MUNICH, Germany—Rodenstock GmbH and Pro Fit Optix have signed an agreement for the distribution of Rodenstock lenses and frames in the U.S. Beginning last month, the Boca Raton, Fla.-based optical technology company began to distribute Rodenstock-branded digital free-form lenses and will service the needs of the American surfacing labs, including semi-finished products.

“We are very proud and honored to be associated with Rodenstock,” said Alan Yuster, executive vice president of operations for Pro Fit Optix and a former Rodenstock employee. “We look forward to re-launching, supporting and further developing the Rodenstock brand in the USA.”

Commenting on the new distribution agreement, Dr. Olaf Goettgens, CEO of the Munich-based Rodenstock Group, said, “We are pleased to offer our outstanding quality lenses combined with highest comfort for spectacles wearers and our modern designs to the customer in the USA. Rodenstock is a very traditional and strong brand, founded in 1877 in Germany. We have been standing for high quality lenses and frames the best vision and services for our costumers since over 130 years, our products will convince our new customers, too.”

According to a statement from Rodenstock, the company is about to expand its brand portfolio with “more, very attractive frame brands.”

U.S. distribution of Rodenstock lenses and frames have been previously handled by Optical Distribution Corp. (ODC), which closed its doors earlier this month. According to ODC manager Tim O’Neill, the company will hold an auction at its Columbus, Ohio facility on Aug. 14 to liquidate remaining inventory.

Pro Fit Optix markets a portfolio of digital, free-form progressive lenses. Functioning as a “virtual lab,” the company has developed a streamlined, vertically integrated business model that uses proprietary software and on-line ordering to cut turnaround time and increase accuracy on Rx orders and deliver quality progressive lenses to eyecare practitioners and laboratories. Pro Fit Optix also has distribution agreements with a number of major U.S. buying groups, including Block Buying Group, Premiere Vision, The Buyers Edge, The Alliance, Optical Resources, Alfred J. Villavecchia Buying Group, and Optical Synergies.

Yuster has more than 25 years experience in optical management and operations. He worked for Rodenstock for more than 10 years, first as director of international sales-Americas, and later as vice president of Rodenstock USA. ■