VSP Vision Enters into Definitive Agreement to Acquire Marcolin
VSP Vision™ announced today it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Marcolin from PAI Partners, a pre-eminent private equity firm, and other minority shareholders. The acquisition of Marcolin, a global leader in eyewear design, manufacturing, and distribution, will mark a significant eyewear investment by VSP Vision to provide even more value to its stakeholders.
“The addition of Marcolin is another example of our commitment to purposeful growth that will provide greater value for VSP members, clients, doctors, and key customers,” said Michael Guyette, President and CEO of VSP Vision. “With a portfolio of some of the world’s most sought-after brands and advanced in-house manufacturing capabilities, Marcolin will strongly complement our existing offerings through Marchon Eyewear as we continue to deliver high-quality eyewear that meets diverse and evolving global customer needs.”
Founded in Northern Italy in 1961, Marcolin today distributes its eyewear collections in more than 125 countries. Its portfolio of luxury and lifestyle brands includes Tom Ford, Zegna, Christian Louboutin, ic! berlin, Max Mara, Guess, and many others.
“With a shared passion for bringing the highest quality eyewear to as many people as possible, joining VSP Vision is a perfect fit,” said Fabrizio Curci, CEO & General Manager of Marcolin. “We look forward to combining our expertise, focus on craftsmanship, commitment to product innovation, and complementary portfolios and geographic presence to give customers the very best in eyewear and service.”
With the backing of PAI, Marcolin broadened its international reach and enhanced operational efficiency, establishing itself as a leading player in the wholesale eyewear market. Under PAI’s ownership, Marcolin’s performance has advanced significantly, supported by a strong focus on commercial excellence, a strategic corporate reorganization, and the expansion of its brand portfolio through targeted acquisitions, new licensing agreements, and key renewals.
“We are delighted to have backed Marcolin’s transformation into a world leader in the wholesale eyewear business”, said Raffaele Vitale, Partner at PAI. “We are grateful to the management team for their partnership and are confident that Marcolin is well positioned to continue thriving in the years ahead, with plenty of runway for growth and a portfolio of iconic brands.”
CapM Advisors acted as the exclusive financial advisor, and Latham & Watkins acted as the legal advisor to the shareholders of Marcolin. Kirkland & Ellis LLP and Chiomenti acted as legal advisors to VSP.
The transaction is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2025 and is subject to customary regulatory approvals.
About VSP Vision
VSP Vision‘s purpose is to empower human potential through sight. As the first national not-for-profit vision benefits company, this is what drives everything it does. For nearly 70 years, VSP has been the leader in health-focused vision care. Every day, the people that power its complementary businesses—VSP® Vision Care, Marchon Eyewear, Inc., Visionworks®, Eyefinity®, Eyeconic, VSP® Optics, and VSP® Ventures—work together to create a world where everyone can bring their best vision to life. That means providing affordable access to eye care and eyewear for more than 85 million members through a network of more than 42,000 doctors. It also means expanding access to vision care to those disadvantaged by income, distance, or disaster through VSP Vision™ Eyes of Hope®. To date, more than 4 million people in need have received access to no-cost eye care and eyewear through VSP’s Eyes of Hope programs.
About Marcolin
Marcolin is among the global leading groups in eyewear, founded in 1961 in the heart of the Veneto district, Italy. It stands out for the unique ability to combine craftsmanship with advanced technologies through the constant pursuit of excellence and continuous innovation. The portfolio includes house brands (WEB EYEWEAR, ic! berlin), as well as licensed brands: TOM FORD, Guess, adidas Sport, adidas Originals, Christian Louboutin, Max Mara, Zegna, GCDS, MAX&Co., MCM, Pucci, BMW, K-Way®, Kenneth Cole, Abercrombie & Fitch, Hollister, rag & bone, Timberland, GANT, Harley-Davidson, Marciano and Skechers. Through its own direct network and global partners, Marcolin distributes its products in more than 125 countries.
Original link: https://www.opticaljournal.com/vsp-vision-enters-into-definitive-agreement-to-acquire-marcolin/