Author: Rose Tong

13 August 2025 Sustainability – Where Sustainability Really Starts Is it Leather? Writes on LinkedIn: We talk about sustainability like it’s a feature – an add-on, a checkbox, a corporate buzzword. But the truth is: sustainability already exists. It’s called nature. Nature wastes nothing. Everything serves a purpose, becomes something else, supports the cycle. The… Continue reading Sustainability – Where Sustainability Really Starts

13 August 2025 APLF Report – Analysis of the Four Leading ASEAN Leather Importers The four main leather importers of the ten nation ASEAN bloc are Vietnam, Indonesia, Thailand, and Malaysia. While the four leading ASEAN importers share commonalities — such as strong manufacturing bases and export orientation — distinctive characteristics define each market: Vietnam… Continue reading APLF Report – Analysis of the Four Leading ASEAN Leather Importers

13 August 2025 IULTCS News – Call opens for 2026 IULTCS Young Leather Scientist Grants The International Union of Leather Technologists and Chemists Societies (IULTCS) has announced the launch of the 2026 Young Leather Scientist Grants (YLSG), aimed at supporting early-career researchers in the field of leather science. By ILM. Submissions are due by November… Continue reading IULTCS News – Call opens for 2026 IULTCS Young Leather Scientist Grants

12 August 2025 Automotive – Renault falls for the vegan myth Renault to Stop Using Leather in All Cars by 2025 but Is This Really the Right Direction? Last week I came across a news The French carmaker Renault announced that it will stop using leather in all its vehicles by the end of 2025.… Continue reading Automotive – Renault falls for the vegan myth

12 August 2025 Italy – Obituary Francesco Parisotto of the Scarpe Company The Treviso entrepreneur was the soul of the SCARPA company. Francesco Parisotto died on Sunday, August 3 at the age of 98. The announcement was made by the same mountain footwear company of which Parisotto had taken the reins in 1956. Under his… Continue reading Italy – Obituary Francesco Parisotto of the Scarpe Company

12 August 2025 India pushes ahead with US trade talks despite tariff hike to 50% By Nigam Prusty: Reuters   NEW DELHI/MUMBAI, Aug 11 (Reuters) – India hopes trade talks with the U.S. will continue even as the U.S. hiked tariffs on its exports to 50% due to New Delhi’s purchase of sanctioned Russian oil,… Continue reading India pushes ahead with US trade talks despite tariff hike to 50%

12 August 2025 One 4 Leather – Material that makes a Car more than a Machine In a world where cars are increasingly defined by their connectivity, it is easy to overlook the more tactile aspects of the driving experience. Despite all the digital progress made under the bonnet and behind the dashboard, one constant… Continue reading One 4 Leather – Material that makes a Car more than a Machine

11 August 2025 Brazil – Tariffs: CICB asks Government to take Acton’s to Mitigate US 50% Import Tariff Image shows the executive president of CICB, José Fernando Bello (third from the right), at the meeting. Brazil’s national representative body for the tanning industry, CICB, has confirmed that hides, skins and leather will be among the… Continue reading Brazil – Tariffs: CICB asks Government to take Acton’s to Mitigate US 50% Import Tariff

11 August 2025 Leather Naturally on Factors behind Hermes Success Congratulations to Hermès, setting a new record in 2025 sales with 9% growth at 3.9bn euros, led by customers in Japan and the Americas, driving sales in saddlery and leather goods. What’s behind this iconic leather brand’s success in a challenging global luxury sector? Commentators… Continue reading Leather Naturally on Factors behind Hermes Success

11 August 2025 World – GDP Shifts: 2000 vs 2025 The Global Economic Power Map is Redrawn In just 25 years, the world economy has radically transformed.   Japan’s GDP shrunk from $4.97T to $4.18T the only major economy in this list with a decline. The U.S. added a staggering $20T to reach $30.51T –… Continue reading World – GDP Shifts: 2000 vs 2025

8 August 2025 APLF Report – Factors Driving ASEAN’s Leather Imports Several key factors underpin the demand for imported leather across ASEAN countries: Rising Middle Class: As incomes rise, so does the demand for premium and branded leather goods, especially in urban centers. Growth of Footwear and Garment Industries: ASEAN is a global hub for… Continue reading APLF Report – Factors Driving ASEAN’s Leather Imports

8 August 2025 Italy – Labour Unrest at Gucci The trade unions Filcams Cgil, Fisascat Cisl and Uiltucs have proclaimed the state of agitation of the approximately 1,000 employees, sales and logistical support workers of Gucci Italia. By La Conceria on LinkedIn.   Motive? The company (as reported by Reuters) has refused to disburse the… Continue reading Italy – Labour Unrest at Gucci

