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Stephen Elliott: Bill O'Reilly Slanders Me - Politics on The Huffington Post

For all of February, and part of January, I toured the country with the Sex Workers Art Show. The show was made up of current and former sex workers (I used to be a stripper). Three of us were writers and we read about our experiences as dancers and prostitutes.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/stephen-elliott/bill-oreilly-slanders-me_b_43097.html

GolfDigest.com - The Insider

Oakley to tread where FootJoy reigns Golf World Business Oakley Inc. expects to introduce a high-end "$400 to $500 shoe," golf shoe that will compete with the FootJoy Classic by the 2003 PGA Merchandise Show, said Louis Wellin, director of sports marketing for Oakley.

http://www.golfdigest.com/equipment/index.ssf?/equipment/industrynews/gwb20020426insider.html

NPR : Charges Mount for Organizer of Snowball Express

There is additional information that raises questions about the background of Michael Scott Kerr, the organizer of this weekend's Snowball Express event for military widows and their children.

http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=6644126

Mobile Devices » Telecommunications Industry News

British horseracing channel, Racing UK has partnered with The Racing Post to create a broadband betting site that can be accessed via 3G mobile phones.

http://www.teleclick.ca/category/mobile-devices/page/96/

 

Luxottica's 3Q Consolidated Net Sales up by 12.8% at Constant Exchange Rates (+5.3% at Current

 The Board of Directors of
Luxottica Group S.p.A. (MTA: LUX; NYSE: LUX), a global leader in the design,
manufacturing and distribution of premium fashion and luxury eyewear, convened
today in Milan, approved its consolidated results for the third quarter and
the first nine months of 2008(1). Financial highlights for the periods in
accordance with U.S. GAAP are set forth below. A detailed balance sheet,
income statements and other financial tables are attached to this press
release.


    Third quarter 2008(1)

    (millions of euro,
     except per share
     amounts)                 3Q08      3Q07     % Change

    Net Sales              1,212.0   1,151.0       +5.3 % (+12.8% at constant
                                                           exchange rates)

    EBITDA(3)                258.6     250.9       +3.1 %

    Operating income         195.1     195.0          0 %

    Net income               104.6     112.4       -7.0 %

    EPS (in Euro)             0.23      0.25       -7.2 %

    - Before trademark
      amortization(3)         0.25      0.26       -7.4 %

    EPS (in US Dollars)       0.34      0.34       +1.7 %

    - Before trademark
      amortization(3)         0.37      0.36       +1.5 %



    First nine months of 2008(1)

    (millions of euro, except
     per share amounts)
                         9/30/2008   9/30/2007    % Change

    Net Sales              3,965.1   3,777.6       +5.0 % (+14.0% at constant
                                                           exchange rates)

    EBITDA(3)                828.6     830.4(4)    -0.2 %(4)

    Operating income         632.3     661.6(4)    -4.4 %(4)

    Net income               340.9     382.5(4)   -10.9 %(4)

    EPS (in Euro)             0.75      0.84(4)   -11.2 %(4)

    - Before trademark
      amortization(3)         0.82      0.90(4)    -9.0 %(4)

    EPS (in US Dollars)       1.14      1.13(4)    +0.6 %(4)

    - Before trademark
      amortization(3)         1.25      1.21(4)    +3.1 %(4)


Performance in third quarter 2008

In the third quarter, the Group continued to grow in both market share and sales volume despite a particularly challenging economic environment that deteriorated steadily over the period. Further, there was significant depreciation in the major currencies in each of our key markets (including especially the US dollar) against the euro during the period.

In this situation, Luxottica responded with the flexibility and effectiveness of its integrated business model, benefitting from the merger with Oakley, ongoing investments (which amounted to euro 195 million in the first nine months of 2008, or approximately 5% of consolidated net sales for the period) and efficiency-boosting measures already under way.

"We are in a particularly difficult year," commented Luxottica Group CEO Andrea Guerra. "I'm satisfied, however, with how Luxottica reacted to this new international situation: we made major investments, we have a strong and well- balanced brand portfolio, we are continuing to build on our already solid relationships with clients and we're getting faster and more flexible in taking up new business opportunities. I am convinced that Luxottica's increasingly solid foundation puts us in the best possible position to handle a situation as demanding as the one that is presented to us."

The Group

Luxottica Group's net sales in third quarter 2008 were up 12.8% at constant exchange rates (5.3% at current rates), at euro 1,212 million (compared to euro 1,151 million in the same period of the previous year). Pro forma(5) net sales, on the other hand, were down 2.7% at constant exchange rates.

On the operating front, EBITDA(3) rose 3.1% from euro 250.9 million in third quarter 2007 to euro 258.6 million for the same period in 2008. On a pro forma basis(5), the EBITDA margin(3) decreased to 21.3% in third quarter 2008 from 21.7% in third quarter 2007 (down 40bps).

