Leather Chemicals Market Size:
The global leather chemicals market size reached US$ 9.2 Billion in 2023. Looking forward, IMARC Group expects the market to reach US$ 14.9 Billion by 2032, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 5.4% during 2024-2032. The market is driven by the escalating demand for quality leather products, the emerging technological innovations, the growing automotive and furniture industries, and evolving fashion trends.
Report Attribute
|
Key Statistics
|
Base Year
|
2023
|
Forecast Years
|
2024-2032
|
Historical Years
|
2018-2023
|
Market Size in 2023
|
US$ 9.2 Billion |
Market Forecast in 2032
|
US$ 14.9 Billion |
Market Growth Rate 2024-2032 |
5.4% |
Leather Chemicals Market Analysis:
- Market Growth and Size: The market is experiencing significant growth, driven by increasing demand for quality leather products in footwear, fashion, automotive, and furniture sectors. It is attributed to rising consumer spending power and the growing importance of sustainable and high-quality leather goods.
- Technological Advancements: Technological innovations in the leather chemicals industry are enhancing the production process, improving the quality of leather, and promoting sustainability. Moreover, several advances such as eco-friendly tanning agents and efficient waste management techniques are setting new standards in the market, catering to the rising demand for environmentally friendly leather products.
- Industry Applications: Leather chemicals are crucial in various stages of leather processing, including tanning, dyeing, and finishing, serving a broad spectrum of industries like fashion, automotive upholstery, and luxury goods.
- Geographical Trends: Asia-Pacific region dominates the leather chemicals market, attributed to its robust leather manufacturing industry, particularly in countries such as China and India. Besides this, shifting trends toward sustainable practices are influencing market dynamics globally, with increasing investments in environmentally friendly leather chemicals in Europe and North America.
- Competitive Landscape: The market is highly competitive, with key players focusing on innovation, strategic partnerships, and expansion into new markets to consolidate their positions. Besides this, various companies are investing in R&D to develop sustainable and advanced leather chemicals that meet regulatory standards and consumer preferences.
- Challenges and Opportunities: The industry faces challenges such as stringent environmental regulations and the rising prominence of synthetic leather. It also presents opportunities for innovation in sustainable chemicals and processes, enabling companies to differentiate themselves and tap into the growing eco-conscious consumer base.
- Future Outlook: The future of the leather chemicals market looks promising, with a strong emphasis on sustainability and eco-friendly practices. Additionally, anticipated trends include the increased adoption of green chemistry, circular economy practices, and technological advancements that will shape the market's evolution, catering to the shifting preferences of consumers and regulatory landscapes.
Leather Chemicals Market Trends:
Growing Demand for Quality Leather Products
The market is driven by the escalating demand for quality products in footwear, apparel, automotive upholstery, and luxury goods. In addition, the rising demand is driven by the growing middle-class population, especially in emerging economies, where there's a noticeable shift toward higher living standards and increased spending power. Moreover, consumers are seeking durable, comfortable, and aesthetically pleasing leather goods, which requires the use of specialized chemicals to ensure superior finish, texture, and longevity of leather products. Besides this, the expanding automotive industry also contributes substantially to this demand, as leather is a preferred material for upholstery, steering covers, and interiors, valued for its luxury appeal and durability. Furthermore, the rising fashion industry’s continuous innovation and seasonal trends drive the need for versatile leather chemicals that can provide various colors, finishes, and textures, meeting the dynamic consumer preferences and fashion industry requirements.
Technological Advancements
Technological advancements are driving the market toward more sustainable and efficient production processes. Moreover, various innovations are increasingly focusing on reducing the environmental footprint of leather processing, leading to the development of eco-friendly chemicals, water-based finishes, and advanced tanning agents that minimize hazardous waste and improve water conservation. Besides this, the industry is witnessing a shift from traditional chrome-based tanning methods to more sustainable alternatives such as vegetable tanning and chrome-free tanning, which are less harmful to the environment and align with the rising consumer consciousness toward eco-friendly products. Apart from this, advancements in biotechnology are enabling the use of enzymes and other bio-based chemicals, enhancing the leather's quality and eco-profile.
Expansion of Automotive and Furniture Industries
The automotive and furniture sectors are driving the leather chemicals market, with industries requiring high-quality leather for upholstery, interiors, and accessories. Additionally, the growing automotive production, particularly in luxury and premium vehicle segments, is escalating the demand for product that can provide durable, comfortable, and aesthetically appealing leather finishes. Besides this, the expanding furniture industry, with its increasing demand for premium leather upholstery, drives the need for specialized chemicals that ensure longevity, stain resistance, and visual appeal of leather products. The expansion of these industries, especially in emerging economies, is proportional to the increased consumption of leather chemicals, fueling market growth through diversified applications and rising quality standards.
