Latest news with #Strathberry
Forbes
5 days ago
- Business
- Forbes
Strathberry Set To Surpass £100 Million Within The Next 3 Years
The East West Mini bag from Strathberry in vanilla Courtesy Strathberry Leanne Hundleby is in a fine mood. One half of the power duo behind the leather accessories company Strathberry, she sits, smiling — on a surprisingly sunny day in Edinburgh — before a stunning floral backdrop, a wallpaper of vibrant blooms and patterns. I admire it. 'That's funny,' she says. 'Guy' — her husband and Strathberry co-founder — 'hates it.' It is perhaps a rare, and humorous, disagreement in a partnership that has brought the brand from strength to strength since it launched 12 years ago. Hundleby has good cause to be upbeat. Strathberry is now on a trajectory to surpass £100 million revenue within the next 3 years, a lofty ambition at a time of unprecedented economic challenges and slumps in earnings. Well, not everywhere. Some brands are bucking the trend. Strathberry is one of them. CAGR stats from FY22 to FY25 show a 54% increase with an even faster expansion in certain emerging regions such as the Middle East. As of April 2025, the brand represents a £36.4 million business that is continuing on a 'very strong trajectory in the current year,' as per official data. For this fiscal year, online accounts for 70% with retail and wholesale taking an even split of the remaining 30% of a market dominated by North America (50%), the UK (30%) and the ROW—it ships to over 100 countries— making up the remaining 20%. A strategy of international expansion has been led by DTC channels and a well-curated list of 146 doors worldwide (including online). Wholesale partners like Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue, Nordstrom and Bloomingdale's are supplemented with ones further afield such as Galeries Lafayette Dubai. In the UK, there are stores in the Burlington Arcade (opened in 2018) and Covent Garden (2024) as well as Edinburgh's Multrees Walk (2020) and Victoria Street, which launched earlier this year. A summer pop-up in Selfridges featuring two giant-sized handbags (a Mosaic and Tote, made in the UK from the same leather as the commercial products) state the brand's USP: high-quality minimalist accessories. The label now counts A-list stars — like Lady Gaga, Margot Robbie, Pamela Anderson and Anna Kendrick as well as HRH The Princess of Wales — as fans. The Princess of Wales at the Order of the Garter service at St. George's Chapel, Windsor Castle on June 16, 2025 in Windsor with the Strathberry Multrees Chain Wallet (Photo by Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty Images) Getty Images The heart of the business is the couple themselves, who are that rare thing in fashion: a duo who genuinely care about their products and customers. Even today, Leanne Hundleby loves nothing more than chatting to customers (incognito, of course) on the shop floor, observing how they interact with the accessories. 'I never say who I am. I just say I'm down from head office, and I love doing it,' she laughs. 'I think the minute you remove yourself and sit in a bubble, I feel you've kind of lost it. That engagement, that connection with the customer is so important for any brand founder.' Strathberry has worked hard to gain global recognition from its Scottish roots, and this passion has been key to its success. Both founders are intimately involved in the business, advising on design aspects, silhouettes, new seasonal collections and more; they organise finance and assist in strategic planning. Leanne heads up campaigns, imagery and branding alongside retail and the overall running of the company, while Guy steers production, wholesale partnerships and generally oversees the finished products. It's these that set Strathberry apart. Every bag is crafted by artisans in the Spanish workshops of Andalucía, which is renowned for some of the finest luxury leather craftsmanship in the world (houses like Loewe reportedly also use them). Using only the highest-quality Spanish and Italian leathers, each requires up to 85 pattern pieces and an average of 2,000 stitches. This attention to detail can be seen first-hand in