Radley London | Ethically Produced
About Radley London
The people. The style. The energy. The character. It’s hard not to be inspired by the Capital. That’s where Radley London was born with a passion for artisan-made handbags, footwear, and accessories. We put fashion in functional, with every piece made to last and put a spring in your step. Whether strutting through the streets of Soho, or on the school run.
We know leather. It’s in our DNA. And we never stop striving to set a new standard for quality. Every Radley London design is made with expert care. Do you hear that smooth glide of a zip? We consider every detail, including our choice of shine-like-the-sun hardware. And we’re innovating in sustainable new non-leather alternatives too. Made from recycled plastic bottles, no less.
Our story
The Radley London journey began in the 1980s, among a wave of new creatives in London’s famous Camden Lock Market.
These early years were spent exploring, designing, and developing the Radley London look before the brand officially launched in 1998. We also used this time to partner with some of the expert artisan makers we still work with today. Sometimes the best things are worth the wait.
Over two decades on, Radley London has grown into a global brand with over 20 stores and shipping to over 40 countries. We’re proud to see our Scottie dog swing in the arm of 1000s of inspiring women around the world.
And we’re excited about the future too. Working hard to bring you new launches and initiatives. We have an increased focus on sustainability with our Radley Responsible collection, which showcases recycled materials and environmentally-friendly practices. And we are always working to expand our innovative new product ranges – footwear, gifting, and clothing, to name a few.
Inside our London Design Studio
Walk into our London Design Studio and you’ll find life behind the leather seams. Mood boards are adorned with exhibition tickets, torn-out catwalk trends, and polaroids of the latest street styles. We’ve got swatches of leather in every color from traffic light green to first-blossom-of-spring pink. Sketches of iconic shapes and classic silhouettes from buildings and landscapes nearby.
If we’re lost for inspiration, we take to the streets of London. Here we find inspiration from the styles and spirit of the Capital. Because our bags are designed for life, and for living life, too. Then it’s over to our artisan makers who craft each one using only the finest leather and materials. From pattern cutters and seamstresses to edge painters and screen printers, up to 20 skilled artisans hand construct just one Radley London bag.
“What makes a great handbag? Quality craftsmanship, attention to detail and amazing design both inside and out. The size, color, and shape are obviously important, but the handbag has to work with the needs of modern life.”
Our Commitment To The Planet
We only have one, so we want to make sure we treat it right. We love making the most beautiful handbags and we do this in the most responsible way for our planet. With the ESG (ethical, social, and governance) strategy we have in place.
We constantly monitor how we can make positive changes in our business and encourage change elsewhere. Ethically, environmentally and socially. This affects how we design, source, manufacture, and sell our products. And here’s how.
Ethically Produced
First up, we select materials for their environmentally friendly properties, focusing on best practice processes and recycled and reused resources
100% of our leather is certified by the Leather Working Group. 95% of our tanneries are Gold Standard (the remaining 5% is Silver or Bronze). We only work with tanneries that are Leather Working Group-accredited
Every season we’re growing our sustainable non-leather Radley Responsible range
We manage our use of chemicals. Our ‘Best in Class’ testing program – including our primary, secondary and tertiary suppliers – ensures no direct or indirect environmental damage
Who Are The Leather Working Group?
The organization is responsible for the world's leading environmental certification for the leather manufacturing industry.
Smart With Resources
Currently, 75% of our current packaging is made from recycled and responsible sources
We’ve committed that by 2023 our packaging will be made from 90% recycled material, and also be 90% recyclable, so we can create an infinite loop
All of our leather is a by-product from the food industry
We get the most out of our materials when cutting our products, knowing that every piece we save from going to waste is better for the planet
By planning ahead for our collections, we know exactly where we need to send our materials so we can use slower but less carbon-heavy methods of transportation
Looking After Our People
We audit our entire supply chain – including the suppliers of our suppliers – to ensure everyone feels safe and secure in their work environment
We provide support and training for suppliers who need guidance to meet the audit standards
Every person within our supply chain, regardless of gender, sexual or religious orientation, or belief, is treated equally
We’ve worked with some of our partners (now friends) for over 35 years. We celebrate birthdays and wedding anniversaries together
Buy Well to Buy Less
Our bags (and purses and accessories) are made for life. Every design is made to last and when looked after properly, only gets better with age