At the Group level, operating income for third quarter 2008 amounted to euro 195.1 million, in line with the figure for the same period of the previous year. On a pro forma basis(5), the Group's operating margin decreased to 16.1% in third quarter 2008 as compared to 16.4% in third quarter 2007 (down 30bps).

Earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter reached $0.34 (up from the same period the previous year), or euro 0.23 (against euro 0.25 in third quarter 2007). EPS before trademark amortization(3) was $0.37 (up from the $0.36 posted in third quarter 2007), or euro 0.25 (compared to euro 0.26 in third quarter 2007).

Net income for third quarter 2008 amounted to euro 104.6 million (euro 112.4 million in the same period the previous year, down 7%). The reduction in net income was almost entirely due to higher financial charges following the Oakley merger and to exchange rates.

The Group's free cash flow(3) in the quarter (over euro 180 million) provides further evidence of the effectiveness of Luxottica's business model. Strong cash flows enabled the Group to reduce its net indebtedness for Euro- denominated and US Dollar-denominated facilities by approximately euro 140 million and $20 million, respectively. Due to exchange rates, however, the Group's net debt(3) as of September 30, 2008 was euro 2,911 million (euro 2,840 million at June 30, 2008), with a net debt/EBITDA pro forma ratio(3) of 2.8 (2.6 net of exchange rate effects). Notably, none of the Group's credit facilities require refinancing in the coming months, and maturities until 2011 may largely be covered by the Group's cash generation.

Wholesale division

Good sales performance by Oakley across all markets, together with the ongoing success of the Ray-Ban brand, enabled the Group to weather the effect of the international situation. Sales to third parties in this segment increased to euro 429.8 million in third quarter 2008 from euro 312.7 million in third quarter 2007 (up 37.5% at current rates and 43% at constant exchange rates); pro forma(5) sales to third parties, on the other hand, fell 0.7% at constant rates. Regarding sales on a geographical basis, Luxottica saw very good results in continental Europe and emerging economies, with marked growth in Brazil, India and Southeast Asia, while sales were down in certain Mediterranean countries of Europe and in Japan.

Over the period, the Group promoted initiatives aimed at strengthening relationships with its main clients and at improved positioning of its products. As an example, we organized a major event, the Luxottica Brand Show, in September, at which over 900 independent opticians worldwide were given previews of the Group's new collections.

The wholesale division's operating income rose to euro 105.1 million (compared to euro 102.3 million in third quarter 2007, up 2.8%). The pro forma(5) operating margin dropped to 20.1% in third quarter 2008 from 22.8% in third quarter 2007. The change reflects charges relating to the integration of Oakley (euro 8 million for the quarter) and exchange rates (reducing the division's operating margin by 130bps).

Retail division

The retail division posted net sales of euro 782.2 million against euro 838.3 million in third quarter 2007 (down 6.7% at current exchange rates and +1.5% at constant exchange rates), while pro forma(5) net sales showed a decrease of 3.8% at constant exchange rates.

Since the beginning of the year, Luxottica implemented a number of activities aimed at counteracting the slowdown in North American consumer spending. Results are now tangible: despite a decrease in sales and operating results that decreased from euro 97.9 million in third quarter 2007 to euro 95.5 million in third quarter 2008 (down 2.5%), the division's pro forma(5) operating margin was successfully turned around, to close 40 basis points higher at 12.2%. Such a performance underscores the Group's ability to react quickly to adverse market conditions.

Comparable store sales(2) by LensCrafters and Pearle Vision saw an overall decrease of 6.6%. In particular, LensCrafters was impacted by decreased mall traffic in the US. Comparable store sales(2) of licensed brands, as in previous quarters, were weaker than those achieved by premium brands of the Group. In the "sun" segment, a weak September more than offset positive results posted by Sunglass Hut during July and August: third quarter 2008 comparable store sales(2) were therefore down by about 4%.

Outside the US, the retail division continued to grow and posted positive results in Australia, New Zealand, the Middle East, South Africa and the UK.

Forecasts for 2008

The Group anticipates that, for the first time in 2008, pro forma operating margin should improve in the fourth quarter when compared to the same period last year. The flexibility and effectiveness of the Group's business model should enable it to continue to produce solid cash flows, which, for the full year 2008, are expected to be euro 360-euro 380 million.

According to current estimates, Luxottica now expects to achieve an EPS for 2008 between euro 0.96 and euro 0.98.

The manager responsible for preparing the company's financial reports, Enrico Cavatorta, declares, pursuant to paragraph 2 of Article 154-bis of the Consolidated Law on Finance, that the accounting information contained in this press release corresponds to the document results, books and accounting records.

Notes to press release

(1) All comparisons, including percentage changes, are between the three- month and nine-month periods ended September 30, 2008 and 2007.

(2) Comparable store sales reflects the change in sales from one period to another by taking into account, for comparison purposes, only those stores open in the more recent period that were also open in the comparable prior period, and by applying to both periods the average exchange rate for the prior period and the same geographical region.

