In focus: Mixed reaction to €50bn merger of the decade

Ever since news broke of the single biggest merger in the history of global optics, between Essilor and Luxottica, the silence has been deafening.

As observed by Optician in last week’s editorial comment, UK optical bodies and practitioners have been cautious to react following the shock of a merger agreement between optics’ two biggest heavyweights.

Possible repercussions of the Essilor Luxottica merger, announced last month, include less choice, price changes and more control of the lens, frame, equipment and web services they already have a powerful position in. But it also has the potential to bolster technology and consumer awareness of eye care.