PARIS—The Marcolin Group (MCL.MI) and Les Jardins d’Avron S.A., the company producing and distributing John Galliano’s products, has announced the signing of an exclusive 5-year licensing agreement for the production and worldwide distribution of men’s and women’s sunglasses and prescription frames under the John Galliano brand name.

The agreement, which is renewable for another 2 years, will be effective Sept.1, 2009 with the first John Galliano Eyewear collection planned for Fall 2009.

“John Galliano is a true genius,” said Maurizio Marcolin, style and licensing officer of the Marcolin Group. “It’s a tremendous opportunity for Marcolin to work with such a talented designer. This new agreement further establishes Marcolin’s strategy in pursuing top luxury brands in order to exploit our competitive advantage.”

“Sunglasses and eyewear are essential accessories to make a statement on and off the runway and I am really excited to give them a Galliano twist,” added Galliano. “I am thrilled to be working with Marcolin and to add eyewear to the Galliano brand. I can't wait to begin a new vision in vision.”

According to Marcolin, distribution of the line will be selective and focused in the most prestigious accounts and department stores worldwide, as well as in John Galliano boutiques.