WALTHAM, Mass.—Menicon America, Inc. has announced that Art Optical Contact Lens, Inc., based in Grand Rapids, Mich., is now an authorized manufacturer of its Rose K lenses.

Rose K is the most frequently prescribed lens design for correction of keratoconus and irregular cornea conditions in the world, Menicon’s statement said. Currently sold in 88 countries, the Rose K family of lenses consists of five designs, including Rose K, K2 (keratoconus), PG (post graft), IC (irregular cornea), and NC. The addition of Art Optical as a licensed manufacturer coincides with the upcoming introduction of the Rose K2 XL semi-scleral design that will be launched at the Global Specialty Lens Symposium in Las Vegas in January 2013.

With the addition of Art Optical, practitioners will have the option to purchase their Rose K lenses from Art Optical, Blanchard Contact Lens Inc., Manchester, N.H. and Les Laboratoires Blanchard, Sherbrooke, Quebec, in North America or from their local Rose K distributor.

"We are delighted to have Art Optical as an Authorized Rose K Manufacturer”, commented Jonathan Jacobson, president of Menicon America. “Art Optical’s strong commitment to the specialty lens segment, quality manufacturing and high standard for professional education makes them an ideal additional partner for Rose K in North America.”

“We look forward to working closely with Menicon to support our combined efforts,” said Jill Anastor, president of Art Optical. “Menicon shares Art's passion for providing the highest quality products, safety and convenience for patients.”

Menicon Co., Ltd., founded by Kyoichi Tanaka in 1951, is Japan's first and largest contact lens manufacturer. In North America, Menicon is best known for the hyper Dk, Menicon Z material and Rose K.