The leather goods retailers industry in the US has thrived as a vibrant sector that encompasses various products, including bags, footwear, and accessories. Companies range from established luxury brands like Coach and Michael Kors to emerging startups focused on sustainable practices and innovative designs. E-commerce has significantly shaped the industry, with online sales growing year after year. Consumers are increasingly seeking quality and craftsmanship, driving demand in both higher-end and more affordable segments. Analysts predict steady growth with sustainability trends influencing sourcing and production techniques, pushing brands to rethink traditional methods in favor of eco-friendly alternatives.


This list showcases 19 notable investors in the leather goods space, primarily concentrated in Silicon Valley and New York. The mix includes venture capital and private equity firms founded from 1977 to 2015. These investors have actively engaged with countless startups, tallying hundreds of deals in 2024 alone. Ranging from small teams to large firms, their involvement signifies a well-rounded interest in various aspects of the leather goods market, from luxury brands to consumer-focused retail models.


Top 19 Leather Goods Retailers Investors in the US


1. 500 Global

  • Website: 500.co
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2010
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • Number of deals in 2024: 98
  • LinkedIn: 500-startups

500 Global is a venture capital firm and startup accelerator based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2010. The firm specializes in investing in early-stage technology companies, providing funding, mentorship, and resources to help founders scale their businesses. In addition to their focus on technology, 500 Global has made several investments in the fashion and retail sectors, including notable transactions such as italist, which raised $100,000 in a Seed Round in 2014, and Stylemyle, which raised an undisclosed amount in a Pre-Seed Round in 2023. Other relevant investments include Coveti, which also raised an undisclosed amount in a Seed Round in 2020, and AMUSED Co, which secured funding in a Pre-Seed Round in 2022. These transactions highlight 500 Global's engagement with companies that could be part of the leather goods retail landscape, demonstrating their versatility as an investor.


2. Y Combinator

  • Website: ycombinator.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2005
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 802
  • LinkedIn: y-combinator

Y Combinator is a prominent startup accelerator and venture capital firm based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2005. It specializes in providing funding and mentorship to early-stage technology companies through a structured program that includes resources like the Startup School and co-founder matching services. Over the years, Y Combinator has successfully launched more than 4,000 startups, establishing itself as a key player in the technology startup ecosystem. Among its notable investments, Y Combinator has funded Markhor, a brand recognized for its handcrafted leather goods, which raised $120,000 in a seed round in 2015. Additionally, they have invested in Shoptiques, a boutique e-commerce site that raised $2 million in a seed round in 2012, further demonstrating their engagement in the retail sector. These transactions highlight Y Combinator's potential relevance to the leather goods retailers industry, despite its primary focus on technology.


3. FJ Labs

  • Website: fjlabs.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2015
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 169
  • LinkedIn: fj-labs

FJ Labs is a venture capital firm based in New York, founded in 2015, that specializes in investing in marketplace and network effect businesses. They provide capital and strategic guidance to entrepreneurs across various industries, including e-commerce and logistics. With over 1,000 companies in their portfolio, many of which have achieved unicorn status, FJ Labs has established itself as a significant player in the venture capital landscape. Notably, they have invested in Rebag, a prominent player in the leather goods retail market, participating in multiple funding rounds including Series A, B, C, and a recent venture round in 2024. This involvement highlights their interest in the leather goods sector, particularly in the resale market for luxury items.


4. Accel

  • Website: accel.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Palo Alto, California, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1983
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 101
  • LinkedIn: accel-vc

Accel is a venture capital firm founded in 1983, based in Palo Alto, California, specializing in investing in startups and early-stage companies. The firm has a strong focus on the technology sector but has also shown interest in other industries, including retail. Notably, Accel has invested in M.Gemi, a luxury footwear brand that emphasizes direct-to-consumer sales, participating in their Series B and Series C funding rounds, which raised a total of $34 million. This involvement highlights Accel's engagement in the leather goods market, particularly in the luxury segment, showcasing their versatility as an investor.


