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Fashion circularity: Coach, Ellen MacArthur Foundation and the Circular Economy Institute share insights into unlocking the next stages of circularity and moving from supply chains to ‘supply networks’. Rachel Lawler reports.

The long trek back to “normal”: As global uncertainties continue to disrupt the footwear supply chain, industry insiders assess the ongoing challenges faced by the leather and hide sector while cautiously eyeing signs of potential recovery ahead. Vera Dordick reports.

View from the US: The latest price and production data from the US.

Extracts from the Hidenet World Reports: News stories, market trends, data and prices from leather markets across the globe.

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Is it leather?: That’s the big question for any savvy shopper these days, but it’s also the name of a website helping to change the narrative on leather. Vera Dordick reports.

View from the US: The latest price and production data from the US.

Extracts from the Hidenet World Reports: News stories, market trends, data and prices from leather markets across the globe.

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The untold story of repair in the age of sustainability: As consumers pivot towards sustainability, the leather repair industry emerges as an unsung hero, championing circularity and giving luxury goods a second life. Vera Dordick reports.

View from the US: The latest price and production data from the US.

Extracts from the Hidenet World Reports: A snapshot of news stories, market trends, data and prices from leather markets across the globe.

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Global reach: As a by-product, cattle hides have a complicated relationship between supply and demand. Of course, demand is the primary driver for sales, but supply plays an important role too. The issue is that there are many moving parts on the supply side and change can be slow to happen. Vera Dordick reports on the state of leather markets around the world.

View from the US: Vera Dordick leads the team of global Hidenet reporters in gathering the latest price and production data for the industry.

Extracts from the Hidenet World Reports: Industry members from tanneries and major brands in footwear, upholstery and accessories source worldwide and need information on global leather prices. These reports offer a serious competitive advantage, with knowledge about hides and skins prices from dozens of key countries.

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Waste not, want not: Vera Dordick speaks to experts from Sustainable Composites and Recircled to find out about a new life for leather waste.

View from the US: Vera Dordick leads the team of global Hidenet reporters in gathering the latest price and production data for the industry.

Extracts from the Hidenet World Reports: Industry members from tanneries and major brands in footwear, upholstery and accessories source worldwide and need information on global leather prices. These reports offer a serious competitive advantage, with knowledge about hides and skins prices from dozens of key countries.

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A new hybrid approach: In the debate over leather and alternative materials, the choice has always been presented as either/or. The two sectors may initially seem at loggerheads, but as Vera Dordick discovers, could the future of the leather market be a hybrid one?

View from the US: Vera Dordick leads the team of global Hidenet reporters in gathering the latest price and production data. Here, she presents her take from the states.

Extracts from the Hidenet World Reports: Industry members from tanneries and major brands in footwear, upholstery and accessories source worldwide and need information on global leather prices. These reports offer a serious competitive advantage, with knowledge about hides and skins prices from dozens of key countries.

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In the clear: Cattle by-products – including hides – have always gone to the gelatine market. As leather demand declined, lately, some have asked whether this industry could become a greater outlet for hides, especially those of low quality. Vera Dordick investigates.

View from the US: Vera Dordick leads the team of global Hidenet reporters in gathering the latest price and production data. Here, she presents her take from the states.

Extracts from the Hidenet World Reports: Industry members from tanneries and major brands in footwear, upholstery and accessories source worldwide and need information on global leather prices. These reports offer a serious competitive advantage, with knowledge about hides and skins prices from dozens of key countries.

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In the courts of California: A decades-old law in a single US state could be taking on global significance for the leather industry. The legislation concerns exposure to harmful chemicals, and recent lawsuits have taken aim at leather goods and the chromium VI they might contain. VeraDordick, reports.

Return to the office: How to fit back into leather shoes: If you’ve been spending a lot of time at home in ugg boots, not doing so much exercise and stacking on the coronakilos over the past few years or so, you may have noticed something strange going on with your feet. They may not fit back into leather shoes, according to Caroline Robinson, associate professor podiatry, Charles Sturt University.

View from the US: Vera Dordick leads the team of global Hidenet reporters in gathering the latest price and production data. Here, she presents her take from the states.

Extracts from the Hidenet World Reports: Industry members from tanneries and major brands in footwear, upholstery and accessories source worldwide and need information on global leather prices. These reports offer a serious competitive advantage, with knowledge about hides and skins prices from dozens of key countries.

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The never-ending story: In an ever-growing field of leather look-a-likes, it is becoming increasingly important to differentiate genuine leather. Vera Dordick reports on how regenerative agriculture may be the answer.

View from the US: Vera Dordick leads the team of global Hidenet reporters in gathering the latest price and production data. Here, she presents her take from the states.

Extracts from the Hidenet World Reports: Industry members from tanneries and major brands in footwear, upholstery and accessories source worldwide and need information on global leather prices. These reports offer a serious competitive advantage, with knowledge about hides and skins prices from dozens of key countries.

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Better together?: Alternative material start-ups are disrupting the marketplaces in which leather has traditionally been the mainstay. But can we get along? Vera Dordick reports.

View from the US: Vera Dordick leads the team of global Hidenet reporters in gathering the latest price and production data. Here, she presents her take from the states.

Extracts from the Hidenet World Reports: Industry members from tanneries and major brands in footwear, upholstery and accessories source worldwide and need information on global leather prices. These reports offer a serious competitive advantage, with knowledge about hides and skins prices from dozens of key countries.

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This is not a solo project: The leather industry has been focused on sustainability for many years, but individual brands and tanners have often undertaken their own strategies to improve their social and environmental impact. Deborah Taylor, managing director of the Sustainably Leather Foundation, and ZDHC Southern Europe regional director Elisa Gavazza tell Jim Banks why now is the time for collaborative action.

View from the US: Vera Dordick leads the team of global Hidenet reporters in gathering the latest price and production data. Here, she presents her take from the states.

