Kering, the luxury group behind Gucci and other high-end brands, plans to cut leather use by 30% by 2028, a move that signals shifting material strategies in the jewelry and fashion supply chain. For overseas buyers of luxury jewelry and accessories, this development highlights growing regulatory and reputational pressure on leather sourcing, which may affect material availability, pricing, and supplier relationships in the coming years.
Supply-chain impact
Kering’s leather reduction target directly affects its supply chain for leather goods, including jewelry packaging and accessories. Leather is a core material in many high-margin products, so a 30% cut by 2028 will likely shift procurement volumes, supplier contracts, and manufacturing processes. Jewelry brands that source leather for watch straps, bracelets, or packaging should monitor how Kering’s move influences material costs and alternative material development.
Regulatory and compliance signals
The European Commission recently excluded leather imports from its anti-deforestation regulation, creating a regulatory gap. However, Kering’s voluntary reduction suggests that brand risk and consumer expectations are driving change faster than regulation. For jewelry importers and distributors, this means that even where leather is not directly regulated, sustainability scrutiny may still affect sourcing decisions and supplier audits.
What buyers should watch
Overseas jewelry buyers should track how Kering introduces lower-leather or non-leather collections at key brands like Gucci, and whether these products are priced competitively. Competitors such as LVMH, Richemont, and Hermès may respond similarly, potentially reshaping the market for alternative materials like vegan leather, recycled fibers, or metal-based components. Any cost impact on leather supply chains could ripple into jewelry findings and packaging.
China sourcing context
For buyers sourcing from China, where many jewelry components and leather alternatives are produced, Kering’s shift may accelerate demand for certified sustainable materials. Chinese suppliers of synthetic leather, metal chains, and eco-friendly packaging could see increased interest from luxury brands. However, execution risks remain if new materials fail to meet quality or aesthetic standards expected by high-end consumers.
Source: Read the original report | Published: May 30, 2026