Annual Review 2012 - Luxottica

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2.6 Distribution
WHOLESALE
retail
Optical retail
E-commerce
SUN AND LUXURY RETAIL
Luxottica’s distribution network is one of the Group’s core strengths. It is global
and includes retail stores as well as a wholesale network of third party stores
and chains. Luxottica operates in all the world’s major markets and continues
to expand in emerging markets, where it has made substantial investments
over the last few years and intends to broaden and strengthen its distribution
platform going forward.
Luxottica’s efficient distribution network makes it possible to maintain
close contact with customers while maximizing the visibility of the Group’s
brand portfolio. In addition, the Group’s experience in the retail business
has given it a unique understanding of end users’ needs and tastes in certain
key countries. All this makes it possible to achieve tight control and strategic
optimization of brand diffusion, for both proprietary and licensed brands.
In 2012, Luxottica distributed approximately 26.1 million prescription frames and
approximately 46.6 million sunglasses.
The wholesale distribution structure covers
more than 130 countries,
with over 40 directly controlled or majority owned operations in the major markets and
approximately 100 independent distributors in other markets. Each wholesale subsidiary
operates its own network of sales representatives who are normally retained on a
commission basis. Relationships with large international, national and regional accounts
are generally managed by employees.
Wholesale