Our CEO, Robert Ettinger, has just returned from his annual trip to Japan, a tradition he has maintained for around 40 years, to visit our store and teams there. We sat down with Robert to learn more about this long-standing relationship.
What makes your yearly trip to Japan so important for you and the business?
"I make it a priority to visit Japan once a year, and I consider it to be one of the most important trips of the year for the company and me. It is a key market for us, and as my name is on the products, there is a strong personal connection. I spend time visiting stores, meeting teams on the ground and hearing directly from staff, which is always valuable. It is also an opportunity to develop new product ideas together with Lea Mills Agency."
Do you remember your first visit there? What stood out to you?
"My first visit was about 40 years ago, a few years after joining my father, Gerry, in the family business. What stood out immediately was how immaculately clean everything was. There is a real sense of pride in presentation in Japanese culture, which is something we admire greatly and which aligns closely with how we approach our own products."
Japan is one of our biggest markets. Why do you think the brand resonates so strongly there?
"The Ettinger brand resonates strongly in Japan because, like the Japanese, we place a huge emphasis on detail, craftsmanship and thoughtful design. As one of the last remaining UK leather manufacturers, we maintain a level of quality and care in our production that is highly valued in Japan, and that connection has been there from the very beginning."
Have you noticed any difference between the British and Japanese attitudes towards craftsmanship and luxury?
"I think the British and the Japanese attitudes towards craftsmanship and luxury are very similar. Both cultures appreciate well-made, timeless pieces and have a deep respect for tradition and heritage. Interestingly, the Japanese often seem to value the Royal Warrant more than people in Britain do, seeing it as a true mark of excellence and quality."
Have you learned anything from Japanese culture or business practices that has influenced the way you work?
"Japanese culture places enormous importance on detail, which aligns very closely with Ettinger's approach. We also share a belief in creating products that are not only beautifully made but also practical and functional. In business, we both value long-term relationships and working closely and respectfully with our partners and customers, which has influenced the way we operate."
What do you enjoy most about your time in Japan outside of work?
"I love walking around the Emperor’s Palace Gardens, with its beautifully manicured trees and waterways surrounding the palace. I also always enjoy stopping for a bowl of ramen, it is one of my favourite simple pleasures when I am there."
Is there a place, routine, or tradition you always look forward to when you visit?
"I always try to have a meal in the Tokyo Palace Hotel restaurant, where one can sit outside and look directly over the Palace, and its gardens and waterways. It is a very special setting, especially when enjoying traditional Japanese cuisine with a glass of sake."
How do you see the brand's presence in Japan evolving in the coming years?
"Now that Ettinger is working with Lea Mills Agency, a subsidiary of Mitsui, we expect the brand's presence in Japan to continue growing. We hope to expand into more stores and reach an even wider audience across the market."
Are there any exciting opportunities or plans for the Japanese market you can share?
"We are currently working with our Japanese distributor on a number of new product ideas. While we are not able to share any details at this stage, there are some exciting developments ahead as we look to expand into new areas of the market."