From 4 to 6 February 2023, MIDO is back at Fieramilano Rho. This year will offer an edition that is more than ever focused on internationalism and sustainability, during which all industry stakeholders can firstly strike up business agreements and do some networking, but also have exclusive previews from the entire industry. The role of the Milan event, however, stretches beyond the purely commercial aspect because MIDO represents for everyone an unmissable opportunity for discussion, reflection, education, exchange and sharing of ideas, designed and aimed at opticians from all over the world.
While waiting to meet up in person at the event, we met some of the event’s protagonists. Today we give the floor Matthieu Lafont, CEO of Lafont.
You are a historic entity in the industry where ownership is in the hands of your family: would you tell us about the highlights of your journey?
It started in 1923 when our great grandfather, Louis Lafont, opened an optical shop in Paris (in the Madeleine area). This year we celebrate our 100th anniversary in the optical industry. In the 70s, our parents started designing eyewear that was in the beginning only sold in our family store, step by step the brand grew and now we have 4 Lafont boutiques in Paris and we are sold in 40 countries worldwide. We are still an independent family-owned company, my brother Thomas is the artistic director and I’m the CEO. 95% of our production is in France, which is something very important for a French, Parisian, eyewear company like us.
How is your global presence currently organised?
We have a 70/30 business split, 70% outside of France. Export has always been a key aspect for our company. Therefore, we participate in all the major optical fairs.
What are your target markets?
With our long history, we have sold our styles on all the continents. Europe, North America, and Asia remain key markets for us, but the Middle Eastern and African markets are growing.
How has the optician's perception of cutting-edge eyewear changed? Is it different depending on the target market?
Passionate opticians are the same in every market, they are looking for creative, genuine, and quality brands and products. But you may find some slight differences in shape, material or colour trends.
What does MIDO represent for your company?
It represents one of the historic optical fairs, where we can connect with the industry and our customers.
What news do you have in store for the Milan fair?
This year, early February dates have been a challenge for us… our booth will focus on our eco-friendly product range. We’ll present our bio-acetate products from our kids collection, as well as our Creative upcycling limited edition series.