High bar set as Strathberry appoints new managing director to drive continued growth – Scottish Business News

Edinburgh-based luxury brand targets £100m revenue as it continues rapid expansion

Strathberry, one of Scotland’s leading luxury brands, is pleased to announce the appointment of Martin Byrne as its new Managing Director.

Byrne, who brings a wealth of experience from leading roles in high-end consumer brands, will join the company in November, working closely with founders Guy and Leeanne Hundleby to drive forward Strathberry’s ambitious global growth strategy.

Byrne’s appointment comes at a pivotal time for Strathberry, which reported a 53% increase in turnover to £27 million for FY24, representing a remarkable 55% compound annual growth rate since FY21. With a solid double-digit profit margin, the brand is setting its sights on reaching £100 million in revenue within the next three years.

Strathberry’s growth has been fuelled by strong demand for its luxury leather goods, particularly in North America, which saw a 90% increase in sales last year.

Additionally, the Middle East and Japanese markets have exhibited significant online growth, at 143% and 61% respectively, as the brand continues to expand its global footprint.

The brand’s success has been underpinned by an £8 million investment from Business Growth Fund (BGF) in 2021, aimed at accelerating its growth trajectory.

Byrne’s leadership will be instrumental in leveraging this investment to further enhance Strathberry’s e-commerce capabilities, expand its retail presence, and strengthen wholesale partnerships.

“We are thrilled to welcome Martin Byrne to the Strathberry team during this exciting period of growth,” said Leeanne and Guy Hundleby, founders of Strathberry.

“Martin’s extensive experience in the luxury sector, coupled with his proven track record of driving growth, makes him the ideal candidate to help us capitalise on the numerous opportunities ahead.”

Byrne, currently Chief Commercial Officer at Monica Vinader, expressed his enthusiasm for the new role, stating: “Strathberry’s exceptional products and impressive recent performance speak volumes. After meeting Leeanne and Guy, it was clear to me that the brand has tremendous potential, and I am eager to contribute to its continued success.”