Roy Murakami began leather crafting in Kitchener, Ontario, in the mid-1940s after studying tool and die at Westdale Technical School in Hamilton. His expertise as a tool maker elevated his craftsmanship, resulting in some of the finest Canadian-made leather products in the industry.
After 25 years in the leather accessory business, Roy launched Bench Craft Leather from his garage with part-time help from his family, incorporating the business in 1976. Initially, he crafted luxurious eyeglass cases for opticians. He soon identified a need for better leather tool pouches in local stores. This led Bench Craft to become one of the largest manufacturers of industrial tool pouches in the country, supplying major retail chains.
As a meticulous dresser, Roy saw a gap in the leather belt market. By his third year, he had refined belt production techniques, leading to Bench Craft belts being sold in fine men’s clothing stores across Canada. Roy developed a nationwide network of sales agents, introducing his quality belts to independent retailers and regional chains. Today, Bench Craft belts and accessories are best-sellers in leading men’s clothing stores across Canada, known for unparalleled quality, style, and service.
From our humble beginnings, Bench Craft Leather has grown into a leading leather goods manufacturer in Canada. Kitchener, once one of North America’s largest leather tanning cities, was home to many manufacturers producing skates, boots, shoes, furniture, and belts. Today, only a few remain across Canada. We take pride in our regional heritage and our adaptability as a Canadian leather products manufacturer.
Bench Craft Leather has become a leading supplier for various leather items used by government agencies. We provide a comprehensive range of leather products to police, military, RCMP, and other emergency response services.
You can trust Bench Craft Leather’s commitment to quality and style. Whether dressing for a special occasion, a casual night out, industrial work, or duty work, our products are meticulously crafted as they were yesterday, today, and will be tomorrow.