8 August 2025 Leatherbiz Market Intelligence – Reasons why a new EUDR halt is unlikely The newest issue of Market Intelligence newsletter is now live. It makes it clear that great uncertainty remains because of the tariff situation. It also makes the point that the distortions that tariff policies are causing are so extensive that… Continue reading Leatherbiz Market Intelligence – Reasons why a new EUDR halt is unlikely

7 August 2025 Automotive – One4Leather comments on German Court Ruling A German court recently ruled that materials like “apple leather” cannot be marketed as leather at all. The reason is simple: if it doesn’t come from animal hide, it isn’t leather. For the automotive sector, this decision raises important questions. As more interiors feature… Continue reading Automotive – One4Leather comments on German Court Ruling

7 August 2025 Qualities of Leather – Longevity and Durability This authentic leather belt dates back to the 1940s. By Francis Tsang on LinkedIn. Leather is renowned for its durability and longevity, making it a popular choice for belts and other accessories. Vegans often seek alternatives that minimize animal products, but some materials may not… Continue reading Qualities of Leather – Longevity and Durability

7 August 2025 Hermès expansion boosts leathergoods revenues French leathergoods brand Hermès has bucked the trend and reported a rise in first-half revenues, with growth in all regions. By Leatherbiz. Sales of €8 billion were up 8% on last year, with the leathergoods and clothing divisions propping up declining sales in watches and perfume. Asia… Continue reading Hermès expansion boosts leathergoods revenues

6 August 2025 Sustainable Bead Tanning Technology Qualus bead tanning technology writes on LinkedIn: allowing a successful Qual us trial, the next step is Stage 2: Scale-Up – a three-month production phase designed to integrate smoothly into your tannery. We’ll collaborate with your team to convert 1–3 production drums and implement our Sfere handling system,… Continue reading Sustainable Bead Tanning Technology

6 August 2025 It’s Called FAST Fashion for a Reason Is it leather? Writes on LinkedIn: What we call “affordable luxury” is rarely either. It’s fast, fleeting, and destined for the one place it does last: the landfill. Picture an hourglass—not filled with sand, but with jackets, handbags, and boots made from “vegan leather,” “bio-based… Continue reading It’s Called FAST Fashion for a Reason

6 August 2025 Germany – “Leather” means leather. Point. An important victory for the tanning sector, for consumers and for transparency in communication. By Laura Vantin on LinkedIn: 2nd degree connection2 On July 4, 2025, the Cologne Court of Appeal banned the German company Mina Merchandising GmbH from using the term “apple leather” to describe… Continue reading Germany – “Leather” means leather. Point.

5 August 2025 Erasmus+ bootcamps held in Portugal and Spain Two intensive training bootcamps dedicated to the future of leather goods manufacturing were held in July in Portugal and Spain as part of the Erasmus+ co-funded Learning Factories project. By ILM. Organised to promote collaboration between vocational education and training (VET) institutions and industry, the… Continue reading Erasmus+ bootcamps held in Portugal and Spain

5 August 2025 H1 results ‘well below potential’, Kering says Luxury group Kering has reported first-half revenues of just under €7.6 billion. This is down by 16% compared to the same period in 2024. By Leatherbiz. Its biggest brand, Gucci, contributed €3 billion to the total, but this figure represents a decline of 26% year… Continue reading H1 results ‘well below potential’, Kering says

5 August 2025 Indonesia: Profile of the Leather Industry With the third edition of APLF ASEAN due to be held in Vietnam from 13 – 15 November, herewith follows a profile of Indonesia’s leather and manufacturing sector as the biggest country in Southeast Asia, both geographically and demographically with a population of 280 million. Indonesia,… Continue reading Indonesia: Profile of the Leather Industry

5 August 2025 Calling all designers! Leather Naturally writes on LinkedIn: The London Design Festival takes place between 13 and 19 September and it’s a must visit on the European Design circuit. Throwing a light on sustainable materials, future product concepts and fantastic new creative talent, the week features leather design legend Bill Amberg hosting… Continue reading Calling all designers!

