MILAN, ITALY- Valentino and Luxottica have announced the termination of their license agreement, … [+]
Valentino and Luxottica have announced the termination of their license agreement. A few days ago, the two brands made known that the license for the design, production and distribution of prescription frames and sunglasses under the name Valentino will end June 30, 2022. Starting their agreement in January 2017, Valentino has signed a new agreement with the Akoni Group.
According to a statement from both Valentino and Luxottica, they noted, “we have enjoyed five successful years of a mutually rewarding relationship based on enthusiasm and shared passion that gave life to innovative collections. The companies will continue to value their partnership until the agreement expires.”
The Luxottica Group is known for its design, manufacturing, and distribution of fashion and sports eyewear. Handling the production of brands from Oliver Peoples, Ray-Ban, Vogue Eyewear, as well as the licensed brands including Burberry, Bulgari, Chanel, Ferrari, Prada, Ralph Lauren and Versace the company has a reputable stand with top luxury brands. Luxottica has a retail network of 9,000 stores, but the in the summer, in a report by Reuters and in a statement sent to the news agency by the Communications Workers of America, US and international unions accused the company of violating workers’ right to unionize at one of their plants in McDonough, Georgia citing “aggressive and fear-inducing” measures. The Italian, French and US governments were asked to mediate, and the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) has also gotten involved.
Valentino’s New License Agreement
The Roman house has a new 10-year agreement with Swiss-based company, Akoni Group for the design, manufacturing, and worldwide distribution of Valentino eyewear. With frames made in their Japan factory, the notable Parisian house Balmain also gets their eyewear produced by the Akoni Group. Effective July 2022 as new frame styles will be released on the market after the launch of the Valentino SS23 ready-to-wear fashion show.
Both companies note in a shared statement: Akoni Group shares Valentino’s values as demonstrated by its passion for innovative design, impeccable craftsmanship, unrivaled quality, and social consciousness. The new eyewear will embody the Valentino Couture approach by utilizing the finest materials and a combination of time-honored and cutting-edge production techniques. A product that will reflect the values and unique creativity of the Maison.