- Business
- EssilorLuxottica S.A. (EL.PA) stands as a global leader in the design, manufacture, and distribution of ophthalmic lenses, eyewear frames, sunglasses, and related vision care products and services. Founded in 2018 through the merger of French lens maker Essilor and Italian eyewear giant Luxottica, the company is headquartered in Charenton-le-Pont near Paris, France, and operates manufacturing plants, distribution centers, and over 18,000 retail stores across more than 150 countries including North America, Europe, Latin America, Asia Pacific, the Middle East, and Africa. Its vertically integrated model spans the entire value chain from research and development to retail, encompassing proprietary lens technologies such as Varilux, Crizal, Eyezen, Transitions, and Xperio; iconic proprietary eyewear brands including Ray-Ban, Oakley, Persol, Oliver Peoples, and Vogue Eyewear; luxury licensed brands like Chanel, Giorgio Armani, Prada, Burberry, Tiffany & Co., and Versace; and major retail chains such as LensCrafters, Sunglass Hut, Pearle Vision, Vision Express, and OPSM, alongside e-commerce platforms and professional equipment from subsidiaries like Essilor Instruments and Heidelberg Engineering. The company serves opticians, eye care professionals, retailers, and consumers targeting visual impairments including myopia, hyperopia, presbyopia, and astigmatism, while expanding into med-tech solutions, smart eyewear, and hearing aids. Recent developments include the 2025 acquisitions of Optegra Eye Health Care clinics across Europe (including brands Iris and Lexum) to bolster ophthalmic services such as cataract surgery and glaucoma treatments, RetinAI for AI-driven eye care data management, and Automation & Robotics for manufacturing advancements; an increased stake in Nikon Corporation to 20% enhancing optical collaborations; the launch of Essilor Stellest 2.0 myopia management lenses and Visioffice X+ AI-powered fitting tools; plans for a new global headquarters in Paris opening in late 2027; and the integration of Supreme brand following its 2024 purchase to reach lifestyle audiences.