De Rigo to acquire Rodenstock Eyewear

Maurizio Dessolis

De Rigo Vision has signed an agreement to acquire the full ownership of Rodenstock’s Eyewear division as part of its strategic plan to expand in the premium eyewear segment internationally.

The move is intended to reinforce the group’s distribution platform and sales network in central Europe, particularly in the German market, as well as globally.

The acquisition includes Rodenstock Eyewear and Porsche Design Eyewear, which will complement the existing De Rigo product portfolio.

Maurizio Dessolis, executive vice chairman of De Rigo Vision, said: “I am proud to announce this agreement with Rodenstock, with whom we share the values of operational excellence and a client and people centric business: the keys to our companies’ success. We are delighted to complement our portfolio of premium products with the prestigious Rodenstock brands, building a new champion in the eyewear business. We are confident that building on our global platform and network we will be able to support the continued growth of the business and its brands.”

Anders Hedegaard, CEO of Rodenstock, commented: “With De Rigo, we have found a buyer that will ensure business continuity for our eyewear business, and we look forward to our continued collaboration. Due to their great deal of know-how in the frames business and excellent access to international markets De Rigo is ideally positioned to further drive the development of the eyewear business and strengthen its brands Rodenstock Eyewear and Porsche Design Eyewear.”

The transaction is expected to be completed towards the end of second quarter of 2023 – with both companies pledging to “closely work together to ensure a smooth transition and business continuity for employees, customers, and business partners”.