the inhouse atelier which opened in March at the Edinburgh townhouse. This workroom also allows for shorter timeframes and greater flexibility in the sampling process, as well as the ability to offer a repair service to valued customers. Strathberry's newly opened atelier at its Edinburgh townhouse headquarters. Courtesy Strathberry The internet personality known as Tanner Leatherstein has featured a number of Strathberry's bags in his viral 'leather teardowns,' which see him dissect bags to show their true craftsmanship (and cost). All of the brand's designs have passed with flying colours. A review of the Nano Tote said it was the first time seeing that level of quality at that price point on the dissection table. 'It checked all the boxes you'd expect from a high-end luxury bag, just without the astronomical price tag,' he explains in a correspondence. Considered pricing is a big part of Strathberry's allure. The tote retails for between £375 to £695, while other styles such as the Crescent sells for £455, and the Mosaic for £485. 'I think Strathberry offers one of the most well-balanced combinations of high-level design decisions and craftsmanship, all at very accessible price points. They're making leather luxury more widely available, and that unique value proposition has clearly resonated in the market,' he says. Strathberry's AW25 campaign featuring the Crescent Moon bag in oxblood Courtesy Strathberry Strathberry's balanced market distribution has included expansion in the APAC region. In China, it held its first ever pop-up at Reel Shanghai in 2019. Since then, it has had placements with celebrities like Teresa Cheung, Yang Mi and Michelle Wai as well as early collaborations with Mr. Bags, China's foremost handbag expert and influencer. The brand has been ramping up its efforts in Japan, too — where the Mosaic is a bestseller — over the last couple of years. Since entering in 2015, it has had organic fast-growing sales and now sells through more than 30 doors. Plans for 2025 include a significant increase in brick-and-mortar: this January saw it launch a partnership with United Arrows and with Tomorrowland in July. Two key department store pop-ups in Ginza Mitsuskoshi and Hankyu Umeda, along with influencer activity, are planned for October around a visit of the co-founders — and those giant bags. Hundleby is excited for the opportunity: 'The Japanese shopper wants to see and feel the products, so I think having a stronger presence over there will be good to get the brand name out there more,' she says. Global expansion hasn't meant neglecting its roots. Back home in Edinburgh, Strathberry opened a new store on Victoria Street this March and launched an innovative Borrow a Bag launch scheme in June with the Kimpton hotel (ideal for visiting tourists). Community is one of the pillars of the brand's ethos, seen in diverse projects such as its work with the Scottish capital's university, the promotion of local craftspeople, its large network of engaged influencers and even the cross-generational aspects of its products. Mother and daughter pairs often shop together. 'I see it in my own family, too, with my child and her grandmother. Different styles, of course,' she says, going on to argue that the appeal is from the fact that these are bags that are made to last — that are carried for life. From June, guests at Kimpton's in Edinburgh and Glasgow can borrow their perfect travel companion in one of six signature Strathberry handbags. Courtesy Strathberry 'We use the phrase 'cherished for generations to come,'' Hundleby explains. 'From the generations of the artisans that make the bags to, hopefully, the generations of the same family today that a bag can be passed down through.' She acknowledges, too, that tastes change and the market is cyclical. Even with customers making more considered purchases, Strathberry shows it can adapt. The brand has recently moved away from the structured, architectural silhouettes it is known for to include more slouchy styles such as Charlotte and Kite. That said, the Tote — its first ever design —is always in the top three of its sales. Colors have evolved with customers buying more neutral shades (taupe, tan, oat, mushroom) with 'longer lasting appeal' for today's wardrobes. Such shifts are the result of Strathberry's ability to listen. As we wind down, I ask about the future. The £100m revenue roadmap is clear. 