hermes has yet to issue an official statement regarding the lawsuit. If the allegations are proven true, it could severely damage the brand’s reputation and raise concerns about inclusivity within the luxury fashion industry.
Ntianu Obiora is a versatile creative professional with over a decade of experience in publishing, marketing, communications, and digital strategy. She is the Online Editor at THEWILL DOWNTOWN
