A Scottish luxury leather goods company has hired a new managing director as it targets increasing revenue to £100 million.
Strathberry, which was founded by Guy and Leeanne Hundleby in 2013, has drafted in “seasoned” luxury consumer brands executive Martin Byrne to spearhead its ambitious growth plans.
Mr Byrne, who will join the Edinburgh-based company in November, is currently chief commercial officer of jeweller Monica Vinader, where he is credited with playing a key role in doubling sales to more than £100m and its sale to private equity firm Bridgepoint in 2023. His 20-plus year career has also included spells as UK managing director and global chief operating officer at Links of London, and managing director of Simon Harrison, which designed and made jewellery for Vivienne Westwood, Ted Baker, and Karen Millen.
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Mr Byrne's appointment by Strathberry comes at a “critical time” for the Scottish business, which reported a 53% rise in turnover to £27m in its most recent accounts. With growth driven by strong demand for its luxury leather goods, especially in North America where sales grew by 90% last year, Strathberry aims to increase turnover to £100m in the next three years. The brand has also seen strong online growth in the Middle East and Japan.
“We are thrilled to welcome Martin Byrne to the Strathberry team during this exciting period of growth,” said Leeanne and Guy Hundleby, founders of Strathberry, in a statement. “Martin’s extensive experience in the luxury sector, coupled with his proven track record of driving growth, makes him the ideal candidate to help us capitalise on the numerous opportunities ahead.”
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Strathberry received an £8m investment from Business Growth Fund in 2021 to support its ambitions. The brand is now stocked in more than 90 stores worldwide, and has its own outlets in Edinburgh and London. Its handcrafted handbags are said to be "instantly recognisable by their bar closure and minimalist design aesthetic, with elegant lines and exceptional attention to detail".
Mr Byrne said: “Strathberry’s exceptional products and impressive recent performance speak volumes. After meeting Leeanne and Guy, it was clear to me that the brand has tremendous potential, and I am eager to contribute to its continued success.”
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