Early Life
Brian Hill was born and raised in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. He grew up in a family with a strong retail background. His father, Jim Hill, founded the luxury retailer Hills of Kerrisdale, instilling in Brian a foundational understanding of the industry. Brian spent his adolescence working in his father's store, learning the intricacies of the business from both his father and uncle, Forbes Hill.
Rise to Success
In 1984, at the age of 23, Brian Hill, along with his brother Ross, opened the first Aritzia boutique in Vancouver's Oakridge Centre. The initial vision was to fill a gap in the market by offering high-quality clothing at accessible price points. The company expanded nationally throughout Canada, and by 2005, began its foray into the United States. Aritzia's success is attributed to its focus on designing and producing its in-house brands, including Wilfred, TNA, Talula, and Babaton, which generate a significant portion of its sales.
Key Business Strategies
Aritzia's growth has been fueled by several key strategies. Hill emphasized the importance of creating a unique brand experience, focusing on "everyday luxury." The company's expansion strategy in the U.S., including flagship stores in major cities like New York and Chicago, has significantly contributed to its revenue. Aritzia's e-commerce platform, launched in 2012, has also played a vital role, accounting for a growing percentage of total sales. Additionally, the company made an acquisition of Reigning Champ, a menswear brand, in June 2021, indicating strategic diversification and expansion efforts.
Philanthropy
Brian Hill and his wife, Andrea Thomas Hill, support philanthropic efforts through the Cause We Care foundation, which focuses on providing support to single mothers in the Vancouver area. Hill has also supported the BC Children's Hospital Foundation and the Vancouver Art Gallery.
