Simon Jones: Whatever pays the bills

In the last knockings of 2022, there were two interesting acquisitions that summed up both the present and the future of the optical industry.

De Rigo’s acquisition of Rodenstock’s eyewear division would have undoubtedly raised a few eyebrows, but the signs have been there for a while. The Germany company has gradually moved away from licenced eyewear over the past decade, leaving its own Rodenstock and the jewel in the crown that is Porsche Design. This gradual shift in focus reflects where Rodenstock wants to position itself – as a med-tech supplier that’s more Carl Zeiss than Karl Lagerfeld. For De Rigo, the purchase represents a chance for growth in an under-served territory and an opportunity to strengthen the sales network. Both parties will be happy, but one will feel happier than the other.