Meet Michelle Peach, one of Ettinger's machinists since 1987. Michelle has been at the heart of Ettinger's manufacturing process for the past 37 years. Let's delve into her journey at Ettinger.
Michelle plays a vital role in ensuring the smooth crafting of our leather products at the factory.
As a machinist, her responsibility is to expertly operate the sewing machine that stitches the leather pieces together, a task that demands both technical skill and precision.
"We have to also take into account needle sizes, thread sizes and stitch sizes to accommodate the thickness and thinness of the leather, depending on the product's requirements."
Over her 37 years at Ettinger, Michelle has mastered every aspect of leather goods manufacturing and is capable of crafting any Ettinger leather product from start to finish with the highest level of perfection.
How did you start working at Ettinger?
Unlike Gary and Meg, who both joined Ettinger by chance at 16 and discovered their passion for leather work over time, Michelle always knew she was drawn to this craft. So, when her sister, who worked at the factory, suggested she join, Michelle quickly accepted.
"My previous employment had come to an end, and my sister worked for the old boss (James Homer) and said 'come in to see how the factory works'. I started a short time after, in February 1987."
What led you to work in this field in the first place?
Leather work was something Michelle was passionate about, even before joining Ettinger.
"I had always been interested in leather work from an early age. My sister used to have leather work at home and having an interest, I loved to help out, turning and creating a finished product for pocket money.
I attended our local leather college whilst at school, 1 day a week. I found I had a real creative side and thoroughly enjoyed starting with a small amount of components and building them into something useful and personal."
What do you enjoy about working at Ettinger?
What Michelle loves most about her work is the variety it offers and her involvement in every stage of production. There’s a deep sense of satisfaction in seeing a product come to life from a simple piece of leather.
One recurring theme in these interviews is the family aspect of Ettinger. With many employees having worked together for over three decades, there is a true sense of unity. "It’s like being among family," Michelle says.
Ettinger has also provided Michelle with many amazing opportunities to showcase her craft, further enriching her experience.
"I have been fortunate to have been asked to do demonstration of our work in Liberty, Somerset House, Fortnum & Mason, Gaziano & Girling. My proudest was to attend Buckingham Palace for the coronation festival."
What are the changes you have seen in your years working at Ettinger?
As Gary mentioned in his Ettinger Team Spotlight interview, when Robert Ettinger (our current CEO) first joined, the factory's standards were raised to meet the expectations of the Japanese market.
Although this shift happened nearly 40 years ago, we constantly explore new ways of perfecting our manufacturing process, always striving to deliver the best products with impeccable quality.
"Over the years, the standards of craftsmanship have increased to a very high level. As time passes, we are still learning, even today, after numerous years of being skilled craftsmen. There is always something new to learn about and absorb. We are still learning new techniques today even from each other."
What is your favourite product from Ettinger and why?
Michelle has not one but two favourites.
"A glasses case, keeps glasses safe and I can always find it in my bottomless bag. A coin purse, perfect for coinage a couple of notes, and more importantly these days, a credit card. It covers all options of payment, it really is a must have for me."
To read the previous articles from our Ettinger Team Spotlight series, click HERE.