Extracts from the Hidenet World Reports: Industry members from tanneries and major brands in footwear, upholstery and accessories source worldwide and need information on global leather prices. These reports offer a serious competitive advantage, with knowledge about hides and skins prices from dozens of key countries.

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India eyes a bigger role in the global industry: With a huge capacity for leather production and a fast-growing consumer market, India is already a major player in the global industry and its importance is only set to grow further in the years ahead. Jim Banks looks at the factors driving that growth and assesses just how crucial a role it could play in the future.

View from the US: Vera Dordick leads the team of global Hidenet reporters in gathering the latest price and production data. Here, she presents her take from the states.

Extracts from the Hidenet World Reports: Industry members from tanneries and major brands in footwear, upholstery and accessories source worldwide and need information on global leather prices. These reports offer a serious competitive advantage, with knowledge about hides and skins prices from dozens of key countries.

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News & numbers: Essential headlines and vital statistics from the leather industry.

In the cut: Precision, efficiency and quality are the keywords at every stage of the leather production process, but when it comes to cutting equipment, they are paramount.

View from the US: The latest market report figures from across the Atlantic to assess the state of the hide sector.

Extracts from the Hidenet World Reports: An insight into trading prices, and fluctuations on hides and skins from across the globe.

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News & numbers: Essential headlines and vital statistics from the leather industry.

Italian leather: pushing through the pandemic: Jim Banks looks at what makes Italy the home of fine leather and how it hopes to emerge from a challenging year stronger than ever.

View from the US: Jim Banks looks at the latest market report figures from across the Atlantic to assess the state of the hide sector.

Extracts from the Hidenet World Reports: An insight into trading prices, and fluctuations on hides and skins from across the globe.

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Better tanning through chemistry: Jim Banks speaks to key suppliers about innovations that can fend off the challenge from alternative materials.

View from the US: Vera Dordick of Hidenet looks at the latest market report figures from across the Atlantic to assess the state of the hide sector.

Water, waste and a wish for the future: Jim Banks looks at the industry’s progress in reducing water consumption and better managing wastewater.

Extracts from the Hidenet World Reports: An insight into trading prices, and fluctuations on hides and skins from across the globe.

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News & numbers: Essential headlines and vital statistics from the leather industry.

View from the US: Vera Dordick of Hidenet looks at the latest market report figures from across the Atlantic to assess the state of the hide sector.

Extracts from the Hidenet World Reports: An insight into trading prices, and fluctuations on hides and skins from across the globe.

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Exotic leathers: Why fashion products are more sustainable than some research suggests: By Patrick Aust, research associate, Department of Zoology, University of Oxford; Daniel Natusch, honorary research fellow, Macquarie University; and Rick Shine, professor in evolutionary biology, Macquarie University.

View from the US: Vera Dordick of Hidenet looks at the latest market report figures from across the Atlantic to assess the state of the hide sector.

Extracts from the Hidenet World Reports: An insight into trading prices, and fluctuations on hides and skins from across the globe.

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Natural solution: Eser Eke Bayramoglu, Anıl Özçelik, Mehmet Çetin and Erkan Eren of the Department of Leather Engineering at Ege University in Turkey investigate the use of oyster mushrooms as a way to reduce the amount of chromium in leather waste.

View from the US: Vera Dordick of Hidenet looks at the latest market report figures from across the Atlantic to assess the state of the hide sector.

Hidenet World Reports: An insight into trading prices, and fluctuations on hides and skins from across the globe.

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Country report. Sabrina Auler talks to some of the industry’s key stakeholders about the state of Brazil’s leather manufacturing landscape today.

The use of chromium salts is an extremely popular and widespread method of tanning as it produces leather that is stable at high temperatures and more resistant to grain cracking than vegetable tanned leather. However, when disposed of, chromium-tanned leather can pollute surface water as the chemicals leak from the material. This edited article discusses the leaching behaviour of leather in water and the conditions that impact this phenomenon.

With the pandemic showing signs of abating by the end of the year as vaccination programmes continue apace, it is time to start taking a cautious look forward at one of the leather industry’s most significant trade shows, Simac Tanning Tech. The international event is due to take place in Milan in September and acts as a credible signpost for the latest developments in machinery technology.

Vera Dordick of Hidenet looks at the latest market report figures from across the Atlantic to assess the state of the hide sector.

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Matthew Rogerson takes a closer look at Chromium VI legislation and how it impacts the leather industry.

With support from Hidenet, the global outlook for leather is viewed country by country with latest developments from across the world.

The Italian Leather Research Institute examine the problem of yellowing and how to protect high end leather from being affected.

Vera Dordick of Hidenet examines the latest market report figures from the US covering the Hide sector.

In this abridged report from the New Zealand Shoe and Leather Research Association the focus is on how biotechnology can make the sector more sustainable by reducing emissions from Volatile Organic Compounds.

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The insider - Sam Setter looks at the advantages of leather over its alternatives, and what needs to be done to support the industry’s growth.

World outlook - Matthew Rogerson talks to Stephen Sothmann, president of the Leather and Hide Council of America, about the impact of coronavirus on leather prices and consumer behaviour, and what the future might look like for the industry.

Manufacturing - In the late 1990s, tanneries became more aware of their impact on the local environment, adopting a more socially responsible approach to production. Sabrina Auler explains how this approach offers a good deal for both manufacturers and communities.

Chemicals - A novel class of bio-based polymers have been developed by Life Biopol, an EU-funded project that aims to replace traditional retanning and fat-liquoring products in order to increase the safety of leather and shift to a more circular economy. This edited version of a white paper led by Lorenzo Taddei discusses the project’s findings.

Raw materials - Vera Dordick of Hidenet looks at the latest market report figures from across the Atlantic to assess the state of the hide sector.

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In this issue, Sam Setter launches his latest Limeblast as he tackles negativity in the industry and the media, and examines the limbo we find ourselves in as we wait for the need to socially distance to end.

Getting back to work Sabrina Auler reports on why the industry believes clear manufacturing and fair trading are still essential despite the downturn brought on by the pandemic.

