Luxottica to expand Sunglass Hut concept in Asia-Pacific

Milan, Italy Luxottica Group S.p.A. announced Tuesday a further expansion in the Asia-Pacific region of its Sunglass Hut brand.

Luxottica said Sunglass Hut will enter into The Philippines and expand its existing presence in the Republic of South Africa through two separate agreements.

These agreements follow the recent announcement for the rollout of 65 Sunglass Hut stores within the Myer Department store network in Australia and introduction of Sunglass Hut stores in India in 2008.

Chris Beer, CEO of Luxottica, Asia Pacific & South Africa, said, "Expanding the Sunglass Hut business is part of Luxottica's global growth strategy across all areas of our business. And there remains great potential for Luxottica's sun business in the Asia Pacific region."

The South Africa agreement will roll out an initial 24 Sunglass Hut stores by the end of 2009, bringing the total Sunglass store count in the region to 80 by year end.

In the Philippines, an initial eight stores will be completed in 2010.