4 August 2025 Tariffs – European fashion knows what tariffs await it in the USA After months of tension and threats of new tariffs, the European Union and the United States have reached an agreement that averts a new trade escalation. The agreement, reached in Turnberry between European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and… Continue reading Tariffs – European fashion knows what tariffs await it in the USA

4 August 2025 Surge in China Vehicle Sales Continues The China Association of Automobile Manufacturers (CAAM), eported that total vehicle sales in the first half of 2025 soared 11.4% to 15.65 million units, with New Energy Vehicles (NEVs) sales rising 40% to 6.94 million units. China’s car sales hit a 2025 high in June, driven… Continue reading Surge in China Vehicle Sales Continues

4 August 2025 Tariffs – Trump administration announces new wave of tariffs U.S. President Donald Trump has issued a sweeping executive order imposing steep import tariffs on dozens of trading partners. By ILM. The move comes as the country’s imposed deadline for establishing trade deals passes without resolution for many countries. Under the order, new… Continue reading Tariffs – Trump administration announces new wave of tariffs

1 August 2025 Cultural Nuances in Southeast Asian Footwear Choices Why One Size Doesn’t Fit All in Southeast Asia’s Footwear Afrianty Adlan writes on LinkedIn: Working across Southeast Asia has taught me this: when it comes to consumer behavior, culture is king. Especially in footwear, where preferences go far beyond size and style — they’re… Continue reading Cultural Nuances in Southeast Asian Footwear Choices

1 August 2025 Global Apparel Manufacturing – Outlook Share your UNBIASED opinion and THE reason please. Who Will Dominate Apparel Sourcing in the Next Decade? With mounting tariffs on China, rising labor costs, and unpredictable geopolitical tensions, the global apparel supply chain is being redefined. So who’s best positioned to step in? Here’s my short-term… Continue reading Global Apparel Manufacturing – Outlook

1 August 2025 TFL to present new leather technologies at ACLE 2025 Leather chemicals specialist TFL will take part in the All China Leather Exhibition (ACLE) 2025, which runs from September 3–5 at the Shanghai New International Expo Centre. By Leatherbiz. The company will present a new collection of leathers in the forecast colours for… Continue reading TFL to present new leather technologies at ACLE 2025

31 July 2025 Tibet – Regenerative Yak Farming Francis Tsang writes on LinkedIn: I really enjoy visiting regenerative yak farms in the Tibetan Autonomous Region of China. The experience is not only fascinating but also enriching. Observing traditional practices that promote biodiversity and sustainable agriculture is truly inspiring. Yaks play a crucial role in the… Continue reading Tibet – Regenerative Yak Farming

31 July 2025 China – Leathergoods: The Chinese leather goods manufacturer that wants to save itself from tariffs and looks to the EU “We are looking for European customers to replace the American ones.” This is according to Leo Zhao, president of the Pinghu Bags Industry Association and chairman of the Newcomer Group, a company… Continue reading China – Leathergoods: The Chinese leather goods manufacturer that wants to save itself from tariffs and looks to the EU

31 July 2025 EU – US Trade: Tariffs and the economic situation are forcing brands to challenge prices The uncertainty surrounding US tariffs isn’t over. Is the 15% tariff agreed between the US and the EU an additional one or not? And are luxury brands capable of raising prices further to offset the tariffs? Weak… Continue reading EU – US Trade: Tariffs and the economic situation are forcing brands to challenge prices

30 July 2025 ISA New Gen Materials reports…….US Military EXCITING NEWS! After the Better Outfitting Our Troops (BOOTs) Act was introduced to the US government during late June, it was recently voted through by the House Armed Services Committee (HASC), taking the first step in the legislative process. ISA Mississippi TanTec joined hands with the… Continue reading ISA New Gen Materials reports…….US Military

30 July 2025 Leather needs protecting in the sun too! Leather Uk advises on LinkedIn: Leather will fade in UV light, so it’s best to keep your leather out of direct sunlight. You could just close the curtains and stay inside! If you can’t do that, you can:   Use a leather care product that… Continue reading Leather needs protecting in the sun too!

30 July 2025 Qualities of Leather – Why Leather is Unbeatable – Motorcyclist Review while Sliding Entertaining yet educational video from which many of us can learn.   This is why Moto GP competitors are clad in what they call “racing leathers”, Nothing vegan here!

29 July 2025 AQC renews commitment and launches leather campaign Leather watch-strap manufacturers’ association AQC (Association pour l’Assurance Qualité des Fabricants de Bracelets Cuir) has renewed its commitment to promoting safe and sustainable leather bracelets, with all five General Assembly delegates confirming support for its vision, mission and values. By Leatherbiz. The organisation’s strategy continues… Continue reading AQC renews commitment and launches leather campaign

29 July 2025 Automotive – Raw Materials Traceability At Bridge of Weir Leather, quality begins at the source. Our leather is crafted from hides that are by-products of the UK and Irish meat industry with 54% sourced directly from Scotland. This localised supply chain enables us to provide full traceability, zero-deforestation assurances, and the exceptional… Continue reading Automotive – Raw Materials Traceability