'The U.S. continues to be a growth market for us. So does the Middle East, where we're doing super well. And the UK too, it's also a growing market for us. We're in a lovely position at the minute.' MORE ON FORBES Forbes On Tour With Stefano Ricci In India As New Collection Drops By Gemma A. Williams Forbes Why Moynat's 520 Campaign Is Going Viral In China By Gemma A. Williams Forbes Penhaligon's Celebrates 155 Years With Touring Exhibition By Gemma A. Williams
Daily Mail
02-08-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
19 mid-priced bags our fashion editors can't stop lusting after
Daily Mail journalists select and curate the products that feature on our site. If you make a purchase via links on this page we will earn commission - learn more In the last 15 years, handbag prices have risen faster than those of jewellery. Today designer bags from fashion's biggest names (Prada, Louis Vuitton, Loewe, Gucci) start in the thousands. At Hermès, its famous Birkins don't go for less than £10,000. On the other end of the scale, high-street iterations may be trend-driven and cheap, but often they're made from synthetic materials, most commonly polyurethane (PU) or polyvinyl chloride (PVC), rather than real leather. Unsurprisingly, they don't wear well or last under the weight of laptops, phones, your lunchbox and the rest. So let me introduce you to midi-bags: luxury designs, with quality that rivals designer craftsmanship – without the stratospheric price tags. They're not as cheap as the sort you'd find in M&S, but they won't totally blow the budget, sitting between £200 and £585. And best of all? They're made to last a lifetime. Edinburgh 's answer to quiet luxury at affordable prices comes from Strathberry, a bag brand fronted by the husband-and-wife duo Guy and Leeanne Hundleby, worn by the Princess of Wales, Meghan Markle, Margot Robbie and Katie Holmes. Their winning formula for creating sought-after midi-bags? 'Making products at the accessible end of the luxury space, but with the quality you'd expect from much higher up,' says Leeanne. This seems to be a common theme for the brands that occupy this space in the market, and it's a compelling reason to get involved. These are the midi-bag designers to get to know now. Elleme Founded in 2015 in Paris by self-taught designer Jingjing Fan, Elleme (derived from the French 'elle aime', meaning 'she likes') has garnered star-studded support for its simple, yet unique leather pieces, all made in Italy. Fans include Gigi and Bella Hadid and Beyoncé. If it's good enough for Queen B, then it's good enough for you and me. From £325, Courrier Tote Leather Cognac A structured tote bag with magnetic flap £365.00 Shop Dimple Tote Leather Cognac Trousse Woven Leather Butter Mini Boomerang Suede Cognac Chylak This Warsaw-based brand, founded by former art historian Zofia Chylak in 2014, draws on Polish heritage for inspiration. The stripes in its latest collection (see the hobo bag, left) are inspired by folk costumes of Urzecze, a region near the capital. Expect whimsical details: romantic bows, pearl embellishments and shell-shaped silhouettes. Bags are made in Poland, all from leather. From £125, Patchwork tote, £350 Small Hobo Bag 'striped python' Shell Bag Cream Small Basket with Bows Limone £360 Shop Liffner Sweden is a hotbed of new designers and Liffner, founded in 2012 by Paulina Liffner von Sydow, heads the trend. The brand combines creative minimalism with Italian artisanship – its bags are made in small batches at an atelier near Florence. I like the elevated Scandi takes on classics, such as the belted bucket and mini woven basket. From £233, Belted Bucket Bag Large Dark Brown £584 Shop Sprout Tote Micro Herb Suede £411 Shop Midi Leather Basket Light Brown Pillow bag Strathberry One of Edinburgh's finest exports, the brand was founded by husband and wife Guy and Leeanne Hundleby in 2013. Its signature? Elegant, clean lines and metal hardware, with bags designed in Scotland and handcrafted in Spain. Its Mosaic bag has achieved cult status; I count dozens on the front row each fashion week. From £195, Mosaic bag Osette Shopper £495 Shop Mini Tote bag Polène Founded in 2016 by three siblings, Polène is noted for its sculptural, organic-shaped bags. These are designed in Paris and produced by luxury leather specialists in Ubrique, Andalucia. Bestsellers include the Cyme and the Nodde in delicious neutrals. From £160, Cyme tote Nodde bag £490 Shop Tonca bag
