Billy Tannery

Billy Tannery began with a discovery rooted in the British countryside. Faced with the decline of the UK leather industry, the founders noticed that thousands of goatskins from the food industry were being discarded or burned each year. Determined to find a better solution, they set out to revive local leather knowledge. In 2016, a farm building in the Midlands was transformed into a small-batch tannery—the first of its kind in the country. Nearly a decade later, their small revolution continues to grow, expanding from handmade goat leather goods to include deer leather and a bespoke product line for the hospitality trade. At Billy Tannery, leather is treated as a beautiful natural material, not a commodity to be shipped around the world for cheap processing. Their approach prioritises sourcing and tanning entirely in Britain, using food by-products that would otherwise go to waste. The tanning process relies on bark extracts and a pioneering method that recycles 90% of the water and turns waste into compost. All leather produced is full-grain and free from plastic coatings or pigments, restoring the connection between the animal, the land, and the final product. Billy Tannery’s design philosophy celebrates the unique grain of goat and deer leather, embracing natural markings and variations rather than hiding them. Clean lines and large, uninterrupted panels keep the focus on the leather itself, resulting in timeless, seasonless products built to last. Every piece is distinct, reflecting the individuality of the material. From the outset, Billy Tannery has been committed to British manufacturing. After years of searching, they partnered with two workshops in Somerset and Leicestershire, chosen for their craftsmanship and consistency. Their network includes a thriving community of British makers united by a passion for proper leather and the preservation of traditional skills. The story of Billy Tannery is also a personal one. Founder Jack Millington grew up on a Midlands farm and returned from a marketing career in London seeking a more hands-on life. With no prior experience in leather production, Jack took on the challenge of learning how to tan leather. He teamed up with creative director and childhood friend Rory Harker to launch the brand and its initial range in 2017. Today, the team includes tannery trainee Pieter, design and project manager Martha, commercial lead Jonny, and customer supremo Matt, all working alongside a network of artisanal makers across the UK. Billy Tannery stands as proof that there is still life in the British leather industry, turning waste into worth and keeping heritage skills alive.