Luxottica Group, S.p.A. (LUX)

1961

Starts out as a manufacturer of optical frames.

1990

Listing on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE).

1995

Acquisition of LensCrafters, a leading premium optical retail brand in North America.

1999

Acquisition of the eyewear division of Bausch & Lomb, comprising such brands as Ray-Ban, Revo, Arnette and Killer Loop.

2000

Listing on the Italian Stock Exchange (MTA).

2001

Acquisition of Sunglass Hut, the world’s leading premium specialty sun retailer.

2003

Acquisition of OPSM Group, the leading optical store chain operator in Asia-Pacific.

2004

Acquisition of Cole National, the second-largest optical store chain operator in North America, with retail brands including Pearle Vision, Sears Optical and Target Optical.

2005

Entry into the Chinese optical retail market through the acquisition of two retail chains. The Group becomes a leading player in China’s premium optical market segment, with stores in Beijing, Guangdong and Hong Kong.

2006

Expands distribution in North America and China through acquisitions in Canada, the Midwest United States and Shanghai. Enters into an agreement to open Sunglass Hut stores in the Middle East. In September, the first LensCrafters store in Beijing opens.

2007

Acquisition of Oakley, the performance eyewear company, giving rise to the new Luxottica Group. This acquisition provides the Group with exceptional potential, due to not only the force and name recognition of the Oakley brand, but, in addition, Oakley brings with it a portfolio of seven brands and four distribution chains.