BY  JILLIAN URCELAY

De Rigo Vision has signed an agreement to purchase complete ownership of Los Angeles-based Rem Eyewear, consolidating the group’s American sales structure into a single organization under the new name De Rigo Rem. The consolidation intends to create a vast sales network to expand opportunities for the De Rigo Rem brands in the U.S. market.

XX2i Optics has partnered with Race Across America (RAAM) to become the official sunglass of the “World’s Toughest Bicycle Race.” All competitors participating in the 3,000-mile excursion will have access to XX2i’s sunglasses which feature multiple styles, colors, lens configurations and 4K lens technology.

Kering Eyewear has appointed Glenn Rusk as its new senior vice president of sales in North America, effective immediately. Before joining Kering Eyewear, Rusk served as Safilo’s senior vice president—commercial head of North America.

Marcolin Group has announced the early renewal of an exclusive license agreement for the design, manufacture and worldwide distribution of Dsquared2 sun and optical eyewear, extending the current partnership duration through 2021.

Marcolin USA has announced the recruitment of Chris Robinson as SVP optical channel and Tom Carberry as SVP commercial operations, both reporting directly to Marcolin USA CEO Fabrizio Gamberini.

Safilo has appointed Henri Blomqvist as the new CEO of Safilo North America. Blomqvist is also responsible for Safilo’s Global Sports Commercial Channel and is a member of the Safilo Group Executive Committee.

VSP Global has announced the appointment of Nicola Zotta as president of Marchon Eyewear, following the retirement of Claudio Gottardi. Zotta previously held the position as managing director of EMEA and APAC at Marchon.

Costa has announced its partnership with “Facts of Fishing” host and Bassmaster Elite Series tournament emcee Dave Mercer.

Safilo and Jimmy Choo have announced the early renewal of their agreement for the design, manufacture and distribution of the Jimmy Choo Eyewear collection, which now extends to Dec. 31, 2023.