Daily Mirror
22-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
Pamela Anderson just copied Kate Middleton's style with her go-to handbag
Both Pamela Anderson and Princess Kate have been spotted with this chic white handbag, and the versatile bag is surprisingly affordable considering its A-list fan base They might not have been a fashion pairing we'd expect, but it turns out that both Pamela Anderson and Kate Middleton have more in common than it first appears. Whilst out and about in New York last week, Pamela was spotted carrying Strathberry's Mosaic Bag, which just so happens to be a firm favourite of the Princess of Wales. Whilst Pamela styled hers with a metallic turquoise midi skirt and voluminous pale blue top, Princess Kate paired hers with a tonal all-white outfit whilst at the 'Together At Christmas ' Carol Service at Westminster Abbey in 2023. Both women opted for the vanilla shade of the handbag, showing just how versatile and easy to style it is. Despite its decidedly A-list fanbase, the bag is actually reasonably priced compared to some other designer totes carried by famous faces. You can pick up the regular Mosaic Bag for £485, or you can choose the smaller Nano Mosaic Bag for £395 if you want an even more affordable option. We also spotted some great alternatives, such as Kate Spade's Madison Small Dolly Duffle Crossbody Bag which currently has a huge discount that sees the price slashed from £349 to £99. Alternatively, Aldo's Cocktailchic Bag is now £66.50 down from £99, whilst the Aubrielle Metallic-Buckle Top Handle Bag from Charles & Keith is priced at £75. However, all of the Mosaic Bags are made from 100% calf leather and are handmade in Spain which gives them that luxury edge and justifies the slightly higher price tag. The geometric design was inspired by Scottish artists working with mosaics, and features carefully placed leather panels to create the shape. If Pamela and Princess Kate's vanilla shade isn't for you, there are a huge 12 different shades to pick from, not to mention different textures such as croc effect, suede and grained leather. The bag also comes with a detachable leather strap, which allows you to carry it either as a top-handle bag or as a crossbody, making it versatile. Gold hardware details add to the high-end look, whilst a soft microfibre lining stops your belongings getting scuffed and scratched whilst inside. There's also a zipped internal pocket to safely store valuables. For a truly unique look, you can also opt for personalisation on the Mosaic Bags, including adding additional straps, bag tags, and even getting your initials embossed into the leather. With a 4.9 out of 5 star rating, it's also clearly a hit with shoppers. One said: 'I was a little worried it would be too dark for summer. But I love the Khaki colour. The size is really good, it could fit more than just a wallet and phone. Quality is beautifully made. I would love to own a sky blue for a Mosaic bag too. Would go with all my colourful summer dresses and jeans.' Another agreed: 'Timeless! I am absolutely in-love with my new mosaic bag in brown chocolate with vanilla stitch. It's very versatile & functional for my everyday use & the quality is top notch. It's worth it & such a classic investment. Thank you Strathberry.' Some found a little inconsistency with the stitching, with one writing: 'The stiching in the corners were uneven. One corner had a wide gap.' However, the reviews have all been overwhelmingly positive, with another saying: 'I think this bag is extremely elegant. Finishing of this bag was perfect with quality. The bag is spacious and practical.' Shop the Mosaic Bag for £485 now.
