Essilor/Luxottica third parties gear up for EC review

03 March 2017 – Third parties are expected to raise vertical overlap concerns in the European Commission’s (EC) review of lens-supplier Essilor’s merger with frame-supplier Luxottica, two sources close to third parties told this news service.

The combination could draw the attention of optical-wear supplier Safilo, the first source and an independent lawyer said. French eyewear supplier Kering may also intend to raise concerns with the EC, the lawyer said.

Essilor describes itself as the world’s leading ophthalmic optics company. It designs, manufactures and markets a wide range of lenses to improve and protect eyesight, while Luxottica calls itself “a leader in the design, manufacture and distribution of fashion, luxury and sports eyewear”…