(L to R) Europa’s Jerry Wolowicz, Cynthia Shapiro and Scott Shapiro.

CHICAGO, Ill.— Europa International has produced its first collection from its new American-based Independent Eyewear Manufacturing (IEM) factory, located here. The company said the American-made luxury eyewear brand is STATE Optical Co.

Europa announced its intention to build a new, functional factory one year ago, as VMail reported when the company announced the acquisition of American made eyewear brands, Frieze Frames and Anvi Frieze. The two brands were combined to form a new entity and the new production is happening in Europa’s new HQ here.

The company said, “STATE is designed for fiercely independent thinkers,” citing Marc Franchi and Jason Stanley, formerly of Frieze, who built and head the IEM factory. Europa said that optical designer Blake Kuwahara, helped design the new collection of ophthalmic and sunwear styles for men and women.

Europa added, “STATE is more than the name of the brand, it speaks to our state of mind, advancing the state of the industry, and of course, the state we’re proud to call home. The 21 dots in the logo refer to Illinois, home to Europa and IEM, the 21st state of the union. STATE Optical Co. is the culmination of Europa’s ultimate passion project, bringing manufacturing home. Beyond bringing jobs back to the U.S., it affords Europa tighter quality and inventory control that should be expected from premium eyewear.”

The collection will launch at Vision Expo West in September. The company is launching reservations for previews and factory tours now.