RONKONKOMA, N.Y.—Aoyama Optical has signed a licensing agreement with Lego Systems A/S to develop a full line of children’s ophthalmic frames and sunglasses featuring the classic Lego brand and play themes. The collections are planned to hit high end optical and sunglass specialty stores by June 2008.

“We believe that Aoyama’s expertise in high end optical design, engineering and manufacturing combined with a reputation for developing unique, fashion forward collections for some of the worlds’ best known brands was what enabled us to win the Lego account,” said Yoshihiko Aoyama, president and founder of Aoyama. “We approached this opportunity with the idea that young children’s taste for ophthalmic frames and sunglasses should be much more creative than what is currently offered to them and their parents and worked closely with Lego to develop an innovative line which embodies the creativity that Lego truly stands for.”

“We have been looking for a kid’s name to complete our collection and this is an amazing opportunity,” said David Chernoff, president of Aoyama USA. “The industry can look forward to an exciting line of quality, fun and functional frames for kids. Along with POP that will stand out in every store that it is placed in.”

The Lego Group is a privately-held, family-owned company based in Billund, Denmark. As one of the world’s leading manufacturers of high-quality, educational play materials for children the company is committed to the development of children’s creative and imaginative abilities.

“We are very excited to have Aoyama as a new member of our family,” said Stephanie Lawrence, director of licensing for The Lego Company. “They immediately understood the Lego brand, the creativity and passion it instills in children and, most importantly how to apply that creativity and passion to a wonderful, innovative collection of upscale children’s optical product.”    ■