For Michael Schluessel, the rich, earthy scent of tanned leather is more than just an aroma; it's the smell of home, heritage, and a lifelong passion. This sensory connection has been a constant thread through his life, woven by a family history deeply rooted in the leather trade. Now, as the sole owner of Calgary's Buckskin Leather, Schluessel marks a significant milestone: the company's 40th anniversary as a Canadian leader in supplying high-quality leather.
A Family Legacy Forged in Leather
The Schluessel family's expertise spans generations. Michael's journey began in Berlin, where his grandfather Kurt and father Wolfgang operated a sheepskin tannery. Trained as a tannery chemist, Wolfgang sought new horizons, immigrating to Canada during an era when tanneries were widespread. He secured a role as superintendent at Dominion Tanners in Edmonton.
Eager to follow in his father's footsteps, Michael was given sage advice: gain an education and work outside the industry for at least a decade. He honored this request, spending two years with Canada Packers and the remainder with R. Angus Caterpillar. However, as his ten-year mark approached, the Canadian tanning landscape shifted dramatically. Stricter environmental regulations led to the closure of many tanneries, prompting Wolfgang to plan his retirement back to Germany.
Seizing Opportunity: The Birth of Buckskin
Michael Schluessel saw a critical gap in the market. While tanneries were closing, demand for quality leather remained robust from a diverse clientele including upholsterers, saddle-makers, fashion designers, and Indigenous craftspeople. Recognizing a prime opportunity in distribution, Michael convinced his father to return to Canada. Together, they founded Buckskin Leather in 1986, establishing initial operations in both Calgary and Edmonton.
Father and son successfully grew the business for 18 years until Wolfgang retired for a second time, passing away in 2018 and leaving behind a legacy as a foundational figure in Canada's leather industry. Today, the company thrives under its fourth generation of family leadership. Michael oversees operations as sole owner, while his youngest daughter, Nikole, serves as company administrator. Notably, Nikole left a promising career in law to become her father's right hand, bringing fresh perspective to the family enterprise.
A North American Leader with Global Reach
Backed by decades of accumulated knowledge, Buckskin Leather has solidified its position as a leading North American leather wholesaler, cultivating a market that extends around the world. The company operates wholesale depots in Calgary, Edmonton, and Nanaimo, B.C., all of which welcome both professional craftspeople and hobbyists.
Strategic sourcing is key to their success. Buckskin procures native steer hides from North American tanneries. For high-quality, large hides used in upholstery, the company turns to European suppliers. As Michael Schluessel explains, most North American cattle are bred primarily for beef, making hides a byproduct. Animals living on open ranges are also more susceptible to scars and brands, which can affect the leather's grade.
From its Calgary headquarters, Buckskin Leather's 40-year story is one of adaptation, family dedication, and an unwavering commitment to quality. It demonstrates how deep industry knowledge, combined with an entrepreneurial spirit, can build an enduring legacy that connects Canadian resources with craftspeople across the globe.
