SIMAC 2024: Insights on the future of the leather manufacturing process
In September 2024, Mindhive Global attended SIMAC Tanning Tech, the premier event for leather manufacturing technologies. James Bayly (CEO), Ray Connor (COO), and Dion Bettjeman (CTO)—who recently relocated to Italy to spearhead EU operations, represented Mindhive at the event. With the leather industry rapidly evolving, SIMAC showcased the latest innovations, and our team identified several pivotal trends that are shaping the future of the leather manufacturing process.
AI and automation are redefining leather manufacturing
Automation is no longer a distant concept in the leather industry—it’s a reality transforming operations today. At SIMAC, the focus was clear: AI-powered solutions are changing how leather is processed. For example, grading at both the wet-blue and finished stages traditionally relied heavily on manual labor, leading to inconsistencies. Now, with AI, tanneries can automate these critical processes, ensuring precise and consistent quality control.
Mindhive Grading is a prime example of this shift. As highlighted by James at the event,
“Our AI-driven solutions are already driving faster, more accurate decision-making for tanneries worldwide.”
For instance, Bader adopted our system, significantly improving both their productivity and the accuracy of their grading operations. The leather manufacturing process, once dominated by manual assessments, is now entering a new era of efficiency and precision.
Data is the backbone of modern leather manufacturing
Another key theme at SIMAC was the growing importance of data. Tanneries are increasingly relying on data to track quality and ensure traceability throughout the leather manufacturing process. Ray emphasized,
“Leather processors are under increasing compliance burdens, the European Union Deforestation Regulation that came into effect on June 29th, 2024 is one area. The real value comes when manufacturers use data to make informed decisions that enhance both sustainability and profitability.”
Traceability, particularly in the context of deforestation concerns, has become critical. However, many in the industry are still figuring out how to turn this requirement into a competitive advantage. By integrating data into their processes, companies can improve transparency and demonstrate their commitment to sustainable practices. This shift toward more transparent, data-driven production is positioning forward-thinking companies like Mindhive Global to lead in the era of sustainable leather manufacturing.
Breaking the perception barrier
The adoption of automated processes in leather production was a major talking point at SIMAC. A few years ago, many saw automation as a futuristic dream or a niche innovation due to the complex nature of leather production. Today, the general consensus is that automation is indispensable for maintaining competitiveness. Dion explained,
“We no longer have to convince tanneries that automated defect detection and classification works. They see Mindhive Grading in action. Now, the question is: how fast can they implement it?”
Mindhive’s automated solutions have dispelled the myth that AI and automation are too complex or unreliable. Our systems are fully operational in leading tanneries, proving that automated leather grading isn’t just a passing trend—it’s the future.
Leading the future of leather manufacturing
At this 50th edition of SIMAC Tanning Tech, it became clear that the future of the leather manufacturing process lies in embracing the new pillars of modern leather production: AI-powered automated production and data-backed decision-making. As Dion leads Mindhive Global’s efforts in Europe, we continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible with AI and automation at a global scale.
We’ll see you at SIMAC Tanning Tech 2025.