Elevating the Rail Sector with Durability, Sustainability, and Bespoke Design

The rail sector’s demand for materials that deliver durability, comfort, and environmental sustainability is higher than ever. With over 180 years of engineering and innovation, Muirhead remains at the forefront of high-performance leather, specifically designed to meet the rigorous standards of modern train interiors. From fire safety and resilience to the industry’s lowest carbon footprint, Muirhead genuine leather is redefining what rail interiors can achieve.

Challenging Perceptions: Genuine Leather vs. Synthetic Alternatives

Unlike synthetic materials rooted in fossil fuels and contribute significantly to environmental impact, Muirhead natural leather offers a premium, sustainable choice. While synthetics may seem cost-effective in the short term, they quickly wear down in high-traffic environments, requiring frequent replacement, increased maintenance, and more waste. On the other hand, Muirhead leather is engineered to endure, reducing the total cost of ownership with its unmatched durability and minimal need for upkeep.

Synthetics lack the natural breathability and luxurious texture of leather, often leading to a less comfortable experience for passengers. Muirhead leather is naturally breathable, lightweight, and soft to the touch—qualities that artificial alternatives cannot replicate. With flame-resistant properties, verified by EN45545-2 and EN16989 standards, our genuine leather offers an added layer of safety, an area where synthetics can fall short, especially under stringent regulatory demands. Muirhead’s sustainable leather isn't just a material - it's a performance-driven solution that sets a new benchmark for rail interiors.

A Legacy of Technical Excellence

Muirhead’s reputation for technical excellence is built on a heritage of quality and forward-looking engineering. We understand that train interiors demand materials that withstand intense use while maintaining their aesthetic and functional qualities. Our leather excels in these environments, engineered to outperform with durability that reduces the need for costly repairs and refurbishments. Muirhead leather has become the preferred choice of Europe’s leading seat makers and rail operators, delivering quality that speaks for itself.

Sustainability at the Core

Sustainability is central to Muirhead’s mission, and our recent ESG report highlights strong progress toward our 2025 goals. Muirhead is now 90% of the way to eliminating Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions, and we’re 89% toward achieving zero waste to landfill. Our on-site solar PV project, set to supply 25% of our electricity, along with our new £14 million Super Tannery - which has cut energy use by 82% and water consumption by 42% - solidifies Muirhead as the leader in low-impact leather production, with a carbon footprint of just 8 kg CO2e per m².

Our FreeTAN® technology, a chrome and heavy metal-free tanning process, moves us closer to fully compostable, biodegradable leather, something synthetic materials cannot achieve. With Muirhead, rail operators are empowered to meet their environmental goals without compromising on quality - a crucial advantage in today’s sustainability-focused landscape.

Unparalleled Comfort and Aesthetics

Beyond durability and environmental sustainability, Muirhead leather offers a naturally breathable and luxurious experience that enhances passenger comfort. Our leather maintains its quality and appearance over time, while artificial alternatives quickly lose their appeal. Easy to clean and maintain, Muirhead leather keeps rail interiors pristine and comfortable from journey to journey, ensuring a consistent and premium experience for passengers.

In-House Design Studio: Bespoke Colours and Finishes

Our in-house design studio enables Muirhead to offer truly customised solutions. We know that each rail project is unique, and our bespoke leather services allow clients to specify custom colours, digital prints, and embossing to create a distinct look for their interiors. From elegant, understated tones to vibrant, eye-catching shades, the possibilities for Muirhead’s custom-made colours are limitless. Our finishing options enable designers to realise their vision while maintaining the highest standards of quality and durability.

Thrilled to Join the Railway Industry Association (RIA)

Joining the Railway Industry Association (RIA) represents an exciting step forward for Muirhead. As new members, we’re thrilled to connect and collaborate within this vibrant community, enhancing our ability to offer tailored solutions that directly benefit our customers. Our RIA membership allows us to expand into international markets, participate in Rail Trade Missions, and join the UK Pavilions at key exhibitions - extending our reach and capabilities. For our customers, this means enhanced opportunities to connect with global rail leaders, new pathways for export and growth, and access to resources that keep them at the cutting edge of the industry.

Discover the Muirhead Difference

Muirhead Genuine Leather made in Great Britain is transforming the rail sector with a bold vision that challenges convention. By combining heritage with engineering and innovations in sustainability, safety, and design, we’re redefining the standards for rail interiors. When it comes to high-performance leather, Muirhead is more than a material choice - it’s a commitment to durability, environmental responsibility, and lasting quality.

Visit our sustainability section to discover more about our environmental practices.