(3) EBITDA, pro forma EBITDA, the EBITDA margin, free cash flow, net debt, the ratio of net debt to pro forma EBITDA and EPS before trademark amortization are all non-U.S. GAAP measures. For additional disclosure regarding such measures, please refer to the tables attached.

(4) This excludes an extraordinary item arising from the transfer of real estate in 2Q07 (approximately euro 20 million pre-tax and euro 13 million after tax).

(5) Pro forma data reflects the inclusion of Oakley, Inc., a subsidiary that was acquired in November 2007, as if it had been acquired on January 1, 2007.

Luxottica Group S.p.A.

Luxottica Group is a global leader in premium fashion, luxury and sports eyewear, with over 6,200 optical and sun retail stores in North America, Asia- Pacific, China, South Africa and Europe and a strong and well balanced brand portfolio. Our key house brands include Ray-Ban, the best known sun eyewear brand in the world, Oakley, Oliver Peoples, Vogue, Persol, Arnette and REVO, while our license brands include Bvlgari, Burberry, Chanel, Dolce & Gabbana, Donna Karan, Polo Ralph Lauren, Prada, Salvatore Ferragamo, Tiffany and Versace. In addition to a global wholesale network covering 130 countries, the Group manages leading retail brands such as LensCrafters and Pearle Vision in North America, OPSM and Laubman & Pank in Asia-Pacific, and Sunglass Hut globally. The Group's products are designed and manufactured in six Italy- based manufacturing plants and in two wholly-owned plants in China. In 2007, Luxottica Group posted consolidated net sales of euro 5 billion. Additional information on the Group is available at www.luxottica.com.

Safe Harbor Statement

Certain statements in this press release may constitute "forward-looking statements" as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements involve risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those which are anticipated. Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the ability to successfully integrate Oakley's operations, the ability to realize expected synergies from the merger with Oakley, the ability to successfully introduce and market new products, the ability to maintain an efficient distribution network, the ability to predict future economic conditions and changes in consumer preferences, the ability to achieve and manage growth, the ability to negotiate and maintain favorable license arrangements, the availability of correction alternatives to prescription eyeglasses, fluctuations in exchange rates, the ability to effectively integrate other recently acquired businesses, as well as other political, economic and technological factors and other risks and uncertainties described in our filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. These forward- looking statements are made as of the date hereof, and we do not assume any obligation to update them.

                           - TABLES AND APPENDIX -



                               LUXOTTICA GROUP

                      CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
                      FOR THE THREE-MONTH PERIODS ENDED
                  SEPTEMBER 30, 2008 AND SEPTEMBER 30, 2007


       KEY FIGURES IN THOUSANDS OF EURO(3)
                                                2008          2007   % Change

       NET SALES                             1,211,991     1,150,952    5.3%

       NET INCOME                              104,612       112,441   -7.0%

       BASIC EARNINGS PER SHARE (ADS)(2):         0.23          0.25   -7.2%

       EPS PRE-TRADEMARK AMORTIZATION(4):         0.25          0.26   -7.4%



       KEY FIGURES IN THOUSANDS OF U.S. DOLLARS(1)(3)

                                                  2008          2007 % Change

       NET SALES                             1,824,652     1,581,178   15.4%

       NET INCOME                              157,493       154,471    2.0%

       BASIC EARNINGS PER SHARE (ADS)(2):         0.34          0.34    1.7%

       EPS PRE-TRADEMARK AMORTIZATION(4):         0.37          0.36    1.5%



                                                  2008          2007
       Notes :
       (1)  Average exchange rate (in
            U.S. Dollars per Euro)              1.5055        1.3738
       (2)  Weighted average number of
            outstanding shares             456,613,794   455,672,407
       (3)  Except earnings per share (ADS), which are expressed in Euro and
            U.S. Dollars, respectively
       (4)  EPS pre-trademark amortization is not an U.S.GAAP measure, please
            refer to tables 20-22


                               LUXOTTICA GROUP

                      CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
                       FOR THE NINE-MONTH PERIODS ENDED
                  SEPTEMBER 30, 2008 AND SEPTEMBER 30, 2007


        KEY FIGURES IN THOUSANDS OF EURO (3)
                                                  2008         2007  % Change

        NET SALES                            3,965,136    3,777,554     5.0%

        NET INCOME                             340,897      395,278   -13.8%

        NET INCOME w/o extr. gain(4)           340,897      382,465   -10.9%

        BASIC EARNINGS PER SHARE (ADS)(2)(4):     0.75         0.84   -11.2%

        EPS PRE-TRADEMARK AMORTIZATION(4)(5):     0.82         0.90    -9.0%


        KEY FIGURES IN THOUSANDS OF U.S. DOLLARS(1)(3)
                                                  2008         2007  % Change

