Carrying Momentum Into the New Year
After a defining year in 2025, Axe and Awl Leatherworks enters 2026 with sharper focus and a clearer plan. The growth we experienced — from expanding our physical space on Depot Street to refining leadership and strategy — didn’t slow us down. It gave us direction.
As a Waynesville, North Carolina small business, our goal for 2026 isn’t growth for growth’s sake. It’s about building systems, products, and experiences that can support the business long term while staying true to the craftsmanship and community that got us here.
Strengthening the Foundation
In 2026, much of our attention is focused internally. Sustainable growth requires structure, and this year is about aligning our systems with the scale of the business we’ve become.
Key priorities include:
- Implementing a full inventory management system to improve accuracy and availability
- Improving internal communication through integrated technology
- Refining production workflows in the workshop
- Reducing lead times for custom orders
These improvements allow us to better serve customers shopping both in-store at Axe and Awl Leatherworks and online, while also creating a more efficient, supportive environment for our growing team.
Growing the Team
As demand increases, so does the need for skilled, dependable people behind the scenes. In 2026, we’re focused on growing the Axe and Awl team intentionally — prioritizing craftsmanship, accountability, and long-term fit over rapid expansion.
Investing in people is one of the most important ways we protect quality as we grow, and workplace culture is a top priority for us.
What’s New in 2026
Alongside internal improvements, 2026 will bring continued outward momentum.
This includes:
- Introducing new leather goods designed around customer feedback and everyday use
- Attending one to two additional trade shows, allowing us to connect with retailers, collaborators, and customers beyond Haywood County
- Continuing to expand brand collaborations that align with our values and standards
Each new product and partnership is approached with the same intention as our core line — built to last, not chase trends.
Expanding the Experience
Following the successful launch of Bevel Bar — our private cocktail lounge tucked into the back of the retail store on Depot Street — we’re continuing to explore how experience and hospitality fit into the Axe and Awl brand.
Bevel Bar reaffirmed that people value thoughtful, well-executed spaces just as much as well-made goods. That lesson will continue to shape how we think about retail, events, and future opportunities.
Looking Ahead (Yes, We’re Hinting)
While Downtown Waynesville will always be home, we’d be lying if we said we weren’t thinking bigger. A second retail location? It’s on the table. 👀
If and when that happens, it will be supported by the systems, people, and processes we’re building now — ensuring any expansion is intentional, sustainable, and aligned with who we are.
Our Commitment for 2026
As we move forward, our commitment is simple:
- Build better systems
- Communicate clearly and consistently
- Deliver with reliability
- Grow with intention
We’re grateful for the continued support from our customers, collaborators, and community here in Waynesville and beyond. 2026 is about building what lasts.
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