RAMSEY, MINN. (Oct. 4, 2007) – Vision-Ease Lens, a leading eyeglass lens manufacturer, announced today that it has entered into a partnership with Schering-Plough HealthCare Products, Inc., to license the company’s Coppertone® brand for a line of polarized sun lenses. With sun safety a growing concern for consumers, these two market leaders are collaborating to offer a fashionable and functional product for vision protection from the sun.
Through the agreement, Vision-Ease Lens will manufacture Coppertone branded lenses that will feature its patented polarized film technology. This partnership emphasizes the dedication of Vision-Ease Lens to develop and offer products that promote eye protection against harmful ultraviolet (UV) and high energy visible (HEV) rays. In addition, it displays the commitment of the makers of Coppertone to a comprehensive approach to sun safety.
“Coppertone is best known for its commitment to superior sun protection,” said Michael Ness, vice president of sales and marketing, Vision-Ease Lens. “With the trust of the Coppertone name, we will be able to help educate consumers about polarized sun lenses and relay the message that sun protection for your eyes is just as important as sun protection for your skin.”
Not only do Coppertone polarized lenses block 100 percent of harmful UV light and eliminate 97 percent of reflected glare, they also go beyond UV protection to guard against HEV light. Exposure to HEV light may contribute to the development of macular degeneration, a common sunlight related eye malady.
“This extension of the Coppertone brand is quite logical, since the key benefit of Coppertone sunscreen is protection from sun damage,” said Ness. “Our partnership with Schering-Plough HealthCare Products, Inc., boosts both of our offerings to collaboratively protect consumers from the sun.”
The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends the Coppertone lenses as an effective UV filter for the eyes and surrounding skin. In addition, the lenses meet AOA specifications for blockage of UVA and UVB rays.
Coppertone prescription lenses will be available in single vision, bifocals and Illumina progressive lenses to meet the needs of a wide variety of consumers.
About Coppertone®
Coppertone® is a registered trademark of Schering-Plough HealthCare Products, Inc., which is the U.S. over-the-counter (OTC) and consumer products business unit of Schering-Plough Corporation (NYSE: SGP) of Kenilworth, NJ.
About Vision-Ease Lens
Headquartered in Ramsey, Minn., Vision-Ease Lens is a manufacturer of quality ophthalmic lenses including LifeRx® photochromic lenses, SunRx® polarized lenses, and Illumina® progressive line-free lenses. Vision-Ease Lens products are sold through independent opticians, optometrists and ophthalmologists, as well as many retail chains and dispensing markets across the country. For more information about Vision-Ease Lens and its products, visit www.vision-ease.com
Anne Cloeter
Risdall McKinney Public Relations
651.286.6746
anne@risdall.com
Jay Lusignan
Vision-Ease Lens
952.851.6036
Jay.Lusignan@vision-ease.com