5. L Catterton

  • Website: lcatterton.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1989
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • Number of deals in 2024: 23
  • LinkedIn: l-catterton

L Catterton is a private equity firm specializing in investment management, focusing on consumer brands across various sectors. Founded in 1989 and based in the United States, the firm partners with middle market companies and high-growth enterprises, providing capital and strategic guidance to enhance brand equity and market presence. With a strong emphasis on consumer insights, L Catterton aims to drive growth and innovation within its portfolio companies. Notably, L Catterton has made significant investments in the leather goods sector, including a recent acquisition of a 36% stake in Tod's SpA, an Italian luxury brand valued at approximately €1.4 billion. This investment highlights L Catterton's commitment to the leather goods market. Additionally, their acquisition of a majority stake in APC, a French fashion label, further demonstrates their interest in brands that may include leather goods in their offerings. These transactions reflect L Catterton's strategic approach to enhancing brand presence and expanding market reach in the luxury sector.


6. Goodwater Capital

  • Website: goodwatercap.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Burlingame, California, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2014
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 41
  • LinkedIn: goodwater-capital

Goodwater Capital is a venture capital firm based in Burlingame, California, founded in 2014. The firm specializes in consumer technology and supports seed-stage entrepreneurs by providing investment, resources, and a community to help them grow. Goodwater Capital has a diverse investment portfolio, focusing on various sectors, including healthcare and financial services, while also showing interest in consumer brands. Notably, Goodwater has been involved in significant transactions within the leather goods retail context, particularly with Frank & Oak, a New York-based menswear brand that has raised multiple rounds of funding (including $16 million in Series C and $15 million in Series B) led by Goodwater. This involvement highlights Goodwater's engagement in the leather goods sector, particularly through brands that incorporate leather products into their offerings.


7. SV Angel

  • Website: svangel.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2009
  • Headcount: 1-10
  • Number of deals in 2024: 44
  • LinkedIn: sv-angel

SV Angel is a venture capital firm based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2009. The firm specializes in investing in early-stage and growth-stage companies, primarily within the technology sector. However, SV Angel has also made notable investments in the fashion and retail industries, including companies like Everlane, which raised $1.1 million in a seed round in 2011 and is recognized for its commitment to transparency and ethical production, including leather goods. Additionally, they invested in Bonobos, a men's clothing retailer that has expanded its offerings to include leather products. Their diverse portfolio demonstrates their capability to support innovative startups across various sectors, including those that intersect with leather goods retail.


8. New Enterprise Associates (NEA)

  • Website: nea.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Menlo Park, California, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1977
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 57
  • LinkedIn: new-enterprise-associates

New Enterprise Associates (NEA) is a venture capital firm founded in 1977, based in Menlo Park, California. NEA specializes in investment management and advisory services for startups, particularly in technology and healthcare sectors. However, they have also shown interest in the fashion retail industry, as evidenced by their investments in Moda Operandi, a luxury online fashion retailer that features leather goods among its offerings. NEA participated in multiple funding rounds for Moda Operandi, including a significant $100 million round in 2020 and a $165 million Series F round in 2017. This indicates NEA's capability and willingness to invest in the leather goods retail space, alongside their primary focus areas.


9. Advent


Advent International Corporation is a private equity firm founded in 1984 and based in Boston, Massachusetts. The firm specializes in buyouts and investments across various sectors, including fashion and retail. Advent has a notable track record of acquisitions, including Gerard Darel, a brand recognized for its leather goods, and Pepe Jeans India, which operates in the broader apparel market. Their acquisition of Takko Fashion, a German fashion discount chain, further demonstrates their active role in the retail sector. Advent's approach involves providing capital and strategic guidance to help portfolio companies achieve growth and navigate market challenges, making them a significant player in the investment landscape for leather goods retailers.


10. Sycamore Partners

  • Website: sycamorepartners.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2011
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 3
  • LinkedIn: sycamore-partners

Sycamore Partners is a private equity firm based in New York, specializing in consumer and retail investments. Founded in 2011, the firm has established a strong presence in the market by partnering with management teams to enhance the profitability and strategic value of their businesses. Sycamore's investment portfolio includes notable acquisitions in the leather goods sector, such as Stuart Weitzman and Kurt Geiger, both acquired in 2014. These brands are recognized for their high-quality leather products, particularly in footwear. Additionally, Sycamore's acquisition of Nine West Group further solidifies their commitment to the leather goods market. Their approach involves providing flexible capital tailored to each investment, which is crucial for the growth and sustainability of retail brands, including those in the leather goods industry.


