We source rawhides locally from responsible suppliers with 100% traceability, as certified by Leather Working Group.
Great leather starts with high quality, ethically sourced raw materials and a commitment to only source our rawhides from ethically responsible suppliers we trust. From the finest herds that graze on local pastures, typically we source over 98% of our rawhides locally from the UK and Ireland, all of which are a by-product of the beef and dairy industries.
There’s no risk of deforestation as a result of using any Bridge of Weir leather. And, when it comes to reducing our carbon footprint from added transportation and emissions, there’s no hidden hide miles.
High standards of welfare.
Our rawhides are a by-product of the local food industry and are sourced from one of the highest-rated territories in the Animal Protection Index, which are able to demonstrate high standards of animal welfare, including the Five Freedoms set of principles of animal husbandry:
- Freedom from hunger and thirst
Ready access to water and a diet to maintain health and vigour - Freedom from discomfort
Providing an appropriate environment - Freedom from pain, injury and disease
Prevention or rapid diagnosis and treatment - Freedom to express normal behaviour
Providing sufficient space and proper facilities - Freedom from fear and distress
Ensuring conditions and treatment, avoiding mental suffering
The finest leathers from
the finest herds.
Traceability matters
Our hides can be traced back to the farm they came from and are all by-products from predominantly the UK beef and dairy industry. This forms part of our wider commitment to sustainability as a circular manufacturer, lowering our impact on the environment and helping our customers to do the same whenever they choose Bridge of Weir leather.
Sustainable tanning
We adopt both a traditional tanning approach alongside a series of innovative and progressive sustainable processes and solutions. We have engineered a series of sustainable tanning options for our customers, including the introduction of a 100% natural tanning solution and the tanning of hides in modern, energy efficient drums that save 82% of energy and 42% of water per hide.
ESG Report
Our annual Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Report summarises our activities, commitments and innovation agenda. All supporting and driving us towards a more sustainable future.
Responsible sourcing and sustainable tanning are part of our effort under Goal 15 of the UN Global Compact: Life on land. Learn more about our rawhides and responsible sourcing in our report.