L.G.R. Launches two pure design models to “amaze”

Luca Gnecchi: "The crisis? A time for competitive selection" Two "pure design and innovative" models with strong, decisive lines. It is the wager that L.G.R. is making at Mido 2012 in order to satisfy a yen to "amaze", the word used by Luca Gnecchi Ruscone, owner of a young (like Ruscone himself who is not yet thirty) but already successful brand.   Before talking about what's new, Luca Gnecchi – a decidedly interesting person who grew up between Rome and Africa, the continent to which he has dedicated almost all of his creations – takes a look at the economic situation in the eyewear industry.   "The global economic crisis has intensified in the recent past" – he said – "The signs of a general recovery are still far off, economists are talking about 2015. But these dynamics concern bigger companies. The big players that compete for a share of the market are very sensitive to the economy's ups and downs. These companies are listed on the stock exchange and have international commercial partners who suffer a lot from economic swings. I think that the crisis has helped small, niche companies like ours that produce quality eyewear. The crisis is a time for competitive selection when only the ones that are valid or have been able to change stay in the game. At a time of recession, quality and luxury products "above 200 euros" are those that last. Customers prefer to buy one pair of good glasses rather than 3 pairs of mid-low quality every year. I think that if L.G.R continues to pay maximum attention to its products, innovates from year to year and also maintains its policy of exclusive distribution, the future will keep on getting better. If we continue like this, when the crisis is over we will be stronger in a better market that rewards quality. For me the crisis is a golden opportunity".   - Mido is now a tradition. What are your expectations from this edition? "To meet our customers and strengthen our relationships. To meet new customers from Italy and abroad, especially from emerging countries like Brazil, India, China and Russia".   - What will your key proposals be at the 2012 exhibition? "We will propose a collaboration with French brand A.P.C.. New sun models. New raw colors or matte sand-finish colors. New mineral glass polarized lenses, mirrored lenses and with special neophan treatment".   - Let's talk about the models. Are you focusing your expectations on specific models? "Of the new models we will present there are two that are pure design and innovation. These two have very strong, decisive lines. It is a risk because neither consumers nor the market are accustomed to such cutting-edge shapes. The other models represent the continuity of our line that is constantly evolving from year to year. I wanted to create these two models to amaze and satisfy a yen by experimenting with our possibilities".   - Your color for this year? "Matte Gray".   - One key word for 2012 that begins with Mido. "Courage!".