Today, glasses play not only a utilitarian function, but are also an important element of wardrobe like an elegant bag or stylish shoes. This is a fact well known by local businessmen, who, with equal determination and commitment, strive to ensure that their products can compete effectively with foreign offers. Worth appreciating is the courage of people trying to conquer the market of corrective glasses in Poland. For a long time, two foreign companies have been leading the way, which basically monopolized the market of optical salons by the Vistula River. How to challenge them without losing quality or raising prices?
VISUAL COMFORT
Glasses as comfortable as a pillow? This was the task of the creators of Pillow Eyewear. Convenience and comfort take priority here, while 30 years of experience in design results in a great model-making – the brand combines original shapes and surprising colours with great sensitivity and mastery. The frames are hand-manufactured in Bielsko-Biała, with the use of the best Italian materials, and will therefore satisfy even the most demanding consumer. Similar customer care, which is characteristic for small family-run business, is shown by Indigo. Four sons of Roman Prześlakiewicz have been continuing the tradition started by their father in 1989. As they emphasize, while the majority of companies move their production to the Far East countries, they are continuing to develop it in Poland. The glasses made by Prześlakiewicz brothers stand out thanks to their rich colours and high durability, as they are made of surgical steel. Their makers are passionate about optics – you can see it yourself by visiting the Indigo workshop in Pruszków near Warszawa.
MADE BY THE ARTIST
Vegan, ethical and stylish – these are the slogans describing the Sirène products. Here everything starts with inspiration forged into a project that cares for the environment and does not use animal products. The result? Not only excellent glasses, but also awards – Sirène received the Must Have award granted by Łódź Design Festival, and also became a finalist of the Good Design competition organized by the Institute of Industrial Design. Triggering positive emotions, not recognizing division, and questioning the mainstream – these are features of sunglasses made by Rookie. The unisex models characterized by coloured lances are especially popular among young customers who celebrate the urban lifestyle. Whereas, artistic souls will be interested in the glasses designed by Andrzej Bodych. The designer has been working in the optical industry for over 35 years, constantly follows trends and observes what the street wears. Hand-carved frames by the Bodyych brand will delight those who are looking for ways to emphasize their individuality and creativity.
AGAINST THE OLD PATTERNS
Dawid Winter and Paweł Porucznik, graduates of SGH Warsaw School of Economics, began from the 4MOSA start-up, established under the Academic Entrepreneurship Incubator. As part of the company, the Muscat brand was born (the name is said to refer to the favourite wine of the entrepreneurs). They offer high product quality, original design and affordable prices – all this possible due to the lack of expensive license fees for using logos of global brands. Thanks to online sale, no intermediaries are required and the costs can be further reduced. Another innovative service – the opportunity to order five pairs of Muscat glasses and test them for five days without any obligations – also enjoys great popularity among customers. From innovative materials used to create frames, through craftsmanship, ending with attention to details – glasses made in Poland are an example of products of the highest quality. It is worth noticing efforts made by their 3 manufacturers.