Francesco Milleri (l) and Paul du Saillant.
CHARENTON-LE-PONT, France—EssilorLuxottica said Friday that it is actively supporting those impacted by the crisis in Ukraine, including about 1,700 colleagues, and is temporarily suspending its operations in Russia. In a statement at the top of the company’s year-end financial report, released on March 11, CEO Francesco Milleri and deputy CEO Paul du Saillant said, “Our thoughts go out to all those affected by the tragedy unfolding in Ukraine. At this difficult time, the safety of our people remains our priority and we are providing all the support possible to our affected teams in the region.”

At the start of EssilorLuxottica’s conference call Friday with financial analysts to review its 2021 results, a company executive announced, “Due to uncertainties and significant disruptions, we are temporarily suspending our operations in Russia. In line with our mission, we are committed to continuing to provide essential medial vision care services. We will closely monitor the situation and adapt our response accordingly.”

An EssilorLuxottica spokesperson told VMAIL that the company is helping to secure its employees’ safety by opening up its locations with secured basements to host employees' families and providing immediate support for those crossing borders thanks to a dedicated internal team across neighboring countries. Affected colleagues have already received bonus payments and their salaries will be maintained despite the business disruption.”

The spokesperson said that EssilorLuxottica is providing free eye tests, frames and lenses to refugees from Ukraine who cross into Poland. “We’re doing this and more through GrandVision’s local brand in Poland, Vision Express,” she noted.

EssilorLuxottica has set up a voluntary donation initiative for all its employees. “The company will match every single dollar raised, doubling the impact we can have. In further solidarity, our CEO and deputy CEO have made personal salary donations that will go directly to support our Ukrainian colleagues as well as selected local NGOs helping refugees on the ground,” the spokesperson said.