        NET SALES                            6,034,540    5,077,788    18.8%

        NET INCOME                             518,811      531,332    -2.4%

        NET INCOME w/o extr. gain(4)           518,811      514,109     0.9%

        BASIC EARNINGS PER SHARE (ADS)(2)(4):     1.14         1.13     0.6%

        EPS PRE-TRADEMARK AMORTIZATION(4)(5):     1.25         1.21     3.1%


                                                  2008         2007
        Notes :
        (1)  Average exchange rate (in
             U.S. Dollars per Euro)             1.5219       1.3442
        (2)  Weighted average number of
             outstanding shares            456,478,572  454,893,958
        (3)  Except earnings per share (ADS), which are expressed in Euro and
             U.S. Dollars, respectively
        (4)  Excluding non-recurring gain related to the sale of a real
             estate property in 2Q 2007. The impact of the sale
             was a gain of approximately euro 20 million before taxes and
             approximately euro 13 million after taxes.
        (5)  EPS pre-trademark amortization is not an U.S. GAAP measure,
             please refer to tables 20-22


                               LUXOTTICA GROUP

                        CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENT
                      FOR THE THREE-MONTH PERIODS ENDED
                  SEPTEMBER 30, 2008 AND SEPTEMBER 30, 2007

      In thousands of Euro(1)              % of                % of
                                  3Q08     sales       3Q07    sales  % Change

      NET SALES                1,211,991  100.0%    1,150,952 100.0%     5.3%
      COST OF SALES             (400,131)            (336,139)
      GROSS PROFIT               811,860   67.0%      814,813  70.8%    -0.4%
      OPERATING EXPENSES:
      SELLING EXPENSES          (412,597)            (390,410)
      ROYALTIES                  (22,780)             (25,824)
      ADVERTISING EXPENSES       (75,037)             (80,839)
      GENERAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE
       EXPENSES                  (94,181)            (109,460)
      TRADEMARK AMORTIZATION     (12,184)             (13,259)
      TOTAL                     (616,779)            (619,792)
      OPERATING INCOME           195,081   16.1%      195,021  16.9%     0.0%
      OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE):
      INTEREST EXPENSES          (35,210)             (20,229)
      INTEREST INCOME              3,614                4,234
      OTHER - NET                 (2,464)               1,289
      OTHER INCOME
       (EXPENSES)- NET           (34,060)             (14,706)
      INCOME BEFORE PROVISION
       FOR INCOME TAXES          161,021   13.3%      180,315  15.7%   -10.7%
      PROVISION FOR INCOME
       TAXES                     (54,396)             (64,913)
      INCOME BEFORE MINORITY
       INTEREST IN INCOME
       OF CONSOLIDATED
       SUBSIDIARIES              106,625              115,402
      MINORITY INTEREST IN
       INCOME OF CONSOLIDATED
       SUBSIDIARIES               (2,014)              (2,961)
      NET INCOME                 104,612    8.6%      112,441   9.8%    -7.0%
      BASIC EARNINGS PER
       SHARE (ADS):                 0.23                 0.25
      FULLY DILUTED EARNINGS
       PER SHARE (ADS):             0.23                 0.24

      WEIGHTED AVERAGE
       NUMBER OF OUTSTANDING
       SHARES                456,613,794          455,672,407
      FULLY DILUTED AVERAGE
       NUMBER OF SHARES      458,224,364          459,681,534


      Notes:
      (1) Except earnings per share (ADS), which are expressed in Euro


                               LUXOTTICA GROUP

                        CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENT
                       FOR THE NINE-MONTH PERIODS ENDED
                  SEPTEMBER 30, 2008 AND SEPTEMBER 30, 2007


     In thousands of Euro(1)               % of                 % of
                                  9M08     sales     9M07(2)   sales  % Change

      NET SALES                 3,965,136 100.0%    3,777,554 100.0%     5.0%
      COST OF SALES            (1,308,449)         (1,152,013)
      GROSS PROFIT              2,656,687  67.0%    2,625,541  69.5%     1.2%
      OPERATING EXPENSES:
      SELLING EXPENSES         (1,257,908)         (1,199,450)
      ROYALTIES                   (91,293)            (96,635)
      ADVERTISING EXPENSES       (270,104)           (266,598)
      GENERAL AND
       ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES   (352,359)           (357,744)
      TRADEMARK AMORTIZATION      (52,708)            (43,502)
      TOTAL                    (2,024,373)         (1,963,929)
      OPERATING INCOME            632,314  15.9%      661,612  17.5%    -4.4%
      OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE):
      INTEREST EXPENSES          (100,015)            (59,186)
      INTEREST INCOME               9,881              11,069
      OTHER - NET                  (4,110)              3,671
      OTHER INCOME
       (EXPENSES)-NET             (94,244)            (44,446)
      INCOME BEFORE PROVISION
       FOR INCOME TAXES           538,070  13.6%      617,166  16.3%   -12.8%
      PROVISION FOR INCOME
       TAXES                     (184,289)           (222,180)
      INCOME BEFORE MINORITY
       INTEREST IN INCOME OF
       CONSOLIDATED
       SUBSIDIARIES               353,781             394,986
      MINORITY INTEREST IN
       INCOME OF CONSOLIDATED
       SUBSIDIARIES               (12,884)            (12,521)
      NET INCOME                  340,897   8.6%      382,465  10.1%   -10.9%
      BASIC EARNINGS PER
       SHARE (ADS):                  0.75                0.84
      FULLY DILUTED EARNINGS
       PER SHARE (ADS):              0.74                0.83
      WEIGHTED AVERAGE NUMBER
       OF OUTSTANDING SHARES  456,478,572         454,893,958
      FULLY DILUTED AVERAGE
       NUMBER OF SHARES       457,936,973         458,544,812

