Leather sourcing plays a crucial role in the fashion and footwear industries. As one of the oldest and most durable materials, leather is synonymous with luxury, quality, and sustainability. However, not all leather is the same — its characteristics vary depending on origin, tanning processes, and craftsmanship. For brands looking to produce premium shoes, bags, or garments, understanding where to source leather is key.
Here, based on our vast experience, we explore three of Europe’s leading destinations for high-quality leather sourcing: Turkey, Spain, and Portugal.
Leather in Turkey
Turkey is home to a thriving leather industry, particularly in regions such as Tuzla, Bursa, and Konya. Turkish leather is known for its traceability, as cowhide and lambskin often come from locally raised animals. This not only supports sustainable sourcing but also ensures strong supply chain transparency.
With a long heritage of leather craftsmanship and a skilled workforce, Turkey offers competitive pricing without compromising on quality — making it a strong option for luxury leather goods manufacturing.
Working with a local sourcing partner in Turkey can help brands access trusted tanneries, manage supplier relationships, and maintain strict quality control.
Leather in Spain
Spain is one of Europe’s leaders in leather manufacturing, especially for shoes, bags, and accessories. Regions like Alicante are globally recognized for their tanning traditions and artisanal expertise.
Spanish leather is typically cowhide, valued for its durability and flexibility. Local tanneries employ traditional methods like vegetable tanning as well as modern techniques such as chrome tanning, resulting in leather with distinctive softness, color, and shine.
For brands seeking premium footwear and leather accessories, Spain offers both tradition and innovation.
Leather in Portugal
Portugal is the second-largest leather producer in Europe, with a strong reputation for craftsmanship and premium materials. The northern region, particularly Alcanena — often called the “Land of Leather” — is famous for its tanneries and skilled artisans. Portuguese leather is known for its sheepskin, suede, and specialty finishes, which combine quality with unique styles. With centuries-old trade connections, Portugal provides a wide variety of leather sourcing options for international fashion and footwear brands.
Learn more about Portuguese footwear production here.
Why Source Leather from Turkey, Spain, and Portugal?
Leather remains one of the most sustainable materials in fashion — long-lasting, versatile, and recyclable. Turkey, Spain, and Portugal each bring distinct strengths to global leather sourcing, from traceability and ethical production to craftsmanship and premium materials.
For brands, choosing the right leather sourcing destination can make a difference in product quality, sustainability credentials, and overall brand reputation.
Learn more about sustainability in the footwear industry here