Cutler and Gross North America finds a new distribution home
Europa Eyewear expands its independent luxury portfolio
Luxury eyewear brand Cutler and Gross has announced a new strategic partnership with Europa Eyewear, naming the independent distributor as its exclusive North American partner effective June 5, 2026. The agreement marks an important step in the British brand’s long-term growth strategy while reinforcing its commitment to independent optical retailers across the United States and Canada.
For independent accounts already working with Cutler and Gross, the transition has been carefully designed to minimize disruption. The brand’s existing North American sales team will move alongside the business from Marchon to Europa, ensuring customers continue working with the same familiar representatives who understand their businesses and product needs.
Continuity at the Center of the Partnership
In an industry where distribution changes can sometimes create uncertainty, both companies are emphasizing stability and continuity. By transferring the entire sales team, Cutler and Gross aims to preserve the relationships and expertise that have helped build the brand’s presence in North America over the years.
According to Jack Dooley, Chief Executive Officer of Cutler and Gross, the decision was driven by shared values and a common vision for the future.
“What matters most to us is continuity and care. Our customers deserve calm transitions, familiar faces and partners who understand the long view.”
Dooley also highlighted the cultural alignment between the two companies, citing their mutual appreciation for craftsmanship, heritage, product development, and long-term relationship building.
A New Independent Luxury Division
For Europa Eyewear, the partnership represents the creation of a new Independent Luxury Division, further strengthening a portfolio that already includes respected independent brands such as STATE Optical Co., American Optical, and Scott Harris.
Megan Molony, CEO of Europa Eyewear, described the partnership as a natural fit for both organizations.
“We are incredibly proud to represent such a revered luxury brand like Cutler and Gross in North America and are thrilled to welcome the sales team and their customers to Europa.”
The addition of Cutler and Gross expands Europa’s offering within the luxury segment while remaining aligned with the company’s longstanding focus on serving independent optical retailers.
Shared Values and Long-Term Vision
The relationship between the two organizations is built on more than commercial opportunity. Andy Skitmore, President of Europa Eyewear, emphasized his long-standing connection with the Cutler and Gross team and his admiration for the brand’s authenticity.
“I’ve known Jack for many years and worked with the Cutler and Gross team during that time. I truly value the exceptional luxury brand they’ve built, along with the authenticity and values they instill in their product development, storytelling, and approach to the market. I’m truly honored to be working again with one of the foremost luxury eyewear brands in the global market.”
Those values are increasingly important as independent retailers seek collections that offer distinction, heritage, and meaningful brand narratives in an increasingly competitive marketplace.
Looking Ahead
The transition is already underway, with both companies working closely together to ensure a seamless experience for customers throughout the United States and Canada.
For independent optical retailers, the announcement signals business continuity combined with enhanced support from a distributor whose reputation has been built on serving the independent channel. For Cutler and Gross, it represents another step in strengthening its presence in one of the world’s most important eyewear markets while remaining true to the principles that have defined the brand for more than five decades.
As the partnership officially begins, both companies are positioning themselves for a future built on heritage, craftsmanship, service, and long-term relationships, values that continue to hold significant importance within the independent eyewear community.
About Cutler and Gross
Cutler and Gross is a British eyewear brand that specializes in luxury optical and sunwear, combining bold design with exceptional craftsmanship. Founded in London in 1969 by opticians Graham Cutler and Tony Gross, the brand quickly became known for challenging conventional eyewear design and creating frames that helped define personal style rather than simply correct vision.
What sets Cutler and Gross apart is its unique balance between creative expression and optical expertise.
From its earliest days in Knightsbridge, the brand attracted artists, musicians, writers, and royalty through a reputation built on originality, technical precision, and distinctive aesthetics.
More than five decades later, it remains proudly independent, continuing to develop eyewear that reflects its heritage while embracing contemporary design.
Using some of the finest raw materials available, each Cutler and Gross frame is crafted in Italy and Japan by highly skilled manufacturers. Today, the brand operates flagship stores in London, Bath, New York, and Toronto, while its collections are available through more than 2,000 stockists across over 50 countries. Its enduring commitment to quality, individuality, and craftsmanship has secured its place among the most respected names in luxury eyewear.
Read more about this brand on TEF Magazine or visit their website.
More on Cutler and Gross
Silmo d’Or // Nominees 2024 edition
A not-to-be-missed event since its launch in 1994, the SILMO d’Or rewards and celebrates the talent and creativity of an entire industry every year. The SILMO d’Or awards are the ultimate recognition of ingenuity and inventiveness. Here are the nominees...
