In the LuxurynsightXFashionNetwork podcast episode featuring Thomas and Matthieu Lafont, the creative director and CEO of Lafont Eyewear respectively, the duo delves into their family’s heritage and their insights on the luxury eyewear market. With a history spanning almost a century, Lafont Eyewear has established itself as a prominent player in the industry, with a focus on pushing boundaries and embracing creativity.
The Lafont brothers express their pride in celebrating the company’s 100th anniversary and how it serves as a source of motivation for their entire team. Not only do they strive to innovate and look towards the future, but they also prioritize the satisfaction of their optician resellers, sales staff, and customers. To stand out in the competitive luxury eyewear market, Lafont adopts a chic and classic style infused with a creative twist and a touch of extravagance. They offer eyewear in unique shapes and original colors, highlighting their expertise and attention to detail.
One of the key aspects that sets Lafont apart is their commitment to the “added value” of their products. They emphasize the importance of history, authenticity, quality, and manufacturing origin. A significant portion of their collection, 95% to be precise, is made in France, with 80% being certified as Origine France Garantie. This dedication to local production allows Lafont to maintain control over the quality of their eyewear and support the local economy.
To stay in tune with evolving trends, Lafont frequently revisits their company archives and past successes. This allows them to infuse their designs with a modern twist while staying true to their brand identity. In an industry dominated by licensing giants, Lafont prioritizes working with independent opticians who share their passion for their products and align with their customers’ values. This strategy ensures that Lafont maintains their creative freedom and delivers top-of-the-range supplies to their loyal clientele.
Another aspect that makes Lafont stand out is their commitment to research and development. They invest their time and resources into exploring innovative techniques and technologies, particularly in the areas of ovens and industrial processes. By constantly pushing boundaries, Lafont ensures that their products remain at the forefront of the industry in terms of both design and functionality.
As a family-run business, Lafont prides itself on its agility in terms of size and organization. This flexibility allows them to adapt quickly to market changes and provide personalized attention to their customers. Moreover, Lafont also takes a proactive approach to eco-responsibility. They offer limited-edition eyewear created using upcycling or “creative recycling” techniques. By utilizing tons of raw acetate sheets stored in a hangar in the Jura region, Lafont discovered a recomposition solution that combines old and new acetate to create new materials and colors. This sustainable approach to manufacturing not only contributes to reducing waste but also adds a unique aspect to their eyewear collection.
Throughout the podcast episode, the Lafont brothers also delve into the impact of consumer trends on the eyewear market, particularly in light of the pandemic. They highlight the desires and preferences of younger consumers, who are increasingly seeking unique and sustainable products. This aligns perfectly with Lafont’s vision and further strengthens their position as a leading player in the luxury eyewear industry.
Overall, the Lafont brothers’ insights into their family’s heritage and the dynamics of the luxury eyewear market shed light on the passion, creativity, and dedication that drive Lafont Eyewear’s success.
Useful links:
1. Lafont Official Website
2. Origine France Garantie Certification
