7th November 2011

Andrew Muirhead & Son supply to trio of top UK hotels.

Three of the UKs top hotels have sourced Scottish leather manufacturer Andrew Muirhead & Son for their refurbishment programmes, including Thistle Hotel at Marble Arch, Crowne Plaza Resort Colchester - Five Lakes and London Marriott County Hall.

Situated just off Oxford Street, London, the Thistle Hotel was originally built as a new gateway to Buckingham Palace before moving to its current location.

The classic art deco hotel uses Andrew Muirhead leather in Loom for fixed seating and lounge chairs and hides in Cashmere for high stools and sofas in the bar area. Leather in Nutmeg was used for fixed seating in the restaurant area, Khaki hides were used on tub chairs and Ingleston Sable was specified for sofas.

Roy Kirby from design company Design Coalition said:

"We use Andrew Muirhead extensively on all of our projects. With such a vast range and leather of the highest quality Andrew Muirhead is quite simply a natural choice for any interior design project.

The colour and textured ranges are so varied that the Andrew Muirhead collections make selection an easy task - this is why their hides are always close at hand."

At Crowne Plaza Resort Colchester - Five Lakes, the Hotel, Golf, Country Club and Spa is the first UK Crowne Plaza resort and is situated near the coastal town of Maldon, Essex and offers high-class leisure and sporting facilities.

Here, Andrew Muirhead leather in Arisaig Willow was used on bulkheads and large fixed-bench seating. Arisaig Mink and Rust, along with Ingleston Gothic were also used on seating in public areas of the hotel. Arisaig is the most recent collection to be launched by Muirhead, with its crushability and natural softness most prominent.

Nicholas Smith from purchasing company Brioland said:

"We have specified Andrew Muirhead leather for quite a few of our projects and have done so for years. The high quality, durability and their ability to create bespoke colours is something that appeals to our clients and their projects."

The London Marriott County Hall is located opposite Big Ben and the London Eye on London’s South Bank. The luxury 5* hotel is traditionally elegant with breathtaking views.

Within the reception area and the Noes lobby, Andrew Muirhead leather was used in Lustrana Oxblood for high backed chairs.

Designers, Black Box Interiors Limited specified Andrew Muirhead as their first class colour matching service ensured that the traditional burnt out brown colour that was selected fitted with the atmosphere of the hotel –time-honoured and grand.

Archie Browning, sales director for Andrew Muirhead & Son finished:

"It is testament to our Low Carbon Leather products, that not only is choice and flexibility important, but that the leather we supply can last for years in high-traffic areas and only wear better with age.
We are very pleased with the feedback received from the projects and look forward to continuing our relationships with our customers."

24th October 2011

Andrew Muirhead & Son specified for two outstanding British museums-The National Museum of Scotland and The Ashmolean Museum

Andrew Muirhead & Son, part of Scottish Leather Group, and manufacturers of quality upholstery and sustainable Low Carbon Leather, has recently supplied the leather for two of Britain's finest museums, The National Museum of Scotland, Edinburgh and The Ashmolean Museum of Art and Archaeology, attached to the University of Oxford.

The National Museum of Scotland has recently reopened following a £47.4 million redevelopment to transform it into one of the world's leading museums and a destination tourist attraction in Scotland.

Within the museum, Andrew Muirhead leather was used in the main restaurant, The Brasserie, a prominent feature within the entrance hall. Hides in Ingleston Scarlet were specified for both the central banquette seating and on a long, curved wall at the rear.

The design company commissioned by the National Museum of Scotland, Path Design said:

"We felt that it would be in-keeping to use a quality Scottish supplier for the National Museum of Scotland. We use Andrew Muirhead for a large number of our projects as we feel that the colour range, affordability and quality are all great factors."

The Ashmolean Museum was Britain's first public museum and is home to Oxford University's collections of art and archaeology. The recent transformation provides 39 new galleries along with a temporary exhibition space.

Chosen for their high quality finish and colour matching, Andrew Muirhead hides in Ingleston Poppy were used to re-upholster seating within the museum - a hint of colour that lifted the spaced and matched the modern redesign.

As well as the classic colour range sourced for both the museums, the flexible manufacturing process that is used by Andrew Muirhead ensures that bespoke colours can be created for projects that require specific shades or colour matching.

Archie Browning, sales director for Andrew Muirhead & Son commented:

"Finding our leather in iconic buildings integral to the landscape of Britain is further testament to the quality, durability and overall high standard that Andrew Muirhead leather has become known for.

It was a privilege to be specified for large UK projects such as these that will be around for generations of Brits and tourists alike.

