New opportunities in the auto industry
The leather automotive upholstery sector has had its problems over the last few years but it would appear that the car industry is now opening up new opportunities for leather manufacturers in its attempt to secure its share of the seemingly insatiable consumer demand for high-end leather accessories.
Trading on their reputations for quality and brand recognition, many of the better known luxury car manufacturers are now launching new accessories ranges, including leather goods and garments, which are creating new business for leather companies around the world.
In the UK Bentley has just unveiled its new luxury autumn/winter 2007 collection which includes note books, an envelope folio and small travel photo frame hand-crafted by British leather goods manufacturer Ettinger and hand-stitched leather gloves made by Dents, the cross-stitching on which even replicates that found in Bentley’s luxury car interiors.
Meanwhile, Indian garment manufacturer Star Leather has reportedly secured a deal to supply lifestyle accessories including suede and leather jackets to Mercedes, and is close to signing a contract with BMW and Audi for similar items.