Scotsman
14-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Scotsman
Scottish luxury brand ‘over the moon' as Jodie Comer wears one of their bags at Wimbledon
Killing Eve actress looked chic with one of the Edinburgh firm's bags. Sign up to our daily newsletter – Regular news stories and round-ups from around Scotland direct to your inbox Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to The Scotsman, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... The owners of a Scottish luxury accessories brand said they were 'over the moon' to see actress Jodie Comer carrying one of their designer bags at Wimbledon. Comer, who is best known for playing the antagonist Villanelle in the hit BBC series Killing Eve, looked effortlessly chic with Strathberry's Mini Tote in Chestnut at Sunday's Men's Singles Final between Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Leeanne Hundleby, Strathberry co-founder, told The Scotsman: 'We were thrilled to see the wonderful Jodie Comer carrying Strathberry this weekend at the Wimbledon final. 'I was over the moon that she had chosen to carry our signature Mini Tote to the event, her look was styled so beautifully with our bag as the perfect accessory. It's wonderful to have the support of such an amazing British actress during an iconic summer event.' Comer, who also features in the film 28 Years Later alongside Ralph Fiennes and Aaron Taylor-Johnson, was just one of many A-list stars in attendance at Wimbledon over the weekend. Princess Kate, Nicole Kidman, Matthew McConaughey and Henry Cavill were among the celebrities who attended the matches as the tournament wrapped up Saturday and Sunday. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Actresses Marisa Abela and Jessica Plummer were also seen with Strathberry at Wimbledon over the weekend. Strathberry was founded by husband-and-wife team Guy and Leeanne Hundleby in 2013 and has gone on to become one of Scotland's best known luxury brands. In February, the firm opened a new Edinburgh store on Victoria Street. It is the second location for Strathberry in the Capital, alongside its shop on Multrees Walk, which opened in 2020. The brand also operates shops in London and Shanghai. As well as the aforementioned Jodie Comer, Strathberry's products have been worn by the likes of Katie Holmes and Megan Markle. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad In an interview with The Scotsman in March, Leeanne said: 'We've been thrilled to see several celebrities showing their support for Strathberry. Actress Ayo Edebiri was spotted in New York City carrying her Charlotte Drawstring, while Jennifer Lopez showcased her Nano Tote on the red carpet during the promotion of her new film.
Emirates Woman
30-06-2025
- Business
- Emirates Woman
How I got my job as... co-founder of an Edinburgh-based minimalist accessories brand
This week, we speak to Leeanne Hundleby, owner and co-founder of Strathberry, an Edinburgh-based accessories brand loved and renowned for its minimalist designs and meticulous craftsmanship. Welcome to the Emirates Woman weekly series 'How I got my job as…' where we speak to some incredible entrepreneurs and businesswomen both based in the UAE and globally to find out about their career paths that led them to where they are now; what their daily routines look like; the advice they'd give to those starting out; and the hurdles they've had to overcome. Before venturing into fashion, Leeanne worked in Human Resources field for the likes of Scottish Telecom, Scottish Power and The Royal Bank of Scotland. Along with her husband, Guy Hundleby, they set out to create Strathberry in 2013, after spending some time travelling in Southern Spain. Under Leeanne's leadership, with the continued collaboration of her husband Guy, Strathberry has become a prominent name in contemporary luxury fashion, blending Scottish heritage with Spanish craftsmanship to create timeless designs that are made to be treasured for generations. Here, we delve deeper into Hundleby's creative vision, lessons learned, and how her journey in the industry began. What was your favourite subject at school? Art was always my favourite subject. I loved the freedom of expression it allowed, and I was endlessly fascinated by colour, composition, and form. Looking back, it was probably the earliest hint at my future in fashion and design. What was your first job? My parents ran a seven-to-seven convenience store, so from a young age, my brother and I were drafted into the family business. Weekends weren't for sleeping in – we were all expected to pull our weight. The experience instilled in me two key lessons that continue to shape my approach to work. First, the value of hard work and commitment; and second, the importance of adaptability, especially within the unique dynamics of a family-run business. Everyone pitches in and supports each other. Leeanne Hundleby, co-founder of Strathberry What inspired you to enter the fashion space and launch Strathberry? Fate drew my husband, Guy, and myself to Spain in the early 2000s, and it was there that the idea for Strathberry truly began to take shape. We were deeply inspired by the incredible craftsmanship we encountered – skills passed down through generations and a profound respect for artisanal leatherwork. While travelling through Andalusia with our children, we stumbled upon the picturesque white villages and visited Ubrique for the first time. We connected with a family-run workshop, and that chance encounter became the foundation for what