We envision a future where the crocodile industry continues to thrive through a balance of conservation and sustainable use, creating lasting value and awareness for the next generation of producers, consumers, and protectors of this vital species.
To lead the crocodile industry with a full-circle business — from breeding and farming to tanning and production — committed to quality, sustainability, and conservation.
At United Leather Product Co., Ltd., our story is one of heritage, legacy, and unwavering dedication. For over four generations, our family has devoted itself to the art of crocodile farming, leather tanning, and luxury craftsmanship. What began as a small tanning workshop in 1948 has evolved into a truly one-of-a-kind enterprise—one of the very few, if not the only, family-run businesses in the world with full vertical integration, from breeding and farming to tanning and manufacturing finished leather goods under our own in-house brands.
Over the decades, our commitment to these values has earned us recognition and trust from the world’s most prestigious luxury brands and markets, establishing us a benchmark of excellence in exotic leather. At the heart of this success are our artisans, tanners, and farmers - dedicated individuals whose skill, experience, and care ensure that every stage of our process keeps alive the mastery and quality that have defined us for generations.
"Mr. Wabin Wannawatanapong first learned the craft of tanning exotic skins in a small home tannery in Trok Pai Sing Toh; Bangkok, taught by his generous uncle, Mr. Ung Bu Ngiab. This marked the humble beginning of what would become a multi-generational legacy."
Mr. Wabin married Mrs. Sumith and together they established a home-based tannery in the Chinatown area of Bangkok, laying the foundation for the family’s growing business.
In 1965, The family’s operations became more formalized with the registration of their first company, Thai Animal Skin, marking the official recognition of their tanning enterprise. Mr. Wabin pioneered new export markets in Hong Kong and Singapore and introduced the company on the international stage through major trade exhibitions. To strengthen its presence, operations later relocated to Thailand’s KM.34 Tanning Industrial Zone under Industrial Animal Leather of Thailand, marking a major expansion into cowhide tanning alongside exotic skins.
"Thailand joined CITES, introducing new restrictions on exotic skins. At just 18 years old, Mr. Wabin’s eldest son, Mr. Somkiat Wannawatanapong, joined the family business to help navigate this transition. While studying at Assumption Commercial College, he made the bold decision to leave school and dedicate himself fully to the family business.
The 1980s marked a period of rapid growth and diversification. Mr. Somkiat expanded the company internationally, importing and exporting exotic skins while pioneering new developments in finished leather products. The family diversified further with a glove-stitching factory, and strong sales in the late 1980s led to the opening of a new finished products factory. In 1989, Somkiat officially assumed the role of CEO, continuing his father’s vision.
The 1990s brought both challenges and breakthroughs. When Thailand temporarily suspended the exotic skin trade, Somkiat adapted quickly by pioneering the tanning of stingray leather with production soaring to over 50,000 skins per month. In 1998, the family expanded into full-scale farming through the acquisition of Nakorn Sawan Crocodile Farm, followed the next year by a landmark export of 45,000 live crocodiles to China via three Boeing 747 aircraft — a historic achievement in global trade. By 2000, the business had entered a new phase of rapid expansion.
After nearly 25 years of Porosus breeding, exports to Europe and Japan built a strong reputation for producing the finest Porosus skins. In 2011, the family brought its businesses together under United Leather Product Co., Ltd., creating a clear and united identity. This journey reached a highlight in 2016, when Mr. Somkiat was honored as a founding member of the International Crocodilian Farmers Association (ICFA), solidifying both his and the company’s leadership on the world stage.
The next generation began stepping into the family business. Even through the challenges of the 2020 global pandemic, the company stayed resilient and adaptable. In 2023, Somkiat’s children, Irene and Surathin, joined the business, marking the transition to the fourth generation of leadership. By 2025, United Leather Product celebrates 50 years since Somkiat first entered the industry, now recognized as the world’s first fully integrated crocodile enterprise — from farm to tannery to finished products — respected and admired across the global stage.
1015 Moo 7 Sukhumvit Km. 34, Bangpoomai, A. Muang, Samutprakarn 10280. Thailand.
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