On Tuesday 17th September we were delighted to be able to provide Leather UK members with free, privileged access to the new tannery at the University of Northampton - the day before it officially opened to the world!
Our day began with a fascinating tour of the new ICLT facility and included a rather gruesome look at the amazing magnification ability of their new microscopy suite. Following this was a live demonstration on perfecting the tricky box stitch by master craftsman Nigel Armitage, which was followed by lunch on the sunny rooftop terrace of the Learning Hub building. Our post-lunch seminars focused on trading overseas with a presentation by the DIT Independent Trade Advisor, and ended with a talk on using Twitter and Instagram.
The feedback from the event has been overwhelmingly positive, and many suggestions have been made as to how we can continue to support our members' business endeavours. Suggestions for our next event are a spring-time tour of both the J&E Sedgwick tannery and brass foundry in Walsall with Abbey England, so watch this space for details of that. We're also looking at our stand at the next Make It British Live! event in March and planning our invitation list for the next Leathersellers Industry Dinner in London on 11th June.
"Thoroughly enjoyed the day, with much useful information and particularly linking up with other makers ( we all said the same in conversation )and others associated to the business"
"I believe your cohesive approach is what the industry needs right now and has needed for some time, strengthening the links between the different sectors of the leather industry and bringing together all the knowledge, providing a wealth of opportunity. Direct accessibility to the speakers yesterday was also refreshing, giving a solid point of contact with the specialist is reassuring"
"To meet others involved in the Leather Industry felt very supportive and to learn up to date information, exchange contacts and thoughts between all. Also to see the wonderful premises and the effort and dedication that's gone into promoting and endorsing the trade along with the new students coming through, being thoroughly trained to succeed and add real fresh worth to the existing industry with an integral approach"
