MARIETTA, Ga.—The McGee Group, a family-owned, American eyewear company specializing in the design and manufacturing of eyewear, sunglasses, readers, and cases, announced that it has acquired Dom Vetro's U.S. manufacturing operations in order to introduce American-made products to its customers and to "on-shore a portion of its production for a more sustainable future," the company said. To house the factory, the company is repurposing one of its buildings that makes up the corporate campus in the City of Marietta. This acquisition provides The McGee Group with turnkey manufacturing capabilities and leverages the quality and skill demonstrated by Dom Vetro's leadership in the field, the announcement noted. “We are delighted to collaborate and work with Ashley Bezamat,” said Matthew McGee, executive vice president at the McGee Group. “He is a true craftsman and artisan who’s built a remarkable state-of-the-art facility and brand in Dom Vetro both which are entrenched in the rich tradition of Italian craftsmanship dating back generations.”

“The McGee Group is an incredible partner with a fantastic history dating back over 45 years,” said Dom Vetro’s designer and founder, Ashley Bezamat. “Given current events, the importance of local manufacturing has become paramount to the future of the American eyewear industry. It’s with great pleasure that I have an opportunity to collaborate with The McGee Group to build this future and produce exquisite, locally crafted eyewear that will reshape the industry.”
 
McGee added, "The McGee Group’s desire to vertically integrate and produce frames in Marietta is driven by our long-term planning and goal-setting. The supply chain issues that have affected this industry and so many others over the past 18 months have made the creation of a sustainable American eyewear industry even more critical. The McGee Group is an American eyewear company, making products for predominantly the American market, and all of our brands are American brands. Our plan has always been to complete the circle by making products in the U.S. and by collaborating with Ashley and his brand Dom Vetro we have found the very best partner to make this long-term goal a remarkable success for both our customers and licensees."
 
Already in operation, the facility will initially focus on producing acetate eyewear for Dom Vetro and a small offering for existing McGee brands. This limited start will enable the company to get a better handle on the manufacturing processes, while also providing the necessary time to train the team. Plans are in place to expand operations to include metal and injection frames in the coming years, McGee said.
 
Dom Vetro will continue to have offices and fulfillment in Los Angeles, as well as overseas in Veneto, Italy in order to best serve its current customers. This will also allow Ashley to continue to be inspired by two of the top fashion capitals of the world while continuing to train and learn with the best in eyewear craftsmanship.
 
More info about The McGee Group's new American-made manufacturing is accessible here.
 
Celebrating 40-plus years, The McGee Group markets ophthalmic frames, sunwear, reading glasses and cases to all customer groups throughout North America and many international markets, including eyecare professionals, distributors, large optical chains, mass merchants and department stores. is an industry leader in eyewear design with partnerships with such established brands as Vera Bradley, Trina Turk, Mr Turk, Life is Good, Badgley Mischka, Ducks Unlimited, XOXO, Totally Rimless, TR Optics, and Argyleculture.