Kolkata Chief Minister Takes Action to Address Pollution at Bantala Leather Complex

West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee has directed immediate action to improve waste management at Bantala Leather Complex (Sector VI), urging the tannery association to handover operations to KMDA. Kolkata Police was instructed to enforce a zero-tolerance policy against illegal activities.

Council of Leather Exports Sets $7 Billion Export Target for Indian Leather Industry by 2025-26

The Council of Leather Exports (CLE) aims to boost India's leather exports to USD 7 billion by 2025-26, positioning the country among the top five global exporters. Speaking at DILEX 2025, CLE Chairman R K Jalan highlighted the industry's resilience amid global challenges. Geopolitical shifts and demand for alternatives to China are creating new opportunities, with India well-placed to capitalize on them.

Schaffer Corporation Automotive Leather Revenue Drops 9% to $84 Million with $7.8 Million Profit in H1 2025

Schaffer Corporation’s Automotive Leather division saw a 9% revenue decline to $84.1 million, but net profit remained steady at $7.8 million in 1H25. The drop was due to delayed automotive program launches and increased production complexity, with improvements expected in 2H25. Key clients Jaguar Land Rover, Mercedes-Benz, and Volkswagen reported mixed market conditions.

DILEX 2025 Ends with 225 Indian Exhibitors and 200+ Foreign Buyers Reinforcing India’s ‘China Plus One’ Position

The Delhi International Leather Expo (DILEX) 2025 opened on Feb 20, attracting foreign buyers from 52 countries and reinforcing India's position as a key 'China Plus One' sourcing destination. With 225 exhibitors and 200+ international buyers, the event highlights India's growing global competitiveness.

Organized by the Council for Leather Exports (CLE), the expo includes a Reverse Buyer-Seller Meet (RBSM) to boost trade and collaboration.

Automotive Upholstery Maker Pecca Group Reports $14.18 Million Revenue with $3.47 Million Profit for Q2

Pecca Group Bhd posted a record net profit of RM15.33 million (USD 3.47 million) in Q2 FY2025, a 14.6% increase despite a 3.3% revenue dip to RM62.65 million (USD 14.18 million). The profit surge was driven by cost efficiency and a strong sales mix.

CEO Foo Ken Nee reaffirmed Pecca’s market leadership in automotive upholstery while expanding into aviation interior solutions and MRO services for future growth.

FOOTWEAR INDUSTRY NEWS

Steve Madden Acquires UK Luxury Footwear Brand Kurt Geiger in $360 Million Deal

Steve Madden is expanding globally with a $360 million all-cash acquisition of UK luxury brand Kurt Geiger. The deal strengthens its presence in the premium footwear segment and is expected to close in Q2 2025. Kurt Geiger reported $498M in revenue, while Steve Madden projects $2.25B for 2024. The company is also reevaluating its sourcing strategy amid potential U.S.-China trade shifts.

Will Bring Policies to Promote Manufacturing of Toys and Footwear Says Union Minister Piyush Goyal

Union Minister Piyush Goyal announced upcoming policies to strengthen footwear and toy manufacturing, aiming to make India a global leader in these sectors. Speaking at Invest Karnataka 2025, he also highlighted a 50% drop in toy imports and a 3.5x rise in exports over five years.

Tapestry Sells Stuart Weitzman to Caleres in a $105 Million Dollar Deal

Tapestry is selling Stuart Weitzman to Caleres in a $105 million cash deal, aiming to streamline its focus on Coach and Kate Spade. Despite a 5% sales increase, Stuart Weitzman saw a 15% decline, prompting the divestment.

For Caleres, this acquisition strengthens its women’s fashion footwear segment, with Stuart Weitzman set to be a key brand. The deal is expected to close by summer 2025, pending regulatory approvals.