Jim Banks speaks to the president of Assomac, Gabriella Marchioni Bocca, about how the industry can adapt to the increasing use of digital technology, and how sustainability can be about more than resource efficiency and the environment.

Leather international presents edited extracts from ‘A novel preservation-cum-unhairing process for sustainable leather manufacturing: an unconventional approach in leather making’ by J Raghava Rao, M Sathish, R Aravindhan and P Thanikaivelan.

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Driving change: Assomac president Gabriella Marchioni Bocca on how greater adoption of digital technologies can help deliver new forms and understandings of sustainability.

Back to work: Tannery leaders outline why the challenging operating environment wrought by Covid-19 only strengthens the argument for investing in newer, cleaner processes.

Complaints department: In typically outspoken style, Sam Setter assesses how the industry is responding to the global pandemic - and calls for more stringent defence against negative and unfair criticisms.

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Always be prepared: The impact of the coronavirus has been felt globally and across all sectors. Matthew Rogerson talks with Steve Sothmann, President of the Leather and Hide Council of America, to hear more about the state of the industry and thoughts of what impact COVID-19 is having on Leather.

ESG - Take Two: The conclusion of our two part interview with Stahl, discussing the latest results of their ESG report.

Identity crisis: Leather International presents edited extracts from "False positives II - chlorophenols identification towards hplcdad-Ms analysis compared to ISO 17070:2015 technique" by Gustavo Adrián Defeo , Miria Borgheresi , Dr. Manila De Cicco, Dr. Bianca Carpignani.

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Addressing Fine Hair: Fine hair is the biggest seasonal challenge for bovine leather production in the United States. The origin, timing and severity of the fine hair problem can be unpredictable and vary from year to year. Dr. Luis A. Zugnoa and Andreas Rhein investigate the causes and solutions to this key issue.

ESG - Take One: Part one of a two part special interview with Michael Costello and Ingrid Weijer of Stahl, with the opening section covering the new reporting and its importance as an investment strategic tool, with latest regulatory developments and environmental steps included. The second part will conclude the interview.

View from the US: The latest in how the US market is reacting to the impact of coronavirus on the market, which had just been beginning a recovery from a long run of diminished demand and declining prices. Though prices have probably bottomed out, it will take some time for them to recover.

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In this issue, Sam Setter tackles the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on trade fairs and travel across the globe in his latest Limeblast.

Plus, SM Grace, ML Patchett and GE Norris from the School of Fundamental Sciences at Massey University in New Zealand discuss the hunt for red ‘microba’ – specifically, the identification of microorganisms involved in ‘red heat’ contamination of salt-cured hides.

We distil the CNC’s exhaustive statistical analysis of the global leather industry, including the fact that global leather sector exports were worth €212 billion, and what it all means in today’s climate.

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In this issue, CTC’s Thierry Poncet and Cedric Vigier discuss the four steps needed for increased traceability of hides and skins. And with sustainability front of mind, Leather International presents highlights from the New Zealand Leather and Shoe Research Association about the role of biotechnology in environment-friendly leather production. Also, after a hiatus, Sam Setter returns with another Limeblast. This comeback comes complete as a one-two punch as he sets his sights on the Ethiopian Government and the Italian Carabinieri.

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Leather chemicals manufacturer Stahl is set to launch a new beamhouse and tanning portfolio. Known as Stahl BeTan, it further underlines the group’s ‘responsible chemistry’ ethos, as beamhouse global technical manager David Sabaté explains to Ross Davies. Also, Jinwei Zhang and Wuyong Chen, leather technicians from Sichuan University, and Carmen Gaidau from Bucharest’s INCDTP) discuss chrome tanning and leather properties under microwave irradiation. Back in the EU, the performance of the European calf market, particularly in Italy and France, constitutes a welcome piece of good news for the beleaguered international tanning industry. Andrea Guolo crunches the numbers, and analyses key investment and acquisition trends.

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In this issue, the acquisition of the iconic Rino Mastrotto Group by private equity fund Nb Renaissance Partners represents a welcome vote of confidence in the Italian leather industry during the current downturn, with raw and semi-finished leathers declining internationally. Andrea Guolo reports in his regular comment piece.

The major industries supplying materials and services to the global fashion industry gathered once again at Paris-Nord Villepinte for Première Vision Paris to discuss market challenges and opportunities, and award exceptional achievement in the leather sector.

Also, Leather International takes an insight into trading prices and fluctuations on hides and skins from across the globe to examine market performance. Plus: Vera Dordick of Hidenet looks at the latest market report figures from across the Atlantic to assess the state of the hide sector.

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In this month’s issue, Dr Kheng-Lim Goh, associate professor of mechanical engineering and director of research, Newcastle University in Singapore, who delivered the Heidemann Lecture at the last IULTCS Congress in Dresden in June, discusses recent findings on the role of collagen in regulating the mechanical stability of biological materials.

After a strong show in New York in July, Lineapelle returns to its ancestral home in Italy in early October for the European autumn edition to showcase the winter 2020–21 collections and advancements in leather technology. Fieramilano Rho, outside Milan’s city centre, will once again be the venue as thousands flock to the three-day event.

And, following the World Leather Congress in New York in July, Leather International caught up with Steve Sothmann, president of the US Hide, Skin and Leather Association, a joint organiser of the congress, to discuss some of the pressing concerns ahead of ACLE.

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In this month’s issue: getting the message across that leather is a desirable, sustainable material requires industry-wide collaboration. Andrea Guolo reports on the identity crisis in the sector. 

At the recent XXXV IULTCS Congress in Dresden, Germany, Álvaro Flores, consultor at the Centre for the Brazilian Tanning Industry, provided an overview of the Brazilian Leather Certification of Sustainability.

Also, Première Vision New York is moving to Manhattan’s garment district in January 2020, and leather will remain an integral part of the event as the industry adapts to market fluctuations, trends and geopolitical uncertainty. And, we sit down with Vera Dordick, editor-in-chief of Hidenet, to discuss key issues and events impacting the industry, including promoting leather as a sustainable fashion material.

