Hermès has opened its 24th leather goods workshop in L’Isle-d’Espagnac (Charente), strengthening its South-West hub and its choice to produce leather goods exclusively in France. The site will create 300 local jobs and ultimately employ 260 artisans, who will craft icons like the Kelly and Birkin alongside small leather goods.
All images are courtesy of Maroquinerie de L’Isle-d’Espagnac, Hermès.
Training the Next Generation
Recruitment is anchored in long-standing regional partners, with skills passed on at the École Hermès des savoir-faire. The school’s apprentice centre (CFA) prepares artisans for the CAP in leather-working and the CQP in cutting and stitching—100% of apprentices earned their CAP in 2024. Applications are open to all.
Sustainable by Design
Built on the former Bel-Air airfield, the 5,800 m² workshop was designed by Guiraud-Manenc to maximise natural light and encourage collaboration. Materials were sourced largely within 250 km—white Charente stone, raw earth, straw insulation, poplar and red cedar. The positive-energy building features 1,800 m² of solar panels, a geothermal system, planted roofing, and landscaping that preserves local flora and fauna. Easy access to public transport and greenways supports low-impact commutes.
What’s Next
This is Hermès’ fourth leather site in the region, joining Nontron (1995), Saint-Junien (1998), and Montbron (2014). Three additional projects—Loupes (Gironde), Charleville-Mézières (Ardennes), and Colombelles (Calvados)—are underway, furthering the house’s long-term investment in responsible French craftsmanship.