29 July 2025 Southeast Asia – Stellar Performance from Vietnam’s Leather and Footwear By: Leather Insiders Vietnam’s National Statistics Office reports that during the first half of 2025, the country’s leather and footwear industry had a more than 10% increase in exports. Handbags and associated goods brought in around $2.2 billion, up 11.6%, while footwear… Continue reading Southeast Asia – Stellar Performance from Vietnam’s Leather and Footwear

28 July 2025 One4Leather on the Methane Question and Leather There’s an old saying: “Count what counts.” As livestock emissions come under pressure, are we measuring the impact in the right way? Mike Redwood’s recent article in International Leather Maker raises a critical point: if we continue to use outdated metrics to assess methane emissions,… Continue reading One4Leather on the Methane Question and Leather

28 July 2025 Leather and Longevity – Longevity is the New Luxury Is it leather? Writes on LinkedIn: The most sustainable bag is the one you don’t have to replace! In a world obsessed with what’s next, we’ve lost touch with the beauty of what lasts. Today, we’re encouraged to buy for the moment. A… Continue reading Leather and Longevity – Longevity is the New Luxury

28 July 2025 Assocalzaturifici celebrates 80th anniversary The Italian footwear sector is marking three anniversaries this year: the 40th anniversary of testing company CIMAC, the 80th anniversary of manufacturers association Assocalzaturifici and the 100th edition of trade show Micam. By Leatherbiz. During the celebrations for the association’s 80th anniversary, its president, Giovanna Ceolini, said: “In… Continue reading Assocalzaturifici celebrates 80th anniversary

25 July 2025 Technology – Data specialists step in Technology companies that have been down the traceability path before with the seafood sector have now launched an initiative for leather. By Leatherbiz on LinkedIn. An initiative called Better Food Future has become part of the global effort to increase transparency in the leather and beef… Continue reading Technology – Data specialists step in

25 July 2025 LWG Gold for Gmelich + Söhne GmbH We achieve LWG Gold status! Following our successful initial certification with Silver in 2023, we have now completed the LWG recertification for 2025 with Gold status. This result confirms that we meet the highest standards of the Leather Working Group in all relevant areas—from environmental… Continue reading LWG Gold for Gmelich + Söhne GmbH

25 July 2025 Leatherbiz Market Intelligence – China’s raw material purchases explained Our latest Market Intelligence newsletter went live on July 22. By Leatherbiz. In this issue, we report some potentially positive news from the industry in China. There are plenty of challenges for leather manufacturers there, not least because of trade tensions. In spite… Continue reading Leatherbiz Market Intelligence – China’s raw material purchases explained

24 July 2025 Materials go on display at LVMH Métiers d’Art Leather featured prominently at a special exhibition in Paris on July 8-9. By Leatherbiz. LVMH Métiers d’Art, a specialist part of the luxury group that it founded in 2015 to help secure access to high-end leather and other raw materials, opened the doors of… Continue reading Materials go on display at LVMH Métiers d’Art

24 July 2025 One4Leather – Automotive: Getting the Balance Right: Why Methane Matters There’s an old saying: “Count what counts.” As livestock emissions come under pressure, are we measuring the impact in the right way? Mike Redwood’s recent article in International Leather Maker raises a critical point: if we continue to use outdated metrics to… Continue reading One4Leather – Automotive: Getting the Balance Right: Why Methane Matters

24 July 2025 Pangea made comments on automotive leather As new synthetic leather options enter the market, here at Pangea, we know real leather continues to rise above. Genuine leather remains the number one automotive interior choice for a reason! While offering lasting durability, comfort and a luxury appearance, it’s also made from natural resources,… Continue reading Pangea made comments on automotive leather

23 July 2025 ATC Participates at 2025 IULTCS Congress in Lyon ATC Tannery Chemicals is proud to participate in the XXXVIII IULTCS Congress, which will be held in Lyon from September 8 to 11, 2025, under the theme “Beyond leather tradition, innovation and sustainability.”   This international event will bring together the global community of… Continue reading ATC Participates at 2025 IULTCS Congress in Lyon

23 July 2025 Criminality – Theft of the fine leather vault: Bottega Veneta attacked Theft from Bottega Veneta ‘s leather vault. The robbery, planned down to the smallest detail, was carried out during the night between Thursday, July 17th and today, Friday, July 18th, at the Malo production site of Manifattura Veneta Pelletterie, a wholly… Continue reading Criminality – Theft of the fine leather vault: Bottega Veneta attacked

23 July 2025 If You Don’t Read the Label, You Might Be Wearing a Lie Is it Leather? Writes on LinkedIn: Let’s get one thing straight: just because a tag says “eco-friendly” doesn’t mean it is. In today’s retail landscape, greenwashing is a marketing strategy that promotes lies and deception – not a promise to… Continue reading If You Don’t Read the Label, You Might Be Wearing a Lie