Andrew Muirhead & Son leather is the leather of choice for prestigious commercial projects across the UK and indeed Europe and we will continue to work with some of the best designers to achieve great style, on time and within budget."

6th October 2011

Andrew Muirhead & Son selected to supply to Conquest Vehicles Inc. - Knight XV, 2012 edition.

Andrew Muirhead & Son, part of Scottish Leather Group and manufacturers of Low Carbon Leather, has been selected to supply the leather for the 2012 edition of Canadian car manufacturer, Conquest Vehicles Inc, for their high-end KNIGHT XV, a custom-made, fully-armoured luxury vehicle.

Conquest Vehicles offers Andrew Muirhead leather in over 80 different options including colours from the Ingleston, Lustrana, Lustrol, Metallic, Arisaig, Sateen and high performance ranges.

The 2012 KNIGHT XV's standard features include a newly redesigned interior and cockpit, front and rear commercial grade air ride suspension, front power windows, and 360-degree roof mounted, joystick-controlled searchlights.

At US $629,000, the 2012 model will also be wider and longer maintaining the same vehicle footprint with more interior space and will also feature new design cues such as a flip front end, new hood, grille, headlights and taillights.

Seth Feller, vice president, global branding and communications at Conquest Vehicles Inc. commented:

"Knowing that our ultra high net worth clients expect nothing but the very best when it comes to their vehicle's interiors, we selected Andrew Muirhead as our leather supplier due to the company's stellar historic reputation, strong global brand position and its range of quality leathers."

Archie Browning, sales director for Andrew Muirhead & Son commented:

"At Andrew Muirhead we pride ourselves on providing high quality, world class leather for some of the most luxurious brands in the world. Our range, bespoke service and Low Carbon Leather are ideal for this high-class vehicle.

"With work spanning many industry sectors, this contract is testament to the quality and versatility that Andrew Muirhead has become known for."

22nd September 2011

Andrew Muirhead & Son launches Low Carbon Leather iPad case at 100% Design.

Andrew Muirhead & Son, part of Scottish Leather Group and manufacturers of sustainable quality upholstery leather, launch their Low Carbon Leather iPad case at 100% Design this week, 22-25 September.

Collaborating with Glasgow School of Art student studying Product Design, Jamie Sunderland, Muirhead commissioned the design of the case following a student visit from GSA earlier this year. One student in particular showed a serious interest in leather manufacturing and demonstrated his passion about using leather in different applications.

The custom-made case has been in development for several months. After visits to world-wide trade fairs and market research, Jamie Sunderland came up with the current design, keeping the leather's natural grain and combining it with his skills and knowledge learned on his Product Design course at GSA.

The case which is made from the lowest carbon leather in the world fits well with Muirhead's sustainability strategy, using Low Carbon Leather to make a well designed product.

Jamie Sunderland said of the new product:

"What began as a student project quickly grew beyond my expectations. An exciting experience outside of university life, working with industry professionals to explore, design and take a leather product to market.

The iPad design originally was not dissimilar to the one that Apple brought out with the iPad 2. We changed our case design which was a shame, but in some ways, it was nice to know we were on the right lines!

The finished case very much reflects the natural elements of leather . We have used leather and stitching to ensure our 'envelope' style case works effectively and still looks stylish.

The stitched strap allows part of the front flap to tuck in without the need for magnets or fastenings. It offers space to brand and customise the case with a contrasting colour and stitch. The diverse range of on trend colours enabled a variety of colour styles to be manufactured.

It is rewarding to work on the process from concept to the finished product. It's been a great confidence booster as a new designer exhibiting at the prestigious 100% Design in Earls Court, London.

"The project has developed my understanding and interest in a fine quality hides with the opportunity to discover other bespoke leather products."

26th July 2011

Andrew Muirhead & Son in contemporary Italian restaurant, Manicomio.

Andrew Muirhead & Son, part of Scottish Leather Group, and manufacturers of quality upholstery and sustainable Low Carbon Leather, has recently supplied the leather for Manicomio, a contemporary Italian restaurant in Central London.

In keeping with the continental atmosphere, Andrew Muirhead hides in Sateen Riviera were specified for use on wingback chairs and barstools in the main restaurant.

Chosen for their high quality finish, hides were selected that reflected the leather trends of this year. In order to highlight the Riviera theme, muted colours with a waxy finish were used to tie in with the natural materials within the restaurant.

Jane Taylor, from design company Jane Taylor Designers commented:

"The central design idea for the refurbishment of Manicomio was to create an atmosphere of 'La dolce vita' by using a palette inspired by Pucci that was perfectly captured in the leathers of Andrew Muirhead."

As well as the comprehensive colour range sourced for Manicomio, the flexible manufacturing process adopted by Andrew Muirhead ensures that bespoke colours can be created for projects requiring specific shades or colour matching.

