RAMSEY, Minn.—Vision Ease is expanding its ophthalmic lens product portfolio and distribution capabilities with the acquisition of Daemyung Optical Co. Ltd. (DMO). Details of the transaction were not disclosed.

DMO, the second largest optical lens manufacturer in Korea, was founded in 1985. The company specializes in high-index plastic lenses which are manufactured at its two production facilities in South Korea and one in China. Vision Ease said the acquisition doubles the size of its workforce to 2,000 employees, while adding high-index lenses to its product portfolio, including 1.74, 1.67 and 1.60 high-index lenses, according to Vision Ease. The deal also expands Vision Ease’s distribution channels to high-growth markets throughout Asia.

“DMO is a leader in high-quality cast lenses, which complements Vision Ease’s strength in polycarbonate lens manufacturing,” said John Weber, CEO of Vision Ease. “By expanding our offerings with these new, in-demand lenses, we will be a better partner to customers looking to improve their businesses results.”

Vision Ease confirmed that K.S. Lee will remain CEO of DMO and will work with the new ownership group headed by Weber.
The new ownership also signals global expansion for DMO, whose products and market reach will now extend into the North and South American markets that Vision Ease serves.

Vision Ease’s investor, Wind Point Partners, supported the acquisition as part of its business growth strategy for the lens maker.

“Daemyung Optical is a smart investment because it’s an established market leader with a complementary product portfolio and an extensive distribution network,” said Matt Moran, vice president, Wind Point Partners. “We look forward to continuing to grow Vision Ease’s business and capabilities through strategic acquisitions and the addition of new markets, and providing long-term leadership for DMO.”