All articles by Blatha
Blatha
Natural progression
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 – rather than a rival – to traditional tanning. Leather International speaks to chief technology officer Dave Williamson about the company’s vision.
Scaling the heights: exotic leathers
New York-based Pan American Leathers has been championing responsibly farmed exotic leathers since the 1930s. CEO Abram Mendal explains the family-run company’s philosophy.
Clarity in the cloud
Leather International headed to France under some early autumn sunshine to attend the Première Vision show in September. Despite losing some traffic to Lineapelle, the event provided valuable insight into leather’s role within the European fashion industry.
Better times ahead: Lineapelle Milan
The next Lineapelle, in Milan on 4–6 October, looks to build on the work done at the previous edition, which offered a glimpse of a more buoyant future. Leather International prepares to head to Italy at a critical juncture for the European leather industry.
The drive away from leather
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 reports on their reasons, 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.
A healthier tan
Formaldehyde in leather products is a problem for tanners. While traditional techniques yield mixed results to reduce its presence, new research, explained to Ross Davies by Sara Cuadros of the Spanish National Research Council, suggests dyes might be the way forward.
Don Ohsman’s view from the US
After dropping by as much as 10% – as noted in Leather International’s August issue – US steer prices tried…
Two shows, one city
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.
Business as usual: Milan’s Micam
Arguably the most important show for Europe’s footwear industry reflected a general mood of optimism and resilience. Leather International headed to Italy for a look ahead to spring 2018 at Micam on 17–20 September.
Break down the barriers: Turkey’s tanning tariffs
Turkey’s protectionist tariffs, and others like them, are threatening to sabotage the global leather trade. Andrea Guolo reports on the challenges facing tanners in Europe, North America and Oceania.