Birkin handbag maker faces class-action lawsuit in the US over 'refusal' to sell

A file pictures shows a silver Hermes Birkin bag put up for auction at Sotheby's back in June of 2023. Photo: Reuters

Fashionistas desperate to get their hands on an exclusive Birkin handbag are suing Hermes in California on grounds the company won't sell them one unless they buy other luxury products first.

A class-action lawsuit argues that would-be customers have to spend tens of thousands of dollars on scarves, shoes and belts just to be given the opportunity to get their hands on one of the world's most sought-after purses.