Archie Browning, sales director for Andrew Muirhead & Son commented:

"Finding ourselves becoming more and more immersed in the London fine dining scene is testimony to the quality of our leather. Leather is more durable than fabric, has a longer life and is cool in summer and warm in winter. It also exudes luxury in keeping with the surroundings of top end restaurants such as Manicomio"

25th July 2011

Andrew Muirhead & Son in Harvey Nichol's OXO Tower Bar.

At the OXO Tower Bar, situated on the south bank of the River Thames, Andrew Muirhead leather was used on the bar interior and reflects the original design elements from the adjoining restaurant and brasserie.

Within the bar, hides were used for the tub chairs and curved seating booths. The bespoke yellow colour specified by the designers was created specially by AMS leather. The bar, which has stunning views over the City, has re-established its 'must-visit' status since the refurbishment.

Designers Shaun Clarkson ID, selected leather to retain the impression of a classic cruise liner in keeping with the riverside location, while including noticeably modern touches.

Sasha Filskow, designer at Shaun Clarkson ID commented:

"We work with Andrew Muirhead Leather for their consistency in delivering high quality products and are a reliable supplier. The overall colour range and flexible bespoke service that they offer is perfect for the projects that we work on and ideal for destination venues such as the OXO Tower bar.

"The fast turnaround times and Low Carbon Leather marque helps to contribute to the sustainability angle of our work, ensuring that we will continue to specify their leather for use in the future."

This year's Restaurant Bar and Design Awards has seen the OXO Tower Bar nominated in the 'Restaurant, bar or club in another space category'.

14th July 2011

The Improved Andrew Muirhead Website is Launched.

The Andrew Muirhead website has now been improved. As part of the update, you can order samples from the Sample Request page.

The 'Manufacturing Process' area of the website has also been enhanced to show each stage of the leather manufacturing process.
You can view the section by clicking here: Manufacturing Process or go to 'Understanding leather' and click 'Manufacturing Process' in the left menu.

20th April 2011

Andrew Muirhead & Son supply Malaysia Airlines new fleet.

Andrew Muirhead & Son, part of Scottish Leather Group, is to supply technically advanced Low Carbon Leather to Malaysia Airlines for
its fleet of new Boeing B737-800 aircraft.

The 35 aircraft, which will be fitted with the new Sky Cabin interior, will have all-leather seats throughout.

Archie Browning, sales director at Andrew Muirhead & Son said of the contract:

"We are delighted to be involved with another premium Asian airline contract and look forward to developing an excellent relationship with Malaysia Airlines."

Andrew Muirhead & Son is the largest manufacturer of aviation leather supplying over 150 airlines in over 60 countries around the world.

Malaysia Airlines' executive vice president managing director's office, Muzzaffar Othman said,

"Our B737-800 operates short haul and regional destinations with travel time of less than 5 hours. Due to fast turnaround in operating such routes leather is the most functional material providing easier maintenance and durability. Furthermore, leather lends a luxurious and premium feel to the cabin. This is in line with Malaysia Airlines' aim to enhance customer experience, making sure their journey with us is enjoyable from the time they purchase a ticket to the time they disembark."

First delivery of the new fleet started in October 2010.

10th April 2011

Scottish Leather Group companies supply leather for Arsenal Emirates and Manchester City Stadiums.

Andrew Muirhead & Son Limited, part of Scottish Leather Group, and manufacturers of quality upholstery and sustainable Low Carbon
Leather, have recently supplied the leather for both the refurbishment of the Woolwich Suite at Club Level in the Arsenal Emirates
Stadium and, along with Bridge of Weir Leather, the Chairman's Lounge and boardroom at Manchester City Football Club.

Within Arsenal Emirates, Andrew Muirhead leather was used at the premium tier within both the WM Club, an exclusive members-only
a la carte restaurant, bar and lounge and the Foundry, a seasonal buffet dining experience.

Following a concept from design company 20/20 Limited, the leather selected was based around the clubs heritage and designed to
represent Arsenal club colours. Chosen for their luxurious finish, hides were primarily used in Mulberry, a bespoke colour specially
created through Andrew Muirhead's flexible manufacturing process.

At the WM Club, hides in Ingleston Mulberry were used for the concierge desk, seating booths, wall panels and ceiling. Elsewhere,
Ingleston Gunmetal leather was chosen for seating cubes, dining chairs and wall panels. For the Foundry, Ingleston Nutmeg hides were
used in the deep-button booths.

