Leading brands from the leather industry gather to inspire and connect with students

The Institute for Creative Leather Technologies (ICLT) held its fourth Industry Engagement Day​​ on 2 December providing students with the opportunity to network with key industrial representatives from the leather industry and learn more about the variety of careers available.

Among those present at the event were local shoe manufacturer Church’s Shoes, whose speaker Simon Hill explained how the family business has been in the shoemaking industry since 1873. He also explained how Church’s are one of the top three best-selling companies for its Italian owner, Prada.

Other companies involved in the event all gathered in the library to offer some expert advice to current students who are considering a career in the leather industry. The companies in attendance included Burberry, Rolls Royce, Cheaneys, CHEMTAN, STAHL Chemicals, ECCO leather, Pittards, Scottish Leather Group and BLC Leather Technology Centre .

Rachel Garwood, Director of the ICLT commented: “This year’s event was a tremendous success, attracting key members of the leather industry including tanners, product manufacturers, luxury brands, chemical companies and the local international museum of leather Craft. Such events are crucial for raising the awareness of potential careers available throughout the leather supply chain. This provides the opportunity for students to network with the commercial sector. Activities such as these help the University in maintaining our five year record for 100 per cent employability of leather graduates.”​​