Timeline


Elmo was founded in 1931. The early days as a small shoe leather company have over the years evolved to become a pioneering supplier of sustainable leathers to international companies in the automotive, furniture and many other interior requiring sectors. Our history spans over nearly 90 years, all over the globe.

1931


Established by Gustav Elmquist with production of shoe leather

1935


Sold to KF

1969


Investment in machinery to produce full hides enables us to move into automotive and furniture industry

1972


Development of our first furniture leather Elmolux (printed pigmented leather)

1978


Investment in machinery to produce full hides enables us to move into automotive and furniture industry

1980´s


Penetration of the premium automotive market

1982


Opening of sales office in Highpoint, NC. Elmo Leather of America

1983


Development of Elmosoft and Elmorustical (chrome tanned)

1985


Development of Elmotique

1989


Acquisition of ALMC, American Leather in New Jersey

1980-1990s


Driving the industry by switching from solvent-based coatings to water-based coatings – Excelling in air emission reduction and still a benchmark

1994


KF sells 53% of Elmo shares to Nordic Capitals

2000


With the acquisition of Swewi in Denmark, Elmo start production of chrome free leather

2001


Elmo Leather of America in NJ is closed and production is moved to Sweden

2004


Swewi is closed and production moved to HQ in Sweden

2005


Opening of our water cleaning facility

2010


Rino Mastrotto Group acquires Elmo Leather

2016


Opening of a Sales office in Detroit serving the North American automotive industry – Elmo of America