Rising Focus on Fashion and Aesthetics
The fashion industry is driving the market, with constantly evolving trends, designs, and consumer preferences influencing the demand for various leather finishes and textures. Moreover, the growing desire for innovative aesthetics, unique colors, and eco-friendly finishes requires advanced chemical solutions that can deliver on these aspects without compromising the leather's quality or environmental standards represents another major growth-inducing factor. Besides this, consumers are becoming fashion-conscious and environmentally aware, and the pressure on manufacturers to produce visually striking, durable, and sustainable leather goods intensifies, thereby increasing the reliance on novel leather chemicals. Also, this trend is prevalent in high-end fashion, where the demand for luxury leather items pushes the boundaries of traditional leather processing, creating opportunities for chemical manufacturers to innovate and cater to the upscale market segment.
Note: Information in the above chart consists of dummy data and is only shown here for representation purpose. Kindly contact us for the actual market size and trends.
Leather Chemicals Industry Segmentation:
IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the market, along with forecasts at the global, regional, and country levels for 2024-2032. Our report has categorized the market based on chemicals type, product and end user.
Breakup by Chemicals Type:
- Tanning and Dyeing Chemicals
- Beam House Chemicals
- Finishing Chemicals
Tanning and dyeing chemicals account for the majority of the market share
The report has provided a detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the chemicals type. This includes tanning and dyeing chemicals, beam house chemicals, and finishing chemicals. According to the report, tanning and dyeing chemicals represented the largest segment.
Tanning and dyeing chemicals are the largest segment within the market, primarily due to their crucial role in the leather production process. These chemicals are used to transform raw hides into durable, long-lasting leather, with tanning agents helping to stabilize the collagen fibers and prevent decomposition, and dyeing chemicals providing the desired color and aesthetic appeal. Moreover, it can be attributed to the extensive demand for processed leather in various industries, including footwear, apparel, automotive, and furniture, where the quality of tanning and dyeing directly impacts the final product's quality and appeal.
Beamhouse chemicals are essential for the preparatory stages of leather processing, where raw hides are prepared for tanning. It includes a range of chemicals used in processes such as soaking, liming, unhairing, and bating. These chemicals are essential for cleaning the hides, removing hair, and preparing the collagen fibers to accept the tanning agents.
Finishing chemicals are used in the final stage of leather processing to enhance the appearance, feel, and durability of the leather. It includes chemicals that provide resistance to water, stains, and other damaging factors, as well as dyes and pigments that improve the visual appeal. Moreover, finishing agents play a pivotal role in determining the aesthetic value and functional characteristics of the final leather product, impacting factors such as gloss, softness, and colorfastness.
Breakup by Product:
Note: Information in the above chart consists of dummy data and is only shown here for representation purpose. Kindly contact us for the actual market size and trends.
- Biocides
- Surfactants
- Chromium Sulfate
- Polyurethane Resins
- Sodium Bicarbonate
- Others
Polyurethane resins hold the largest share in the industry
A detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the product have also been provided in the report. This includes biocides, surfactants, chromium sulfate, polyurethane resins, sodium bicarbonate, and others. According to the report, polyurethane resins accounted for the largest market share
Polyurethane resins account for the largest segment in the market, primarily due to their extensive application in the finishing phase of leather manufacturing. They impart a range of desired properties to the leather, such as improved flexibility, enhanced resistance to water, chemicals, and abrasion, and superior aesthetic appeal. Moreover, the widespread adoption of polyurethane resins due to their versatility and ability to produce high-quality finishes have made them indispensable in the production of high-end leather goods, including apparel, accessories, and furniture, contributing to the market growth.
Biocides in the industry are crucial for preventing the growth of bacteria and fungi during the leather-making process. They are essential in the early stages of leather processing, particularly during the soaking, liming, and tanning phases, to protect the hide or skin from decomposition and to ensure a high-quality finished product. It also helps in maintaining the necessary hygiene standards and extending the durability and shelf-life of leather goods.
Surfactants are essential in the leather industry, primarily used for their wetting, emulsifying, and dispersing properties. They are critical in various stages of leather processing, including soaking, degreasing, tanning, and dyeing. Nowadays, surfactants help in the penetration of chemicals, dyes, and tannins, ensuring uniform treatment of hides and skins, which is essential for producing consistent, high-quality leather.
Chromium sulfate is predominantly used in the tanning phase of leather production, where it helps transform raw hides or skins into stable material. It is favored for its ability to produce lightfast, water-resistant, and soft leather, making it a staple in producing various leather types, especially for footwear, garments, and upholstery. Moreover, the widespread use is attributed to the reliable and efficient results it delivers in the tanning process.
