Leather Cluster Barcelona member Despell has renewed the Gold certification of the Leather Working Group (LWG) audit. This recognition reflects the ongoing commitment of the Igualada tannery Despell to sustainability, responsible practices and excellence in leather production.

The Leather Working Group, which celebrates its 20th anniversary in 2025, is the leading international organisation for major brands when it comes to accrediting and certifying good practice in the leather industry. Since 2005, it has assessed the environmental and social impact of companies across the entire leather sector value chain worldwide. The audit examines all the elements of responsible and safe leather manufacturing, such as social responsibility, environmental and chemical management, traceability, the efficient use of natural resources and energy, and governance, among others.

The Gold certification achieved by Despell is a recognition granted to companies that meet the highest standards of sustainability and responsibility in leather production, and it is increasingly required by major fashion and luxury brands.

The Despell tannery has earned LWG’s Gold rating for meeting the most demanding standards in the manufacture and supply of the leather industry, thereby guaranteeing sustainable and safe production.

Despell has devoted many years and substantial investment to implementing best practice in water management, emissions reduction, waste treatment, social responsibility and good governance, chemical management and traceability.

Despell thanks its workers, clients, suppliers and partners for achieving this success, which distinguishes the company for its positive impact on the leather industry and on the planet.

Three companies belonging to Leather Cluster Barcelona now hold Leather Working Group Gold accreditation. Alongside Despell, Cía. Arrendataria de Industrial Igualadina and La Doma have obtained the highest certification.

Leather Cluster Barcelona is an environment of competitive cooperation for promoting cross-cutting, transformative strategic projects with the aim of driving forward the ecosystem of the Catalan leather sector within the framework of Shared Value policies. The cluster is an accredited body within the Catalonia Clusters programme and has the support of Acció.