At Manchester City Football Club, Andrew Muirhead leather in Ingleston Sable was used in the boardroom suite on fixed bench seating.
Bridge of Weir leather in Explore and Warm Beige was used in the Chairman's Lounge on wall panels and tapered ceiling panels. On the Chairman's VIP linked corridor, Warm Beige hides were also used for wall panels from the stadium entrance to the private suite.

Design company APM Design selected Bridge of Weir and Andrew Muirhead leather as a result of their renowned reputation for producing quality leather, its ability to stand the test of time and the fact that they are UK based, supporting local manufacturing.

Archie Browning, sales director for Andrew Muirhead & Son commented:

"We are delighted to have been chosen to provide the leather for the refurbishment of both these iconic stadiums. Furthermore, having worked with Emirates on the outfitting of their aircraft interiors since 2008, the opportunity to work with them once again is an endorsement to our quality."

5th April 2011

Andrew Muirhead & Son promote their 'Low Carbon Leather' at Aircraft Interiors Expo.

Andrew Muirhead & Son Limited, the premier manufacturer of sustainable leather for the global aircraft industry, will be promoting their
Low Carbon Leather at the show in Hamburg on stand 7G23.

Customer demand can have a major influence on how companies address green issues, and as a supplier to the top names in the
airline industry, Andrew Muirhead & Son is subject to the exacting standards expected of a preferred supplier.

Archie Browning, sales director, Andrew Muirhead & Son commented:

"The backlash against air miles also means that our airline customers are looking to demonstrate that they are trying to address the
carbon issue in other ways and we are dedicated to helping them achieve this objective. We supplied leather for the Singapore Airlines and Emirates A380 Airbus and the trend in mega-aircraft is set to continue. According to Airbus, 1,000 new aircraft are forecast to come into operation in each of the next 20 years."

Muirhead's Low Carbon Leather, Voyager has been specified by launch customer Gulf Air who has just received the first consignment for
business class seating on its A320 fleet.

The made-to-order leather is 30% lighter (≈600 grams per square metre), whilst still a full 1mm in thickness (less weight doesn't mean less leather) and most importantly, still 100% genuine leather - not reconstituted, recycled or rehashed. It has greater elasticity than standard leather which allows for more flexible use. The raw material has not changed and it has all the properties expected from
genuine leather.

John Tighe, senior manager at Gulf Air said his company's decision to order Voyager was based on improving competitiveness, reducing operational costs and offering customers a greener product:

"Gulf Air has a history of being a pioneer in the airline business and we are always on the lookout for new products which help to keep
us ahead of our competitors."

"Voyager offers savings in operational costs due to the lighter weight of the leather. Benefits in operational costs will result in Gulf Air burning an estimated $200,000 USD less fuel per year in the A320 fleet alone once the fit out is completed (compared to normal
leather). This has the knock on effect of reducing our carbon emissions."

10th January 2011

Andrew Muirhead to supply Gulf Air with Low Carbon Leather. Estimated savings of $200,000 USD in fuel costs forecast.

Scottish leather manufacturer, Andrew Muirhead & Son Limited, continues to lead the way in product development with their Low
Carbon Leather, Voyager. The world beating new leather has been specified by launch customer Gulf Air who has just received the first
consignment for business class seating on its A320 fleet.

The made-to-order leather is 30% lighter (≈600 grams per square metre), whilst still a full 1mm in thickness (less weight doesn't
mean less leather) and most importantly, still 100% genuine leather - not reconstituted, recycled or rehashed. It has greater elasticity
than standard leather which allows for more flexible use. The raw material has not changed and it has all the properties expected from
genuine leather.

Archie Browning, sales director, commented:

"Our track record in innovation has made us leaders in the field of upholstery leathers in the aviation industry. Voyager is the next step in high performance yet environmentally friendly leather."

"Use of Voyager will benefit the aviation industry; reducing weight helps reduce energy and fuel used, which is hugely important in a
competitive industry where customers are looking for greener options." 

John Tighe, senior manager at Gulf Air said his company's decision to order Voyager was based on improving competitiveness, reducing operational costs and offering customers a greener product:

"Gulf Air has a history of being a pioneer in the airline business and we are always on the lookout for new products which help to keep
us ahead of our competitors."

"Voyager offers savings in operational costs due to the lighter weight of the leather. Benefits in operational costs will result in Gulf Airburning an estimated $200,000 USD less fuel per year in the A320 fleet alone once the fit out is completed. (compared to normal
leather) This has the knock on effect of reducing our carbon emissions."

"It makes the seating easier to dress, cutting down time on refit, and also gives a neater overall look to the seating and cabin"

Andrew Muirhead & Son Ltd supplies leather to some of the world's leading airlines from its factory in the east end of Glasgow including
British Airways, Singapore Airlines and Emirates.