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Multinationals Nike and Adidas continue to produce knockout revenues, but smaller sports footwear brands are beginning to punch above their weight as overall production in Europe declines. Andrea Guolo reports.

Plus, Jakov Buljan and Ivan Král of UNIDO present excerpts from the new second edition of the UN Industrial Development Organisation's 'Framework for Sustainable Leather Manufacture'.

And also, Around 7,000 visitors descended upon the Pro Magno Events Center in the Brazilian city of São Paulo on 4–5 June for the Inspiramais design exhibition, where 180 companies presented 1,000 products and the Buyer Project generated $10.9 million in international business deals.

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In this month¹s issue: Jin Li-qiang and associates from Biosk Chemicals discuss the results of a study into recycling technology for unhairing-liming and tanning waste water.

And, Companies such as Stahl are showing a commitment to the Paris Agreement on climate change, and the UN's Sustainable Development Goals are also high on the agenda. We speak to the company's director of sustainability, Michael Costello.

The 40th edition of Première Vision New York on 16-17 July promises to be one of the best as the world's top fashion industry professionals and brands descend on the Big Apple to showcase their fall and winter 2020 lines. Plus, Cotance secretary general Gustavo Gonzalez Quijano addresses concerns surrounding trivalent chromium Cr(III), the mineral used in the tanning of around 85-90% of all leathers.

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Companies producing hides must pay close attention to customers' changing desires and the latest technologies that can make production more efficient. For a big integrated company like Tyson Foods, strategy is key. Senior VP and GM, beef enterprise, Shane Miller, discusses where hides fit in its future.

Held for the first time in the historic city of Dresden in Germany, the 2019 IULTCS Congress will be framed with a multi-faceted social programme to promote environmental educationwithin the leather industry and &D is forging a more sustainable future for production.

And, Jakov Buljan, KV Emmanuel, M Viswanathan, M Bosnia and I Král present detailed analysis of flow and energy aspects of zero liquid discharge (ZLD) technology in the treatment of tannery effluents in the state of Tamil Nadu in southern India.

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In this issue, At the Lectra Motor Show in March, the leather and automotive industries came together to examine the future trajectory of car design. The development of self-driving cars may appear to marginalise leather as an interior material, but the ongoing need for luxury, personalisation and durability ensure that the future outlook is bright, as Leather International reports.

And, A team from Biosk, including Richard Daniels, Jiasheng Su, Falei Zhang and Zhuangdou Zhang, examine ways to eliminate effluent from liming, acid and salt pickling, and chromium tanning processes through high-volume wet-blue manufacturing.

More than 800 exhibitors showcased their products and services at this year’s APLF Leather & Materials+ fair, which took place on 13–15 March. Sustainability in all its forms was top of the agenda at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. Plus: price pressures, a global automotive industry in transition and changing consumer behaviour all constitute major challenges for the leather industry. Andrea Guolo looks at how political and economic trends around the world are impacting the sector.

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The 35th APLF Leather and Materials+ trade show, held at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, is a chance for China to reinvent itself as a sustainable industry powerhouse against a backdrop of US trade disputes and increased competition from India.

The Indonesian Leather Fair on 4–6 April at Jakarta International Expo will showcase the latest leather and footwear industry technology, and promises to underline the South East Asian nation's status as a long-term force in the international market.

Also, Joseph Hoefler, Ibrahim Eryazici, Bradley Hageman, Edwin Nungesser and Richard Rosen from Dow Leather Solutions explain the effect of binder selection on topcoat property retention after accelerated weathering. And: Leather remains in demand, despite fashion trends, negative media commentary and new alternative materials. Andrea Guolo reports from Micam and Mipel in Milan, and looks at how leather can compete in the sustainable markets of the future.

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Despite economic challenges, Brazil is one of the world’s leading leather producers and exporters. The biannual Inspiramais trade show in São Paulo plays a key role in showcasing Brazilian leather design. Abi Millar paid a visit to Inspiramais 2020_I, as well as the Couromoda footwear trade show, to find out how the sector is responding to upcoming market trends.

Also in this month’s issue, Held in Chelsea in the heart of New York’s contemporary art district, Lineapelle New York is a must-see showcase for producers and designers of luxury and contemporary leather items. Leather International previews the first of this year’s two Lineapelle events in the Big Apple.

Plus: The theme of Simac Tanning Tech and Lineapelle 2019 at Fiera Milano Rho on 20–22 February is ‘tomorrow is now’. Leather International looks forward to the annual industry pilgrimage to Milan, highlighting some of the key exhibitors paving the way for the future. And, more than 450 companies, including at least 150 from overseas, will descend on the city of Chennai for this year’s India International Leather Fair, the country’s premier leather trade event.

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In this issue: The number of shoes made every year is staggering, so what becomes of the estimated 23 billion used pairs of shoes produced annually? Thierry Poncet, head of leather and sustainable development departments, and Régis Léty, sustainable development consultant, at CTC shed light on the issue.

In October, EU leather industry body Cotance hosted its final tannery healthy workplaces conference in Brussels. The event served to highlight that, while safety is a key priority for partners across the value chain, levels of understanding around how to implement due diligence are still not where they should be. Ross Davies reports.

Also, Andre Guolo looks into Spain’s position and influence in Europe’s tannery stakes. And, Dirick von Behr and Sjoerd van Driesten of Smit & zoon undertake a study to examine the various methods to determine the optimised exhaustion of fatliquors to minimise ETP inflow.

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In the latest issue, The All China Leather Exhibition took place in late August, and while a positive spin can always be found, the overall mood in the industry is one of caution, as prices continue to fall. Andrea Guolo looks at what's taken a hit, what's managed to sustain, and why.

Speaking in June at the 7th Freiberg Leather Days conference, Florian Döppert, the head of wet-end screening at TFL Ledertechnik, used his presentation to examine the industry's choices when it comes to retanning systems for chrome-tanned and chrome-free leather. As he tells Ross Davies, we need to think outside the box.