22 July 2025 The Future of Cattle in the US – Hobbs Magaret writes on LinkedIn Picture by Johann Zietsman This bull is not what the cattle industry wants, but it’s what the cattle industry needs if it doesn’t want to crash in the long run. Cattle industry leaders are in the same place Boeing… Continue reading The Future of Cattle in the US – Hobbs Magaret writes on LinkedIn

22 July 2025 PrimeAsia unveils new sustainability strategy Leather manufacturer PrimeAsia has launched a new long-term sustainability framework, “Consciously Crafted”, in its 2024 sustainability report. By Leatherbiz. The strategy, structured around four pillars of operational excellence, circularity, climate action and social impact, marks a significant step forward in the company’s efforts to integrate sustainability across… Continue reading PrimeAsia unveils new sustainability strategy

22 July 2025 COTANCE comments on leather’s legal victory in Germany and Implications Victory for Consumers! German Court Bans Misleading Use of “Apple Leather”.   On July 4, 2025, the Higher Regional Court of Cologne ruled that plastic collars sold as “apple leather” must no longer mislead consumers. The case involved TV personality Martin Rütter’s… Continue reading COTANCE comments on leather’s legal victory in Germany and Implications

21 July 2025 Record breaking Birkin settles for new home in Japan Kim Kardashian? No. Lauren Sanchez Bezos? No. The Japanese company Valuence Japan won the first Hermès Birkin bag at auction for 8.6 million euros, beating the other eight bidders. Nss Magazine writes it. By La Conceria.   “It is a cultural heritage that… Continue reading Record breaking Birkin settles for new home in Japan

21 July 2025 Court success for leather industry in Germany German leather industry association VDL has won an important court case. It successfully challenged a company’s use of the term ‘leather’ in products made from synthetic material. By Leatherbiz. Under competition laws in Germany, some trade associations have the authority to issue legal warnings to… Continue reading Court success for leather industry in Germany

21 July 2025 History from Leather Naturally We have to credit Leather UK for sharing this brilliant story, shining a light on the incredible longevity of leather. The 5,000 strong shoe collection from the Magna Roman Fort on Hadrian’s Wall in the UK includes 2,000 year old tiny baby booties, elaborate leather summer sandals and… Continue reading History from Leather Naturally

18 July 2025 Q1 growth for Richemont Luxury group Richemont has reported revenues of €5.4 billion for the first quarter of its current business year, the period ending June 30, 2025. By Leatherbiz. This figure represents growth of 3% compared to the same quarter a year earlier. The group’s own stores, including those of its… Continue reading Q1 growth for Richemont

18 July 2025 Zero Waste Yak Hide Tanning Francis Tsang writes on LinkedIn: Farmers raise livestock for its meat or milk with the hide or skin as a by-product that has to be used or thrown away as waste. At ZANG YAK®, we specialize in tanning Tibetan Yak hair-on-hide using a zero-waste approach. Our mission… Continue reading Zero Waste Yak Hide Tanning

18 July 2025 Real Materials. Real Impact. Is it leather? Tells some truths on LinkedIn! In a world full of imitations, REAL still matters. We live in a time of copy-and-paste everything. Fast fashion. Fast content. Fast materials. Everything is accelerated – except the truth. We’re surrounded by products that look the part but don’t… Continue reading Real Materials. Real Impact.

16 July 2025 Automotive: UK – Goodwood Festival of Speed Scotland’s Bridege of Weir Leather reports on LinkedIn: We’re reflecting on another sensational Goodwood Festival of Speed which was as impressive as ever and shone a spotlight on all forms of motorsport, from rallying to motorbikes. Seeing so many of our customers at the event… Continue reading Automotive: UK – Goodwood Festival of Speed

16 July 2025 Meet the Maker Leather Naturally writes on LinkedIn: this month, our ‘Meet The Maker’ interview series shines a spotlight on Sara Battiston, the Co-Founder and Director of THE LONDON LEATHER WORKSHOP, an artisan studio and training centre dedicated to bag-making and leather crafts. “Our clients vary widely, both in terms of products… Continue reading Meet the Maker

16 July 2025 Events: The Tannery of Pompeii – an invitation from UNIC, Italian Tanneries A unique restoration project brings back to life the largest Roman tannery ever discovered — the result of 15 years of collaboration between UNIC – Italian Tanneries and the Archaeological Park of Pompeii.   Book Presentation – New York  … Continue reading Events: The Tannery of Pompeii – an invitation from UNIC, Italian Tanneries

