Step back in time. Imagine Freiburg in 1920. The Optische Anstalt Emil Ehinger GmbH opens its doors. This is the beginning of Essilor’s German story. This small company in Freiburg would become a significant part of a global optical giant.
Essilor’s presence in Freiburg is deeply rooted in history. The Emil Ehinger GmbH wasn’t just a local business. It forged a strong partnership with the French company Essel. By 1958 Emil Ehinger GmbH became Essel’s exclusive representative in Germany. It shows a long-standing connection between Freiburg and the international Essilor network. The company’s success here laid the foundation for Essilor’s expansion across Germany.
The story continues. In Braunschweig another company made its mark. The Optik GmbH established in 1945 became Silor’s sole representative. Silor a major player in the French optical industry. The merging of Essel and Silor in 1972 created Essilor International. This merger had far reaching consequences also for its German branches.
In 1973 Emil Ehinger GmbH became a wholly owned subsidiary of Essilor. A pivotal moment. Then in 1976 Essilor acquired Optik GmbH. This united Essilor’s German operations under a single umbrella. It strengthened Essilor’s position in the German market. Freiburg played a vital role in this expansion.
Essilor’s innovation never stopped. The company’s commitment to research and development is impressive. Around 400 scientists worldwide work tirelessly. Their main focus is always human vision physiology. In 1959 they presented the Varilux the first industrially manufactured progressive lens. A revolutionary product that continues to be a success story. The Varilux X series introduced in 2017 further exemplifies Essilor’s pioneering spirit. It offers unparalleled vision to progressive lens wearers. These innovations have made Essilor a leading provider of eyeglasses worldwide.
Freiburg’s role in Essilor’s history is crucial. It’s a testament to the city’s rich history of innovation and craftsmanship. It also highlights Essilor’s enduring legacy of technological advancement. This is why Freiburg has a significant place in the story of Essilor. It’s where a local business grew into a substantial part of a global brand.