Tell us about your business?
Our journey began in 1891, when my great-great grandfather, Joseph Packer, an English immigrant, established a woolscouring and tanning business in Chermside, Brisbane. Over the years, our family business has evolved, adapting to changing markets and technologies. In 1965, the world wool market was crashing, and the future of our Chermside site was uncertain. The government resumed the land, and we faced a critical decision: close or fight to continue.
Determined not to let the legacy end, we secured a new site in Narangba and took our case to court to gain approval. Against the odds, we succeeded – officially reopening in Narangba in 1972. That moment marked not just a relocation but a reinvention. Today, Packer Leather stands as a testament to over 130 years of dedication, innovation and resilience in the leather industry.
Being a sixth-generation family business, our legacy is deeply rooted in family values, faith in gods provisions and commitment. Each generation has contributed to the growth and success of Packer Leather, ensuring our traditions and expertise are passed down and preserved. Our family’s hands-on approach and shared vision have been instrumental in navigating the challenges and triumphs over the decades.
What truly sets us apart is our ability to combine tradition with innovation. We’re known globally for our expertise in crafting high-performance leathers. We take a collaborative approach with our customers, developing tailored solutions to meet the exact needs of their products – whether that’s sports, fashion or performance wear. As a family business, every piece of leather that leaves our factory reflects the pride and personal care we’ve upheld for over 130 years. Our history is not just about leather, it’s about family, legacy and staying true to our roots while always looking ahead.
David Packer, Graham Packer , Lindsay Packer, Mark Packer, Susan Packer and William Packer
What has been your greatest success?
Our greatest success is simply this – perseverance. Through world wars, economic downturns, industry shifts and globalisation we’ve not only remained standing – we’ve kept evolving.
It hasn’t always been easy. The leather industry has changed dramatically over the decades and many tanneries have come and gone. But we’ve weathered the storms by staying true to our values, embracing change and backing ourselves to adapt. Survival for us isn’t just about holding on. It’s about resilience, reinvention and never losing sight of why we started. That’s our legacy – and our proudest achievement.
Why did you join FBA?
We joined FBA to connect with like-minded businesses who share the unique experience and challenges of running a multigenerational company. It’s incredibly valuable to have a network where you can learn from others who understand the balance between tradition and transformation.
What advice would you give to other family businesses?
My biggest piece of advice is you’ve got to believe in what you do – and why you do it. That belief becomes your anchor when things get tough, and it’s what inspires your team, your family and your customers to believe in you too.
Running a family business isn’t always easy. There will be challenges, unexpected setbacks and moments where it feels like the hard work isn’t paying off. That’s where perseverance comes in. You need to stay the course, adapt when needed, and never give up, especially when you’re working to protect and grow a legacy that spans generations.
In a family business, communication is everything. Be clear on your shared vision, respect the contributions of every generation and put strong systems in place so the business is sustainable well beyond you. At the end of the day, the most successful family businesses are the ones that stay true to their values, remain open to change and just keep showing up – year after year, generation after generation.
Norma Packer – 106 years old last visit to the factory with son Lindsay Packer, grandsons David and Mark Packer and great-grandson William Packer.
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