Optical Prism September 2018 | Page 46

Glimpses ESCHENBACH OPTIK, MARC O’POLO RENEW AGREEMENT Eschenbach Optik has renewed its licensing agreement with MARC O’POLO for the long-term. High-quality materials and work- manship, sophisticated functionality and a timeless, purist design vocabulary are hallmarks of the MARC O’POLO Eyewear prescription and sunglass collections. The brand will continue to package itself as urban and authentic, with lots of personality and naturally with contemporary designs. ALTAIR EYEWEAR, DRAPER JAMES SIGN AGREEMENT Altair Eyewear Inc., a division of Marchon Eyewear, and Draper James, the Southern-inspired lifestyle brand founded by Reese Witherspoon, have announced that they have entered into an exclusive global licensing agreement for the de- sign, 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 acces- sories collections, celebrating femininity with a contemporary take on Southern charm. 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. LUXOTTICA ACQUIRES BARBERINI Luxottica Group has announced the acquisition of Barberini S.p.A., the world's leading optical glass sun lens manufacturer. With this transaction, that is valued at approxi- mately Euro 140 million, Luxottica consolidates its strategy of focusing on excellent production facilities and “made in Italy” quality. The transaction allows the Group to strengthen its know-how in glass sun and prescription lenses, which is considered the most valuable among optical materials. Barberini is in fact synonymous with world excellence in glass lenses, key to the success over time of the iconic models of Ray-Ban and Persol and an essential component for many luxury eyewear collections. Founded by Pietro Barberini in 1963, Barberini is a key manufacturer of high-quality optical glass lenses for the most prestigious eyewear brands around the world, with exclusive and sophisticated technical features. 44 OPTICAL PRISM | September 2018