      Notes:
      (1)  Except earnings per share (ADS), which are expressed in Euro
      (2)  Excluding non-recurring gain related to the sale of a real estate
           property in 2Q 2007. The impact of the sale was a gain of
           approximately euro 20 million before taxes and approximately euro
           13 million after taxes.


                               LUXOTTICA GROUP

                          CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET
                AS OF SEPTEMBER 30, 2008 AND DECEMBER 31, 2007

                                       September 30,    December 31,
       In thousands of Euro                 2008            2007

       CURRENT ASSETS:
       CASH                               305,049          302,894
       MARKETABLE SECURITIES                  477           21,345
       ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE                649,579          665,184
       SALES AND INCOME TAXES
        RECEIVABLE                         60,486           89,000
       INVENTORIES                        610,552          575,016
       PREPAID EXPENSES AND OTHER         158,268          139,305
       DEFERRED TAX ASSETS - CURRENT      132,100          117,853
       TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS             1,916,510        1,910,597

       PROPERTY, PLANT AND
        EQUIPMENT - NET                 1,131,769        1,057,782

       OTHER ASSETS
       INTANGIBLE ASSETS - NET          3,981,103        3,907,957
       INVESTMENTS                          5,497           17,668
       OTHER ASSETS                       174,322          194,329
       SALES AND INCOME TAXES
        RECEIVABLE                          1,038            1,042
       DEFERRED TAX ASSETS -
        NON-CURRENT                        63,323           67,891
       TOTAL OTHER ASSETS               4,225,283        4,188,887

       TOTAL                            7,273,562        7,157,266

       CURRENT LIABILITIES:
       BANK OVERDRAFTS                    454,104          455,588
       CURRENT PORTION OF
        LONG-TERM DEBT                    245,046          792,617
       ACCOUNTS PAYABLE                   319,792          423,432
       ACCRUED EXPENSES AND OTHER         427,095          441,721
       ACCRUAL FOR CUSTOMERS'
        RIGHT OF RETURN                    31,394           26,557
       INCOME TAXES PAYABLE                46,511           19,314
       TOTAL CURRENT LIABILITIES        1,523,942        2,159,229

       LONG-TERM LIABILITIES:
       LONG-TERM DEBT                   2,516,530        1,926,523
       LIABILITY FOR TERMINATION
        INDEMNITIES                        56,804           56,911
       DEFERRED TAX LIABILITIES -
        NON-CURRENT                       250,182          248,377
       OTHER                              242,923          229,972
       TOTAL LONG-TERM LIABILITIES      3,066,439        2,461,782

       COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES:
       MINORITY INTERESTS IN
        CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES          44,960           41,097

       SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY:
        463,189,833 ORDINARY SHARES
        AUTHORIZED AND ISSUED -
        456,755,047 SHARES OUTSTANDING     27,791           27,757
       NET INCOME                         340,897          492,204
       RETAINED EARNINGS                2,269,533        1,975,196
       TOTAL SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY       2,638,221        2,495,158

       TOTAL                            7,273,562        7,157,266



                               LUXOTTICA GROUP

                      CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
                       FOR THE NINE-MONTH PERIODS ENDED
                  SEPTEMBER 30, 2008 AND SEPTEMBER 30, 2007
                          - SEGMENTAL INFORMATION -


    In thousands of Euro                         Inter-Segment
                         Manufacturing            Transaction
                             and                 and Corporate
                          Wholesale    Retail         Adj.      Consolidated
    2008

    Net Sales             1,926,542   2,332,392    (293,798)     3,965,136
    Operating Income        451,392     249,001     (68,078)       632,314
    % of Sales                23.4%       10.7%                      15.9%
    Capital Expenditures     81,474     113,923                    195,397
    Depreciation &
     Amortization            62,026      92,006      42,275        196,308
    Assets                2,682,695   1,566,019   3,024,849      7,273,562

    2007 (2)

    Net Sales             1,514,493   2,519,868    (256,807)     3,777,554
    Operating Income        418,017     303,035     (39,420)       681,632
    % of Sales                27.6%       12.0%                      18.0%
    Capital Expenditures     71,399     126,869                    198,269
    Depreciation &
     Amortization            49,071      91,754      27,963        168,787
    Assets                2,093,057   1,418,938   1,637,288      5,149,282

