Heritage

Back to our Roots

This year not only marks a new chapter for Maison Gassmann but also a significant milestone. We are celebrating our 140th anniversary and are proud to have you as part of it. With the move to Poststrasse, we are returning to our roots and indulging in nostalgia. While browsing our archives, we repeatedly came across the beautiful house on Poststrasse, which was featured in earlier advertisements and catalogues. In this spirit – welcome back and thank you for your loyalty!

Unsere Reise

140 years and five generations – Maison Gassmann is one of the most traditional family businesses in Zurich's fashion world.

2016
The Fifth Generation takes over

The Fifth Generation takes over

After 134 years, GASSMANN ZÜRICH is leaving Poststrasse. Under the new name MAISON GASSMANN, the new store will open at Weinplatz 3 this summer. With a slightly adjusted concept, the aim is to appeal to a somewhat younger target group in addition to the established clientele. The assortment will be even more exclusive. At the same time, siblings Katja and Michael Hahnloser will take over the management of the business as the fifth generation of the family.

2000
A New Look

A New Look

Gassmann is being completely rebuilt. From street level up to the ceiling of the former first floor, now the Bel Etage, new, interconnected retail spaces, enlarged by 20%, are being created. The Boutique Ballon Rouge will have its own shop and entrance at Poststrasse 5. In line with its changed image, the fashion house Gassmann will become GASSMANN Mode am Parade, Zurich.

1984
Fourth Generation

Fourth Generation

Thomas Hahnloser-Recke and his wife Doris take over the management in the fourth family generation.

1968
Major renovation

Major renovation

The expansion of the business premises into the neighbouring property at Poststrasse 5 triggers a fundamental renovation of the sales areas and the installation of new lifts and air conditioning systems. The children's department moves from the ground floor to the first floor and is renamed Ballon Rouge. A boutique called 'Hitty' is created on the ground floor, offering the latest trends from Carnaby Street in London. Subsequently, the Gassmann family is also able to acquire the neighbouring property.

1934
Focus on retail

Focus on retail

The global economic crisis forces the abandonment of manufacturing, but the retail business is expanded instead.

1891
First Catalogue

First Catalogue

Catalog No. 1 advertises jackets for Fr. 10.50. Wasp waists, floor-length skirts, and imaginative hats characterize the fashion scene.

1884
Opening of the Boutique

Opening of the Boutique

Opening of the retail store at Poststrasse 7, the former Zurich post office building. The founder's wife – a trained couture tailor – manages the business.

1882
Foundation

Foundation

On March 1, after years of apprenticeships and travels, which also took him to Paris, Jacques Gassmann founded a ready-to-wear clothing company for women's and children's clothing with two partners. The production facilities are located at Schanzengraben 17/19, in today's heart of the city.