WHY HAVE TANNERIES DISAPPEARED IN THIS COUNTRY?
The vast knowledge of bark tanning is disappearing. Imported materials and chemicals pre-1930, as well as faster production demands during war time, contributed to a huge decline. According to Heritage Crafts, “most of the machinery required for small scale tanneries that existed on farms was destroyed in the 1970s” and fewer businesses produced the machinery in the UK. Also, with few engineers knowing how to repair aged machinery and difficulty in sourcing original parts, tanneries are now having to design and build their own equipment.
Andrew believes tanneries have largely disappeared as leather is not used as much. “Tractors have replaced working horses who would have had leather harnesses, bridles, and saddles and demand has reduced significantly,” he explains.
“The impact of environmental legislation has also made tanning very expensive to undertake and hides are expensive to buy in.”
Despite the downturn in the industry, Andrew’s tannery remains firmly in operation and is living proof that artisan leather can thrive here. Their world-renowned leather is currently used for shoes, equestrian equipment, fashion and interiors by a range of clients including distinguished shoemakers and top craftsmen. “We export 40% of our leather mostly to Japan and the USA for shoes, waist belts and the luxury leather goods trade and sell 60% to the UK market,” Andrew says. “We like to keep our repeat customers happy and are always looking to expand markets.”
With Andrew’s son and daughter, Ed and Lizzie – the sixth generation – following in his footsteps, the future is looking good.