Thai fashion and leather goods producer aims to provide financial stability and job security for its experienced workforce
For leather goods company Adiantes, ensuring fair living wages is about more than just setting salaries above national or local averages — it’s about long-term financial stability for its employees.
Headquartered in Bangkok, Thailand, Adiantes produces handbags, wallets, backpacks, totes, and other accessories as a business-to-business supplier for major fashion brands. Adiantes is known for producing high-quality goods made from premium, ethically sourced materials such as leather, canvas, fabric, as well as upcycled components.
Adiantes joined the UN Global Compact in 2015 and one of its main targets has been fair wage policies. What sets it apart from many of its competitors is its commitment to employee well-being, emphasizing workforce retention, stability, and fairness in an industry often defined by cost-cutting. The company says it is committed to sustainable and ethical production practices.
The makeup of Adiantes’ workforce reflects this commitment: 75% of production employees are women, 57% of workers are 41 years or older and approaching retirement age, and 64% have been with the company for more than 10 years. These numbers point to a level of job security rare in the manufacturing sector.
“This is what financial stability and fair wages mean to us. It’s not just about a higher salary, it’s about creating an environment where employees can build long-term careers, support their families, and plan for the future with confidence,” said Tintin Nilsson, Head of Business Development at Adiantes.
Unlike many manufacturers, Adiantes ensures that client demands do not compromise fair living wages for workers. “It's very much a collaboration with our clients. They understand that there’s a premium attached to our production, but they also realize that better quality, fair wages, and a sustainable work environment go hand in hand,” Nilsson added.
Nilsson noted that the UN Global Compact’s tools and materials — such as the Moving Living Wage Forward Faster Action Guide, the Moving Gender Equality Forward Faster Action Guide, and the Living Wage Analysis Tool — “have been instrumental in assessing our internal processes and guiding our strategic direction. These resources help us make benchmark progress and identify clear, transparent actions to drive sustainable change.”
Adapting to Health Challenges
Nilsson believes that “a fair living wage is not just about financial compensation — it is about providing stability, dignity, and opportunities for our employees, especially during difficult times. Our commitment extends beyond salaries, ensuring that every employee has the support they need to thrive, no matter their personal circumstances.”
Photo Caption: Samran Thumjanlead, aged 59, has been working at Adiantes since 2006
Samran Thumjanlead, aged 59, has been working at Adiantes since 2006 as a skilled sewing machine operator. However, in 2024, Samran was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, which affected three fingers on her right hand and one of her feet, making it impossible for her to continue in her role.
Recognizing her dedication and the fact that she is the sole provider for four family members, Adiantes made sure she continued working. Samran was transitioned to an assembly worker position, a role that requires less strain on her hands. To further support Samran, the company introduced flexible workplace policies, ensuring she has time to recover when her symptoms worsen without the fear of losing her income.
“Adiantes has always supported me and never ignored my illness. They adapted my role to fit my condition, allowing me to continue working despite my health challenges. Because of this, I don’t have to worry about financial struggles. If the company hadn’t supported me, I don’t know how I would take care of myself and my family,” said Samran.
Supporting a Single Mother
For the past decade, Nantana Sukked, aged 46, has worked in production support at Adiantes. Nantana is also a single mother and the sole provider for her elderly mother and daughter, who suffers from Epidermolysis Bullosa — a severe and rare skin condition that requires constant medical care.
Photo caption: Nantana Sukked (in centre), aged 46, has works in production support at Adiantes
Understanding the unique challenges Nantana faces, Adiantes has taken steps to ensure job security and provided her with the flexibility to take her daughter to the hospital when necessary. By offering stability and understanding, the company enables employees like Nantana to maintain their livelihood without having to choose between work and family responsibilities.
“To me, Adiantes is more than just a company, it is my home. The support and understanding they have shown to me and my family mean everything. I am so proud to work here. This place is not just my workplace, it is a part of my family and my life,” said Nantana.
Providing Stability
“At Adiantes, we believe that a living wage is not just about financial compensation — it is about providing stability, dignity, and opportunities for our employees, especially during difficult times,” Nilsson commented. “Our commitment extends beyond salaries, ensuring that every employee has the support they need to thrive.”
Thanyaporn Krichtitayawuth, Executive Director of the UN Global Compact Network in Thailand noted that these principles make Adiantes stand out in the manufacturing sector, proving that a business can be both ethical and successful when it prioritizes its people.