15 July 2025 TFL Group – Leather Finishing Rodolfo Ampuero, Global Head of Fatliquors at TFL, says: One of my favorite TFL products is MAGNOPAL® Pure B multipurpose & versatile biobased retanning polymer leather articles obtained result with excellent fullness, softness and tightness it can replace fossil-based acrylic retanning agents as well as syntans, thus… Continue reading TFL Group – Leather Finishing

15 July 2025 Sadesa’s Facility in Vietnam Our Vietnam plant is LEED Gold certified — a globally recognized symbol of sustainability and environmental leadership. This important certification reflects our ongoing commitment to creating cleaner, more efficient, and more responsible production environments. What does LEED Gold mean? Lower energy and water usage Reduced carbon emissions Improved… Continue reading Sadesa’s Facility in Vietnam

15 July 2025 Vietnam – Tan Tec’s Green Energy For us at ISA, the idea of sustainability is achieved through responsible manufacturing practices. Take for example the solar panels we have installed on Saigon TanTec’s roof, we make use of renewable solar thermal energy to replace diesel fuel, which is traditionally used to heat up… Continue reading Vietnam – Tan Tec’s Green Energy

14 July 2025 Environment – Impact of Biogenic Materials still Overestimated Dr Kerry Senior, Director of Leather UK and Secretary of the International Council of Tanners, writes on LinkedIn: Fascinating video from the International Wool Textile Organisation conference in Lille this year, in which Dr Paul Swan describes the failings in current LCA systems when… Continue reading Environment – Impact of Biogenic Materials still Overestimated

14 July 2025 Birkin bag goes for millions Almost exactly two years after the death of singer and film star Jane Birkin, the original Birkin bag has sold at auction in Paris. By Leatherbiz. Hermès made the first Birkin bag in the 1980s after a famous chance encounter. Jane Birkin was on the same flight… Continue reading Birkin bag goes for millions

14 July 2025 Automotive – Exploding Myths about Automotive Leather One4Leather writes on LinkedIn: Have you ever noticed how quickly myths about automotive leather become accepted as “facts”? We often hear claims about leather’s environmental impact or its role in sustainability, but how many of these are genuinely true? Our recent deep dive, “8 False… Continue reading Automotive – Exploding Myths about Automotive Leather

11 July 2025 Real Leather, Stay Different – 2025 Design Competition Deadline There are just five days left to enter the Real Leather. Stay Different. International Student Design Competition, which for the first time will be visiting Taipei – Asia’s hub of fashion, culture and cutting-edge creativity – for its finals event. Mike Adler, celebrity… Continue reading Real Leather, Stay Different – 2025 Design Competition Deadline

11 July 2025 French tanneries post €424 million turnover Alliance France Cuir has published a series of detailed reports on the leather industry’s performance in France in 2024. By Leatherbiz. Thirty-three leather manufacturers operated in France in 2024, employing a total of 1,493. Alliance France Cuir said just under half of the companies that make… Continue reading French tanneries post €424 million turnover

11 July 2025 Natuzzi reports decline in first quarter 2025 results Italian furniture brand Natuzzi reported first quarter 2025 revenue of €78.1 million, down 7.6% from €84.5 million in the same period last year. By ILM. The decline was attributed to weaker consumer confidence and ongoing geopolitical and economic pressures. Gross margin fell to 34.1%… Continue reading Natuzzi reports decline in first quarter 2025 results

10 July 2025 Tariffs – August deadline for trade deals or April tariffs ‘boomerang back’ Image shows container ships on the Saigon River, near Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam. The US government sent formal letters to trading partners around the world on July 7 warning them to accelerate the process of agreeing a trade… Continue reading Tariffs – August deadline for trade deals or April tariffs ‘boomerang back’

10 July 2025 Leather Finishes Paul Foulkes Arellano writes on LinkedIn: A significant portion of cow leather, roughly 40%, is corrected grain leather. This means the outer layer of the hide has been sanded down to minimize imperfections and then treated with synthetic pigments and a polyurethane finish to create a more uniform appearance. This… Continue reading Leather Finishes

10 July 2025 US Military Boot Production ISA Mississippi TanTec, our LWG Gold-rated tannery in the United States, recently joined the American Combat Boot Alliance (ACBA) in support of a bipartisan coalition of Congressional leaders who introduced the Better Outfitting Our Troops (BOOTs) Act in the House and Senate in late June. At ISA Mississippi… Continue reading US Military Boot Production

9 July 2025 Uruguay – Market Conditions force Operations at Paycueros to be Reduced Paycueros broke the silence: “finishing leather in Uruguay is no longer a possibility”. The company assured that the Paysandú plant does not have the conditions today to sustain the level of activity it used to have. After more than two months… Continue reading Uruguay – Market Conditions force Operations at Paycueros to be Reduced

9 July 2025 A Plastic-Free Cocktail in One Hand… and a Plastic Handbag in the Other? I must have missed something… Is it leather? Writes on LinkedIn: We’ve banned plastic straws. We’re phasing out disposable coffee cups. Single-use bags are becoming social faux pas. All in the name of sustainability – and rightfully so. But… Continue reading A Plastic-Free Cocktail in One Hand… and a Plastic Handbag in the Other?

