Celebrating Craftsmanship, Innovation and Tradition: EssilorLuxottica’s ‘Made in Japan’ Production

2 min

Published on 13 May 2025

2025 marks a pivotal year for Japan as all the eyes of the world will turn to Osaka for the highly anticipated World Expo, a mega event spotlighting technological, cultural, and environmental innovation. This year is particularly special for EssilorLuxottica as it marks 35 years in the Land of the Rising Sun. The Company’s new ‘Made in Japan’ campaign seeks to honor this rich history while showcasing the innovative spirit that drives the eyewear industry forward in one of the world’s most revered markets.

Standing at the crossroads of tradition and modernity, Japan has long set the standard for quality and exquisite craftsmanship in various industries, including luxury, fashion and design. A significant market for EssilorLuxottica’s business; it also serves as a wellspring of inspiration, innovation, and a rich tapestry of cultural heritage. From cutting-edge consumer insights to centuries-old traditions of craftsmanship, Japan has shaped much of the Company’s approach to eyewear design and production.

Commitment to Japanese Craftsmanship in Eyewear

Seven years ago, the Group made a strategic investment in Fukui, the heart of Japan’s eyewear production to align itselfwith a legacy of excellence. This region, particularly the city of Sabae, is renowned for its rich heritage in eyewear craftsmanship, accounting for over 90% of the nation’s eyewear output. Local artisans employ traditional techniques that have been passed down through generations, ensuring that each frame is not only stylish but also durable. From the selection of high-quality materials to the precision of the finishing touches, every step in the production process is executed with care. This commitment to excellence is what sets its eyewear apart and has resulted in the Group strengtheningits production capabilities while deepening its appreciation for the artistry and tradition that define Japanese craftsmanship. For EssilorLuxottica, the label ‘Made in Japan’ transcends mere geographic origin; it encapsulates a philosophy of quality, precision, and beauty while upholding the highest standards in every aspect of its production.

Cultural Influence on Design and Beyond

Japan’s cultural impact is a phenomenon that transcends borders. As a global leader in innovation and creativity, it has become a source of inspiration for companies worldwide. EssilorLuxottica has witnessed firsthand how Japanese culture shapes design trends and consumer preferences on a global scale. The Company’s eyewear collections, infused with Japanese-inspired aesthetics and crafted from the finest materials, reflect this cultural exchange and have garnered appreciation from consumers around the world. These are thoughtfully designed to resonate with both local Japanese consumers as well as the global market.

Looking Ahead: Investing in Japan’s Eyewear Future

In recent years, the Group has expanded its presence in Japan even further with the acquisition of Washin, a leading optical retail banner which allowed it to strengthen its position in the Japanese market while continuing to grow its manufacturing capabilities. As a result, EssilorLuxottica now plays a pivotal role in the evolution of Japan’s eyewear industry while contributing to its ongoing rebirth.

Looking ahead, the Company continues to see an opportunity to push the boundaries of eyewear design, to create products that meet the demands of the modern consumer while honoring the artistry of the past. As the industry evolves to meet the needs of a tech-savvy consumer base, the ‘Made in Japan’ campaign marks a parallelism which blends a strong essence of productive identity with the eternal dualism of modernity and tradition, beauty and balance, passion and rigor that constitutes the soul of ‘Made in Japan’.