Our history
Common history of both original associations:
2012
Installation of a cutting machine to respond flexibly the needs of our members2011
Introduction of the brand Lecare as a own brand of ZEL2009
Set up of the brands Elvira edge and heel colour as well as Memphis halfsoles and heels as new strong brands of the ZEL.Matrix-Certification of the company and a part of its members in accordance with DIN EN ISO 9001:2008
2008
Business takeover of LPG, Leder Poth, Gladbeck. The range could be extend and revalued with quality products by this takeover2007
Initiation of Bochums most important Photovoltaic-system on the roofs of our companies buildings. This system will be able to provide 60 families with electrical power. With this investment our members have taken not only an ecological but also an economical decision for the next decades2006
Celebration of the 100. anniversary of our formerly company E.D.L. in attendance with many suppliers and members from home and abroad2004
After the sale of the business premises in Düsseldorf, construction begins of the future principal office in Bochum. The new building will be ready for use in midyear2002
Purchase of the new company site in Bochum in order to centralise both stores in one place2000
On 2nd June 2000, the general assemblies of both companies unanimously decided to amalgamate both associations retrospective to 1st January 2000. The name „Central Association of European Leather Merchants Co-Operative“ ("ZEL") developed through this industry-leading purchasing association on a European level. With its wide assortment of goods, the Association not only supplies its 115-plus members in Germany and the foreign countries of Europe, but furthermore it provides a great number of wholesale dealers with all articles for orthopaedic shoe technology, orthopaedic technology and shoe-making craft1994
As a result of the growth in members in the CF („ZV") to 46 in 1992 and the consequently related increase in volume, the 3rd phase of construction of the association house’s expansion was initiated in this year in Meschede1981
Merger of the European Leather Merchants Purchasing Association with the “Schwabenring”