9 July 2025 22nd UITIC Footwear Congress to focus on AI in Shanghai Shanghai will host the 22nd UITIC International Technical Footwear Congress from August 31 to September 3, 2025, with a focus on artificial intelligence (AI). By ILM. Organised by the International Union of Shoe Industry Technicians (UITIC) and the China Leather Industry Association… Continue reading 22nd UITIC Footwear Congress to focus on AI in Shanghai

8 July 2025 The UITIC Congress is a platform for information exchange and cooperation in the footwear industry. Li Yuzhong, Chairman of the China Leather Industry Association (CLIA) announced that the upcoming UITIC Congress will take place in China from 31 August to 3 September. All China Leather Exhibition (ACLE) will also be held in… Continue reading The UITIC Congress is a platform for information exchange and cooperation in the footwear industry.

8 July 2025 Analysing LVMH’s Margins and Profitability Danny Younis asks on LinkedIn: Which of the luxury giant LVMH’s products are the most profitable? To find out, we look at Operating Profit (EBIT) margins: The cleanest & most trusted indicator of profitability It’s the go-to metric for serious analysts & investors – why? Because it… Continue reading Analysing LVMH’s Margins and Profitability

8 July 2025 No move away from ‘full luxury’, Burberry insists Burberry chief executive, Joshua Schulman, is preparing to celebrate a year in the role; he relocated to London from New York to take up the top job at Burberry on July 17 last year. By Leatherbiz. In an interview with the Wall Street Journal… Continue reading No move away from ‘full luxury’, Burberry insists

7 July 2025 Automotive – Leather Craftsmanship Brusarosco writes on LinkedIn: Leading leather innovation since 1834, craftsmanship for us is not just a skill, but a heritage renewed every day through experience and passion that guides every stage of our work. Each piece of leather we create results from a delicate balance of technique, attention… Continue reading Automotive – Leather Craftsmanship

7 July 2025 Leather Naturally announces changes to Supervisory Council Industry promotional campaign Leather Naturally has announced three updates to its Supervisory Council, the organisation’s governing body. By ILM. Arnaud Backbier and Thomas Yu have each been elected to their first terms on the Council, succeeding outgoing members David Peters and Chad Jensen, respectively. James… Continue reading Leather Naturally announces changes to Supervisory Council

7 July 2025 One4Leather: Why leather has been unfairly maligned – and how the latest Higg MSI data sets the record straight For years, leather has often been at the centre of heated environmental debates, too frequently portrayed as a harmful villain in our pursuit of sustainability. But what if the real issue isn’t the… Continue reading One 4 Leather: Why leather has been unfairly maligned – and how the latest Higg MSI data sets the record straight

4 July 2025 London Climate Week and Leather Leather naturally writes on LinkedIn: London Climate Action Week returned to London this year with more impact and an even more expansive series of events taking place across the capital. The matter of traditional materials, future materials, farming and agricultural systems led many of the panel conversations.… Continue reading London Climate Week and Leather

4 July 2025 Real Leather Stay Different (RLSD) Working on your RLSD entry? Alongside your 50% cowhide leather, consider cashmere – a natural material valued for its lightweight warmth, softness and lasting quality. From linings and trims to knitwear details and layered softness, cashmere adds comfort, elegance and a premium feel to your design –… Continue reading Real Leather Stay Different (RLSD)

4 July 2025 China: ZANG YAK® LEATHER – Responsible. Regenerative. Real. Francis Tsang writes on LinkedIn: ZANG YAK® Leather represents more than just hides; it advocates for a revolutionary approach that prioritizes regeneration over extraction. We are committed to transparency and traceability regarding our high-altitude materials, showing that sustainability is not just a marketing slogan,… Continue reading China: ZANG YAK® LEATHER – Responsible. Regenerative. Real.

