As 2017 draws to a close, it can almost feel rather cathartic to reflect on the year gone by. Here, we shine a light on Maxwell Scott in 2017 and reveal the most significant milestones from the past twelve months…
Luxury accessories designer, Catriona Forsyth, was appointed earlier this year to redesign and rejuvenate some of our most iconic pieces. A tale of four collections, the Emilia and Bella collections reinterpret the modern Maxwell-Scott woman, with more defined shapes and sleeker detailing. New sophisticated shades of leather were injected into the women’s ranges in the form of Wine and Petrol – a subtle diversion from our classic hues of tan, chocolate and black. Boasting Maxwell – Scott’s emblem in a bolder gold, Forsyth has added a certain element of depth and belonging to our most signature handbags and accessories. The Classic Men’s and
Alessio collections reinvent the Maxwell – Scott gentleman for modern day living. The classic and traditional Santino bags are redesigned to champion functionality in the city. Forsyth has implemented nylon webbing straps to create a sturdier and more practical way to carry these pieces. Whether it’s in the form of a backpack on the Santino L or across the body on the Santino M. Two entirely new designs feature in the Alessio collection in the form of the Livorno and the Ravenna – a duo of contemporary messengers ideal for the discerning urbanite. Handcrafted in a new softer leather, these designs reflect a more casual aesthetic for the brand.
As European champions of their sport, it was only fitting that Saracens rugby union club joined forces with us to supply their leather goods. As official suppliers for the London-based club, we redesigned the Giovane canvas holdall in Sarries’ signature shade – black. Boasting black canvas and black leather, the Giovane has never looked so sleek. In September, we presented the full Saracens squad, including international players Owen Farrell and Maro Itoje, with the Giovane holdall and the Duno L washbag. Embossed with the club’s iconic star emblem, these full-grain leather pieces are ideal for players to use for training and away matches during the season. In early Autumn, we launched the full Saracens X Maxwell Scott collection online and instore at the Allianz Park club shop. A curation of our most iconic travel and business accessories, the luxury collection offers Saracens fans finely crafted goods to solidify their support and feel a part of the Sarries family.
This summer our international marketing manager, Julia, visited the Italian leather factory we have worked with for nearly fifteen years. Owned by Orazio and managed by his son, Roberto, this traditional leather factory is situated in the quaint coastal town of San Benedetto del Tronto. Championing the finest traditional craftsmanship and fusing old craft with modern technology, Maxwell – Scott’s founder William knew that this factory was an ideal match for the brand. Their values reflect ours in every stitch and every slice of leather. They are true experts in their craft, boasting generations of skill and knowledge. This year, Julia was able to experience firsthand the dedication and commitment our factory workers have to maintain our signature impeccable quality.
When William moved the business from London up to his native Yorkshire several years ago, he brought two staff with him. Now, the Maxwell – Scott team is fifteen-strong and fast-growing. In 2017, the brand introduced new team members to develop all areas of the business, from user experience to data management, marketing and design. Based just outside the beautiful cathedral city of York, the headquarters has doubled in size this year to cater for increasing stock levels and desk space. Future plans include a new collection showroom in-house for press and visitors, plus a destinated creative space for the marketing team to plan campaigns. A group of talented professionals with William at the helm, the brand strongly focuses on teamwork and family values to ensure an openly creative and dynamic atmosphere.
With the appointment of Charlotte Forshaw as Corporate Sales Manager and a redevelopment of the corporate gifting page, Maxwell Scott has seen a dramatic rise in the demand for its corporate gift service. Whether for a staff reward or client gift, our fine leather bags and accessories make ideal corporate pieces for businesses in all industries, from hotel groups to law firms. Our embossing service offers the opportunity to have your company logo engraved on any Maxwell Scott product. With the brand’s story beginning with William selling briefcases to businessmen on their lunch break in London, the corporate gifting world seems entirely fitting.