Sodium bicarbonate is used in the leather industry as a buffering and neutralizing agent. It is particularly useful in the deliming process, where it helps in removing lime from hides or skins, and during the acid neutralization stage of tanning. Its application ensures that the pH levels are adequately controlled, which is crucial for the proper penetration of tanning agents and dyes, thereby contributing to the overall quality and consistency of the finished leather.
Breakup by End User:
- Footwear
- Furniture
- Automotive
- Textile
- Others
Footwear represents the leading market segment
The report has provided a detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the end user. This includes footwear, furniture, automotive, textile, and others. According to the report, footwear represented the largest segment.
The footwear segment holds the largest share of the leather chemicals market. In addition, the footwear sector relies heavily on leather chemicals for tanning, dyeing, and finishing processes that enhance the durability, aesthetic appeal, and resistance of leather shoes, contributing to the market growth. Moreover, the growing demand for leather footwear due to its popularity for its quality, comfort, and style, represents another major growth-inducing factor. Along with this, manufacturers are focusing on innovations in leather treatments to offer products that are more sustainable, eco-friendly, and compliant with international standards, responding to the growing consumer awareness regarding environmental and ethical standards.
Leather chemicals are crucial in the furniture industry for producing high-quality, durable, and aesthetically pleasing leather upholstery. Moreover, the growing product demand is due to the changing consumer preference for luxury and comfort, coupled with durability and longevity are propelling the market growth. Furthermore, chemicals used in this sector ensure that the leather is processed to be soft, resistant to wear and tear, and capable of retaining its color and texture over time, which is vital for premium furniture items.
The growing automotive sector uses leather chemicals to manufacture luxurious and durable leather interiors, including seats, steering wheel covers, and dashboard trims. It values leather for its comfort, aesthetic appeal, and status symbol. The chemicals ensure that the leather is resistant to UV rays, heat, and everyday wear, maintaining the vehicle's interior's quality and appearance over time.
Textile uses leather chemicals for producing leather accessories and garments. In addition, the growing focus is on enhancing the texture, colorfastness, and durability of the leather, ensuring it meets the fashion industry's fast-changing trends and standards contributing to the market growth. The demand is motivated by the consumer's desire for high-quality leather goods that combine style, comfort, and longevity.
Breakup by Region:
To get more information on the regional analysis of this market, Request Sample
- North America
- Asia-Pacific
- China
- Japan
- India
- South Korea
- Australia
- Indonesia
- Others
- Europe
- Germany
- France
- United Kingdom
- Italy
- Spain
- Russia
- Others
- Latin America
- Middle East and Africa
Asia Pacific leads the market, accounting for the largest leather chemicals market share
The market research report has also provided a comprehensive analysis of all the major regional markets, which include North America (the United States and Canada); Asia Pacific (China, Japan, India, South Korea, Australia, Indonesia, and others); Europe (Germany, France, the United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, Russia, and others); Latin America (Brazil, Mexico, and others); and the Middle East and Africa. According to the report, Asia Pacific accounted for the largest market share.
The Asia Pacific leather chemicals market is driven by its extensive leather manufacturing base, particularly in countries such as China, India, and Bangladesh. Additionally, the region benefits from abundant raw material availability, low labor costs, and a growing demand for leather products, driven by a rising middle-class population and increasing disposable income. Moreover, the growing leather chemicals sector is further growing with the supportive governmental policies encouraging exports and industrial growth across the region.
Europe's leather chemicals market is driven by a strong emphasis on high-quality and luxury leather goods, compliance with stringent environmental regulations, and a focus on sustainable and innovative leather processing methods. Moreover, countries such as Italy, Germany, and France lead in premium leather production, demanding advanced chemicals that ensure superior finish, durability, and eco-friendliness.
North America market is supported by a well-established automotive and luxury goods sector, requiring high-quality leather finishes and treatments. In addition, the market is growing due to its strong consumer base, advanced technological infrastructure, and stringent regulatory standards promoting the adoption of environmentally friendly leather chemicals. Besides this, innovations in sustainable chemistry and the growing preference for bio-based chemicals are shaping the market dynamics.
The Latin American leather chemicals market benefits from its rich tradition in leather production and export, particularly in countries such as Brazil and Argentina, which are significant players in the global leather trade. It also capitalizes on its abundant livestock and raw material base, competitive manufacturing costs, and growing local and international demand for leather goods.
The leather chemicals market in the Middle East and Africa is driven by the expanding leather industry, particularly in countries including Ethiopia, Egypt, and South Africa. It is also driven by the increasing establishment of leather processing units, export potential, and rising domestic demand for leather products across the region.
