Smith – a global leader in eyewear and headwear protection since 1965 – has entered an innovative joint commercial initiative with CR Labs. The partnership will see Smith sunglasses fitted with ChromaPop prescription lenses produced by CR Labs exclusively for the Australian market.
Headquartered in Portland, Oregon, Smith is best known for its snow goggles and helmets. The brand has recently taken a significant strong hold in the outdoor, water and cycling eyewear channels, particularly with the launch of ChromaPop proprietary lens technology, which guarantees a sharpness and contrast of colours. ChromaPop lenses filter light at two specific wavelengths, and eliminate colour confusion for the brain, ultimately recognising true colour, faster, regardless of lens tint.
CR Labs… is the first external lab, globally, to be authorised to produce ChromaPop prescription lenses
“We are excited to bring ChromaPop sun lens technology to prescription eyewear and are thrilled to be able to do it with a local company. CR Labs is a testament to Australian manufacturing, and we believe the combination of leading technology and quality local surfacing, coating and fitting capabilities will make SMITH ChromaPop sunglasses a leader in the Australian Market” said Safilo Senior Director, David Pearson.
CR Labs, located in Melbourne, is the first external lab, globally, to be authorised to produce ChromaPop prescription lenses, after completing a rigorous production testing and qualification process. According to a press release, “CR Labs’ impeccable commitment to innovation, quality and customer service, makes the partnership a natural fit for Smith”, a brand that shares the same values.
CR Labs will supply complete Smith ChromaPop sunglasses through independent optical practices, with a range of Smith sunglass designs matched with five ChromaPop lens colours, covering outdoor activities and light conditions.
“Our mission has always been to help Australians see better through cutting edge technologies, high quality products and trustful relationships. The partnership with Smith fits all those criteria and we believe will provide superior quality outdoor vision, exceptional value for money, and meet the expanding and changing needs of prescription sunglass eyewear,” said Adam Fletcher, CEO of CR Labs.
Launching on 1 August 2023, the program will be backed by a strong patient marketing and education campaign, including the support of local Smith Athletes Molly Picklum (Surfing) and Tess Coady (Snowboarding).
