Scots leather firm in Chinese joint venture

Published on Wednesday 2 September 2009 21:05

AN OPPORTUNITY to tap the growing car market in China has prompted Bridge of Weir Leather, part of Scottish Leather Group, to launch a joint venture in the country.

The Renfrewshire company has teamed up with Zibo Polygrace Dahuanjiu Tannery Group, a manufacturer and exporter of upholstery leathers.

The partnership, to be known as Zibow Automotive, is expecting a $20m turnover five years into the deal. The partners have invested $3 million in automotive leather finishing, testing and cutting facilities.

Lord Mandelson, Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills said: "Zibow is a great example of British and Chinese technology transfer and business collaboration.

"China has much to offer British companies and Bridge of Weir Leather is leading the way with this substantial investment."

Initially it will concentrate on the Chinese market but will look to expand its operation to export into the Far East. Most of the hides will be tanned and dyed at the company's Bridge of Weir tannery and exported to China for finishing.