MILAN—Valentino has signed a new licensing agreement with Akoni Group for the design, manufacture and worldwide distribution of Valentino Eyewear. This 10-year agreement will begin in July 2022, with the first eyewear under the agreement available on the market in the same month. The five-year license between Valentino and Luxottica will end on June 30, 2022, Luxottica announced on Dec. 1. "Akoni Group shares the Valentino brand's values as demonstrated by its passion for innovative design, impeccable craftsmanship, unrivaled quality and social consciousness," Akoni Group said in a statement.

Akoni Group, based in Switzerland, was founded by Rosario Toscano, now group CEO and Salma Rachid, creative director. In addition to the new Valentino license, Akoni Group produces Akoni Eyewear and Balmain Paris.