Kering Eyewear and Valentino have entered into an exclusive distribution agreement, effective 1 January 2026, marking the launch of a long-term global partnership.
The deal grants Kering Eyewear exclusive rights to develop and distribute the Valentino brand’s sun and optical collections.
Kering Eyewear Founder, President and CEO Roberto Vedovotto said, “We are honoured to welcome Valentino into the Kering Eyewear portfolio, and to have the opportunity to contribute to the brand’s continued success.
“As a prestigious Maison de Couture, Valentino stands for masterful craftsmanship, exquisite design, and is a symbol of a one-of-a-kind style.
“We are therefore committed to developing its sunglasses and frames collections in line with its vision by leveraging Kering Eyewear’s expertise in high-end luxury eyewear and Valentino’s iconic codes, unique heritage and savoir-faire.”
Valentino CEO Riccardo Bellini added, “We are delighted to announce this strategically important partnership with Kering Eyewear.
“Marrying Maison Valentino’s matchless creativity and iconic style with Kering Eyewear’s unrivalled know-how in luxury eyewear manufacturing and distribution, we will work together to further elevate the Valentino Eyewear experience.
“We also wish to express our sincere gratitude to AKN Group for the collaboration and the successful development of our eyewear business over the past years. It is with great enthusiasm and excitement that we now embark on this new chapter.”
The collaboration reinforces Valentino’s presence in the eyewear category, leveraging Kering Eyewear’s innovative business model and distinctive approach to luxury, the partners noted.
At the same time, it allows Kering Eyewear to bolster its leadership in premium eyewear, expanding its portfolio with a well-recognised brand.
The Valentino Eyewear Spring/Summer 2026 collection will be the first under this collaboration, making its debut at the Valentino Show in Paris on 5 October.
The eyewear collections will be available in Valentino boutiques offline and online, department and speciality stores, and optical stores worldwide starting March 2026. ✈
