H&M, short for Hennes & Mauritz, is a Swedish multinational clothing-retail company known for its fashion-forward and affordable clothing. Founded in 1947 by Erling Persson, the brand has grown from a single women's clothing store in Västerås, Sweden, to a global fashion powerhouse with thousands of stores worldwide.

Initially, H&M focused exclusively on women's apparel under the name "Hennes," which means "hers" in Swedish. However, in 1968, the company acquired Mauritz Widforss, a hunting and fishing equipment store, and rebranded to Hennes & Mauritz, or H&M. This acquisition marked the beginning of the brand's expansion into men's and children's clothing.

Throughout the years, H&M has been a pioneer in the fast-fashion industry, offering trendy clothing at affordable prices. The company is known for its ability to quickly translate the latest runway trends into accessible pieces for the everyday consumer. This strategy has allowed H&M to stay relevant and competitive in the ever-changing fashion landscape.

In addition to its core collections, H&M has collaborated with numerous high-profile designers and celebrities, including Karl Lagerfeld, Stella McCartney, and Alexander Wang. These collaborations have not only brought exclusive, high-fashion designs to the masses but have also elevated the brand's image in the fashion industry.

H&M is also committed to sustainability and ethical practices. The brand has launched several initiatives to reduce its environmental impact, such as the Conscious Collection, which features clothing made from sustainable materials like organic cotton and recycled polyester. H&M also encourages customers to recycle their old clothes through its Garment Collecting program.

Today, H&M operates in over 70 countries and continues to expand its presence both online and in physical stores. The brand's success can be attributed to its ability to blend innovation, affordability, and sustainability, making it a favorite among fashion-conscious consumers around the globe.