CSIL implemented a forecasting observatory on the usage of leather in the upholstered furniture industry. This kind of investigations looked at mapping the supply chain and investigating the prevailing factors affecting the global leather demand: materials choice, the competitiveness of the alternatives, pricing. Medium-term forecasts (3-years) were provided for the market of each covering material type. For such investigation, the methodology was based on regular extensive surveys to assess different coverings' market size and evaluate future trends as well dedicated fieldwork to gather information from sector participants on leather appeal and on the main innovation trends.