LONGARONE, Italy—Thélios has announced its acquisition from NEO Investment Partners of Vuarnet, a renowned French high-end outdoor sunglass brand with over 60 years of history. This is Thélios’ first brand acquisition and its first proprietary brand, which marks an important milestone in the development of the LVMH eyewear company. This acquisition will grant Vuarnet access to Thélios’ extensive resources, including research and development capabilities, technical expertise and global reach. Alessandro Zanardo, CEO of Thélios, said, “We are thrilled to announce the acquisition of Vuarnet, becoming Thélios’ first proprietary brand.

"Vuarnet is a legendary brand, with a unique history that deserves to be preserved and perpetuated. Its iconic design, its unique know-how on mineral lenses and its strong brand values, are a perfect match with our ethos and positioning,” Zanardo said.

In a release, Thélios said, “Vuarnet perfectly blends in the Thélios’ portfolio of LVMH luxury Maisons through its unique brand positioning at the crossroads of outdoors and fashion. Thélios aims to restore the brand’s former glory, empowering Vuarnet to further elevate its product quality and push the boundaries of innovation.”

Optician Roger Pouilloux and French ski Olympic gold medalist Jean Vuarnet founded Vuarnet in 1957, and the brand has established itself on and off the slopes thanks to its excellent craftsmanship and fusion of innovation, performance and timeless style. The brand also produces its own mineral lenses at its manufacturing site in Meaux, France, which the French government has certified as an “Entreprise du Patrimoine Vivant,” or Living Heritage Company. Vuarnet’s best in class mineral lenses will allow Thélios to expand its know-how in this category as well.