Leather Industry Mourns the Loss of Joost Smit, Sixth-Generation Leader of Royal Smit & Zoon

Royal Smit & Zoon has announced the passing of Joost Smit, the sixth-generation owner of the Dutch leather chemicals company, who died suddenly on June 19 at the age of 83. Smit played a pivotal role in the development of Royal Smit & Zoon, helping to shape the business over several decades.

A Life Dedicated to the Leather Industry

Smit served as Chief Executive Officer until 2006, leading the company through a period of growth and transformation. Following his retirement as CEO, he remained closely involved with the business as a member of its Supervisory Board.

The company has described Smit & Zoon as Joost Smit’s “heart and soul”, highlighting his vision, dedication and longstanding commitment to both the company and the wider leather industry. Royal Smit & Zoon said it was deeply grateful for his many contributions and will continue to honour his legacy in the years ahead while cherishing the memories of his leadership and service.

A Legacy Spanning Generations

The Smit family’s involvement with Royal Smit & Zoon spans six generations, a rare continuity in the modern business world. Family-owned enterprises like Smit & Zoon represent a distinctive model in the leather industry, where long-term vision, stewardship and deep technical knowledge are passed down through generations.

Joost Smit’s leadership came at a critical juncture for the European leather chemicals sector. The industry faced—and continues to face—numerous challenges: environmental regulations, global competition, and the need to innovate sustainably. Under his guidance, Royal Smit & Zoon maintained its position as a respected supplier of leather chemicals, serving tanners across the globe.

The Broader Context: Family Businesses in Leather

The passing of Joost Smit also draws attention to the broader role of family-owned businesses in the leather industry. From tanneries in Italy’s Tuscany region to chemical companies in the Netherlands, family enterprises have been instrumental in preserving traditional knowledge while adapting to contemporary demands.

These businesses often operate with a different time horizon than publicly traded corporations. Their decisions are informed not only by quarterly earnings reports but by considerations of legacy—what will this company look like in the next generation? This perspective can be particularly valuable in an industry like leather, where craftsmanship, reputation, and relationships matter profoundly.

An Industry Reflects

News of Smit’s passing has prompted reflection across the global leather community. Colleagues, competitors, and partners have expressed condolences, recognising not only his business acumen but his personal decency and commitment to the industry.

The leather industry is, in many ways, a close-knit global community. People move between companies and countries, but relationships often endure for decades. When a figure like Joost Smit passes, it is felt beyond the boundaries of his own company.

Looking to the Future

Royal Smit & Zoon continues under the leadership of the next generation, carrying forward the vision and values that Joost Smit helped to instil. The company has indicated its commitment to honouring his legacy in the years ahead.

As the leather industry navigates an era of rapid change—from sustainability pressures to digital transformation—the steady hand of family leadership, grounded in generations of experience, remains a valuable asset. Joost Smit’s contribution to this continuity is part of his enduring legacy.

The leather industry mourns Joost Smit, but his influence will continue through the company he helped to shape and the countless individuals he mentored and inspired throughout his career.

Source: International Leather Maker (June 22, 2026)