In a lather over leather

A few years ago, fed up with being unable to find accessories that matched their taste, designer Supreeya Kulthaveesup and her husband decided to set up their own factory and produce stylish lifestyle goodies they hoped would appeal to others.

They called their company Labrador after their favourite breed of dog and were soon producing eco-friendly beanbags and stationery that sold well in Loft and Central Department Store.

“We wanted to offer something new and different to shoppers who love design products,” Supreeya says. “We stuck to eco-friendly ideas and kept our designs simple and functional. We’ve also aimed for durability and use genuine leather as our main material.”

Their innovative products have been displayed at such international fairs as Maison and Objet in Paris, Paperworld in Germany and Bangkok International Gift and Houseware Fairs. They’ve conquered more than the domestic market and now have distributors in Europe, Japan, Taiwan, India, Singapore and Hong Kong.

Recently, the couple expanded their business by launching three more labels though they’ve stuck to the same concept. Relabrador offers stationery made from recycled leather and Labrador Paper provides a selection of refill paper, notebooks and envelopes. The newest addition Zonn has a collection of eye-catching bags made from a new material that’s lightweight, waterproof and translucent.

All the goodies are available at their flagship shop, which opened last year at Terminal 21. Browse around and you will find a wide range of organisers, notepads, notebooks cases, card holders, iPad cases, weekly plan refill, mobile phone straps, pen pockets, soft cases, mobile phone cases, CD holders, bank book cases, passport cases, wallets, pencil caps, luggage tags, keyrings, magnets and document bags. Most products are available in brown, grey, black, white and red.

Also on sale are selection of pens, pencils, rulers and sharpeners by E+M from Germany.
“We plan to expand the product line to furniture and home decor items in the future.” Supreeya says.

Labrador’s products are also available at Loft, Zeen Zone, TCDC and B2S.

NO DOGS ALLOWED
Labrador is located on the third floor of Terminal 21. It’s open daily from 11am to 10pm. Call (02) 951 3488 or visit www.LabradorFactory.net.