Portland Leather Goods is known for its classic and simple designs that are made with quality materials. While they are popular for their bags and satchels, the company also produces journals, backpacks, and other accessories.
Founded in their namesake city, the brand was started by a few craftsmen who came together in Portland, Oregon, in 2015. It all began with artist Curtis Matsko, who made a leather-bound journal for his girlfriend and decided to start a business.
From there, it grew quickly and is now recognized as one of the fastest growing fashion brands of recent years, recently capping over $100 million in sales.
One of their hallmark features is the quality of the leather they use. According to the brand, their full-grain and pebbled leather materials are considerably stronger and more resilient than comparable processed leathers.
Perhaps their materials are the secret to their success. However they got to where they are now, we’d like to know one important thing: where are Portland Leather Goods being made today?
Verdict: Are Portland Leather Goods Made in the USA?
No, Portland Leather Goods is not made in the USA. Portland Leather Goods bags and other products are made in Mexico.
Despite the deceiving title, Portland Leather Goods are not coming from Portland, Oregon. They may have begun in Bridge City, but they no longer make their bags in the US. However, the brand is still headquartered in Portland today. But their bags? They are manufactured at a facility in León, Mexico.
Although those bags aren’t being sewn up here, they do start their journey on American soil. Portland Leather Goods sources its raw materials from the US. The company reports that they “meticulously source from the finest US hides; this premium material boasts unique textures and character, showcasing nature’s artistry at its best.”
As the name would suggest, Portland Leather Goods were indeed originally made in Portland. For a good 5 years after the company began, a full US-based team was at work to run the business and make the goods. However, things took a turn when the COVID-19 pandemic hit. Founder Matsko remarks in an interview below:
Thanks to this move across borders, Portland Leather was able to continue its business in a ceased world. However, they didn’t just keep it rolling; they expanded immensely. Now, they are the largest leather bag makers in North America.
Aside from its main production plant in Mexico, the brand may also have dealings in Italy and Brazil, according to statements made by the founder:
It’s unfortunate that the company transitioned from US-based manufacturing, especially considering that their materials are still proudly sourced here in America. You’d think it would be more efficient to work the entire process here, but businesses often struggle to beat the cost of labor they can find overseas.
Bottomline, Portland Leather Goods are not made in the USA.
Popular American Made Portland Leather Goods Products
- None that we could find
Popular Portland Leather Goods Products Not Made in the USA
- Circle Crossbody
- Leather Tote Bag
- Mini Crossbody Tote
American Made Alternatives
- Leather bag brands made domestically
- Travel luggage made domestically
- Handbags and purses made domestically
- Diaper bags made domestically
- Hip packs made domestically
