MARCOLIN DOUBLES MADE IN ITALY PRODUCTION

The acquisition of a new 3,500 m2 facility in the eyewear cluster will have a positive impact also on employment One of the leading eyewear companies, Marcolin, is pursuing its quality enhancement strategy and is getting ready to double its Made in Italy production with the acquisition of a new 3,500 m2 facility at Longarone (Fortogna) in the heart of the eyewear cluster. With a significant increase in resources dedicated to production, the operation will have a positive impact on employment levels as well.   From mid-2015 the facility will guarantee a considerable increase in manufacturing to meet the demands of new products in the brand portfolio and the structural expansion of certain markets. The operation was finalized with the support of PAI Partners – a major European private equity firm – and, in line with the company's medium- and long-term development plan, its aim is to create value by taking full advantage of the opportunities presented with the development of high-end products that have always been a part of Marcolin's corporate DNA. The company recently signed license agreements with such fashion and luxury brands as Ermenegildo Zegna, Zegna Couture and Emilio Pucci, which – in addition to Tom Ford, Montblanc, Balenciaga, Roberto Cavalli, Dsquared2 and Diesel – are characterized by Made in Italy development and production, a guarantee of creativity and quality that is perfectly expressed by the territory's artisan tradition.   Marcolin CEO Giovanni Zoppas said: "We are pleased to announce an operation that confirms and consolidates the company's current development and growth stage. Made in Italy is a very important strategic asset for us and completing an acquisition in the area where Marcolin originated is another reason to be proud."