Aqipa, distributor for premium consumer electronics and lifestyle brands based in Austria, has entered into a distribution partnership with eyewear manufacturer Oakley. The agreement starts later this year and includes the current gaming collection with PRIZM Gaming 2.0 technology.
Oakley is part of the global eyewear supplier EssilorLuxottica and is known for its sports eyewear. A foray into esports was made in 2021, with the company's name appearing as a sponsor on the OpTic team's jersey during the Call of Duty League 2022 Major tournament in March, as well as the OpTic Valorant team's jersey at the Valorant Champions Tour 2022: Stage 1 Championship in Iceland. Earlier this May, Oakley signed a multi-year sponsorship deal with Envy Gaming. "Especially for the DACH region, we have also concluded a partnership with G2 Esports in Berlin", says Corey Hill, Head of Global Sports Marketing at Oakley. The collaborations are designed to help reach the 18-35 demographic who are most interested in the world of esports.
Relaxed eyes even during long gaming sessions Aqipa is now taking over sales for the DACH region and other important European markets. Viggo Olsen, vice president of business development at Aqipa, said: “according to our pan-European positioning, Oakley entrusts us with distribution in eight markets. The partnership comes into effect later this year and the Gear Gurus are in the process of being trained to offer our retailers the best possible experience and insight into the world of PRIZM gaming.”
Oakley's proprietary PRIZM Gaming 2.0 technology has been specifically optimized to attenuate the light from the latest OLED and LED screens, reducing blue light exposure from LEDs in the 400 to 500 NM range by 30 percent. In this way, the eyes remain relaxed even during long gaming sessions. The special Oakley glass design also ensures a clear view at all times and the frames are designed to be particularly headset-friendly.