USA: Eagle Ottawa with Automotive Interior and Leather Trends

Eagle Ottawa , the world's largest supplier of leather to the automotive industry, gave a sneak preview of new automotive interior and leather trends at a media preview in Warren, Mich. on Sept. 25.

"Eagle Ottawa conducts global research to search for trends that improve the designs, functionality and performance of our leather products and services," said Pat Oldenkamp, Vice President, Design, Eagle Ottawa.

The company attends design shows around the world to look at fashion, color, art and consumer products to come up with ideas for new colors, effects and textures that will bring excitement and new ideas to automotive manufacturers.

"There has been a tremendous increase in the emphasis placed on enhanced and upgraded vehicle interiors," said Oldenkamp. "Interiors are hot. Large cars, small cars -- consumers want environments that are chic, fashionable. We're not reacting to what we see in stores today -- we're right there with designers in Milan and Tokyo."

Customization

Cars are reflection of individual style, taste and personality. Like a designer purse, techy watch, iPod or cell phone, buyers want vehicle interiors to have "design" and function. Consumers also want craftsmanship -- furniture-like leather; designer colors and perforation; stylish stitching; seats that are warm in the winter/cool in the summer.

Tech

Young buyers look for the latest trends. They're media wizards and grasp new ideas fast and they're used to customizing everything from shoes, to credit cards to music.

Luxury

Drivers want luxury and more luxury. That used to mean leather seats. Now it's about leather everywhere -- on the instrument panel, steering wheel, shift boot and on doors. Even in smaller cars, drivers want deluxe.

Young buyers (or millenials), living at home longer, are buying their dream cars NOW. Their starter cars have all the bells and whistles -- and premium leather.

Green

"Today, the leather manufacturing process is greener than ever," said Oldenkamp. "Eagle Ottawa is going further to develop a new product using an innovative process that produces a leather product from in-process shaving and scrap so less waste goes to landfill."

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