The Leather Working Group (LWG), which evaluates standards in the global leather supply chain, celebrated its 20th anniversary on September 23–25, 2025, with a special event held on the third day of Lineapelle and Simac Tanning Tech fairs. The celebration brought together some of the industry’s most influential leaders and organizations.
Luis Zugno, President of Leather Naturally, underlined that the joint dataset with the Higg Index reduced reported impacts of bovine hides by up to 60%. Long-standing LWG Board member Austin Davidsen highlighted the passion of members in protecting and improving the supply chain, stating, “Together, we achieved remarkable progress.”
Kim Sena (JBS Couros, IULTCS) emphasized the collaborative spirit within LWG, while Kerry Senior, Director of Leather UK, praised LWG’s contribution in tackling deforestation risks and enhancing traceability in the leather supply chain.
Founding member Andy Seaward recalled that tanneries initiated the creation of LWG, stressing the importance of audits. Ian Scher from PrimeAsia pointed out that the LWG Protocol brought measurable improvements in waste reduction, emissions control, and worker safety. Cotance also highlighted the group’s role in developing EU-aligned traceability standards.
Finally, Carl Flach (ISA Next-Gen Materials) noted that for two decades, LWG has provided transparency and accountability, strengthening trust and sustainability across the global leather sector.
