In conversation with LORENZO BARBERIO and LEO KISTERMANN
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Lorenzo Barberio and Leo Kistermann
From its Berlin roots to the global stage, ic! berlin has been making waves since its founding in 1996 and its acquisition by Marcolin in 2023. To better understand its distinctive features and growth potential in Asian markets, we spoke with Lorenzo Barberio – Marcolin General Manager and Head of Sales APAC – and Leo Kistermann – ic! berlin Global Brand & Distribution Director.
How would you briefly define the ic! berlin brand?
Lorenzo: “A luxury brand with a minimalist aesthetic and unconventional craftsmanship: ic! berlin stands for ultra-lightweight, flexible frames that defy the rules. For Marcolin, acquiring it meant building new commercial relationships with optical retailers who focus on high-end design brands rather than fashion labels.”
Leo: “A leading brand in frame technologies using stainless steel, acetate, and titanium, and known for technical innovation—as shown by the recent development of Flexarbon, a hybrid of carbon fiber and advanced polymers that redefines frame flexibility and durability. It’s also a brand with strong focus on design, especially automotive-inspired design, thanks to partnerships with Mercedes-Benz.”
What is Marcolin’s current strategy for promoting the brand?
Lorenzo: “Following the acquisition, we dedicated much of 2024 to promoting our portfolio across all markets, creating distinct strategies to enhance our premium brands like TOM FORD, Zegna, Christian Louboutin, and ic! berlin, and our lifestyle brands, which include MCM, Max Mara, MAX&Co., Guess, Skechers, Timberland, BMW, and Harley-Davidson. Not to mention the sports segment, which, with adidas, offers great opportunities—especially in the Asia-Pacific region.”
Leo: “This is the time to return to ic! berlin’s roots in order to build its future as a global brand. A perfect example is this year’s ic! berlin collection: 15 frames that seamlessly blend technical elegance and innovation, featuring elements like the gradient ‘Pineapple Gradient’ lenses, the reintroduction of the iconic Robin frame with its clean and lightweight design, and a bold use of color, such as the ‘Havana Haze’ lenses.”
Are there other projects planned for the Asia-Pacific region?
Lorenzo: “ic! berlin is a key asset for Marcolin’s growth in the Asia-Pacific region, particularly in markets like China, South Korea, and Japan. In the first half of 2025, we recorded double-digit growth in the APAC area compared to last year. In some of these markets—such as Thailand and Taiwan —ic! berlin is already the market leader among luxury eyewear brands, and now we’re targeting Mainland China. Starting this year, we have direct market access there thanks to our subsidiary, and we expect Mainland China to eventually become the largest market in the world for ic! berlin.”
Leo: “We’ll continue to work with respect for local cultures and with the goal of offering something unique and aligned with our values and quality standards. To achieve this, we’re proud to collaborate with our local business partners and a selection of key clients to create custom capsule collections tailored to specific needs, tastes, and trends. For us, the Asian countries represent a major growth opportunity.”
