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2024-09-22 08:21:10

Hugo Boss

German fashion company
German fashion company

Hugo Boss AG, founded in 1924, is a global fashion brand known for clothing, accessories, and fragrances. It gained popularity for supplying military uniforms during Nazi Germany. The company has expanded to include various fashion lines and products, operating over 1,400 retail stores worldwide.

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1885
Birth of Hugo Ferdinand Boss

Hugo Ferdinand Boss, born in 1885, was the founder of the renowned clothing brand Hugo Boss. He gained experience in clothing production through his parents' lingerie shop and later established his own successful brand.

1908
Hugo Boss takes over his parents' lingerie store

In 1908, Hugo Boss became the heir to his parents' lingerie store, taking over the family business.

1914
Hugo Boss serves as a corporal in World War I

In 1914, Hugo Boss joined the army and served as a corporal in World War I.

1922
Founding of Hugo Boss

Hugo Boss, a German fashion house, was founded in 1922. It started as a clothing company and later expanded to become a major player in the fashion industry.

1923
Foundation of Hugo Boss Clothing Company

In 1923, Hugo Boss founded his clothing company, which later evolved into the well-known brand Hugo Boss. Initially focusing on simple clothing items, the brand expanded its offerings over the years.

1924
Hugo Boss Founded

In 1924, Hugo Boss founded the luxury fashion and style house that would eventually become one of the most famous in the world. The company started in a small German town and has since grown into a global phenomenon known for its authentic and understated luxury.

1929
Bankruptcy of Hugo Boss Company

Due to severe economic losses faced by the country, Hugo Boss's company was forced into bankruptcy in 1929.

1930
Hugo Boss Produces Uniforms for Nazi Party

In 1930, as the Nazi Party began its rise, Hugo Boss's brand was tapped to produce uniforms for the Nazi party. The brand later supplied uniforms for other organizations, including the National Socialism Party.

1931
Production of Uniforms for Nazis

In 1931, Hugo Boss's brand started producing uniforms for the Nazis after he joined the Nazi Party. The demand for the uniforms contributed to the flourishing of his business during a challenging economic period.

1932
Hugo Boss Begins Production of SS Black Uniforms

By the third quarter of 1932, Hugo Boss's company was one of the manufacturers producing the all-black SS uniforms designed by SS members Karl Diebitsch and Walter Heck. This marked a significant contribution to the SS uniform production.

1933
Hugo Boss becoming official designer and distributor of Nazi uniforms

As the Nazi Party expanded in influence and power, Hugo Boss was appointed as the official designer and distributor of uniforms for the party. This role further boosted Boss's business and reputation.

1939
Hugo Boss Produces Uniforms for Nazis

In 1939, Hugo Boss produced uniforms for the Nazis during World War II, using forced laborers from France and Poland. The company's involvement in producing clothing for the National Socialist regime led to controversy and later investigations.

1941
Hugo Boss's Sales Increase During WWII

During World War II, Hugo Ferdinand Boss's sales increased significantly, from 38,260 ℛ︁ℳ︁ in 1932 to over 3,300,000 ℛ︁ℳ︁ in 1941, due to orders for clothing production for the Nazi Party and its organizations. This financial growth was fueled by the company's involvement in uniform manufacturing for the Nazi regime.

1945
Hugo Boss's Post-War Consequences

In 1945, Hugo Ferdinand Boss faced consequences for his Nazi Party membership and support of the SS. He was fined and stripped of certain rights, but later classified as a 'follower' rather than an active promoter of National Socialism. This marked a turning point in his post-war legal status.

1946
Conviction of Hugo Boss

In 1946, Hugo Boss was convicted of actively supporting the National Socialism Party, leading to a massive penalty, loss of voting rights, and a ban on running a business.

1948
Death of Hugo Boss

In 1948, the founder of the company, Hugo Boss, passed away.