11. Forerunner


Forerunner Ventures is a venture capital firm based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2012. The firm specializes in early-stage investments in consumer technology and innovative businesses, providing capital and strategic guidance to startups. Forerunner focuses on emerging consumer demands and technology advancements, helping companies navigate growth challenges. Notably, Forerunner has been involved in several funding rounds for M.Gemi, a luxury footwear brand that emphasizes direct-to-consumer sales. M.Gemi raised a total of $47.2 million across three funding rounds (Series A, B, and C) with participation from Forerunner, showcasing the firm's commitment to the leather goods sector. Additionally, Forerunner has invested in other companies like ShopShops, but its direct involvement with M.Gemi highlights its relevance in the leather goods retail space.


12. Amazon

  • Website: amazon.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Seattle, Washington, United States (USA)
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 37
  • LinkedIn: amazon

Amazon.com, Inc. is a multinational technology company based in Seattle, Washington, primarily known for its e-commerce platform that offers a vast array of products and services. Founded with a focus on books, Amazon has expanded into various sectors, including cloud computing, digital streaming, and artificial intelligence. As an investor, Amazon has made significant moves in the fashion retail space, notably acquiring Shopbop.com in 2006, which continues to operate alongside Amazon's existing apparel and accessories offerings. In 2024, Amazon participated in a funding round for Neiman Marcus Group, a luxury retailer that likely includes leather goods among its offerings. Additionally, Amazon led a $20 million Series A extension investment in Superplastic, a company involved in the fashion and entertainment sectors, further showcasing its interest in fashion-related investments. These transactions highlight Amazon's commitment to expanding its footprint in the fashion industry, including leather goods.


13. Summit Partners

  • Website: summitpartners.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Boston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1984
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 13
  • LinkedIn: summit-partners

Summit Partners is a private equity investment firm based in Boston, Massachusetts, founded in 1984. The firm specializes in growth equity, providing capital and resources to category-leading companies primarily in technology, healthcare, and life sciences. However, Summit Partners has also invested in several notable fashion and eCommerce companies, indicating a broader interest in the retail sector. Some of their relevant transactions include investments in Sezane, a fashion brand; ZALORA, an online beauty and fashion store; Namshi, an eCommerce fashion site; Dafiti, Brazil's leading online fashion retailer; and Lamoda, a Russian online fashion site. These investments suggest that Summit Partners is engaged in the fashion industry, which may encompass leather goods retailers as part of their portfolio.


14. Maveron

  • Website: maveron.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1998
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 6
  • LinkedIn: maveron-llc

Maveron is a venture capital firm based in San Francisco, California, founded in 1998. The firm specializes in investing in transformative consumer businesses, providing capital and strategic support to entrepreneurs. Maveron aims to create a positive impact by backing companies that improve consumer experiences and disrupt traditional markets. Notably, they have invested in Everlane, which raised $1.1 million in a seed round in 2011 and is recognized for its commitment to transparency and ethical production in the fashion industry, including leather goods. Additionally, they invested in Gigi Hill, which raised $3 million in a Series A round in 2011, further showcasing their engagement in consumer-focused ventures. While their portfolio includes a variety of sectors such as healthcare and technology, their investments in companies like Everlane suggest a relevant interest in the leather goods retail space.


15. Iconix International Inc

  • Website: iconixbrand.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Palm Beach, Florida, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2005
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 1
  • LinkedIn: iconix-brand-group

Iconix International Inc, founded in 2005 and based in Palm Beach, Florida, is a corporate brand management company that specializes in licensing and marketing a diverse portfolio of consumer brands across various sectors, including fashion, sports, and home products. The company partners with retailers and manufacturers to enhance brand performance and market presence, focusing on apparel and accessories. Notably, Iconix has made several significant acquisitions in the fashion industry, including the purchase of Badgley Mischka, a brand known for its luxury fashion items, and Mudd Jeans, which is associated with casual apparel. These transactions highlight Iconix's strategic interest in fashion brands, which often encompass leather goods, thereby reinforcing their relevance in the leather goods retail sector.


