TLL Staff
Pelham Leather Goods Ltd. has announced a new brand collaboration with London Zoo, unveiling a Spring/Summer 2026 collection that blends fashion with conservation.
The partnership marks the first time Pelham, known for its luxury luggage and accessories, has teamed with the Zoological Society of London (ZSL), the global conservation charity that operates London Zoo. The SS26 line will feature products inspired by the zoo’s heritage, archives, and animals, aiming to bring a touch of the landmark attraction beyond its gates.
The range, designed for both adults and children, will include playful prints and animal-inspired motifs, with a portion of the brand narrative tied to supporting ZSL’s mission to protect endangered species. The collaboration was announced Thursday, with the debut collection set to be previewed to retailers in October before rolling out in 2026.
“This isn’t just a product launch—it’s a celebration of wildlife, design, and purpose,” said Stephen Spitz, chairman and CEO of the Pelham and Brentano Group, which owns Pelham Leather Goods. “Together, we are creating something special that lets people take a piece of London Zoo’s magic home with them.”
For London Zoo and its parent charity, the collaboration reflects both its historic legacy and contemporary conservation mission. The zoo, established in 1828, is preparing to mark its 200th anniversary.
“Pelham’s SS26 collection perfectly captures both the rich heritage and modern-day ambitions of ZSL,” said Abbie Taylor, brand licensing manager for ZSL. “As a global conservation charity, about to celebrate our 200th anniversary, it’s never been more important to raise awareness of our vital work, and this range perfectly celebrates our long history while putting a spotlight on the future.”
The collaboration was facilitated by Metrostar, ZSL’s licensing agent. Claire Potter, Metrostar’s founder, said the collection showcases how licensing can be used to expand awareness of conservation initiatives while also creating commercially viable products.
“It’s exciting to see ZSL’s style guides being used so imaginatively,” Potter said. “Pelham’s talented team have created collections which are a fantastic celebration of London Zoo’s conservation work.”
The Pelham partnership adds to a growing number of fashion and lifestyle collaborations within the broader trend of purpose-driven licensing. For brands, these collaborations provide an opportunity to align with causes that resonate emotionally with consumers, while for nonprofits like ZSL, they extend reach beyond traditional fundraising and education channels.
Retailers will be able to preview the Pelham–London Zoo collection starting in October. The line will feature luggage and accessories that merge Pelham’s craftsmanship with bold animal motifs, aiming to offer what the company described as “fashion with a wild side.”
The move comes as fashion and retail increasingly intersect with sustainability and conservation campaigns, with consumers showing greater interest in brands that support social or environmental causes.
Pelham Leather Goods, part of the Pelham and Brentano Group, has built a reputation for producing high-quality leather luggage and accessories. The company has emphasized partnerships with institutions and brands that share its values of craftsmanship and creativity.
ZSL, through London Zoo and Whipsnade Zoo, directs its efforts toward wildlife research, education, and conservation projects across more than 50 countries. Licensing partnerships have become a key component of its brand strategy as it prepares for its bicentennial.