1950
First Men's Suit

In 1950, Hugo Boss introduced its first men's suit, marking a significant milestone in the brand's history.

1953
Introduction of Hugo Boss Men's Suits

Hugo Boss introduced its men's suits to the market in 1953, marking a milestone in the company's product offerings.

1954
Introduction of Boss fragrance

In 1954, Hugo Boss successfully introduced a Boss fragrance, expanding the company's product line.

1960
Production of Off-the-Peg Suits

By 1960, the company had transitioned to producing off-the-peg suits, catering to a wider customer base. This move contributed to the company's growth and success.

1967
Holy brothers take over management

In 1967, the Holy brothers assumed management control of the company and shifted its focus towards men's fashion.

1969
Jochen and Uwe Holy take over the company

In 1969, Eugen Holy's sons - Jochen and Uwe Holy - assume control of the company, initiating a transformation that would eventually lead to the establishment of the international fashion group known today.

1970
Introduction of First Boss Branded Suits

In 1970, the first Boss branded suits were introduced by the company, marking a significant milestone in their branding and product development. This laid the foundation for the brand's future success.

1972
HUGO BOSS starts motorsports sponsorship

During the early 1970s, HUGO BOSS began sponsoring motorsports, which helped in establishing an international presence and promoting the BOSS brand image to a global audience.

1976
Hugo Boss enters the United States market

Hugo Boss faced skepticism when its suits first arrived in the United States in 1976, but gradually gained acceptance, especially with the help of endorsements from celebrities like Sylvester Stallone and Bjorn Borg.

1977
Launch of BOSS brand

The high-quality men's collections of the BOSS brand were introduced in 1977, catering to the changing demands in aesthetics and fashion awareness of men in the 1970s.

1980
Hugo Boss surpasses DM 100 million in sales

In 1980, Hugo Boss achieved a significant milestone by surpassing DM 100 million in sales for the first time.

1985
Hugo Boss Adds Perfumes to Product Line

In 1985, Hugo Boss expanded its product line by adding perfumes to its brand, which was already famous for its men's suits and other clothing. The brand has since become world-renowned.

1987
Hugo Boss reaches DM 500 million in annual revenue

By 1987, Hugo Boss was grossing DM 500 million annually, showcasing its rapid growth and success in the fashion industry.

1989
Hugo Boss sells shares to Leyton House Group

In 1989, the Holy brothers sold a significant portion of Hugo Boss shares to the Japanese Leyton House Group, marking a strategic move in the company's ownership.

1991
Marzotto Takes Majority Share of Hugo Boss

In 1991, Italian fashion group Marzotto S.p.A acquired a majority share of Hugo Boss, signaling a shift in ownership and management.

1993-03
Introduction of Three-Brand Idea at Hugo Boss

In March 1993, Littmann introduced the three-brand idea at his first board meeting, challenging the company's management team to launch the project in just three months.

1994-04-22
Boss in New Brand Image

An article in Werben und Verkaufen on April 22, 1994, discussed Hugo Boss's new brand image and marketing strategies.

1995-03-02
Hugo Boss Becomes Major Sponsor of Guggenheim Foundation

On March 2, 1995, Hugo Boss's involvement as a major sponsor of the Guggenheim Foundation was highlighted in Daily News Record.

1996-04-04
Success of the Brand

An article in TextilWirtschaft on April 4, 1996, highlighted the success and impact of the Hugo Boss brand.

1997-01-15
Peter Littmann's Departure from Boss

On January 15, 1997, it was announced in Daily News Record that Peter Littmann would be leaving Hugo Boss, with Joachim Vogt set to take over.

1997-08-14
Hugo Boss Addresses WWII Concerns

In August 14, 1997, Lisa Lockwood reported in WWD that Hugo Boss was seeking to clarify concerns regarding its activities during World War II.

1998-11-30
Profit & Boss

In November 30, 1998, Joshua Sims discussed the profitability or financial aspects related to Hugo Boss in European magazine.

