15. The "H" and "M" in H&M stem from its hunting and fishing roots. Ever wonder what the clothing retailer H&M's initials actually stood for? The Swedish company, founded in 1947, was originally called Hennes, which translates to "Hers." In 1968, Hennes acquired the brand Mauritz Widforss, which sold hunting and fishing equipment. As a result, the company then became Hennes & Mauritz. Finally, in 1974, the brand shortened its name to H&M.