16. Lerer Hippeau

  • Website: lererhippeau.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2010
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 23
  • LinkedIn: lerer-hippeau-ventures

Lerer Hippeau is a venture capital firm based in New York, founded in 2010, that specializes in early-stage startups. They provide essential funding and support to help businesses grow, connecting talented professionals with opportunities in their portfolio companies. Among their notable investments is Everlane, which raised $1.1 million in a seed round in 2011 and is recognized for its commitment to transparency and quality in fashion, including leather products. While they have also invested in companies like CUUP and Twice, which are outside the leather goods sector, their involvement with Everlane demonstrates a connection to the leather goods market.


17. Great Oaks Venture Capital


Great Oaks Venture Capital is a venture capital firm based in New York, founded in 2005. The firm specializes in seed and early-stage investments, partnering with ambitious founders across the United States. They provide financial support ranging from $50,000 to $500,000 to help build enduring businesses in various sectors, including software and healthcare. Notably, Great Oaks has invested in companies like Away, which raised $8.5 million in Series A funding in 2016 and is recognized for its leather travel products. Additionally, they have invested in ModCloth, a retailer that, while primarily focused on clothing, has also offered leather accessories. These transactions highlight their engagement with businesses that intersect with the leather goods market.


18. Greycroft

  • Website: greycroft.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2006
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 20
  • LinkedIn: greycroft-partners

Greycroft is a venture capital firm based in New York, founded in 2006, that specializes in technology investments across various sectors, including software, sustainability, and consumer brands. The firm provides capital and expertise to startups and emerging companies, helping them grow and scale their operations. Notably, Greycroft has invested in Cuyana, a brand known for its leather goods, and Anine Bing, a luxury womenswear brand that also includes leather products in its offerings. These investments highlight Greycroft's engagement in the leather goods sector, alongside their broader focus on innovative companies transforming their respective industries.


19. TriplePoint Capital


TriplePoint Capital is a venture finance company founded in 2006, based in Menlo Park, California. They specialize in providing debt and equity financing solutions to venture capital-backed companies, focusing on high-growth industries. Their clients are primarily innovative companies in technology and life sciences, but they have also invested in the retail sector. Notably, they participated in the seed round for Rebag, a company that specializes in the resale of luxury handbags, indicating their engagement with the leather goods market. Additionally, they were involved in funding rounds for Gilt Groupe, a fashion retailer that includes leather goods among its offerings. Their diverse investment portfolio demonstrates their capability to support businesses at various stages of development, including those in the leather goods retail space.



Leather Goods Retailers Insights: Key Investors in the US


InvestorHeadquarterSizeFoundedDeals 2024
500 GlobalSan Francisco, California, United States (USA)201-500201098
Y CombinatorSan Francisco, California, United States (USA)51-2002005802
FJ LabsNew York, New York, United States (USA)11-502015169
AccelPalo Alto, California, United States (USA)51-2001983101
L CattertonUnited States (USA)201-500198923
Goodwater CapitalBurlingame, California, United States (USA)51-200201441
SV AngelSan Francisco, California, United States (USA)1-10200944
New Enterprise Associates (NEA)Menlo Park, California, United States (USA)51-200197757
AdventBoston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)501-1000198417
Sycamore PartnersNew York, New York, United States (USA)51-20020113
ForerunnerSan Francisco, California, United States (USA)11-50201212
AmazonSeattle, Washington, United States (USA)10001+37
Summit PartnersBoston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)51-200198413
MaveronSan Francisco, California, United States (USA)11-5019986
Iconix International IncPalm Beach, Florida, United States (USA)51-20020051
Lerer HippeauNew York, New York, United States (USA)11-50201023
Great Oaks Venture CapitalNew York, New York, United States (USA)11-5020059
GreycroftNew York, New York, United States (USA)51-200200620
TriplePoint CapitalMenlo Park, California, United States (USA)51-200200610


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