Safilo agrees Hilfiger deal

Safilo has signed a global licensing agreement with luxury US lifestyle brand Tommy Hilfiger for the design, development, production and distribution of its ophthalmic and sunglass products.

The deal runs until 2015 with the option of a five-year extension which will see Safilo's first Tommy Hilfiger collection appear in practices from autumn 2010.

'This agreement gives Safilo a wonderful opportunity to develop an eyewear collection for one of the most recognised American brands in the world,' said Roberto Vedovotto, chief executive officer of Safilo.

The Financial Times suggested in a report that the deal was a sign that the Italian eyewear manufacturer was 'over the worst' and that its future had effectively been secured by the investment from Hal Holding (News 23.10.09).