Galliano Signs Global Eyewear License with Marcolin

John Galliano has signed a global eyewear license with Gruppo Marcolin, one of the key Italian sunglass and spectacle manufacturers, in the latest sign of expansion at the British designer’s house.

Galliano’s deal is a worldwide agreement for the production and distribution of sunglasses and prescription frames under the designer’s brand name for both men’s and women’s products.

The five-year licensing agreement, with a two-year renewal option, will take effect on Sept. 1, 2009. Galliano will present his first eyewear collection in autumn 2009.

“Glasses are an essential accessory to declare your own style, on the runway or elsewhere. I am very happy to have the opportunity to take this step with Galliano eyewear. I am enthusiastic to work with Marcolin and can’t wait to see this new vision of vision,” joked Galliano in a release.

Neither side provided predictions about possible sales, but given Galliano’s name recognition, industry observers expect annual wholesale sales of 30 million euros, or $47 million.

Distribution will be restricted to high-end eyewear speciality stores, major league department stores and Galliano’s own boutiques.

Added Maurizio Marcolin, Style & Licensing Officer of Marcolin Group: “John Galliano is a real genius. To collaborate with a designer of this level of creativity is an incredible opportunity for Marcolin.”

Publicly quoted Marcolin is an eyewear industry biggie, which produced and distributed some 5.5 million eyeglass frames and sunglasses in 2007, in more than 600 styles. Its licensed brand portfolio includes labels of such note as Tom Ford, Roberto Cavalli, Montblanc, Ferrari, Kenneth Cole, Miss Sixty, Replay, Dsquared2 and Timberland

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