PRODUCTION LOCATIONS
- Belgium (tannery + own atelier)
- Spain (tannery)
- Italy (tannery)
WORKING CONDITIONS & WAGE
The bags are made entirely in Hanne Beutels’ own atelier in small batches. From design to finished product, she works independently, giving her full control over quality, design and the production process.
The tanneries are located exclusively in EU countries, where strict labour and environmental standards are enshrined in law. The own atelier in Belgium ensures a short and easily traceable supply chain.
Regular audits and supplier visits to the tanneries in Belgium, Spain and Italy take place as part of membership in the Leather Working Group.
MATERIALS
- Vegetable-tanned leather
- Polyester thread
- Metal hardware
Read more about the environmental impact of leather here.
PACKAGING
- The bags are packaged in a cotton pouch, protected with a layer of bubble wrap and shipped in cardboard boxes.
- There is minimal transport within the supply chain, as the entire production takes place in the own atelier.
WATER USAGE & CHEMICALS
Vegetable tanning uses no harmful substances or chromium compounds, which reduces both water pollution and chemical use in the tanning process.
The LWG requires certified tanneries to implement efficient water management including wastewater treatment, and to refrain from using prohibited chemicals in the manufacturing process and in the finished product.
The synthetic polyester thread can potentially release microplastics when washed.
CIRCULAR PRODUCT DESIGN
The bags are made of leather and are mostly produced without lining, which in principle improves recyclability. However, polyester thread is used for sewing, which makes recycling more difficult.
The bags are crafted with skill and durability and are therefore fundamentally designed for longevity. Repairs are carried out by Hanne as far as possible in her own atelier, which further extends the lifespan of the products. In the early stages of the label, secondhand leather jackets were used as upcycling material.
CIRCULAR BUSINESS MODELL
Hanne carries out repairs as far as possible in her own atelier. There is no take-back service for used or end-of-life products.
DISTANCE & COMPLEXITY OF SUPPLY CHAIN
- Belgium (own atelier, tannery)
- Spain (tannery)
- Italy (tannery)
- Hanne Beutels is based in Belgium.
TRANSPORT
- Transport within the supply chain is minimal, as the entire production takes place in the own atelier: Leather from Italy or Spain is delivered by post. The Belgian leather is collected in person by the founder at the tannery in Wallonia.
- For shipping to customers, Hanne works with bpost and PostNL for domestic and nearby destinations, and with DHL or other carriers for more distant countries.
- Vegetable-tanned leather
- According to Hanne Beutels, the animal materials come from the meat industry.
According to the company, the animal materials come from the meat industry. The tanneries are members of the Leather Working Group, which imposes strict environmental requirements on its members.
PRODUCT DESIGN
The collection includes handbags, wallets and small leather goods.
SLOW FASHION PROCESS
Production quantities are deliberately limited, meaning there is no overproduction and only what is actually in demand is made.
In terms of product care, the brand provides concrete guidance on care and the natural ageing process of leather. It recommends the use of natural leather conditioner and explains that the leather develops a deeper patina through intensive use and sunlight. The products are designed for long-term use and gain character over time rather than wearing out.
PRODUCT TRANSPARENCY
On the product pages, Hanne Beutels communicates the material, the origin of the leather, the country of production and the exact dimensions.
PROCESS TRANSPARENCY
Hanne Beutels shares basic information about her production methods and the origin of her materials. As the bags are made entirely in her own atelier, she has full control over the entire production process. The tanneries the brand works with are members of the Leather Working Group, which imposes strict environmental requirements on its members.
As this is a small label, customers can also get in touch directly with the founder to ask questions about production, materials or origin in person.
Conclusion
Are you looking for a handcrafted leather bag from Belgium? At Hanne Beutels, every piece is made in her own atelier, using vegetable-tanned leather from European tanneries. Traditional leather craftsmanship meets timeless design: discover the high-quality leather goods on the COSH! map below.
