Overview
- H&M has closed more than 600 stores since the end of 2022, reducing its global footprint to about 4,038 locations in the first half of 2026.
- The company reported improved profitability tied to tighter inventory management and cost measures even as net sales were roughly 1% lower for the first half and about 3% lower for the most recent quarter.
- H&M shut its Monki brand in 2025 and shifted some of its ranges into Weekday, a change the company says affects year‑over‑year store comparisons.
- Management is continuing a selective approach to physical stores by opening locations in growth markets while exiting underperforming sites, and online sales now account for just over 30% of revenue.
- Investors reacted to an earnings miss with selling pressure as analysts and management warn that leaner inventories have raised productivity but also limited product availability for some customers.