Also, While the trading floor was busy as usual at the most recent ACLE, concerns remain over a slowdown of domestic output and the impact of the ongoing US-China trade war. Plus, the next CSCB Sustainability Forum is coming hot on the heels of a successful All China Leather Exhibition for the Brazilian industry. Leather International looks at the overarching themes of this year's forum in Novo Hamburgo.

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The New Zealand Leather and Shoe Research Association, and Invermay Agricultural Centre measured the heritability of leather traits in sheep and deer skins, producing a riveting case study. Leather International presents the group's findings.

President Trump recently announced his intension to impose further tariffs on Chinese imports. This news has only added more fuel to the fire, as President Xi Jinping will, of course, respond in kind. Stephen Sothmann, president of the US Hide, Skin and Leather Association, assesses the state of the trade dispute and how it will impact the leather industry.

Also in this issue, ACLE will take centre stage at the Shanghai New International Expo Centre on 29–31 August. As China's only leather fair, the event is the place to be. Highlights will include the Innovation Lab and the first Technological Innovation Trend Forum. Plus: Scores of private equity funds have been steadily investing in traditional and specialised tanneries in recent years. Andrea Guolo gauges the response of leading tanners to the phenomenon, with a mind to ascertain where the economic boost could take the industry.

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The allure of crocodile and alligator skins for high-end fashion items never seems to decline. Over the years, the leather industry has played an increasingly important role in conservation, working alongside biologists and researchers to get the numbers up. Jim Banks examines the success of these efforts for farmed animals and the sustainable advantages of using wild skins.

Following UNIC's next annual meeting on 15 June, and ASSOMAC's annual meeting at the end of May, we review data and statistics of the Italian leather industry for 2017, and look at how the sector is poised to build on notable growth, despite being in the midst of political turmoil.

Also in this issue: Andrea Guolo focuses on the Cotance General Assembly, which took place on 29 May. Andreas Kindermann, CEO of Austria's Wollsdorf Leder tannery, talks to him regarding his new position as president and the pressing responsibilities it comes with. Plus, ahead of the 7th Freiberg Leather Days, Julian Osgood of ATC Tannery Chemicals discusses his keynote on reducing chrome in tanning.

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An industry that has been criticised for chemical pollution, environmental damage and poor working conditions has made great strides in becoming cleaner and more efficient. One company that is helping to set higher standards is Brazil’s JBS Couros. Fernando Bellese, head of marketing and sustainability at the company, explains how the industry has cleaned up its act.

Leather International made its way to the south of France in April for Lectra’s annual automotive leather conference, held at the company’s Cestas-Bordeaux campus. With a growing global market for car seat covers and the rise of more advanced vehicles, optimism persists that demand for leather interiors is as strong as ever.

Also in this issue: This month, the UITIC Congress returned to Porto for the first time in more than two decades. With the Portuguese footwear industry posting record high exports in 2017, there was a distinct air of confidence in the host city, as Ross Davies reports. Plus, an ageing workforce and widely publicised, controversial concerns over leather production means that many companies and institutions in the industry are suffering from a skills shortage. Technical experts and business leaders explain what they are doing to address the issue of recruitment.

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The 34th edition of APLF was held at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, and drew 15,000 visitors from 93 countries and regions despite a struggling market. Leather International was on the ground, and takes a look at the highlights.

Brazilian leather fair Fimec offers visitors and exhibitors alike the chance to exchange information about new technologies, close new business deals and see first-hand new industry developments. Its 2018 edition, held again in Novo Hamburgo, was the best fair in years according to its organisers.

Also in this issue: The chemicals market stands as a major recipient of the expanding business of leather. Leather International examines recent industry data from Global Market Insights that details future developments for the expanding chemicals market. Plus, Gustavo Gonzalez-Quijano, secretary general at Cotance, talks to Leather International .

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In March, esteemed leather trade show APLF returns to give industry insiders the low-down on major trends, as well as opportunities to network and partake in leading educational seminars. Guests will also be able to source from every area of the leather supply chain, including design, tanning and dying. Leather International previews the event and presents a guide to some of its exhibitors.

Led by the vision of Gucci head designer Alessandro Michele, many luxury fashion houses are moving away from full leather products to create bags that incorporate non-traditional fabrics and pop-culture prints. Andrea Guolo examines what the trend means for suppliers.

Also in this issue: At the Forum on Due diligence in the garment and footwear sector in January, Cotance and industriAll European Trade Union shared their views on health and safety in tanneries with the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development. Plus, Fiera Milano was once again the place to be for Simac Tanning Tech and Lineapelle Milano on 20–22 February. Leather International rounds-up the highlights.

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The leather industry is under pressure as increasing concern for animal welfare and the environment make the material less attractive to consumers. Agha Saiddain, president of the Environmental Society of Pakistan Tanners Association, considers how the industry might regain its lustre.

A government-supported clampdown on cattle slaughter and controversial new tax reforms are changing the way the Indian leather industry operates. Ross Davies reports.

Also in this issue: Andrea Guolo speaks to experts about why Italian manufacturers are thriving in China, and how the German furniture market is recovering. Plus, Creativity and sustainability were at the heart of Première Vision New York on 16–17 January. Leather International braved the freezing conditions to take the temperature of the global fashion industry.

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Biofabricated leather-like materials are currently the main disrupter of the leather industry because of how versatile they are in form, function and properties. Modern Meadow is leading the way as a partner to traditional tanning. Leather International speaks to chief technology officer Dave Williamson.

A new trade relationship between the US and China could mean big business for beef. Jenny Southan asks Su Chaoying, president of the China Leather Industry Association, and Stephen Sothmann, president of the US Hide, Skin and Leather Association, about the likely implications for leather.

Also in this issue: With footfall up by 2% on the February edition, the latest Lineapelle, held on 4–6 October, was heralded as a great success by organisers and attendees. Leather International reports from Milan. Plus, Stahl has topped up its product portfolio and expanded its workforce with the acquisition of BASF Leather Chemicals. CEO Huub van Beijeren tells Ross Davies why the deal is a natural fit for both companies.

