2024-09-08 11:00:04
Acetate frames are placed in a sanding machine, on the production line of French eyewear manufacturer Thierry, in Morbier, Jura, on September 27, 2022. SEBASTIEN BOZON / AFP
Nearly two and a half million frames made in France are sold each year, half of which are exported. The sector, which today employs some 1,500 people and includes around fifty brands, has come a long way: thirty years ago, decimated by Asian competition, it saw three-quarters of its workshops close. Those who have resisted are still located, for the most part, in the valleys of Morez (Jura) and Oyonnax (Ain), historic cradles of French eyewear expertise, but also, more modestly, in the Ile-de-France and the Nantes region.
On opticians’ displays, their production occupies a modest place, less than 10%, while Chinese frames, and to a lesser extent Italian frames, represent the majority of the equipment offered. In terms of margin, they are unbeatable: the production cost of a Chinese frame is 50% to 70% lower than that of a frame made in France, that of an Italian frame, 20% lower.
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It’s hard to compete on price: a “handmade” product with the Origine France Garantie label (a label created in 2011 certifying that most of the product was made in France; the simple mention “Made in France” does not constitute the same guarantee) is rarely available for less than 130 euros. To buy French, you must therefore pay a remaining charge since the reimbursement of frames by health insurance is currently capped at 100 euros.
Recycled materials
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Aware of this potential “brake” on purchasing, the French sector is campaigning for frames manufactured in France to benefit from a higher cap than imported frames. To attract opticians and convince them to distribute them, it is also banking on eco-responsible concerns and the maintenance of ancient know-how in the region. “Buyers are increasingly sensitive to these arguments”, comments Ludovic Brochard, co-manager of the French manufacturer Roussilhe and administrator of LEOO (Les Entreprises de l’optique ophtalmique), the union of French manufacturers of lenses and frames.
The LEOO also organizes the Manufacture tour every year, an open day for the workshops, to show professionals the quality of the work, but also to praise the virtues of the short circuit, bio-sourced materials, and even recycling, since the cellulose acetate offcuts from production can be reused to make new frames.
While some manufacturers have been around for over a hundred years (one of the oldest French eyewear manufacturers, Vuillet Vega, started out in 1843), others, more recent, are positioned in very specific “niches”: based in Morbihan, Friendly Frenchy offers frames made from shells, the In’Bô brand offers bio-sourced glasses made from Vosges wood, Linotte offers glasses made from linen, and the Hérault company Eio uses plastic waste from rivers as raw material.
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The Resilience of French Eyewear: A Story of Tradition, Innovation, and Sustainability
France, renowned for its rich cultural heritage and exquisite craftsmanship, is also home to a thriving eyewear industry that has been perfecting its craft for centuries. Despite facing stiff competition from Asian manufacturers, French eyewear has managed to maintain its reputation for quality, elegance, and innovation. In this article, we’ll delve into the history and current state of French eyewear, highlighting its unique strengths, challenges, and commitment to sustainability.
A Rich History and Tradition
French eyewear has a long history dating back to the 18th century, with the first eyeglass manufacturers setting up shop in the Jura and Ain regions. Over time, these regions became synonymous with high-quality eyewear, attracting craftsmen and entrepreneurs who perfected their skills and techniques. Today, French eyewear is celebrated for its attention to detail, stylish designs, and exceptional craftsmanship [[1]].
The Current State of French Eyewear
The French eyewear industry employs around 1,500 people and comprises approximately 50 brands, many of which are family-owned and operated. While the sector has faced significant challenges, including the closure of three-quarters of its workshops thirty years ago, it has managed to adapt and thrive. French eyewear manufacturers have invested heavily in innovation, technology, and sustainability, enabling them to stay competitive in a rapidly changing market [[3]].
