H&M, short for Hennes & Mauritz, is a Swedish multinational fast-fashion retailer. The company was founded in 1947 by Erling Persson in Västerås, Sweden. Originally, H&M specialized in women's clothing, but it expanded to include men's and children's fashion as well.

The business quickly grew, and by 1968, H&M had over 50 stores across Scandinavia. Currently headquartered in Stockholm, Sweden, H&M operates in 74 countries worldwide. It has over 5,000 stores globally, making it one of the largest fashion retailers in the world.

H&M offers a wide range of products, including clothing, accessories, footwear, and home goods. Its main focus is on trendy and affordable fashion, with frequent collaborations with world-renowned designers and celebrities to create exclusive collections. H&M also emphasizes sustainability and has introduced various initiatives to promote more eco-friendly practices such as recycling programs and the use of organic materials.

H&M operates several noteworthy subsidiaries and brands. COS (Collection of Style) is a higher-end fashion brand, while Weekday and Monki cater to different market segments with their unique styles. Additionally, H&M has ventured into the luxury fashion sector with its subsidiary, & Other Stories.

In terms of market position, H&M competes with other fast-fashion giants like Zara and Forever 21. It has established a strong global presence and continues to expand its market share. H&M's annual revenue reached over $23 billion in 2019, indicating its significant sales volume worldwide.

Over the years, H&M has witnessed various major events and achievements. It has collaborated with renowned designers like Karl Lagerfeld, Versace, and Balmain, creating buzz and attracting fashion-conscious customers. The company has also faced backlash regarding allegations of unsustainable manufacturing practices and poor labor conditions in its supply chain.

As a response, H&M has made efforts to improve transparency and sustainable practices. As of the time of writing, H&M remains a prominent player in the global fashion industry. It continues to adapt to market trends by offering new collections and expanding its online presence.

Despite challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, H&M is working on initiatives to ensure resilience and future growth