How Mulberry uses Zünd Technology to drive innovation and production

To support both product development and manufacturing, Mulberry has partnered with Zünd since 2007. Today, the company operates five Zünd digital cutters across two UK sites, supporting everything from product development through to high-volume production.

In the fast-paced world of fashion, balancing speed and quality is an ongoing challenge. For Mulberry's Product Development Manager, Matt Rowlinson, these priorities are central to every project. "The main challenges with both developing and manufacturing handbags are always time and quality. The fashion world always needs new products very quickly and with absolutely no compromise on the quality of the finished product." With new collections continually being developed, Mulberry requires processes that can accelerate product development without sacrificing the craftsmanship that defines the brand.

Zünd technology is central to Mulberry's development process, enabling new concepts to move from design sketch to physical prototype in a matter of hours. Matt said "Without Zünd technology, creating prototypes would not be possible in the current way we work. We receive a design sketch and make a working model within hours. Without our G3, the process would take approximately twice as long."

The speed and flexibility of digital cutting allow the team to quickly refine designs and bring approved concepts to market faster. Matt added “We get some very intricate designs which just wouldn't be possible when making a press knife, so the G3 gives Development the ability to offer more to the design team."

One of the most significant advantages of digital cutting has been the reduction in tooling costs. Prior to implementing Zünd systems, pattern modifications often required new press knives, introducing both cost and delays. Matt said “We had a considerable press knife budget, which literally reduced by 75% overnight. With Zünd's Mind workflow, modifications can be made quickly and implemented directly into production. Matt added “If there was a pattern change, then we could alter and re-export within a few minutes. Not only could we continuously improve products, but it also meant no new knives needing to be replaced and hindering production. The result is a more agile manufacturing operation capable of responding rapidly to design updates and production requirements.”

One of the most significant advantages of digital cutting has been the reduction in tooling costs. Prior to implementing Zünd systems, pattern modifications often required new press knives, introducing both cost and delays.

Leather quality can vary from batch to batch, making material utilisation an important consideration for luxury manufacturers. Mulberry leverages Zünd technology to assess yield and evaluate production feasibility before committing valuable materials. Matt said “If we ever have a batch of leather that doesn't reach the correct quality level, we can simulate cutting a job without putting a blade through it and then see if it's even achievable to produce the correct number of bags. This capability not only helps maximise valuable materials but also provides objective data when working with suppliers. This makes tannery claims easier to prove."

Nearly two decades after installing its first Zünd cutter, Mulberry continues to rely on digital cutting technology as a critical part of its product development and manufacturing strategy. Across five machines, Zünd enables the company to accelerate development, increase productivity, reduce costs, and maintain the exceptional quality standards expected of a global luxury brand.

For Mulberry, digital cutting is not just about efficiency. It is about giving designers greater creative freedom, enabling faster innovation and ensuring every product reflects the craftsmanship that has defined the brand for more than 50 years.