The Leather Satchel Co: A legacy of British craftsmanship since 1966
Our client, The Leather Satchel Co., is celebrating an incredible 60 years in business, marking six decades of traditional British craftsmanship, adaptability and dedication to creating handmade leather goods. Founded in Liverpool in 1966 by Stephen Hanshaw, the company has evolved significantly over
the years while remaining committed to the values that first established its reputation.
In its early years, The Leather Satchel Co. produced traditional leather satchels for schools, colleges and universities at a time when they were an everyday essential. Long before laptops and backpacks became commonplace, students and office workers relied on satchels to carry books, paperwork
and other daily necessities. As demand grew, the business expanded considerably, employing more than 50 people and manufacturing satchels on a large scale.
Like many traditional British manufacturers, the company faced significant challenges as the market changed. By 2008, the future of the business was uncertain and it was close to ceasing trading altogether. The family had effectively decided to close the business, and without a dramatic change in direction it is unlikely the company would still exist today. Rather than accepting defeat, the company embraced change and adapted its approach to meet evolving customer expectations while staying true to its heritage of British leather craftsmanship.
Today, The Leather Satchel Co. operates as a specialist workshop with a team of eight people, producing around two dozen made-to-order bags each week. Every piece is handcrafted in Liverpool and tailored to the customer’s specifications, with options to personalise colours, fittings, straps and other details. The business was completely reinvented around bespoke manufacturing and direct customer relationships, helping preserve not only the company itself but also one of England’s last traditional satchel makers. This focus on bespoke craftsmanship has helped distinguish the business in a market increasingly dominated by mass production.
Rather than producing thousands of identical products, The Leather Satchel Co. continues to build distinctive handmade bags that reflect the needs and preferences of each customer. Many of those bags remain in use for decades, often returning to the workshop years later to be repaired and cared for rather than replaced!
Sixty years on, The Leather Satchel Co. stands as proof that success is not always measured by size. Having successfully adapted to changing markets while preserving its heritage, the business continues to thrive as one of England’s last traditional satchel makers, demonstrating the enduring value of quality craftsmanship in modern Britain.