Roger Saul’s journey is marked by continuous reinvention. Launching Mulberry in 1971, his career spans luxury fashion, homeware, hospitality, and even organic farming. Now, at 74, Saul prepares to sell his private collection.
Saul’s collection includes handbags, shoes, clothes, and personal memorabilia. With an impending house move, he embraces this new chapter optimistically. His career, marked by boardroom coups and shifts in the luxury market, reflects his adaptability and vision.
Saul’s Multifaceted Career
Roger Saul is a man of many talents. His career spans luxury fashion, homeware, hospitality, food, and farming. From launching Mulberry in 1971 to walnut farming, his journey has been diverse.
Saul’s contributions to fashion include pioneering the ‘made in Britain’ movement. He has also been involved in global franchising and reinventing the ‘It’ bag. His achievements go beyond fashion, extending to Michelin-starred restaurants and organic farming.
Mulberry’s Beginnings
In 1971, Saul launched Mulberry in Somerset. The brand started with bags, belts, and small leather items. It quickly gained recognition for its quality and British craftsmanship.
By 2001, Mulberry was thriving. A collaboration with designer Luella Bartley led to the creation of an iconic bag, gaining global acclaim. It was a British ‘It’ bag to rival Hermes.
Despite its success, Saul’s tenure at Mulberry ended abruptly. A coup led by Singaporean investor Christina Ong resulted in his exit. “Almost as soon as Christina Ong had bought her shareholding, it became very clear that she wanted me out,” Saul stated.
Boardroom Coup and Exit
The coup was a result of cultural misunderstandings. Saul’s approach, influenced by Japanese negotiation tactics, proved ineffective with Chinese investors.
His stance of accommodating others’ needs backfired. “We made the mistake of thinking that the Japanese negotiating tactic would be the right one,” Saul explained. This led to his ousting.
Saul’s departure was cemented when deputy chair Godfrey Davis switched allegiances. “That was tough – and pretty devastating,” he admitted.
Transition to Farming
After leaving Mulberry, Saul turned to organic farming. Sharpham Hall, on sale for the first time in a century, became his new project.
Saul began with spelt farming but shifted to walnut farming after Covid. “It takes about 20 years for walnuts to mature and get a crop,” he noted.
The first major crop was sold through Riverford. Saul plans to expand into walnut oil production as the trees grow.
Views on Luxury
Saul believes the definition of luxury has changed. “Today, luxury is almost a bad word. It should be more about what’s special and amazing,” he said.
He noted a shift towards preloved and vintage items. “People are looking for treasured pieces, rather than necessarily having to have the newest and the latest,” Saul observed.
Personal Life
Saul’s wife, Monty, is a former Dior model. They’ve been married for 47 years.
“We’re good friends, good lovers, good enemies,” Saul said, highlighting the strength of their relationship. He credits Monty for her support and love.
Saul’s career and life have been marked by resilience and adaptability. From fashion to farming, he continues to embrace new challenges.
Preparing for Auction
Saul is now auctioning his private collection. This includes handbags, shoes, clothes, furniture, and personal memorabilia.
Due to an impending house move, Saul is parting with these items. He remains pragmatic, embracing each new phase of life.
His auction reflects his multifaceted interests and career. It’s a testament to his journey through various industries and passions.
Roger Saul’s life story is one of endless adaptability and reinvention.
From Mulberry’s inception to organic walnut farming, Saul’s journey reflects a unique blend of foresight and resilience.
His upcoming auction is not just a sale but a testament to a life lived fully in various spheres.