Safilo surge

The Safilo Group saw net profit rise 52.5 per cent to €33.3m for the first half of 2007, with sales up 10.3 per cent at €667.8m.

All world markets recorded increases in sales and the Armani, Dior and Gucci brands were highlighted.

The company said that Europe registered a growth in sales of 25.4 per cent and continued to benefit from the recovery in the sale of prescription frames, together with a balanced growth of house and licensed brands.

Chairman Vittorio Tabacchi said: 'These results confirm the effectiveness of the decisions we have taken. Our history and our passion have led us to focus on the creation, development and distribution of high-end products, in collaboration with the most celebrated international fashion brands.'