Gusti Leder GmbH

The journey of Gusti Leder began with a spark of inspiration during a trip through India by its founder, Christian Pietsch, while he was still a student. Fascinated by the traditional craftsmanship of local leather artisans, he envisioned a company that would seamlessly blend timeless, vintage-inspired designs with sustainable and transparent production methods. This vision laid the groundwork for what would officially become Gusti Leder in 2009. Although the venture started in 2007 under the name 'Kunst und Lederhandel Pietsch', it was the rebranding in 2015 that paid a heartfelt tribute to Christian's cherished childhood goat, Gusti, cementing the brand's identity. From these humble beginnings, driven by a passion for authentic leather goods and a commitment to ethical practices, Gusti Leder embarked on its mission to offer high-quality products while fostering fair and direct relationships with its producers, primarily small family businesses in India and certified factories in both India and Italy.

Over the years, Gusti Leder has blossomed from a nascent idea into a globally recognized and trusted brand headquartered in Rostock, Germany. The company has steadfastly upheld its core values of quality, transparency, and the promotion of 'slow fashion'. This commitment is evident in their direct sourcing of materials, bypassing cost-intensive intermediaries to work closely with their partners. The product range, which initially focused on leather bags and backpacks, has significantly expanded to include a diverse array of accessories, stationery, and even a highly successful line of bicycle products. A cornerstone of Gusti Leder's philosophy is its dedication to sustainability. The leather used is primarily a byproduct from animals raised for meat production, ensuring responsible resource utilization. The company champions transparent production processes, ethical working conditions, and environmental consciousness, striving to make a positive impact on the leather industry. Today, Gusti Leder not only serves a global customer base through its international online shops but also welcomes customers into its physical stores across Germany, Austria, and the Netherlands, offering a tangible and personal experience of their handcrafted leather goods.