The Battle for Market Share
Despite its rich heritage and commitment to quality, French eyewear accounts for only a modest 10% of opticians’ displays, with Chinese and Italian frames dominating the market. The primary reason for this disparity is the cost of production, with Chinese frames being 50% to 70% cheaper than their French counterparts. To compete, French manufacturers are focusing on eco-responsible concerns, ancient know-how, and the short circuit, as well as highlighting the benefits of buying local and supporting traditional craftsmanship [[2]].
The Importance of Sustainability
In recent years, French eyewear manufacturers have made a concerted effort to reduce their environmental impact. Many companies are now using recycled materials, bio-sourced materials, and sustainable practices throughout their production processes. This commitment to sustainability is not only good for the environment but also resonates with consumers who are increasingly concerned about the ecological footprint of their purchases.
The Future of French Eyewear
As the eyewear industry continues to evolve, French manufacturers are poised to remain at the forefront of innovation and style. By emphasizing their unique strengths, including their attention to detail, commitment to sustainability, and proud heritage, French eyewear brands can differentiate themselves in a crowded market. With the LEOO (Les Entreprises de l’optique ophtalmique) union supporting the sector and organizing initiatives like the Manufacture tour, French eyewear is well-positioned to continue thriving in the years to come.
French eyewear is a testament to the country’s rich cultural heritage and its ability to adapt to changing times. By embracing innovation, sustainability, and traditional craftsmanship, French eyewear manufacturers can continue to create exquisite, high-quality products that appeal to discerning consumers worldwide.
Sources:
GO Eyewear France
The Resilience of French Eyewear: A Story of Tradition, Innovation, and Sustainability
French eyewear brands have a rich history of innovative and avant-garde designs, quality materials, and attention to detail [[2]]. With nearly two and a half million frames made in France sold each year, half of which are exported, the sector has come a long way since its decimation by Asian competition thirty years ago [[Query]]. Today, the French eyewear industry employs around 1,500 people and includes around fifty brands, mostly located in the valleys of Morez (Jura) and Oyonnax (Ain), historic cradles of French eyewear expertise.
Tradition and Innovation
French eyewear brands are known for their unique and fashionable designs, quality materials, and attention to detail. Brands like Morel, Caroline Abrams, Emmanuelle Khanh, Nathalie Blanc, and Oxibis®, offer bold and harmonious colorful frames that showcase French expertise in eyewear manufacturing [[1]] [[3]]. Some manufacturers have been around for over a hundred years, such as Vuillet Vega, which started out in 1843, while others, more recent, are positioned in very specific “niches”, like Friendly Frenchy, which offers frames made from shells.
Sustainability and Eco-Responsibility
The French sector is aware of the potential “brake” on purchasing due to the higher cost of French-made frames compared to imported ones. To attract opticians and convince them to distribute French-made frames, the sector is banking on eco-responsible concerns and the maintenance of ancient know-how in the region. Buyers are increasingly sensitive to these arguments, and the French sector is campaigning for frames manufactured in France to benefit from a higher cap than imported frames.
Recycled Materials and Short Circuit
The LEOO (Les Entreprises de l’optique ophtalmique), the union of French manufacturers of lenses and frames, organizes the Manufacture tour every year, an open day for the workshops, to show professionals the quality of the work, but also to praise the virtues of the short circuit, bio-sourced materials, and even recycling. Cellulose acetate offcuts from production can be reused to make new frames, making French eyewear brands more sustainable and eco-friendly.
Conclusion
French eyewear brands are known for their unique designs, quality materials, and attention to detail. With a rich history of innovation and tradition, the sector has come a long way since its decimation by Asian competition thirty years ago. Today, French eyewear brands are focusing on sustainability and eco-responsibility, offering frames made from recycled materials and bio-sourced materials. By supporting French eyewear brands, consumers can contribute to the preservation of ancient know-how and the development of sustainable practices in the industry.
References:
[[1]]https://blog.favrspecs.com/the-best-french-eyewear-brands-2/
[[2]]https://www.eyeons.com/frametrends/french-eyewear-brands-a-rich-history-of-innovative-and-avant-garde-designs/
[[3]]https://www.oxibis.com/en/