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Leather has long been an integral part of the interior design of high-end cars, but Tesla and Jaguar Land Rover recently announced that they would be moving away from this traditional material. Jim Banks considers the reasons behind this shift in attitude, the response from customers, and the reaction of the leather industry to what could be a turning point in one of its most lucrative markets.

This year’s ACLE took place at the Shanghai New International Expo Centre between 30 August and 1 September, one day after the World Leather Congress, which was held nearby. Leather International reports from China.

Also in this issue: Formaldehyde in leather products is a problem for tanners. While traditional techniques yield mixed results to reducing its presence, new research, explained to Ross Davies by Sara Cuadros of the Spanish National Research Council, suggests dyes might be the way forward.

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The thermal behaviour of bovine skin and wet-blue in varying humidity can be measured by differential scanning calorimetry. Michaela Schroepfer and Michael Meyer from the Forschungsinstitut für Leder und Kunststoffbahnen (FILK) in Freiberg, Germany, discuss the process.

The 20th edition of the All China Leather Exhibition begins on 30 August, with the third World Leather Congress as the warm-up act. Leather International looks forward to the vent in Shanghai.

Also in this issue: Stephen Sothmann, president of the US Hide, Skin and Leather Association, asks how the global leather industry is faring under President Trump, and Dr Sengodagounder Rajamani, chairman of the Asian International Union of Environment Commission, explains how Asia’s use of special membrane systems has improved water recovery in tanneries.

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As the drive towards automation progresses, the potential rewards for upgrading production machinery have never been greater. Leather International speaks to industry experts about how they are spending their money in order to remain competitive.

The leather industry is rapidly evolving into a vital part of Ethiopia's economy. Wondu Legesse of the Leather Industry Development Institute and CSIR-Central Leather Research Institute’s Dr B Chandrasekaran describe how their organisations formed a unique partnership to help drive development in the Horn of Africa.

Also in this issue: A review of the two big New York leather shows: Première Vision and Lineapelle, which took place on 18–19 July at Pier 94 and the Metropolitan Pavillion in Manhattan respectively. Plus, Artéria was established in São Paulo in 2013 to create high-quality, unique and sustainable handbags. Leather International catches up with designer and co-founder Elene Veguin.

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The upholstered-furniture manufacturing industry is in an unprecedented state of transformation. Lectra and the Centre for Industrial Studies examine how the market is changing in China.

The programme for the sixth Freiberg Leather Days conference covered some of the most pressing issues facing leather production, and the technology and chemistry to help solve them. Ross Davies shares some of the highlights from the two-day event.

Also in this issue: Brands and manufacturers have been pushed to develop and adopt 'cleaner', safer and more sustainable chemicals and processes. Leather International looks at companies that have stepped up to the challenge this year. Plus, Smit & zoon CEO Hans van Haarst discusses the future of leather while marketing and sales manager Luis Baptista talks about the company's new zeolite-based product.

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Leather has always had to compete with synthetic substitutes, but a new process that enables the creation of bespoke-grown materials is unlike anything seen before. Leather International speaks to Modern Meadow's CTO, David Williamson, about how the market for these alternatives is on the rise.

Sustainability is shaping how businesses manage their operations and how customers perceive products. Stahl's Xavier Rofols discusses the company's move to cut hazardous chemicals from its supply chain.

Also in this issue: Leather International looks forward to getting a preview of the autumn/winter trends at Première Vision and Lineapelle in New York, and Dr Swarna V Kanth and B Kanimozhi of the CSIR-Central Leather Research Institute explain how training is helping ordinary people in India acquire the skills they need to thrive in the country's leather industry.

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Sabrina Frontini, director of Italy's Institute of Quality Certification for the leather sector (ICEC), explains how leather's only specialist certification body is working with the industry towards a more transparent, socially responsible and sustainable future.

The Confindustria Moda, which was announced in March, aims to bring Italy's textile, clothing and fashion trade associations under a single, unified body that will be able to represent their shared interests at home and abroad. Andrea Guolo reports on the advantages the new federation will bring.

Also in this issue: Leading suppliers, OEMs and automotive firms gathered at Lectra's headquarters outside Bordeaux, and Leather International was on hand to find out how the leather sector is evolving in the Industry 4.0 age. Plus, Leather International considers the state of the market in the resilient South American nation of Brazil.

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Leatherworld Middle East celebrates the latest developments in an increasingly buoyant region. Leather International looks ahead to this year's show, which takes place between 30 April and 2 May 2017 at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre, UAE.

A radical new olive-leaf-based tanning technique offers all the benefits of conventional methods at a fraction of the cost to the environment. Dr Heinz-Peter Germann, head of the Lederinstitut Gerberschule Reutlingen in Germany, explains how the potentially revolutionary process could make leather a truly sustainable industry.

Also in this issue: APLF Leather & Materials+ is still the place to be seen for anyone involved in hides. Leather International was at Hong Kong’s Convention and Exhibition Centre in late March to discover how the industry is rising to the challenges ahead. Plus, we look at how Lanxess, in partnership with Invite research institute and Heller-Leder tannery, has developed new technology that enables leftover leather to be recycled.

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APLF Leather & Materials+ opens its doors at Hong Kong's Convention and Exhibition Centre on 29 March. The comprehensive three-day event, which expects to attract more than 1,100 exhibitors from across the globe, aims to be the complete event for the worldwide leather industry.

Rosario Morabito meets Sandrine Philippe, the Paris-based designer who’s been pushing the boundaries of leather processing for over 15 years. Here’s how a reputation for beautifully crafted couture pieces was made.

Also in this issue: To celebrate 150 years of Leather International's tireless pursuit of the very latest across the entire supply chain, we've dug out some historic pages, an old Limeblast, and invited some former leading lights to share some of their favourite memories. Plus, the Central Leather Research Institute's Malathy Jawahar discusses intelligent, real-time leather defect detection systems.