3 July 2025 Vietnamese Footwear Industry Eyes Domestic Growth Industry leaders at a conference on trade promotion held with Vietnam’s overseas trade offices in May 2025, emphasised the country’s growing strength in the global footwear sector, while noting emerging domestic opportunities. By ILM.   Phan Thi Thanh Xuân, Vice President and General Secretary of the… Continue reading Vietnamese Footwear Industry Eyes Domestic Growth

3 July 2025 Automotive – Bridge of Weir supplies leather for bespoke Callum Mini Scotland-based leather maker Bridge of Weir has supplied its leather for the first exclusive Wood and Pickett Mini by Callum, recently delivered to model and car enthusiast David Gandy. By ILM. The car, a collaboration between design house Callum and bespoke… Continue reading Automotive – Bridge of Weir supplies leather for bespoke Callum Mini

3 July 2025 Sadesa reports….. As seen on @leather_naturally Today we celebrate World Environment Day. Led by the @unitednations Environment Programme (UNEP) since 1973, World Environment Day has grown into the largest global platform for environmental awareness and action. This year, the focus is about ending global plastic pollution with a call to action campaign… Continue reading Sadesa reports….. As seen on @leather_naturally

3 July 2025 Italy – UNIC General Assembly – REPORT: EUDR, EU relations and prospects for Italian tanning The economic situation, which is complex and requires tanners not only to resort to their own “foresight”, but to update it to new demands. The Anti-Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), which until it is corrected at European level (by… Continue reading Italy – UNIC General Assembly – REPORT: EUDR, EU relations and prospects for Italian tanning

2 July 2025 Leathergoods – ‘Turnaround mode’ Mulberry seeks £20m injection UK-based leathergoods brand Mulberry has said it expects to report revenues of £120 million for the 12 months ending March 29, 2025. By Leatherbiz. It provided the figure in an update in June, saying that it remains subject to audit. If confirmed, this result… Continue reading Leathergoods – ‘Turnaround mode’ Mulberry seeks £20m injection

2 July 2025 Montblanc’s debut in clothing is a triumph of leather For the first time in 119 years, Montblanc makes its debut in apparel. The collection, which consists of 16 looks (all in leather) designed by Creative Director Marco Tomasetta, was shown during the Milan Men’s Fashion Week (June 2025). By La Conceria. Montblanc’s… Continue reading Montblanc’s debut in clothing is a triumph of leather

2 July 2025 United Nations – Climate Plans take shape Momentum for ambitious national climate plans (NDCs) continues to build.New plans have been submitted to UN Climate Change this week – and more are expected soon. Let’s remember: strong climate plans are investment blueprints for stronger growth and more jobs, less pollution and better health,… Continue reading United Nations – Climate Plans take shape

30 June 2025 Automotive – One4Leather: The Aston Martin Vanquish Volante returns with timeless leather craft at its core Some cars don’t just drive; they stir the soul. The recently unveiled Aston Martin Vanquish Volante is one of those rare models. Combining stunning performance with superb craftsmanship, it embodies everything you’d expect from a brand… Continue reading Automotive – One4Leather: The Aston Martin Vanquish Volante returns with timeless leather craft at its core

30 June 2025 Chief Executive of FILK objects to Desserto criticism The lead author of FILK’s study comparing the performance properties of leather with those of alternative materials has objected to comments that criticise the objectivity of the research. By Leatherbiz. Professor Michael Meyer, chief executive and scientific director of research and testing body FILK,… Continue reading Chief Executive of FILK objects to Desserto criticism

30 June 2025 COTANCE reports from Brussels June 24, 2025 European Commission, Brussels: COTANCE Secretary General Gustavo Gonzalez-Quijano met Ms Valentina Schaumburger, Member of the Cabinet of Commissioner Stéphane Séjourné, Executive Vice-President for Prosperity and Industrial Strategy of the European Commission. The meeting focused on key regulatory issues impacting the competitiveness of the European leather… Continue reading COTANCE reports from Brussels

27 June 2025 UNIC GENERAL ASSEMBLY – ITALIAN TANNERIES Tuesday, July 1, 2025, 10:30 a.m.   Chamber of Commerce – Conference Hall, Via Meravigli 9, 20123 Milan   PROGRAM 10:30 a.m. – Private partApproval of the 2024 final budget 11 a.m. – Public partPresident’s ReportLeather Leaders: Il ManifestoItaly and the current geopolitical situation – Speech… Continue reading UNIC GENERAL ASSEMBLY – ITALIAN TANNERIES

27 June 2025 Leatherbiz Market Intelligence: AI could help the leather sector connect with consumers Part of an industry archive that The Leathersellers is working to catalogue. The latest edition of the Leatherbiz Market Intelligence newsletter went live on June 24. By Leatherbiz. This time, the report suggests that artificial intelligence (AI) could be a… Continue reading Leatherbiz Market Intelligence: AI could help the leather sector connect with consumers