BEHIND THE BRAND

Mancini Leather has established itself as a premium brand in the Canadian market by creating products that invariably capture the imagination of the most discerning clientele.

Learn how it all started and get to know Mancini Leather from the inside with this Q&A session with the owner.

Q: HOW THE MANCINI LEATHER ADVENTURE STARTED?

A:After many years working as a salesman for one of Canada’s top manufacturers of leather goods I decided I wanted to broaden my horizons and work for other companies strengthening my knowledge of the industry. Therefore, I became a free agent.

After a few years into it, I became disillusioned at the quality of what I was selling and wanted to be in complete control of it.

I had the confidence to go forward and borrow money from the bank by raising the mortgage on my house.   That is when I started very slowly importing men’s bags. I knew I wanted to expand and have wallets, briefcases, Attaché cases, etc. Which I did accomplish getting after a few years.

Q: WHAT IS YOUR DESIGN PROCESS?

A: When designing a new collection my first thought is to think about who it is for.

If I am thinking for a younger, more professional person as I did for my latest collection of briefcases I look at what is happening with the mood in today’s workplace. Also the colors of the times and styling of clothes.

There definitely has been a change to a more relaxed look in the workplace, therefore I needed to see what type of leather would relate. I started by checking out the different types of leathers that would represent the look and quality of what I wanted to accomplish. Then I started to see what the bags and special features must have. After all of that being done, I usually look at what my best sellers are and incorporate the best features from them.

Q: WHAT ARE YOU LOOKING FOR IN A QUALITY LEATHER?

A:There are different characteristics qualities in different leathers available.   For a more sophisticated looking leather like our Italian Signature collection, we look for a leather that is strong and durable, has a shine to it, and has a consistent look throughout the leather. Others we look for a grainier look that does not have the consistent look but a more rugged look to the item. Each collection has a distinct look to it.

Q: CAN YOU NAME A FEW MILESTONES AND THEIR MEANING IN THE BRAND’S HISTORY?

A: The first milestones was when I left my basement and garage, warehouse and went to our first building which was on Buchan St. In Montreal. That was a nerve-racking time.

The next one was when we moved onto McCaffrey Street and took a much larger place.

Having expanded our presence in the United States by going into leather goods exhibitions, we were able to extend our reach and sell our products to that many more retailers.

Now selling to retail stores and online stores in the United States, we have gained a lot of momentum.

This year will be our 30th year in business. We are very thankful for the support of all our customers.

Q: WHAT IS MANCINI LEATHER ASPIRATION?

A: I want to develop styles that reflect the times and along with it to have the best leathers I can offer while having the most competitive prices.

We want Mancini to be known for carrying a vast selection in the best Leather goods with the latest features and quality leathers at affordable prices.