Page 94 - The Indian Optician Digital Edition March-April 2024
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Throughout our journey, we have remained Nevertheless, our legacy remains intertwined
steadfast in our commitment to quality, with the early chapters of Luxottica's presence
innovation, and customer satisfaction. Our in India, leaving an indelible mark on the
success story is a testament to the resilience, evolution of luxury eyewear in the country.
adaptability, and pioneering spirit of Indian While our journey with Luxottica may have
entrepreneurship. As we continue to chart new reached its conclusion, the spirit of innovation
territories and embrace digital transformation, and dedication that defined our collaboration
our journey with Sterling epitomises the spirit of continues to drive Sterling forward, shaping the
homegrown excellence and enduring legacy in future of luxury retail in India.
the Indian business landscape.
TIO: In addition to Luxottica, you also brought
TIO: Sterling is known for launching in other global leaders like Marcolin and
renowned international luxury eyewear brands Marchon and their many high-end brands. How
in India. Please share how you became the did these brands bring about a change in India’s
exclusive distributor for Luxottica brands in India eyewear scenario?
in the early 90s. KP: Our strategic partnerships with global
KP: In the early 1990s, Sterling embarked on eyewear leaders like Marcolin and Marchon
a journey that would transform the landscape have played a pivotal role in revolutionising
of luxury eyewear in India. It all began when we India's eyewear landscape. Back in 1999, when
initiated the importation of Luxottica brands into Marcolin sought a distributor in India, we saw
the Indian market. Recognising the potential an opportunity to collaborate, leading to the
and aligning with our vision, Luxottica entrusted introduction of renowned brands like Dolce &
Sterling with the exclusive distribution rights for Gabbana, Roberto Cavalli, Just Cavalli, Tod’s,
their prestigious portfolio in 1991. This marked Diesel and Tom Ford, among others, to the
the inception of a ground breaking partnership Indian market. Our relationship with Marcolin
that would redefine luxury eyewear experiences thrived and continued for 17 years till we had to
for Indian consumers. give up the distribution.
With a commitment to excellence and a keen Our association with Marchon began in 2002,
understanding of the discerning tastes of our when we became distributors for their brands
clientele, Sterling introduced iconic Luxottica such as Calvin Klein and Nike. The same was
brands like Vogue Eyewear to India, setting launched with a mega fashion show held in Taj,
new standards of sophistication and style. Our Delhi and JW Marriott in Mumbai in 2003. Over
collaboration flourished as we continued to time, our collaboration blossomed, culminating
curate an exclusive selection, bringing esteemed in Marchon acquiring a stake in Sterling in
names such as Giorgio Armani, Emporio Armani,
Salvatore Ferragamo, Valentino, Genny, Persol,
Moschino, Sergio Tacchini, Yves Saint Laurent, EMBRACING ONLINE SALES
and Brooks Brothers to the Indian market.
NEED NOT BE VIEWED
Our dedication to providing unparalleled AS A THREAT; RATHER, IT
quality and service propelled the Luxottica
brands to the forefront of luxury eyewear REPRESENTS AN OPPORTUNITY
in India, captivating the hearts of fashion TO SYNERGIZE THE STRENGTHS
enthusiasts nationwide. Luxottica soon OF PHYSICAL STORES WITH
expanded its operations, including the
acquisition of Ray-Ban in 1999, with the presence THE CONVENIENCE AND
of a local factory and distribution network in ACCESSIBILITY OFFERED BY
India. Consequently, in May 2002, Luxottica ONLINE PLATFORMS
decided to reclaim their distribution channels,
signalling the end of our exclusive partnership.
90 | THE INDIAN OPTICIAN | MAR-APR 2024 INTERVIEW
