Red Wing Shoe Company has diverted 1.87 million pounds of leather waste from landfill across its facilities in Red Wing since September 2025. The company said the achievement reflects efforts by teams across its Corporate Social Responsibility, Manufacturing, Supply Chain and S.B. Foot Tannery operations.
The company’s leather waste management program now sends 100% of leather waste generated at its Minnesota facilities to Matter Systems.
Matter Systems converts the leather waste into biochar, a stable carbon rich material that can help improve soil health and support long term carbon storage.
Red Wing Shoe Company said the initiative represents an operational shift supported by internal teams and an external recycling partnership. The company described the program as part of its effort to find more circular solutions for the materials used in its operations.
Founded in 1905 in Red Wing, Minnesota, Red Wing Shoe Company is a family owned footwear manufacturer with more than 120 years of history. The company produces work boots, safety footwear, protective gear and heritage inspired products designed for workers across various industries worldwide.
Red Wing remains 4th generation family business and continues to manufacture footwear in the United States. The company also operates S.B. Foot Tanning Company, a Minnesota based tannery that has been producing leather since 1872.
