On April 3, Kering Eyewear announced that it had signed an agreement to acquire 100% of Visard’s share capital, an eyewear manufacturer based in the Belluno region of Italy, and to become a minority shareholder in Mistral. Under the terms of the agreement, Kering Eyewear will fully integrate Visard as a subsidiary and pursue a strategic partnership with Mistral, with the possibility of a full acquisition by 2030.
Founded in 1985 and 1991, respectively, Visard and Mistral have long been established in Belluno, one of the world’s most renowned eyewear manufacturing regions. Visard employs around 75 craftsmen and specializes in producing frames using injected plastic. Mistral, with a workforce of approximately 120, is known for its advanced technical expertise and innovation in acetate frame production.
Both companies have been key manufacturing partners for Kering Eyewear since its founding in 2014. This new agreement is not merely a financial move, but a significant step in reinforcing Kering Eyewear’s overall industrial strategy.
Established in 2014 as part of the Kering Group, Kering Eyewear is responsible for designing, developing, and distributing eyewear for 14 prestigious brands, including Gucci, Cartier, and Saint Laurent. The company also operates its own proprietary brands: LINDBERG, Maui Jim, and Zeal Optics. As one of the most influential players in the luxury eyewear segment, Kering Eyewear manages the entire process from design to distribution.
Regarding the transaction, Roberto Vedovotto, Founder, President, and CEO of Kering Eyewear, commented: “Throughout the years, Visard, Mistral, and their respective founding entrepreneurs have provided an invaluable contribution to the success of Kering Eyewear, bringing unparalleled quality and technical expertise to our company. We are therefore proud to welcome Visard within Kering Eyewear and delighted to partner with Mistral for the next phase of its development, confirming our commitment to continuing to support the exceptional human capital of the Belluno district, empowering it as the center of the eyewear industry, while further investing in innovation and promoting craftmanship excellence.”
The transaction is subject to regulatory approval by the relevant competition authorities and is expected to be finalized in the third quarter of 2025.
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