Ancol Pet Products has invested over £250,000 in hi-tech machinery to give a much needed boost to the UK leather industry.

In recent years, increased costs have forced companies such as Ancol to outsource leather manufacturing to Asia. However, by investing in two new machines, Ancol will ensure that the manufacturing of 95% of their leather dog collars and leads remains in the UK.

“We are under enormous pressure from raw material suppliers. Leather has experienced double digit percentage inflation recently and because it’s a commodity, there are many influences on its price," said Ancol director Simon Lane.

"Our new state-of-the-art leather cutting machine will help improve quality and performance, reduce waste and help us to offset these price increases.”

Ancol’s new edge finishing production line machine will improve the ‘cut edge’ by polishing and hot glazing the leather in preparation for receiving two coats of high performance ink. This method is commonly used in high-end human belt production which is proven to add quality without increasing prices.

For more information on Ancol’s full range of products visit www.ancol.co.uk