    2007 Pro-forma (1)(2)

    Net Sales             1,960,896   2,647,183    (326,958)     4,281,122
    Operating Income        468,662     317,802     (58,948)       727,516
    % of Sales                23.9%       12.0%                      17.0%
    Depreciation &
     Amortization            69,453      98,062      47,490        215,005

    Notes:

    (1) The company has included this measurement to give comparative
        information for the two periods discussed, aligning the consolidation
        periods of Oakley for both years 2007 and 2008. They reflect the
        consolidation of Oakley results for the first nine months of 2007 (as
        it is in 2008) and same trademark amortization as in 2008. This
        information does not purport to be indicative of the actual result
        that would have been achieved had the Oakley acquisition been
        completed as of January 1, 2007.
    (2) Including non-recurring gain related to the sale of a real estate
        property in 2Q 2007. The impact of the sale was a gain of
        approximately euro 20 million before taxes and approximately euro 13
        million after taxes.


                               LUXOTTICA GROUP
             RECONCILIATION OF THE CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENT
       PREPARED IN ACCORDANCE WITH US GAAP AND IAS / IFRS FOR THE NINE-
                    MONTH PERIOD ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2008,
        PURSUANT TO CONSOB REGULATION N. 27021 OF APRIL 7, 2000 AND IN
                            ACCORDANCE WITH CONSOB
                COMMUNICATION DME/5015175 DATED MARCH 10, 2005

      CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENT
      FOR THE NINE-MONTH PERIOD ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2008


       In thousands of Euro (1)       US GAAP
                                       2008    IFRS 2  IFRS 3  IAS 12  IAS 19

                                                      Business
                                               Stock  combina- Income Employee
                                               option   tion    Taxes  benefit

       NET SALES                    3,965,136
       COST OF SALES               (1,308,449)         (1,081)
       GROSS PROFIT                 2,656,687          (1,081)
       OPERATING EXPENSES:
       SELLING EXPENSES            (1,257,908)         (2,021)
       ROYALTIES                      (91,293)
       ADVERTISING EXPENSES          (270,104)
       GENERAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE
        EXPENSES                     (352,359)        (20,506)          251
       TRADEMARK AMORTIZATION         (52,708)
       TOTAL                       (2,024,373)        (22,528)          251
       OPERATING INCOME               632,314         (23,609)          251
       OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE):
       INTEREST EXPENSES             (100,015)         (2,417)
       INTEREST INCOME                  9,881
       OTHER - NET                     (4,110)         (1,512)
       OTHER INCOME (EXPENSES)-NET    (94,244)         (3,929)
       INCOME BEFORE PROVISION
        FOR
        INCOME TAXES                  538,070         (27,538)          251
       PROVISION FOR INCOME TAXES    (184,289) (4,706)  4,263   4,831  (264)
       INCOME BEFORE MINORITY
        INTEREST IN
        INCOME OF
        CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES     353,781  (4,706)(23,275)  4,831   (13)
       MINORITY INTEREST IN INCOME
        OF CONSOLIDATED
        SUBSIDIARIES                 (12,884)           6,436
       NET INCOME                     340,897  (4,706)(16,839)  4,831   (13)
       BASIC EARNINGS PER SHARE
        (ADS) (1)                        0.75
       FULLY DILUTED EARNINGS PER
        SHARE (ADS) (1)                  0.74

       WEIGHTED AVERAGE NUMBER
        OF OUTSTANDING SHARES     456,478,572
       FULLY DILUTED AVERAGE
        NUMBER OF SHARES          457,936,973



       In thousands of Euro (1)                                IAS / IFRS
                                     IAS 38  IAS 39   Total       2008

                                  Intangible Deriva-   adj.
                                Depreciation  tives  IAS-IFRS

       NET SALES                                                3,965,136
       COST OF SALES                                  (1,081)  (1,309,530)
       GROSS PROFIT                                   (1,081)   2,655,605
       OPERATING EXPENSES:
       SELLING EXPENSES                               (2,021)  (1,259,930)
       ROYALTIES                                                  (91,293)
       ADVERTISING EXPENSES           1,157            1,157     (268,947)
       GENERAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE
        EXPENSES                                     (20,256)    (372,615)
       TRADEMARK AMORTIZATION                                     (52,708)
       TOTAL                          1,157          (21,120)  (2,045,493)
       OPERATING INCOME               1,157          (22,201)     610,113
       OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE):
       INTEREST EXPENSES                      5,819    3,401      (96,614)
       INTEREST INCOME                                              9,881
       OTHER - NET                              242   (1,270)      (5,380)
       OTHER INCOME (EXPENSES)-NET            6,060    2,131      (92,113)
       INCOME BEFORE PROVISION FOR
        INCOME TAXES                  1,157   6,060  (20,070)     518,000
       PROVISION FOR INCOME TAXES      (446) (1,540)   2,137     (182,152)
       INCOME BEFORE MINORITY
        INTEREST IN INCOME OF
        CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES       711   4,520  (17,933)     335,848
       MINORITY INTEREST IN INCOME
        OF CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES                   6,436       (6,449)
       NET INCOME                       711   4,520  (11,497)     329,400
       BASIC EARNINGS PER
        SHARE (ADS) (1)                                              0.72
       FULLY DILUTED EARNINGS PER
        SHARE (ADS) (1)                                              0.72

