Lara D': The first time with enthusiasm and lots of expectations

Lara D'Alpaos: "we'll also be at Out of Mido, an interesting opportunity" LARA D' is a Mido new entry and, as frequently happens, it has the proper mix of enthusiasm, curiosity and expectations. "Yes, this is my first time at Mido" – said Lara D'Alpaos, architect and owner of the young brand from Belluno – "and I am really enthusiastic and full of good expectations. Since it is the leading sector exhibition at world level, I expect to meet for the first time several important international operators. It will also be an excellent opportunity to attract major attention to my brand LARA D' and to strengthen the relationships with my existing clients."   - Let's talk about the new products you will present on this occasion. "I have prepared various new models that will join my LARA D' collection. They include two vision frames in injected and biodegradable TR90, which combine the pleasure of design with the respect for nature: they are two minimalist models in bright colors. I'll also present a new line of eyewear in pure titanium."   - It seems that in order to capture particular segments of the market, large companies increasingly aim for big numbers through acquisitions and smaller companies target specialization. Do you think this trend will be consolidated in the future? "I completely agree with this statement. Nowadays, it is very important for small companies like mine to go all out and specialize in its own type of product. It is important to stand out in order to capture a market segment, a small niche. This can be achieved in various ways. I do my best to fully offer a designer product, using innovative materials whenever possible and, most of all, bright colors coming in special combinations, as well as maintaining high quality levels."   - The domestic market is at a sort of stabilization stage, but the market abroad is giving positive signals. Which foreign markets are the most important for your company? "Very recently Claus Schmerber joined my team. He is highly appreciated and well-known in Germany because of his twenty-year experience in this sector. Therefore, I am focusing a lot on introducing the LARA D' collection to Northern markets, Germany and Austria in particular. The North American and Far East markets also play important roles."   -In 2013, Mido will be joined by Out of Mido. You have decided to take part. What are your expectations? "Yes, I immediately signed up for this great and unique development. It is certainly an interesting opportunity to highlight that our products belong to the design world. It will also be a real chance to directly present my design to a wider audience. Specifically, for this event I am designing and planning a collection of limited edition models in honor of the history of modern design..."   -Apart from Mido and Out of Mido, do you have any other important appointments? "I will be in the Village area at Silmo, in Paris, and this year I will certainly take part in all the workshops organized by ANFAO in collaboration with the former ICE. These important events are essential for promoting Italian design abroad and especially useful for small companies like mine, that would find it very difficult to organize these journeys without such a support. I'd like to take this chance to compliment and thank ANFAO and the former ICE for their great commitment."   -Lara D' in one word? "LARA D'"