Pioneering Innovation Amidst Transformations in EssilorLuxottica’s Global Operations
In 2024, EssilorLuxottica continued to push the boundaries of what’s possible, further cementing its ongoing commitment to innovation, sustainability, and operational excellence.
As operations is a key driving force behind its daily activities, the Group continued to make significant investments while striving for excellence in every market and category to offer the best quality products for its consumers and customers around the world. Today, it is uniquely positioned to face the future and address the world’s evolving vision needs.
To continue ensuring the highest standards of quality and efficiency, the Group ramped up its operations with the following initiatives across the globe:
A Hub for Manufacturing Innovation and Sustainability in Thailand
Earlier in the year, EssilorLuxottica launched EMTC 4, the latest addition to its manufacturing facilities in Lat Krabang, east of Bangkok. This facility is dedicated to the designing, engineering and assembling of fully automated machines which support ophthalmic lens manufacturing through its groundbreaking Tape-Non-Edge (TNE) casting line. As the Company’s first machine manufacturing facility to implement this technology, EMTC 4 has increased operational efficiency by 30%, enhancing its production of ultra-high index lenses. The factory’s automation and energy-saving innovations align with the Group’s goal of reducing its carbon footprint while enhancing its operational agility.
Meanwhile, the Group’s ELTL facility in Rayong which was inaugurated in October 2023, rapidly scaled up its production in 2024. By July, the facility had reached its first major achievement by producing 1 million prescription lenses, alongside 3 million frames and 1 million components. As the first facility in the Asia-Pacific to integrate both lens and frame production, ELTL is a prime example of EssilorLuxottica's commitment to achieving vertical integration, high-quality manufacturing, as well as sustainable practices.
Strengthening the Group’s presence in Latin America
EssilorLuxottica’s position continues to be strengthened in the optical industry with the inauguration of a 5,000 m2 plant in Peru in November 2024, which allows it to offer the most innovative visual solutions to its customers and consumers in Latin America. Following 12 months of construction, the modern establishment has around 240 employees who work in various divisions including laboratory, logistics and regional call center, to service eight retail banners (GMO, Econópticas, Ray-Ban, VisionCenter, Econolentes, O.PV, GrandVision UY, Sunglass Hut) and 594 stores in five countries (Peru, Ecuador, Chile, Colombia, Uruguay).
Moreover, confirming EssilorLuxottica’s ongoing commitment to socio-environmental responsibility in the region, its EDAM Lenses facility in Brazil was recognized with the Sustainable Growth Award 2024 from Alchimia, a sustainable development consultancy, for its exemplary sustainable practices.
Driving Innovation, Efficiency and Quality in Manufacturing
2024 saw continued advancements in the Group’s manufacturing capabilities, with several key innovations aimed at improving operational efficiency and sustainability. In France, the ‘Laboratoire d’Excellence’ integrated the ACI Theia system, an Automated Cosmetic Inspection technology that enhances the precision of lens manufacturing. This innovation automates one of the final manual steps in the production process to substantially reduce errors and improve quality control.
In addition, the Group adopted the 1200-TLX system, an energy-saving AR coating technology. It uses 90% less energy than traditional diffusion pumps, further reducing the environmental footprint of its manufacturing processes. These technologies demonstrate EssilorLuxottica’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of sustainability and operational resilience.
Championing Sustainability in Design
In October 2024, EssilorLuxottica’s SOFI II facility in Chihuahua, Mexico, was awarded the prestigious LEED Gold certification by the U.S. Green Building Council. This certification underscores its commitment to responsible practices and environmental stewardship. As the first industrial plant in Chihuahua to achieve LEED Gold under version 4.0, it sets a benchmark in energy efficiency, water conservation, and indoor environmental quality. This highlights the Company’s ongoing efforts to incorporate environmentally responsible practices into its operations across the globe.
Advancements in Smart Eyewear with Tristar
Over the past year, Tristar engineering and the Group’s Smart Eyewear team continued to optimize META eyewear in terms of functionality. More options were developed in terms of frame styles as well as over 290 customizable options for different lenses and frames brands. A new range was developed with Transitions GEN S in a full assortment of colors. Since its launch in October 2023, the product has been well-received in the market. People can purchase it through Ray-Ban's website, Ray-Ban stores, Meta's website, and Meta's third-party retailers.
Industry Recognition: ISO 13485 Certification for Transition Optical and Eco Labs
Quality and safety remain at the core of EssilorLuxottica's operations. In 2024, the Company achieved ISO 13485 certification, an internationally recognized quality standard for medical device manufacturers. Transition Optical in Ireland and Eco Labs in Mexico received this certification, reinforcing the Group’s commitment to maintaining the highest standards of quality and regulatory compliance.
Looking ahead, the achievements in 2024 have shown that EssilorLuxottica can continue to be optimistic about the future and be confident in its teams and its operations to achieve its goals and relentless pursuit of excellence.