       WEIGHTED AVERAGE NUMBER
        OF OUTSTANDING SHARES                                 456,478,572
       FULLY DILUTED AVERAGE
        NUMBER OF SHARES                                      458,108,317

      Notes:
      (1) Except earnings per share (ADS), which are expressed in Euro


    Non-U.S. GAAP Measure: EBITDA and EBITDA margin

EBITDA represents operating income before depreciation and amortization. EBITDA margin means EBITDA divided by net sales. The Company believes that EBITDA is useful to both management and investors in evaluating the Company's operating performance compared to that of other companies in its industry. Our calculation of EBITDA allows us to compare our operating results with those of other companies without giving effect to financing, income taxes and the accounting effects of capital spending, which items may vary for different companies for reasons unrelated to the overall operating performance of a company's business.

EBITDA and EBITDA margin are not measures of performance under accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (U.S. GAAP). We include them in this presentation in order to:

    -- improve transparency for investors;
    -- assist investors in their assessment of the Company's operating
       performance and its ability to refinance its debt as it matures and
       incur additional indebtedness to invest in new business opportunities;
    -- assist investors in their assessment of the Company's cost of debt;
    -- ensure that these measures are fully understood in light of how the
       Company evaluates its operating results and leverage;
    -- properly define the metrics used and confirm their calculation; and
    -- share these measures with all investors at the same time.


EBITDA and EBITDA margin are not meant to be considered in isolation or as a substitute for items appearing on our financial statements prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP. Rather, these non-GAAP measures should be used as a supplement to U.S. GAAP results to assist the reader in better understanding the operational performance of the Company. The Company cautions that these measures are not defined terms under U.S. GAAP and their definitions should be carefully reviewed and understood by investors. Investors should be aware that Luxottica Group's method of calculating EBITDA may differ from methods used by other companies. The Company recognizes that the usefulness of EBITDA has certain limitations, including:

    -- EBITDA does not include interest expense.  Because we have borrowed
       money in order to finance our operations, interest expense is a
       necessary element of our costs and ability to generate profits and cash
       flows.  Therefore, any measure that excludes interest expense may have
       material limitations;
    -- EBITDA does not include depreciation and amortization expense.  Because
       we use capital assets, depreciation and amortization expense is a
       necessary element of our costs and ability to generate profits.
       Therefore, any measure that excludes depreciation and expense may have
       material limitations;
    -- EBITDA does not include provision for income taxes.  Because the
       payment of income taxes is a necessary element of our costs, any
       measure that excludes tax expense may have material limitations;
    -- EBITDA does not reflect cash expenditures or future requirements for
       capital expenditures or contractual commitments;
    -- EBITDA does not reflect changes in, or cash requirements for, working
       capital needs;
    -- EBITDA does not allow us to analyze the effect of certain recurring and
       non-recurring items that materially affect our net income or loss.


We compensate for the foregoing limitations by using EBITDA as a comparative tool, together with U.S. GAAP measurements, to assist in the evaluation of our operating performance and leverage.

See the tables on the following pages for a reconciliation of EBITDA to operating income, which is the most directly comparable U.S. GAAP financial measure, as well as the calculation of EBITDA margin on net sales.


    Non-U.S. GAAP Measure: EBITDA and EBITDA margin

    Millions of Euro
                                        3Q08        3Q07     3Q07 pro forma(1)

    Operating income (+)               195.1       195.0          218.6

    Depreciation & amortization         63.5        55.8           71.2
    (+)

    EBITDA                             258.6       250.9          289.8
    (=)

    Net sales                        1,212.0     1,151.0        1,334.7
    (/)

    EBITDA margin                      21.3%       21.8%          21.7%
    (=)


    (1) These pro forma segment figures reflect the inclusion of the
        consolidated results of Oakley, Inc., a subsidiary that was acquired
        in November 2007, as if it was acquired on January 1, 2007.


    Non-U.S. GAAP Measure: EBITDA and EBITDA margin

    Millions of Euro
                                        9M08    9M07(2)   9M07 pro forma(1)(2)

    Operating income (+)               632.3     661.6        707.5

    Depreciation & amortization
    (+)                                196.3     168.8        215.0

    EBITDA                             828.6     830.4        922.5
    (=)

    Net sales                        3,965.1   3,777.6      4,281.1
    (/)

    EBITDA margin                      20.9%       22%        21.5%
    (=)


(1) These pro forma segment figures reflect the inclusion of the consolidated results of Oakley, Inc., a subsidiary that was acquired in November 2007, as if it was acquired on January 1, 2007.

