Founded in 1972 in Shamir, a small agricultural kibbutz in Israel, Shamir Optical is celebrating 50 years of innovation and growth on the world's ophthalmic scene.
Established as a bifocals manufacturer to provide alternative employment to agriculture, the Shamir kibbutz was soon transformed into a thriving modern workplace. “From the beginning, it was our ambition not just to be another producer of optical lenses, but to be the best, to think out of the box, be revolutionary, and create something new and better,” said Shamir CEO Yagen Moshe. From these humble beginnings, Shamir’s growth has taken it into 22 countries with more than 30 subsidiaries, 18 production facilities and 2,500 employees. “We started small but liked to think big. Our partners, employees and colleagues are all part of the success we can be proud of,” said Moshe.
In New Zealand, Shamir is represented by Independent Lens Specialists (ILS) in Christchurch. Director Glenn Bolton said Shamir’s history of innovation has put it at the forefront of lens design. Having the support of the leading lens technology provider means ILS can offer the best New Zealand-made lenses to independent optometrists, he said.
Shamir remains committed to producing the best possible outcome for its customers while maintaining sustainable practices. “We will continue our devotion to innovative research and development, and we aim for nothing less than providing the best possible visual experience to people the world over,” said Moshe.
