Kering buys Maui Jim

Kering Eyewear has signed an agreement to buy Maui Jim, including its Zeal Optics brand.

Hawaii-based Maui Jim was founded in 1987 and has built a reputation for the technical quality of its lenses and timeless styling. It’s initial sunglasss offering has been complemented by prescription sunwear and ophthalmic frames and lenses. Its products are sold in 100 countries and it also owns Zeal Optics.

Kering Eyewear was founded in 2014 and has a 700m Euro portfolio of brands which included Gucci, Cartier and Dunhill. It also bought Lindberg last year.

Roberto Vedovotto, president and CEO of Kering Eyewear said Maui Jim would benefit from Kering’s worldwide network while it met Kering’s brand strategy. ’Maui Jim has a unique positioning in the market, with very high-end and technically innovative sunglasses that are beloved by its clientele, and we are delighted that the brand is joining Kering Eyewear’s exceptional portfolio.’