Leading Key Players in the Leather Chemicals Industry:
At present, key players in the market are actively engaging in various strategic initiatives to strengthen their market position and respond to the evolving industry demands. They are heavily investing in research and development to innovate eco-friendly and advanced chemical solutions that meet stringent environmental standards and enhance leather quality. These companies are also expanding their global footprint through mergers, acquisitions, and partnerships, aiming to enhance their product portfolio and tap into new markets. Additionally, they are focusing on sustainability, developing green chemistry practices, and ensuring compliance with international safety and environmental regulations. By adopting such strategies, these companies are not only catering to the current market demands but are also setting new industry standards, promoting sustainable practices, and driving technological advancements in the leather chemicals sector.
The market research report has provided a comprehensive analysis of the competitive landscape. Detailed profiles of all major companies have also been provided. Some of the key players in the market include:
- Abhilash Chemicals and Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd
- BASF SE
- DuPont de Nemours Inc.
- DyStar Singapore Pte Ltd (Zhejiang Longsheng Group and Kiri Industries Limited (KIL))
- Eastman Chemical Company
- Indofil Industries Limited
- Lanxess AG
- Pidilite Industries Limited
- Schill + Seilacher GmbH
- Stahl Holdings B.V.
- TFL Ledertechnik GmbH
- Zschimmer & Schwarz Chemie GmbH.
(Please note that this is only a partial list of the key players, and the complete list is provided in the report.)
Latest News:
- June 2021: Stahl Holdings B.V. launched its new product Stahl Ympact, a family of leather chemical solutions made with renewable feedstocks. The products will help tanneries to reduce their environmental footprint. The product conation Zero Discharge of Hazardous Chemicals (ZDHC)’s and contain less than 1% volatile organic compounds.
- August 2020: TFL Ledertechnik GmbH acquired the organic leather chemicals business of LANXESS. The company stated that the acquisition is expected to close by 2021. The combined TFL and LANXESS leather businesses will employ around 1,200 people worldwide and have a turnover of approximately €450 Million on a proforma basis.
- June 2023: Zschimmer & Schwarz Chemie GmbH acquired the Samia, S.P.A which is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Lahnstein-based family business now.
Leather Chemicals Market Report Scope:
Report Features |
Details |
Base Year of the Analysis |
2023 |
Historical Period |
2018-2023 |
Forecast Period |
2024-2032 |
Units |
US$ Billion |
Scope of the Report |
Exploration of Historical Trends and Market Outlook, Industry Catalysts and Challenges, Segment-Wise Historical and Future Market Assessment:
- Chemicals Type
- Product
- End User
- Region
|
Chemical Types Covered |
Tanning And Dyeing Chemicals, Beam House Chemicals, Finishing Chemicals |
Products Covered |
Biocides, Surfactants, Chromium Sulfate, Polyurethane Resins, Sodium Bicarbonate, Others |
End Users Covered |
Footwear, Furniture, Automotive, Textile, Others |
Regions Covered |
Asia Pacific, Europe, North America, Latin America, Middle East and Africa |
Countries Covered |
United States, Canada, Germany, France, United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, Russia, China, Japan, India, South Korea, Australia, Indonesia, Brazil, Mexico |
Companies Covered |
Abhilash Chemicals and Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd, BASF SE, DuPont de Nemours Inc., DyStar Singapore Pte Ltd (Zhejiang Longsheng Group and Kiri Industries Limited (KIL)), Eastman Chemical Company, Indofil Industries Limited, Lanxess AG, Pidilite Industries Limited, Schill + Seilacher GmbH, Stahl Holdings B.V., TFL Ledertechnik GmbH, Zschimmer & Schwarz Chemie GmbH., etc.
(Please note that this is only a partial list of the key players, and the complete list is provided in the report.) |
Customization Scope |
10% Free Customization |
Report Price and Purchase Option |
Single User License: US$ 3899
Five User License: US$ 4899
Corporate License: US$ 5899 |
Post-Sale Analyst Support |
10-12 Weeks |
Delivery Format |
PDF and Excel through Email (We can also provide the editable version of the report in PPT/Word format on special request) |
Key Benefits for Stakeholders:
- IMARC’s industry report offers a comprehensive quantitative analysis of various market segments, historical and current market trends, market forecasts, and dynamics of the leather chemicals market from 2018-2032.
- The research report provides the latest information on the market drivers, challenges, and opportunities in the global leather chemicals market.
- The study maps the leading, as well as the fastest-growing, regional markets. It further enables stakeholders to identify the key country-level markets within each region.
- Porter's five forces analysis assists stakeholders in assessing the impact of new entrants, competitive rivalry, supplier power, buyer power, and the threat of substitution. It helps stakeholders to analyze the level of competition within the leather chemicals industry and its attractiveness.
- The competitive landscape allows stakeholders to understand their competitive environment and provides insight into the current positions of key players in the market.