Who we are
Established in 2005, Leather Working Group (LWG) began as a collaborative initiative among leading footwear, apparel, and upholstery brands, alongside leather manufacturers. Founding members include adidas, Clarks, Ikea, Nike, Marks & Spencer, New Balance, Timberland, and PrimeAsia Leather Company.
Since then, LWG has grown into the world’s largest stakeholder organisation dedicated to the leather industry, representing over 2,000 stakeholders across 60+ countries.
Our diverse multi-stakeholder group includes:
- Brands & Retailers
- Leather Manufacturers
- Traders (raw, part-processed, and finished materials)
- Suppliers (e.g., chemical producers, machinery suppliers)
- Industry Groups, NGOs & Associations
- Finished Product Manufacturers
We are committed to delivering value to our stakeholders, with a mission to support and encourage the use of responsibly made leather as a sustainable material by inspiring, educating, and challenging those that produce and use leather. Through collaboration, convening, and standard setting, we are collectively creating a transparent leather value chain that achieves positive impacts aligned to the Sustainable Development Goals.
Our Mission
Leather Working Group (LWG) is a global non-profit, multi-stakeholder initiative committed to building a world where leather is sourced, produced, and used sustainably, protecting people and the planet.
Our Vision
LWG supports and encourages the use of responsibly made leather as a sustainable material by inspiring, educating, and challenging those that produce and use leather. Through collaboration, convening, and standard setting, we are collectively creating a transparent leather value chain that achieves positive impacts aligned to the Sustainable Development Goals.