Dollond & Aitchison Ltd

Sectors:

  • Distribution - retailing Eyewear retailing
  • Precision instruments production Optical equipment inc eyewear production

Notes:

Established in London in 1750 by Peter Dollond, 1731-1820, as a manufacturer and retailer of optical instruments, later eyewear. Soon after Peter was joined by his father, John, 1707-61, formerly a silk weaver, and by 1759 was trading as J Dollond & Son. John was noted for his inventive work in production of telescopes and their lenses and Peter for pursuing their business with determination. Peter was joined by his brother, John, 1746-1804, in 1766 when known as P & J Dollond. Sold by Dollond family 1871. Merged with Aitchison & Co in 1927 to form Dollond & Aitchison Ltd. Developed into a leading manufacturer and retailer of eyewear and in 1970 acquired by Gallaher Ltd which built it into the largest retailer of its kind in Europe. Subsequently owned by De Rigo Spa of Italy

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