A centuries-old craft at the heart of British manufacturing is under mounting pressure to navigate complex global trading obstacles, as fresh data reveals that 80% of UK-produced saddles are shipped overseas—particularly to the USA, Europe and Australia.
Despite the prestige and international regard for British leatherworking, industry leaders warn that post-Brexit regulations, export financing, and logistical challenges are constraining further growth.
The Worshipful Company of Saddlers, which has championed UK saddlery since the 12th century, spotlighted these issues earlier this month at its annual Showcase of British saddlery and leather goods in the City of London. Running alongside the Society of Master Saddlers National Saddlery Competition, the event brought together officials from the Department for Business and Trade, the Chartered Institute for Export and International Trade, and Made in Britain to discuss strategies for overcoming barriers.
Philip Napier, Clerk to the Worshipful Company of Saddlers, said: “The Saddlers’ Company was delighted to welcome the Made in Britain team. This was the perfect place to admire the incredible craftsmanship of British saddlers and leatherworkers.
“Over the last few years, those in the trade have shared concerns about export finance, a growing pile of paperwork, Brexit complications, and even insurance issues once products leave the UK. That’s why it was so encouraging to have addresses from John Pearce at Made in Britain and representatives from the Department for Business and Trade and the Chartered Institute for Export and International Trade. A number of major saddlery firms from Walsall and beyond have already adopted the Made in Britain mark, with more keen to follow.”
John Pearce, Chief Executive of Made in Britain, underscored the value of a unified approach: “The saddlery industry showcases British manufacturing at its finest—combining heritage, craftsmanship, and world-class innovation. Overseas interest in this craft remains high, and the Made in Britain mark bolsters credibility in key markets like the USA, Germany, France, and Scandinavia.”
Saddlery experts emphasised that scale demands global trade. Cath Pagnillo-Gordon, Managing Director of Albion Saddlemakers Co Ltd, said: “British saddlery alone isn’t enough to sustain larger companies—they must export. The more saddlers who use the Made in Britain mark, the stronger its credibility and the greater the cohesion on the international stage.”
However, firms say they have faced a more challenging environment in Europe since Brexit, and many rely heavily on research to ensure their products meet the highest standards of comfort and welfare for horse and rider.
Industry insiders now urge closer cooperation between government bodies, trade associations, and manufacturers to clear export bottlenecks and secure the sector’s long-term survival. Through the collective drive championed by the Worshipful Company of Saddlers and Made in Britain, the hope is that one of Britain’s oldest trades can continue to thrive despite current uncertainties.