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The India International Leather Fair is a barometer for Indian leather. This year's event in February was an opportunity for the host nation to bolster exports while encouraging inward investment. Leather International considers how it reflected the current economic climate.

The biggest international names in leather flocked to Lineapelle's New York show on 1-2 February. The first edition of the biannual event focused on forthcoming trends in high-end fashion and retail as the industry looked towards summer 2018, and considered how advances may be made in sustainability throughout the supply chain.

Also in this issue: Rod James reports on the decision by animal rights organisation PETA to buy a single share in LVMH, Hidenet.com publisher Don Ohsman considers how the automotive leather sector can thrive in a petrol-free future, and Dietrich Tegtmeyer, head of the IULTCS Research Commission, explores some of the most promising alternatives to traditional tanning methods.

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Worldwide economic issues, combined with rising raw materials costs and political uncertainty, made for a challenging year for European leather. Andrea Guolo canvasses opinion from industry leaders, and looks ahead to 2017.

A number of new hoops have popped up for the US leather industry to jump through, in what has been an unpredictable year. Stephen Sothmann, president of the US Hide, Skin and Leather Association, explains the state of play, and how new challenges must be met head-on.

Also in this issue: Material+ is being styled as part of a 'revamp' for the APLF leather trade exhibition in Hong Kong, which will be launched in March 2017. Trendsetting project manager Anne Liberati tells Barry Mansfield about her expectations of the industry. Plus, Leather International speaks to Agha Saiddain, marketing director of Royal Leather Industries and former chairman of the Pakistan Tanners Association.

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Netherlands-based chemical specialist Stahl recently acquired the exclusive rights to distribute Proviera Biotech’s Probiotics for Leather, a biodegradable, natural alternative to the usual beamhouse chemicals. Leather Internationalconsiders the potential impact of this on the industry, and assesses the broader progress being made towards increased sustainability.

Leather Internationalheaded to the French capital for the Première Vision Paris show on September 13–15 to get the inside track on what has been an occasionally turbulent year for European leather. Visitor numbers may have been down overall, but it’s been a solid year for France’s export business.

Also in this issue: Karl Flowers, technical director of Authenticae and associate lecturer at the University of Northampton’s Institute of Leather Technology, explains how chelators offer an effective weapon against unwanted stains. Plus, Leather Internationalreports from September’s Lineapelle show in Milan.

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A red X likely marks the spot in the latter part of the August calendar for most of those within leather as the All China Leather Exhibition in Shanghai takes place from 31 August to 2 September 2016. As always, the fair will provide a vast array of leather components, goods and accessories, as well as technology, machinery, and business services for guests and exhibitors to gauge the current status of the industry.

Karl Flowers, technical director of Authenticae, has been hearing an increasing number of complaints from tanners about the staining they are seeing after basification of chromium-tanned leathers. In this article, he asks if processing practice is leading to this or is it a characteristic of the chemicals that are currently used?

Also in this issue: Andrea Guolo looks at the shift in the time frame between two of European leather's biggest fairs and what it means for those attending one, or both, of the exhibits, and Leather International presents an extract from the research paper 'Improving The Properties of Wet-White Tanned Leather Characteristics By Using Collagen-Based Biopolymer'.

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Leather International presents extracts from 'Detecting Looseness in cattle hides using NMR Relaxometry' by Geoff Holmes and Sujay Prabakar of the New Zealand Leather and Shoe Research Association (LASRA); and Thijs van Stiphout and Petrik Galvosas of the MacDiarmid Institute for Advanced Materials and Nanotechnology, School of Chemical and Physical Sciences, Victoria University of Wellington.

As Première Vision Paris (PVP) approaches on 13–15 September, Leather International sits down with show manager Marc Brunel to reflect on Première Vision New York and all that it brought, and what Paris will have to offer.

Also in this issue: Karl Flowers, technical director of Authenticae, looks at why tanners should focus more on newer colour spaces and why tanneries should use the latest colour difference equations. Plus, all eyes are on how Lineapelle will use this year's momentum during the upcoming fair on 20-22 September at Milan's Milano Fiera Rho exhibition centre.

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The votes have been counted and, by a narrow margin, the UK has voted to leave the EU. Although the dust is far from settled and is likely to linger in the coming months, the shockwaves are already being felt throughout mainland Europe. Andrea Guolo looks at how Italy in particular is going to face the referendum headwinds.

The environmental impact of the footwear industry has raised much attention in recent years and more sustainable production is urgently required. In this article, one such sustainability implementation tool for footwear factories created by SGS is introduced by Jane Jiang, Mike Song and Dr Andrew Hudson.

Also in this issue: Chief executive officer of Stahl Huub van Beijeren comments on the new leather chemicals the company is bringing to the supply chain, including Proviera Probiotics for Leather from Proviera Biotech; Dr Thomas Martin of GisChem discusses the structured digital exchange of safety data in the supply chain; and Anne Lama from the Institute for Creative Leather Technologies, The University of Northampton, investigates sustainability changes made within the leather industry in the past century.

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A few months after the final conference to discuss the future of European leather, a project initiated by the sector’s social partners, Cotance and IndustriAll European Trade Union, Leather International catches up with Gustavo Gonzalez-Quijano, Cotance secretary-general, to see how momentum is being maintained and what progress has been made so far.

Following on from the success of last year’s Freiberg Leather Days, this year’s event, held on 15–16 June in Freiberg and the fifth of its kind, once again offered a robust forum to exchange ideas and information on a number of topics between experts on the European tanning and leather industry.

Also in this issue: Olga Ballús, Ramón Palop, Llorenç Noguera and Ricardo Micó of the Tanning Laboratory, Cromogenia Units, look at the influence of an amphoteric retanning agent with regard to the properties of leather, and Hot on the heels of the Zero Discharge of Hazardous Chemicals campaign, Dr Andrew Hudson, global technical manager at SGS, talks to Christian Doherty about his efforts to improve the effectiveness and sustainability of the global leather supply chain.

