Adam Levy, CEO and president of Refac Optical Group.
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GLENDORA, N.J.—Refac Optical Group announced that Adam Levy has joined the company as CEO and president of Refac Optical Group.

A spokesperson said the position became effective Sept. 8.

Refac’s main operating company, consisting of U.S. Vision, Inc. and Nationwide Vision, is the seventh largest retail optical group in the U.S., as reported by Vision Monday in its latest ranking of the Top Optical Retailers in the U.S.

Levy has had an extensive career in retail with positions in several top companies, including Liz Claiborne, Inc., Jones Apparel Group and Tommy Hilfiger. He most

recently served as president of retail for Tumi Holdings, Inc. In its statement, Refac noted, “[Adam’s] reputation as a hands-on leader and involvement at all levels of the company make him a strong fit for Refac’s culture. His experience and expertise in retail operations will be an asset to the company’s focus on providing exceptional service and quality eyewear and contact lenses to its customers.”

Drew Scielzo, operating partner at ACON Investments said, “Adam brings the skills and experience the company needs during this period of growth. Under his leadership, we are looking forward to new acquisitions in our free standing division, continuing our valuable business relationships with our current department store hosts, and to exploring new partnerships. His work will not only take our retail locations and manufacturing lab to new levels of performance, but also ensure the long term stability and growth of the company in this ever-changing competitive retail environment.”

Levy added, “I am excited to join Refac Optical Group and continue the growth of the U.S. Vision and Nationwide divisions. We have great brands and a tremendous group of passionate and dedicated people. I look forward to partnering with the team to continue to provide best in class quality and value along with outstanding eyecare for our customers.”

Al Bernstein, president of Nationwide Vision, will report to Levy, a spokesperson confirmed.

Refac Optical Group is a leading provider of vision care products and services in the U.S. and Canada. U.S. Vision has been engaged in the retail optical business since 1967 and has over 700 retail optical locations. Its licensed departments offer an extensive selection of designer brands and private label prescription eyewear, contact lenses, sunglasses, ready-made readers, and accessories.

The company was acquired by ACON Investments, a Washington D.C.-based private equity investment firm, in March, 2011. ACON Investments manages private equity funds and special purpose partnerships that make investments in the U.S., and Latin America. In 2013, the company acquired Nationwide Vision, the largest optical retail chain in Arizona.