VSP Vision, parent company of Marchon, has entered into an agreement to acquire Marcolin from PAI Partners and other minority shareholders, WWD has learned.
The purchase price was not disclosed.
“The addition of Marcolin is another example of our commitment to purposeful growth that will provide greater value for VSP members, clients, doctors and key customers,” Michael Guyette, president and chief executive officer of VSP Vision, said in a statement. “With a portfolio of some of the world’s most sought-after brands and advanced in-house manufacturing capabilities, Marcolin will strongly complement our existing offerings through Marchon Eyewear as we continue to deliver high-quality eyewear that meets diverse and evolving global customer needs.”
Founded in northern Italy in 1961, Marcolin today distributes its eyewear collections in more than 125 countries. Its portfolio of luxury and lifestyle brands includes Tom Ford, Zegna, Christian Louboutin, ic! berlin, Max Mara, Guess and many others.
“With a shared passion for bringing the highest-quality eyewear to as many people as possible, joining VSP Vision is a perfect fit,” said Fabrizio Curci, CEO and general manager of Marcolin. “We look forward to combining our expertise, focus on craftsmanship, commitment to product innovation and complementary portfolios and geographic presence to give customers the very best in eyewear and service.”
According to the statement, with the backing of PAI, Marcolin has broadened its international reach and enhanced operational efficiency, reinforcing itself as a leading player in the wholesale eyewear market. Under PAI’s ownership, Marcolin’s performance has advanced significantly, supported by a strong focus on commercial excellence, a strategic corporate reorganization and the expansion of its brand portfolio through targeted acquisitions, new licensing agreements and key renewals.
“We are delighted to have backed Marcolin’s transformation into a world leader in the wholesale eyewear business”, said Raffaele Vitale, partner at PAI. “We are grateful to the management team for their partnership and are confident that Marcolin is well positioned to continue thriving in the years ahead, with plenty of runway for growth and a portfolio of iconic brands.”
CapM Advisors acted as the exclusive financial adviser, and Latham & Watkins acted as the legal adviser to the shareholders of Marcolin. Kirkland & Ellis LLP and Chiomenti acted as legal advisers to VSP.
The transaction is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2025 and is subject to customary regulatory approvals.
In the six months ended June 30, the Longarone, Italy-based Marcolin posted net sales of 295.7 million euros, down 0.6 percent at current exchange rates but up 0.3 percent in comparable terms, versus the first half of 2024.
These were mainly driven by the Europe, Middle East and Africa region, which contributed to the performance with a 7.3 percent jump in revenues at current exchange rates to 161.3 million euros. Meanwhile the Americas dropped 7.4 percent to 98.7 million euros compared to the first half of 2024.
PAI Partners acquired its majority stake in Marcolin in 2012 and there had been speculation since last year that it was seeking to exit the business. Neither PAI nor Marcolin confirmed the speculation.