1999-03-01
Baldessarini: The Thoroughly Modern Boss

On March 1, 1999, Stan Gellers discussed in Daily News Record the modern approach of Baldessarini, a brand under Hugo Boss.

1999-06-16
Boss Shows Its Softer, Sensitive Side

On June 16, 1999, Samantha Conti discussed in Daily News Record how Hugo Boss displayed a softer and more sensitive side in its approach.

2000-07-17
Hugo Boss Opens Store on Fifth Avenue

On July 17, 2000, Robert Lohrer discussed in WWD how Hugo Boss set up a store at a prime location on Fifth Avenue.

2002
Baldessarini leaves Hugo Boss, Bruno Sälzer becomes CEO

In 2002, Baldessarini left Hugo Boss and Bruno Sälzer took over as CEO. Sälzer transformed Hugo Boss into a lifestyle group, repositioned the women's line, and drove international expansion, especially in Asian markets.

2003
Partnership with British Skipper Alex Thomson

In 2003, Hugo Boss partnered with British Skipper Alex Thomson, establishing one of the longest and most sought-after sailing and sports sponsorships in history.

2004-01
Incorporation of Shoes & Leather Goods into HUGO BOSS Group

In January 2004, footwear and leather goods manufacturing is incorporated into the HUGO BOSS Group, perfectly complementing every look.

2006
Discontinuation of BALDESSARINI Collections

In 2006, the brand portfolio changes and the collections from BALDESSARINI are discontinued. The luxury positioning of BALDESSARINI is now represented by BOSS Selection within the HUGO BOSS brand universe.

2007
Partnership with UNICEF

In 2007, HUGO BOSS established a partnership with UNICEF, showcasing the brand's commitment to social responsibility and philanthropy. This collaboration aimed to support UNICEF's initiatives and projects worldwide.

2008-02
Claus-Dietrich Lahrs becomes CEO of Hugo Boss

In February 2008, Claus-Dietrich Lahrs was appointed as CEO of Hugo Boss.

2008-09
Launch of HUGO BOSS' Online Store in Great Britain

In September 2008, HUGO BOSS launched its online store in Great Britain. This marked the beginning of the brand's expansion into the e-commerce market.

2009-02
BOSS Selection Tailored Line Launch

In February 2009, HUGO BOSS introduces the BOSS Selection Tailored Line, incorporating full canvas construction for luxury apparel, marking a significant milestone in handcrafted suits.

2010-03
Hugo Boss Boycott by Actor Danny Glover

In March 2010, actor Danny Glover boycotted Hugo Boss due to the company's plan to close a plant in Brooklyn, Ohio, US, after workers rejected a proposal to cut their hourly wage. The company later canceled the project.

2010-07
Boss Bottled Night

Boss Bottled Night is a fragrance released by Hugo Boss in July 2010. It is designed for ambitious young men who strive for new challenges and aim to achieve their goals. The scent features intense and masculine woody accords with notes of lavender, birch tree, African violet, Louro Amarelo tree, and musk.

2010-08
Boss Orange Sunset Launch

Boss Orange Sunset fragrance was launched in August 2010, inspired by summer sunset and a cocktail of fruity notes. The scent is described as luminous, cheerful, and fresh, with a blend of bergamot, mandarin, white flowers, rose, vanilla, and sandalwood.

2011
Relaunch of HUGO BOSS' Online Store in Mandarin for Chinese Market

In 2011, HUGO BOSS achieved a milestone in the e-commerce business by relaunching its online store in Mandarin specifically for the Chinese market. This move aimed to cater to the growing online retail demand in China.

2012
Hugo Boss declares 2012 as most successful year in brand history

Hugo Boss announces that 2012 marks the pinnacle of its achievements, attributing this success to the increasing demand for its products in the United States.

