President Emmanuel Macron Inaugurates EssilorLuxottica’s Excellence Laboratory in France, a Flagship for Innovation and Sustainability
Wednesday, May 14 2025 | 08 h 16 min | News
EssilorLuxottica’s Excellence Rx Laboratory (“Labex”) in the Grand Paris area was inaugurated this morning by President Emmanuel Macron. This state-of- the-art industrial facility, a testament to the Company’s optical expertise, aims to enhance the production of made-to-measure ophthalmic lenses in France. It combines advanced med-tech know-how with a strong commitment to sustainability, solidifying EssilorLuxottica’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of innovation in a sustainable way.
“We are honored to have President Macron inaugurate EssilorLuxottica’s Excellence Laboratory and share in our pride as we open this new facility in a country where we have deep roots,” said Francesco Milleri, Chairman and CEO, and Paul du Saillant, Deputy CEO of EssilorLuxottica. “It truly embodies our unique know-how and ambitions to develop and transform our industry. It is a symbol of our commitment to innovation and our leadership in vision care and med-tech. With this industrial investment in France, the Group is significantly enhancing its capacity to better serve the growing demand of our customers as well as consumers.”
A technological flagship dedicated to enhancing vision care and eyewear
The Labex boasts the capacity to deliver up to 20,000 corrective lenses per day. With a team of 300 skilled professionals at full capacity, it is set to increase the production of prescription lenses in France by 40%, with a significant expansion of the range of products with Origine France Garantie certification. This facility will serve as a key pillar of ophthalmic manufacturing within the country, better addressing the needs of the French consumer and the growing demand for vision care. In line with its commitment, EssilorLuxottica is coordinating the PREMYOM research consortium on myopia control solutions, part of the “France 2030” plan.
With 16 000 m² housing 104 manufacturing machines, of which the majority operate with in-house state- of-the art technologies, and processes enhanced by automation and AI, this facility also allows visitors to experience the Group’s innovations, technologies and iconic brands. Strategically located near the Group’s Innovation & Technology Center in Créteil, the Labex fosters seamless collaboration and rapid deployment of future innovations and new categories. It houses production lines for high-tech lenses under iconic brands such as Varilux, Transitions, and Stellest, as well as an edging-mounting activity ensuring the timely delivery of complete-pair equipment: frames fitted with corrective lenses.
A commitment to Sustainable Development
The EssilorLuxottica Excellence Laboratory is the first French industrial site striving for LEED Gold certification, a global benchmark. This certification signifies that the building adheres to the strictest standards for energy efficiency, water management, and biodiversity preservation, while ensuring optimal working conditions. This aligns seamlessly with the Group’s sustainability program “Eyes on the Planet”.
The facility is entirely powered by renewable energy, producing zero CO2 emissions. It includes 3,700 m² of photovoltaic panels, supplying 15% of its energy needs. Thanks to various implemented initiatives, including fluid filtration systems, energy consumption per lens is reduced by 64% and water consumption by 55%*. Chip compaction contributes to a 46% reduction in waste*, while more than 95% of the waste is re-used. The work environment is optimized for employee well-being through improved air quality, acoustic comfort and natural lighting.
*Target compared to the 2023 corresponding scope
Click HERE for the press release.
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