MARIETTA, GA — The McGee Group has acquired Dom Vetro’s U.S. manufacturing operations and plans to on-shore part of its production.
To house the factory, the company is repurposing a building on its corporate campus in Marietta. This acquisition “provides The McGee Group with turn-key manufacturing capabilities and leverages the quality and skill demonstrated by Dom Vetro’s leadership in the field,” according to a press release.
Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.
“The McGee Group is an incredible partner with a fantastic history dating back over 45 years,” said Dom Vetro designer and founder Ashley Bezamat. “Given current events, the importance of local manufacturing has become paramount to the future of the American eyewear industry. It’s with great pleasure that I have an opportunity to collaborate with The McGee Group to build this future and produce exquisite, locally crafted eyewear that will reshape the industry.”
More from the release:
“We are delighted to collaborate and work with Ashley Bezamat,” said Matthew McGee, Executive Vice President at the McGee Group. “He is a true craftsman and artisan who’s built a remarkable state-of-the-art facility and brand in Dom Vetro both which are entrenched in the rich tradition of Italian craftsmanship dating back generations.”
“The McGee Group’s desire to vertically integrate and produce frames in Marietta is driven by our long-term planning and goal-setting. The supply chain issues that have affected this industry and so many others over the past 18 months have made the creation of a sustainable American eyewear industry even more critical,” said Matthew McGee. “The McGee Group is an American eyewear company, making products for predominantly the American market, and all of our brands are American brands. Our plan has always been to complete the circle by making product in the U.S. and by collaborating with Ashley and his brand Dom Vetro we have found the very best partner to make this long-term goal a remarkable success for both our customers and licensees.”
Already in operation, the facility will initially focus on producing acetate eyewear for Dom Vetro and a small offering for existing McGee brands. This limited start will enable the company to get a better handle on the manufacturing processes, while also providing the necessary time to train the team. Plans are in place to expand operations to include metal and injection frames in the coming years.
Dom Vetro will continue to have offices and fulfillment in Los Angeles, as well as overseas in Veneto, Italy, in order to best serve its current customers. This will also allow Ashley to continue to be inspired by two of the top fashion capitols of the world while continuing to train and learn with the best in the eyewear craftsmanship.
The McGee Group is an industry leader in eyewear design with partnerships with established brands like Vera Bradley, Life is Good, Trina Turk, Ducks Unlimited and more.
Advertisement