Thélios, the eyewear arm of the luxury conglomerate LVMH, has announced a significant move by acquiring Vuarnet, the renowned French high-end outdoor sunglass brand. This acquisition, from NEO Investment Partners, marks Thélios' inaugural venture into brand ownership and represents a pivotal milestone in the company's growth strategy. The move is set to further solidify Thélios' presence in the luxury eyewear industry while expanding its portfolio through the integration of Vuarnet's unique brand positioning, which seamlessly blends outdoor functionality with high fashion.
Established in 1957 by optician Roger Pouilloux and French ski Olympic gold medallist Jean Vuarnet, the Vuarnet brand has garnered recognition for its impeccable craftsmanship. It has masterfully combined innovation, performance, and timeless style, making it a standout in the industry. Born in the heart of the mountains, Vuarnet eyewear has been a staple for outdoor enthusiasts both on and off the slopes for over six decades. Beyond its practicality, the brand has also found its place in cinematic history, famously adorning the likes of Alain Delon in "The Swimming Pool" (1969), Jeff Bridges in "The Big Lebowski" (1998), and Daniel Craig in "James Bond – Spectre" (2015), among others. Vuarnet's iconic designs have cultivated a devoted community of brand loyalists, including numerous celebrities.
What sets Vuarnet apart is its unparalleled expertise in producing its own mineral lenses, a rare distinction in the eyewear industry. Its manufacturing site in Meaux has even earned certification from the French government as a "Living Heritage Company" ("Entreprise du Patrimoine Vivant"). In terms of brand positioning, Vuarnet's exceptional mineral lens craftsmanship aligns seamlessly with Thélios' portfolio of luxury Maisons, making it a valuable addition.
Alessandro Zanardo, CEO of Thélios, expressed his excitement regarding the acquisition: "We are thrilled to announce the acquisition of Vuarnet, becoming Thélios' first proprietary brand. Vuarnet is a legendary brand, with a unique history that deserves to be preserved and perpetuated. Its iconic design, its unique know-how on mineral lenses, and its strong brand values are a perfect match with our ethos and positioning."
This alliance is set to provide Vuarnet with access to Thélios' extensive resources, including research and development capabilities, technical expertise, and a global reach. These assets will propel the brand's growth and international expansion, reaffirming Vuarnet's position as a symbol of both heritage and innovation in the luxury eyewear market.
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