Blog

July 17, 2018July 18, 2018

Vuarnet Opens First US Store

Vuarnet announced the opening of their first flagship store in the United States. The 1,000 square foot space in New York’s Nolita opened its doors July 14, timed to coincide with Bastille Day.

The new boutique will “offer an immersive brand experience and will feature the full range of Vuarnet sunglasses as well as new categories to the US market to include accessories and seasonal apparel such as beachwear and ski apparel.”

“The opening of our flagship store in NY is a major step for Vuarnet and we are very positive about what the future holds for our brand in the US market as a whole» said Lionel Giraud, CEO of Vuarnet. «We selected Bastille Day, French National Day, for the opening as it is always a day of great celebration in France and we wanted to share that passion and enthusiasm stateside.”

July 16, 2018July 12, 2018

First SILMO Bangkok Records 3,750 Trade Visitors from 42 Countries

The first edition of SILMO Bangkok 2018 reflected its success as the gateway to ASEAN’s optical industry. More than 3,750 national and international trade visitors from 42 countries gathered, to explore this new chapter in ASEAN’s optical industry.

Mr. Loy Joon How, General Manager, IMPACT Exhibition Management Co., said, “The theme, ‘Business Meets Fashion’, was reflected through the showcases of the latest trends and eyewear collections from over 250 brands worldwide.”

The Thailand International Optometry Conference 2018, organized by the Association of Thai Optometrists attracted over 550 optometrists and opticians over the two-day accredited program.

The second edition of SILMO Bangkok will be held on 19-21 June 2019, at IMPACT Exhibition and Convention Center.

Click HERE for the full press release.

July 11, 2018July 11, 2018

Vista Outdoor Announces Sale of Bollé, Cébé and Serengeti Brands

Vista Outdoor Inc. announced Monday, July 9, that it has entered into a definitive agreement to sell the legal entities operating its Bollé, Cébé and Serengeti brands to an entity controlled by a significant European private equity fund.

The sale is part of Vista Outdoor’s previously announced strategic business transformation plan, designed to allow the company to focus resources on pursuing growth in its core product categories of ammunition, hunting and shooting accessories, hydration bottles and packs, and outdoor cooking products.

“We are pleased to have successfully reached an agreement to sell our eyewear and safety business at an attractive price,” said Chris Metz, Chief Executive Officer of Vista Outdoor. “The business will have the opportunity to reach its full potential under new ownership. This divestiture is the first step in our transformation plan and will be the first of several potential asset sales that will significantly reduce Vista Outdoor’s leverage and provide additional resources to for us to reinvest in our core businesses.”

Read the complete press release for more information.

July 11, 2018May 20, 2026

Kate Spade New York is Playful with Poppy Flowers

Vandra from Kate Spade New York features a cat eye shaped optical frame with flat metal construction, contrasting outer rim colour, adjustable nose pads and acetate temples in a playful poppy flower pattern outside of the temple in the black version. Blue havana, ivory and brown havana also available.

Distributed by Safilo: www.safilo.com

July 11, 2018

Altair Eyewear and Draper James Sign Exclusive Global Licensing Agreement

Altair Eyewear Inc., a division of Marchon Eyewear Inc., and Draper James, the Southern-inspired lifestyle brand founded by Reese Witherspoon, announced that they have entered into an exclusive global licensing agreement for the design, manufacturing and distribution of Draper James optical eyewear.

The brand’s first ever optical collection will be available beginning March 2019 and will debut at Vision Expo East in New York City. The Draper James optical styles will take cues from Draper James’ vibrant, upbeat ready-to-wear and accessories collections, celebrating femininity with a contemporary take on Southern charm.

“I am thrilled that Draper James is partnering with Altair Eyewear Inc., a leading expert in optical eyewear, to create a new line of glasses,” said Reese Witherspoon, Draper James Founder and Creative Director. “As a lifestyle brand, I feel it’s important to continue to add new categories that meet the everyday needs of our customers both in style and function.”

“We are excited to embark on this venture with Draper James, a unique brand with a fresh point of view,” said Nicola Zotta, President & CEO of Marchon Eyewear, Inc. “We look forward to partnering with Draper James and Reese Witherspoon on expressive optical eyewear collections that complement the brand’s lifestyle and extend the current assortment into an exciting new category and market.”

The new Draper James optical eyewear line is planned to be distributed globally and sold in optical chains and specialty retailers as well as through independent eye care practices.

Click HERE for the full press release.