The Digest | New Jersey Magazine
Issue link: https://magazines.vuenj.com/i/1387613
was started by an engineer so is rooted in innovation and they consistently upgrade their equipment to reflect the latest technologies. Combining the technology with made-to-order pieces has been a winning combination. Another appealing aspect to buyers is the quick turnaround that American Leather offers. "Historically we can deliver in about 30 days. We have a great manufacturing process, just-in-time practices for our materials, and we have a facility that is state of the art," Lucas said. Today, Lucas adds, lead times are a bit longer due to COVID complications however, American Leather is still one the fastest custom furniture manufacturers in the industry. Because furniture is not something the typical user will buy and sell often, American Leather focuses on quality construction using high-end materials, skilled craftsmen, and relying on insight from their team of about 600 that represents 35 different countries. Their workers bring a variety of perspectives to what is created giving the furniture a truly global feel. Along with the global feel is a global consciousness of using sustainable practices throughout the manufacturing process. American Leather is a founding member of the Sustainable Furniture Council. This means they use wood harvested from sustainable forests, precision engineering to minimize waste, and they recycle and reuse scraps and foam cushioning. Buyers know they are not only receiving a quality product but also one that they can feel good about owning. Outside of the planet, the company also has an altruistic side when it comes to people. When they were forced to stop production during last year's lockdowns, they thought about ways they could use their skill sets in sewing and manufacturing to help. They discovered a natural pivot for their talent to manufacturing PPE—360,000 masks and 82,000 gowns. "We helped locally but also on a broader government need level. We were pleased to be able to help, but also selfishly it kept our own employees working," Lucas said. V U E N J .C O M 56