Italian eyewear specialist Safilo Group has signed an exclusive distribution agreement in South Korea with Seeone, a respected local commercial eyewear operator.
The new partnership is effective from 1 February. However, Safilo’s Korean duty free business will continue to be managed through the group’s global travel retail organisation and its local agents.
Safilo said the distribution deal is in line with the company’s plans to change its local affiliate business model in Korea where it aims to further develop its brand portfolio.
Seeone stated it would ensure a “seamless transition and smooth continuation of customer service to all optical retailers for all Safilo brands, including supply of products and after sales service”.
Safilo Group CEO Luisa Delgado said: “We welcome Seeone to Safilo’s worldwide partner network, where our over 50 exclusive partners across the world contribute their unique commercial capabilities and local market leadership to Safilo’s growth strategy, serving the local retailers on our behalf.
“Seeone brings an excellent track record of service and understanding of the Korean customers trade dynamics. We share a mutual belief in growing optical brands through quality distribution and operations, and relevant product design.
“South Korea has for Safilo a strategic global importance, as a domestic market, design trend setter for Asia and worldwide, and as an important Asian tourist destination. We are therefore committed to building an effective business in Korea for the longer term,” Delgado concluded.
Seeone CEO Sungjoo Ko commented: “This partnership is important for us. Safilo’s brand portfolio covers all market segments, with high quality eyewear. Their products are innovative and they have a history of leading craftsmanship and product design. With them, we see important growth opportunities that will strengthen our business in Korea.
“Safilo is the world’s second global eyewear leader. We will represent them with rigour and quality in Korea’s independent optical channel.”