KINGSTON, Jamaica – A seventy-year legacy in Jamaica’s leathercraft industry is concluding not due to market pressures or declining sales, but because of an irreplaceable human capital shortage. People’s Leather Supplies Limited, a cornerstone supplier for artisans, shoemakers, and educational institutions, is shuttering its operations permanently after failing to secure a successor to its longstanding leadership.
For over half a century, Hope Smith has stewarded the family enterprise established by her father. Her impending retirement at year’s end marks the finale of an era, a decision compelled by the absence of a willing family heir. This succession vacuum was tragically exacerbated by the death of her brother, the intended successor, followed by the retirement of veteran staff members.
In an exclusive interview, Smith revealed the core dilemma: her children and grandchildren reside overseas with no interest in returning to manage the specialized trade. Recruitment efforts proved equally futile, with Smith citing a generational disconnect in work ethic. ‘These young people come in, and everybody’s on the phone… It’s just a different generation,’ she lamented.
Despite generating millions in annual revenue and attracting potential buyers, Smith found none prepared to operate the complex business independently. Proposals that required her continued involvement were firmly rejected. ‘After two years without a vacation and now being in my retirement years, I just want to be out,’ she stated.
The closure strategy prioritizes preserving the company’s esteemed reputation over a risky transition. Smith has chosen to retain the business name and property within the family, nurturing hope for a future revival by subsequent generations. The company’s sole remaining location on Slipe Road will be leased to a hardware retailer, following the earlier shutdown of its downtown Kingston branch during the pandemic.
The company occupies a unique market niche, providing an extensive range of specialized materials—from leather and insoles to dyes and specialized vinyl for schools—unmatched by competitors. Its clientele includes major local brands like Bridget Sandals.
The final weeks have been marked by impactful closing sales, with loyal customers stockpiling essentials and purchasing discounted finished goods. From a peak of nine employees, the staff has dwindled to three, with transition assistance provided to the remaining workers.
Expressing profound gratitude to decades-long patrons, Smith shared her emotional conflict: ‘I know they’re really disappointed but there comes a time when you have to make a decision about what is best for you as an individual.’ She concluded with poignant regret, wishing family circumstances had allowed the legacy to continue.
