Framing a formidable alliance: Kering Eyewear and Balenciaga strike partnership

“We are extremely proud of our new partnership with Balenciaga, one of the most authentic and innovative brands in the fashion industry and the last Kering brand with an eyewear presence which was not yet managed by Kering Eyewear” – Kering Eyewear President and CEO Roberto Vedovotto [Picture: ©Albrecht_Fuchs]
Kering Eyewear and Balenciaga today announced a partnership for the development, production and worldwide distribution of Balenciaga sunglasses and prescription frames.

The first Balenciaga Eyewear collection is to be launched with the Spring 19 collection, available through a highly selective distribution network from January 2019.

“We are delighted to collaborate with Kering Eyewear,” said Balenciaga CEO Cédric Charbit. “We will rely on their exclusive expertise to fully exploit and reach Balenciaga’s potential in the category. We would also like to take the opportunity to thank [former partner] Marcolin for their contribution in developing the brand over the past years.”

“We are extremely proud of our new partnership with Balenciaga, one of the most authentic and innovative brands in the fashion industry and the last Kering brand with an eyewear presence which was not yet managed by Kering Eyewear,” said Kering Eyewear President and CEO Roberto Vedovotto. “I am sure that Balenciaga, particularly considering the brand’s strong creativity, will add substantial value to Kering Eyewear’s already outstanding portfolio of luxury brands.”

Kering Eyewear is part of the Kering Group, a global luxury powerhouse across fashion, leathergoods, jewellery and watches. Kering Eyewear designs, develops and distributes eyewear for a portfolio of 15 brands: Gucci, Cartier, Bottega Veneta, Saint Laurent, Alexander McQueen, Stella McCartney, Brioni, Altuzarra, Alaïa, Boucheron, Pomellato, Puma, McQ, Christopher Kane and Tomas Maier.

Balenciaga has been part of the Kering group since 2001. The house, founded in 1917 by Cristobal Balenciaga and established in Paris in 1937, has a reputation for originating some of the most influential movements in fashion. It is a leader in luxury women’s ready-to-wear, leathergoods, footwear and accessories. The house has enjoyed further success with the introduction of ready-to-wear and accessories for men.

“We will rely on their exclusive expertise to fully exploit and reach Balenciaga’s potential in the category” – Balenciaga CEO Cédric Charbit

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