Rodenstock welcomes backing of new parent

Rodenstock has been acquired by European private equity firm Bridgepoint from Permira for an undisclosed sum, reported by the Financial Times, December 27, as more than €600m (£402m).

Bridgepoint described Rodenstock, which employs 4,300 people worldwide, as Europe's number three and the global number four in the manufacture of optical lenses and frames. Revenues for the business in 2005 were €345m.

Uwe Kolb, Bridgepoint partner responsible for investment in Germany, said: 'Rodenstock is a strong European business which leads its home market and has a growing global footprint. It is well placed to take advantage of robust markets which are largely driven by an ageing and wealthier population which values high performing products and sees spectacles as a fashion and lifestyle item more than a medical necessity.'