Tuscan tanners celebrate 50th anniversary
The Tuscan tanners’ association has celebrated its 50th anniversary at its annual assembly.
The Tuscan leather district houses 400 companies with 5,600 employees. With production value of €1.4 billion, it is Italy's second-largest tanning district.
However, the Italian leather sector overall recorded a 5.8% decline in production 2025, reaching approximately €4 billion, according to UNIC, the Italian tanners’ association. The Tuscan district also recorded a 5% decline, and exports fell by 5.4%.
Association president Riccardo Bandini said: "The difficulties experienced by the sector are caused by multiple factors, such as variables related to geopolitical instability and changes in consumer habits. However, the district has demonstrated a significant capacity for adaptation over time, supported by the organisation.”
Thanks to the contribution of PO.TE.CO. in research and training activities, the Tuscan tanning district has established itself as a model of sustainable development and a point of reference for the manufacturing and training sectors, he added.
The association was founded in Santa Croce sull'Arno in 1976 and counts 150 tanneries as members. They are located in the municipalities of Santa Croce sull'Arno and Castelfranco di Sotto in the province of Pisa, and Fucecchio in the province of Florence.
