A prize is awarded in Paris to the authorized producers of cr-39™ lenses
Espace 56, the panoramic function room at the top of the Montparnasse Tower, was the extraordinary setting chosen by PPG Industries to bring the 60th anniversary celebrations of the monomer CR-39™ to a deserving end. The monomer CR-39™ was patented by the Pittsburgh Company sixty years ago, and still represents the largest category of plastic ophthalmic lenses sold worldwide.
'This brand is synonymous with reliable performance and quality', emphasized John Liebenguth, PPG Optical Materials Marketing and Sales Manager, in his welcome speech at Tour Montparnasse. 'But the success of the monomer CR-39™ would not have been possible without the lens producers who develop a passion for quality and are committed to constantly improving the processes' said Liebenguth. 'These producers are the driving force of the CR-39™ Licensed Lens Caster Program (CR-39™ lens authorized Producers Program)'
In this framework, PPG Industries chose to award a prize to three of the Program's important protagonists. Christine Camsuzou, General Manager of PPG's Optical Materials Division, and John Liebenguth himself, awarded a special prize for the contribution made to the growth of the monomer CR-39™ and the great commitment to preserving its integrity and quality, to:
- Hoya Vision Care - 'a pioneer of high technology products, from supports for digital filing and optical and ophthalmic products to crystal items renowned all over the world, which has established a solid position as a global leader of ophthalmic products since it first started out over 60 years ago. A producer of CR-39™ lenses since the dawning of the product's history, Hoya has maintained their high value over the years', said Liebenguth;
- Rodenstock - 'which started using CR-39™ in the 70's and is still re-inventing eyewear with constantly new ideas - as it is proven by the Silmo D'Or prize awarded this year for the design of the Impression Mono lenses - and which contributes to preserving the high value and reputation of the monomer CR-39™.'
- last, but no less important, Shamir/Eyal Optical Industry - 'a leading supplier of high quality, semi-finished lenses and, in particular, progressive lenses; it is a company that also enjoys world fame as an expert in the design and production of sophisticated processes and molds for producing lenses. CR-39™ is an important protagonist of Shamir/Eyal's history and we believe Shamir/Eyal is an important protagonist of our future', concluded Liebenguth.
The CR-39 Licensed Lens Caster Program identifies those producers who are committed to providing only CR-39™ lenses, and promotes their activity, identifying them as 'preferential suppliers' of lenses made in this material. Those who take part in the program are required to follow the guidelines for using the CR-39™ trademark.
