The automotive, furniture and footwear sectors (well-expressed in Germany’s economy) all rely on high-quality leather, which has given rise to a robust leather industry in the country. Germany is particularly known for its high-quality cowhide leather, although demand has been fluctuating for some years, impacting production and sales. Cowhide leather, a primary material in this sector, is valued for its durability and tensile strength, making it ideal for high-use applications like car interiors and luxury furniture. Germany’s beef production ensures a steady supply of cowhide. Additionally, the southern region of Germany produces what is often considered the finest cowhide in Europe, attributed to specific cattle breeds and rearing practices unique to the area. The decline in the German leather market began as early as 2019, caused by a slowing-down in the automotive and luxury furniture industries, which are two key markets for leather upholstery. As car manufacturers and furniture makers started facing reduced demand, leather-covered products became less popular. Compounding the issue, these industries increasingly turned to alternative materials such as imitation leather, which offers a more affordable option for consumers. The footwear sector, meanwhile, suffered a severe blow during the COVID-19 pandemic (on account of nobody going outside), which led to the full collapse in shoe leather demand. Germany’s leather industry faced further challenges in 2021, as car production suffered from supply chain disruptions and shortages, which delayed manufacturing schedules and further reduced leather demand. Although these markets recovered somewhat in 2022, they could not fully compensate for the losses accrued over the preceding years. Between 2019 and 2024, the German leather industry experienced an average annual revenue decline of 3.2%. For 2024, a slight decline of 0.1% is anticipated, with industry turnover expected to reach €657.9 million, largely due to reduced demand from the furniture sector.