Lisa Howlett, Auburn’s Brand Ambassador of the ISA TanTec group, has announced her retirement, effective 31st May 2021.

Auburn Lace has been established since 1863. ISA TanTec successfully integrated Auburn into its group in 2018. Lisa Howlett, as Auburn’s longstanding owner joined the ISA team as the Brand Ambassador. With her meaningful contributions, the authenticity and uniqueness of Auburn’s leather laces continued for ISA TanTec’s customers.

“Accomplishments were achieved through development of teamwork within the company and the building of a strong network within the leather industry; success is a culmination of the hard work and dedication of many people,” said Lisa Howlett.

“We thank Lisa for all the hard work she has put in over the years to support the Auburn division within ISA TanTec. Her participation during and after the integration had an enormous value for ISA TanTec.” said Uwe Hutzler, CEO of ISA TanTec Group.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed working with and learning from Lisa’s vast experience in the leather and lace business. She is so passionate about this product and I will strive to work with our Auburn team to carry on that tradition.” said Ronda de Bie, SVP of Sales of ISA TanTec Group. 

Focusing on customer development, satisfaction and continuous product improvement during Lisa Howlett’s 33 year tenure, Auburn became the only remaining leather shoelace manufacturer in the United States, with customers across 48 countries. In 2013, Auburn Leather was honored by the Export-Import Bank of the U.S. as “Small Business Exporter of the Year”.

“After a little downtime camping in the Colorado mountains, I intend on pursuing opportunities to use my talents and time in service and to benefit of others, to be a voice for the unheard and an advocate for the disadvantaged,” added Lisa Howlett. Lisa can be reached in the future via her personal email address: ljhowlett@gmail.com.

Auburn Leather business will continue to be managed by Sales Director, Adam Simon, in the United States, while manufacturing is supported by the ISA team in China.