2013-06
Inaugural Hugo Boss Asia Art Award

In June 2013, Hugo Boss and the Rockbund Art Museum in Shanghai launched the first edition of the Hugo Boss Asia Art Award. The biennial prize was created to highlight emerging artists from various regions in Asia, starting with Greater China.

2014
Launch of Boss Bottled Unlimited Fragrance

Boss Bottled Unlimited by Hugo Boss, an Aromatic Fougere fragrance for men, was launched in 2014. It featured mint, pineapple, precious woods, and labdanum notes.

2015-03
Permira sells remaining shares of Hugo Boss

In March 2015, Permira announced plans to sell the remaining shares of Hugo Boss.

2015-09
Hugo Boss (UK) Fine for Child's Death

In September 2015, Hugo Boss (UK) was fined £1.2 million for the death of a child in its store in Bicester. The child was fatally injured by a falling mirror, leading to legal repercussions for the company.

2016
20th anniversary of the HUGO BOSS PRIZE

In 2016, HUGO BOSS and the Guggenheim Museum in New York commemorated the 20th anniversary of the prestigious HUGO BOSS PRIZE.

2017-03
Launch of Boss Bottled Tonic Fragrance

Boss Bottled Tonic, a fresh and daytime edition in the Boss Bottled series, was introduced in the spring of 2017. It targeted modern men seeking a refreshing and versatile scent.

2018-02
Jason Wu presents 'Gallery Collection' as his finale for BOSS Womenswear

In February 2018, Jason Wu showcased his 'Gallery Collection' in New York, marking his final presentation as the Artistic Director for BOSS Womenswear.

2019-08
Hugo Boss Cease and Desist Letter to Boss Brewing

In August 2019, Hugo Boss sent a cease and desist letter to Boss Brewing, objecting to their trademark application and resulting in legal fees and a name change for the brewery.

2020
Expansion of hugoboss.com Online Store

In 2020, hugoboss.com online store expanded its reach to 24 markets, with plans to include more countries in the coming years.

2021-01
Chris Hemsworth becomes BOSS Brand Ambassador

In January, HUGO BOSS announces Australian actor Chris Hemsworth as the new BOSS Brand Ambassador. He is set to represent the brand in international fashion campaigns for 2021 and 2022.

2021-03
HUGO Louder Launch

HUGO launches 'HUGO Louder', a new music platform dedicated to showcasing the work of inspiring artists and young talents striving to make a difference.

2021-06
Daniel Grieder becomes CEO of Hugo Boss

In June 2021, Daniel Grieder took over as CEO of Hugo Boss, introducing the growth strategy Claim 5 to drive growth and improve consumer offerings.

2022-03
Hugo Boss ceases retail business in Russia

In early March 2022, Hugo Boss announced that it had stopped its own retail business and e-commerce operations in Russia. Despite this, the company's deliveries to Russia during the war exceeded those of the previous year.

2022-11
HUGO X IMAGINARY ONES NFT COLLECTION

In early November 2022, HUGO BOSS launched a unique NFT collection in collaboration with Imaginary Ones, featuring 1,001 exclusive 3D animations in a holistic metaverse experience.

2023-03
Hugo Boss sells retail business in Russia

According to the first half of 2023 report, Hugo Boss decided to sell its retail business in Russia and shift focus to wholesale supplies. The retail segment is now classified as assets held for sale.

2023-12
Renaming of Holy-Allee

In December 2023, the road leading to the HUGO BOSS headquarters in Metzingen was officially renamed to Holy-Allee to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the company and honor the contributions of brothers Uwe and Jochen Holy, the grandsons of Hugo Boss.

2024-02
Naomi Campbell fashion collection launch

In February 2024, a fashion collection designed by supermodel Naomi Campbell was introduced.

2050
CO2-neutral goal by 2050

Hugo Boss announced its intention to become CO2-neutral by 2050, aligning with environmental sustainability goals.

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Hugo Boss
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