PADUA, Italy—Safilo Group (SFL:IM) and Liz Claiborne Inc. (NYSE: LIZ), a designer and marketer of women's and men's apparel, accessories and fragrance products, have extended their current license until the end of 2012 for the design, production and marketing of Liz Claiborne and Claiborne eyewear collections available in the American market. The agreement also includes collaboration on a range of proprietary Liz Claiborne Inc. brands produced by Safilo.

“We are pleased to continue this partnership which has enjoyed ongoing success in the American market for many years,” said Vittorio Tabacchi, chairman of Safilo Group. “This agreement, that joins us until 2012, presents a wonderful opportunity to consolidate the popular brands of Liz Claiborne in the American market.”

Safilo designs, produces and markets several Liz Claiborne eyewear collections including, “Liz Claiborne” women’s ophthalmic and sunglasses which was launched in March 2003 and “Claiborne” ophthalmic and sunwear for men which launched in March 2004; as well as eyewear lines for a range of proprietary Liz Claiborne Inc. brands.

“Liz Claiborne is extremely pleased to be extending our relationship with Safilo Group,” said Benedetta Casamento, president of Liz Claiborne Brands. “Safilo is a leader in high range and luxury eyewear and has been an invaluable partner in the development and marketing of many of our eyewear collections.”

Liz Claiborne Inc. designs and markets an extensive range of branded women's and men's apparel, accessories and fragrance products. The more than 40 brands in the Liz Claiborne Inc. portfolio are available at over 30,000 points of sale worldwide.