Optical Prism November 2019 | Page 20

Special feature Blanchette excited about Safilo’s future By Denis Langlois E ric Blanchette is marking one year since becoming the Canadian director of Safilo, a worldwide leader in the design, manufac- turing and distribution of sunglasses, optical frames and sports eyewear. He says this is an exciting time for the company, as busi- ness in Canada is booming with double-digit growth. “Our partners are choosing Safilo and we are commit- ted to continuing to invest in our partners,” he says. Blanchette, who is also vice-president of Safilo USA, has really come full circle at the company with his appointment as country director of Safilo Canada. He started in the eyecare industry with Safilo Canada, 20 Optical Prism | November 2019 but spent the last three years with Safilo USA, most recently as head of strategic partnerships. He has also been a regional sales manager and key account manager with Safilo. As the new head of Safilo Canada, Blanchette says he has helped to develop a top-performing team that delivers results. As he puts it, “take care of your team and customers and the results will follow.” Recently, Optical Prism got a chance to speak with Blanchette about his role with Safilo Canada and goals for the future.