Strathberry is today. To this day, we continue to collaborate with that original atelier, working closely with exceptional artisans who bring our designs to life, transforming hand-crafted paper and salpa maquettes into beautifully finished leather goods. Thirteen years later, those relationships are still at the heart of our brand, built on trust, mutual respect, and a shared passion for quality. As Strathberry has grown, we've expanded our network of workshops, all still based in Ubrique, ensuring every piece we create reflects our commitment to craftsmanship and longevity. No corners are ever cut, and that focus on quality is the soul of our brand. What are some of the hero pieces from the brand since it launched, and which ones are your favourite? Our Totes and East/West bags have become iconic styles and have really resonated with our global audience since the brand was launched. They strike the perfect balance between structure and softness, and of course, feature our signature music bar. Personally, I have a soft spot for the Lana Midi Bucket Bag, which was inspired by my love of everyday bucket bags. Not only is it named after me (my dad called me Lana when I was growing up) but, as a mum of 4, I need a bag I can fill with lots of everyday essentials – it's the perfect size. What are the key elements of your role? As co-founder, my role is incredibly varied. I focus a lot on creative direction, partnerships, and brand storytelling. I'm also closely involved in product development and customer experience. No two days are ever quite the same, which keeps things exciting. Talk us through your daily routine. I usually start the day early with a coffee and a quick check of emails before taking some time with my children, getting them up and out of bed to school on time. Once I'm in the office, the day tends to revolve around meetings with the design and marketing teams, checking in on product development, and reviewing upcoming launches. I try to carve out quiet time in the late afternoon to focus on strategy. Evenings are for family, and I always try to switch off and be present. We have always eaten together as a family and still do that most nights of the week. We have a strict rule that no one is allowed a phone at the table (including me). This means we all talk and share stories. It's one of the best times of the day, as the distractions of teenage life give way to real conversations and connections. What advice do you have for anyone looking to follow in the same footsteps? Stay curious, be resilient, and never underestimate the value of building strong relationships. The fashion industry can be incredibly rewarding, but it's also tough. You have to be passionate about what you're doing, have a clear vision, and then be prepared to work incredibly hard to bring it to life. What is the best piece of advice you ever received? My father used to say, 'Do the right thing, even when no one's watching.' That's stuck with me throughout my life and career. So much so that we have built it formally into one of Strathberry's values. Integrity isn't always the easiest path, but it's the one that builds real trust. In business, it means treating people fairly and with respect. At home, it's about setting an example, not just through words but through a consistent approach to parenting. It's a quiet kind of discipline, but one that builds deep trust and long-term respect and allows you to feel good about yourself along the way. And what is the worst? I was once told 'grow fast or you get left behind'. It sounds impressive, but setting up a business is not a sprint. In the early days we were too hasty, we opened our first ever store in Edinburgh without a clear strategy. In reality, a business needs strong foundations on which to grow. I have witnessed businesses stretch too far, too fast, only to struggle under their own weight. I have learned the importance of thoughtful, steady growth. Having the right team, systems, processes and even values in place is super important for long-term success. Over a decade later, I am more likely to pause and reflect. This is essential to make sure that what we decide upon fits into the wider business strategy. What has been the biggest challenge you had to overcome? One of the biggest challenges we've encountered along the way was scaling the business while maintaining the same level of attention to detail and quality. Staying true to our values and building a sustainable brand has always been at the very core of what we do. We've learned that growth is an exciting goal, but staying grounded is equally important. Balancing work with four young children can also be a juggle – it takes a lot of organization and prioritizing, but it's incredibly rewarding, both personally and professionally. We're proud of what we've built so far, and we have learned that it's okay not to have all the answers – being present, doing your best, and being passionate about what you do is what truly counts. What are your goals for the future – any Middle East expansion plans? The Middle East is such an exciting and sophisticated market, and we're seeing growing interest from customers in the region. We'd love to explore deeper retail partnerships and more immersive brand experiences there in the near future. Our dream would be our own store eventually in the Middle East. Ultimately, it's about building relationships and finding the right opportunities that align with our brand values. – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram Images: Supplied
