Pierre Cardin and Safilo Extend Partnership to 2031, Reinforcing Eyewear Legacy

Safilo, a leading Italian eyewear group, has extended its global licensing agreement with Parisian fashion house Pierre Cardin for the design, production, and distribution of the brand’s optical and sunglasses collections. The renewed partnership will continue until 2031, solidifying a collaboration that initially began in 1991 with the launch of Pierre Cardin’s first eyewear line.

Pierre Cardin, established in 1950 by its namesake founder, maintains its headquarters at 59 rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré in Paris. Currently, the fashion house is guided by Rodrigo Basilicati Cardin, the great-nephew of Pierre Cardin, who is dedicated to preserving the brand’s heritage while simultaneously introducing a modern perspective.

Rodrigo Basilicati Cardin, CEO of Pierre Cardin, emphasized the strong foundation of the relationship with Safilo, stating, “For decades, our relationship has been founded on mutual trust and respect, qualities that enable us to realise exclusive, high-quality creative projects with exceptionally fast turnaround times compared with the norm, thanks to Safilo’s savoir-faire and professionalism.” He further highlighted the global appreciation for their collaborative creations, particularly those within the Evolution line.

Angelo Trocchia, CEO of Safilo Group, echoed this sentiment, expressing a commitment to further enhance the Pierre Cardin brand within the eyewear market, with a specific focus on expanding its optical frame offerings. He affirmed Pierre Cardin’s importance as a partner, citing its unique market position, innovative designs, and well-defined consumer base.

Safilo boasts a history spanning over 90 years, designing, manufacturing, and distributing a wide range of eyewear products – including sunglasses, optical frames, helmets, goggles, and outdoor eyewear – with net sales reaching €993.2 million in 2024. The company’s integrated business model encompasses the entire value chain, from research and development, supported by design studios in Padua, Milan, New York, Hong Kong, and Portland, alongside digital hubs in Padua and Portland, to production in its own facilities and through strategic manufacturing partnerships.

Safilo’s distribution network is extensive, operating directly in 40 countries and collaborating with over 40 partners to reach 70 additional nations. This network encompasses approximately 100,000 points of sale globally, including opticians, optometrists, ophthalmologists, retail chains, department stores, specialist retailers, boutiques, duty-free shops, and sports stores. The group directly owns six brands – Carrera, Polaroid, Smith, Blenders, Privé Revaux, and Seventh Street – and currently manages licenses for 24 other brands.