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With car sales up across the board and expected to rise, especially those cars containing leather, demand in hides will invariably grow proportionately. Leather International asks Joachim Henkmann, director, global industry management, automotive leather, BASF, just what it is that makes automotive leather so appealing and where the most tangible developments are seen in the sector.

Former member of the Supreme Court of India Justice Kuldeep Singh once said that the crucial question is not whether developing countries can afford measures for the control of environmental pollution, but whether they can afford to neglect them. In a working paper on sustainability issues in leather and tannery industries in India, scholar Saurav Banerjee discusses the immediate action required by the country to strive for sustainability.

Also in this issue: As Milan's design week came to a close in April, Andrea Guolo reflected on what the acquisitions and activity mean for the sector going forward, and six industry experts investigate novel deep eutectic solvents for the purpose of the reduction of water usage in leather manufacturing.

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With his unique perspective on the global leather sector, Andrea Guolo talks to Alessandro Iliprandi, CEO tanning group Bonaudo, and Chiara Mastrotto, Gruppo Mastrotto's chairwoman, to get an insight into how the effects of the Eastern world's Chinese economic slowdown and Russian sanctions are redefining a new landscape in the Western leather industry.

Novo Hamburgo once again hosted the largest leather-footwear industry fair in Latin America and the second-largest in the world. As Fimec (International Fair of Leather, Chemical Products, Components and Accessories, Equipment and Machines for Footwear and Tanneries) celebrated its 40th edition, reaffirming its position as the fair that brings together the entire production chain in one place, Leather International reviews the event and the state of the Brazilian industry.

Also in this issue: Centre for the Brazilian Tanning Industry (CICB), and Brazilian Trade and Investment Promotion Agency (Apex-Brasil) present figures for the Brazilian leather industry in 2015 and perspectives for 2016, and China Leather Industry Association (CLIA) examines the overall status of China’s leather, fur, finished products and footwear industries in 2015.

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There is an impending sense that the industry needs a digital revolution to drive the efficiency, quality and time-savings required to meet the demands of car manufacturers. Leather International speaks to Roy Shurling, head of global business development for automotive leather at Lectra, about taking the industry digital.

As the industry gathers itself to meet at one of the year’s busiest events, APLF Hong Kong 2016, Leather International sits down with director Michael Duck to discuss the year’s highlights and fluctuations, and what this latest edition has in store for the industry.

Also in this issue: W2O Environment's Wolfram Scholz details the challenges of reducing sludge handling efforts and disposal costs, and Andrea Guolo talks to Giancarlo Dani, president of Gruppo Dani, and the president of the Arzignanese tanners, Bernardo Finco, to report on the impact of wet-white in the automotive sector.

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In its 32nd edition and its first foray into leather, Première Vision New York attracted a targeted group of buyers and exhibitors to blend in with fabrics, designs and accessories over two freezing days in January on the banks of the Hudson in Midtown Manhattan. Leather International sits down with show manager Marc Brunel to find out more.

Throughout 2015 and culminating in February 2016, Cotance hosted a series of four seminars under the banner Objective 2025. As the final Brussels seminar concluded the European tour, Leather International sums up what each event meant and how they come together to signal the path of the future.

Also in this issue: Addressing his talk at the recent XXXIII IULTCS Congress in Brazil, Dr S Rajamani, chairman of the Asian International Union of Environment (AIUE) Commission, details the recovery of water for reuse from tannery wastewater. Plus, with the slow progress of work and missed deadline to relocate Hazaribagh tanneries to Savar, Pinaki Roy examines the efforts to complete the central effluent treatment plant and more.

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As the seasons slip from one to another, trends can wax and wane with different moods and inspirations taking the essence of design in inspired new directions. With its finger firmly on the pulse of new upcoming trends, TFL is looking to the future with the visions for spring-summer 2017, and its 'Wearing' and 'Living' sections showcasing the different areas of vibrant life and style.

After the successful championing of the first event, Pakistan Mega Leather Show will return in 2016 on 27-29 January at the Lahore International Expo Centre as it seeks to attracts more visitors from across the globe and boost the domestic leather trade by encouraging deals across its modest halls.

Also in this issue: Leather International looks at how BASF is organising workshops to highlight how its products can go above and beyond new automotive sector regulations to complement a variety of leather finishes, and after the successful championing of the first event, we preview the next Pakistan Mega Leather Show on 27-29 January 2016 at the Lahore International Expo Centre.

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Leather International checks in at Stahl's latest unveiling - a state-of-the-art centre of excellence in the Netherlands - and Yashian Schauble, CEO, Ozasia/Globalhides, discusses the ramifications of renegotiating or reneging on contracts within the Chinese leather industry and the lessons to be learned.

Leather International was at ACLE to find out what the experts expect in the future, Milan hosted the second World Leather Congress on 8 September 2015, and Premiere Vision Leather Paris once again filled the halls at Parc des Expositions de Paris Nord Villepinte.

Also in this issue: Sam Setter looks beyond the reports to get to the heart of affairs in Sudan's leather industry; Ronaldo Fraga talks about working with what he considers some of the finest materials in a crazy, crazy world; and we report from the CITES 28th Animals Committee meeting.

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Ahead of the 2015 ACLE in Shanghai, Leather International speaks with China Leather Industry Association (CLIA) chairman Su Chao-ying about how the Chinese leather industry is performing, the market's appetite for luxury goods and how it's performing in comparison with previous years.

Under the banner, 'Walking Together to Tackle the Challenges in the Footwear and Leather Industry', experts in the field of leather and footwear production appeared at events in India, Indonesia, Vietnam and China in May 2015, for a seminar series for the footwear and leather industry tour of Asia. Leather International rounds-up of the event.

Also in this issue: ACLE organiser Michael Duck discusses the state of the Chinese leather industry in general and this year's event and Leather International looks at how the culture and heritage of leather is being celebrated in the heart of Northampton in the company of Rachel Garwood, director of the University of Northampton.