Design Eyewear Group acquires six French eyewear brands

The Danish group Design Eyewear Group has acquired six eyewear brands from the French company KNCO. The group said the aim is to build an even more diverse portfolio that meets the needs of today’s eyewear customers.

In a statement, Design Eyewear Group said the acquisition includes two of its own adult brands, Francois Pinton and Karavan, and two of its own children’s brands, Karavan Kids and Kaliboo. There are also the licensed children’s brands Jacadi and Catimini.

With the takeover, the Design Eyewear Group is advancing its strategy of strengthening the group’s position in France, one of the most important eyewear markets in Europe. At the same time, it marks the company’s entry into the children’s eyewear sector. The group plans to expand this new product category in other important markets.

Lars Flyvholm, CEO of Design Eyewear Group, explained the acquisition: “This is another important step on our journey. Following the acquisition of Menrad in June and the licensing agreements with Jaguar, Joop!, Bogner and Morgan, this new addition offers us an even broader basis for growth.”

“We are not only expanding geographically, but also into new segments such as children’s glasses, where we see great potential,” says Flyvholm. “KNCO’s brands fit seamlessly into our portfolio. They complement our existing strengths in design, craftsmanship and international sales.”

As part of this takeover, around 15 employees will move from KNCO to the Design Eyewear Group. This includes four experienced designers and product managers who will further develop the brands. Sales employees and the customer service team will also be taken over. They already have in-depth knowledge of the customers and the product portfolio.