(2) Excluding non-recurring gain related to the sale of a real estate property in 2Q 2007. The impact of the sale was a gain of approximately euro 20 million before taxes and approximately euro 13 million after taxes.



    Non-U.S. GAAP Measure: EBITDA

    Millions of Euro
                                 9M07 pro  FY07 pro
                                  forma(1) forma(1)   9M08  LTM Sept 30,
                                    (-)       +        +       2008

    Operating income (+)          (727.5)   878.1    632.3      782.9

    Depreciation & amortization
    (+)                           (215.0)   288.2    196.3      269.5

    EBITDA                        (942.5) 1,166.3    828.6    1,052.4
    (=)

    EBITDA at avg exchange        (846.2) 1,060.6    828.6    1,043.1
    rate for the period(2)

    (1) These pro forma segment figures reflect the inclusion of the
        consolidated results of Oakley, Inc., a subsidiary that was acquired
        in November 2007, as if it was acquired on January 1, 2007.
    (2) Calculated using the 9-month average exchange rate as of September 30,
        2008


    Non-U.S. GAAP Measure: EBITDA

    Millions of Euro
                                6M07 pro  FY07 pro
                                 forma(1) forma(1)   6M08   LTM June 30,
                                    (-)       +        +       2008

    Operating income (+)          (508.9)   878.1    437.2      806.5

    Depreciation & amortization
    (+)                           (143.8)   288.2    132.8      277.1

    EBITDA                        (652.7) 1,166.3    570.0   1,083.60
    (=)

    EBITDA at avg exchange
    rate for the period(2)        (580.7) 1,057.9    570.0    1,047.2

    (1) These pro forma segment figures reflect the inclusion of the
        consolidated results of Oakley, Inc., a subsidiary that was acquired
        in November 2007, as if it was acquired on January 1, 2007.
    (2) Calculated using the 6-month average exchange rate as of September 30,
        2008


    Non-U.S. GAAP Measure: Net Debt to EBITDA ratio

Net debt to EBITDA ratio: Net debt means the sum of bank overdrafts, current portion of long-term debt and long-term debt, less cash. EBITDA represents operating income before depreciation and amortization. The Company believes that EBITDA is useful to both management and investors in evaluating the Company's operating performance compared to that of other companies in its industry. Our calculation of EBITDA allows us to compare our operating results with those of other companies without giving effect to financing, income taxes and the accounting effects of capital spending, which items may vary for different companies for reasons unrelated to the overall operating performance of a company's business. The ratio of net debt to EBITDA is a measure used by management to assess the Company's level of leverage, which affects our ability to refinance our debt as it matures and incur additional indebtedness to invest in new business opportunities. The ratio also allows management to assess the cost of existing debt since it affects the interest rates charged by the Company's lenders.

Historical and forecasted EBITDA and the historical and forecasted ratio of net debt to EBITDA are not measures of performance under accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (U.S. GAAP). We include them in this presentation in order to:

    -- improve transparency for investors;
    -- assist investors in their assessment of the Company's historical and
       forecasted operating performance and its ability to refinance its debt
       as it matures and incur additional indebtedness to invest in new
       business opportunities;
    -- assist investors in their assessment of the Company's cost of debt;
    -- ensure that these measures are fully understood in light of how the
       Company evaluates its operating results and leverage;
    -- properly define the metrics used and confirm their calculation; and
    -- share these measures with all investors at the same time.


Historical and forecasted EBITDA and the historical and forecasted ratio of net debt to EBITDA are not meant to be considered in isolation or as a substitute for items appearing on our financial statements prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP. Rather, these non-GAAP measures should be used as a supplement to U.S. GAAP results to assist the reader in better understanding the operational performance of the Company. The Company cautions that these measures are not defined terms under U.S. GAAP and their definitions should be carefully reviewed and understood by investors. Investors should be aware that Luxottica Group's method of calculating EBITDA and the ratio of net debt to EBITDA may differ from methods used by other companies. The Company recognizes that the usefulness of EBITDA and the ratio of net debt to EBITDA as evaluative tools may have certain limitations, including:

    -- EBITDA does not include interest expense.  Because we have borrowed
       money in order to finance our operations, interest expense is a
       necessary element of our costs and ability to generate profits and cash
       flows.  Therefore, any measure that excludes interest expense may have
       material limitations;
    -- EBITDA does not include depreciation and amortization expense.  Because
       we use capital assets, depreciation and amortization expense is a
       necessary element of our costs and ability to generate profits.
       Therefore, any measure that excludes depreciation and expense may have
       material limitations;
    -- EBITDA does not include provision for income taxes.  Because the
       payment of income taxes is a necessary element of our costs, any
       measure that excludes tax expense may have material limitations;
    -- EBITDA does not reflect cash expenditures or future requirements for
       capital expenditures or contractual commitments;
    -- EBITDA does not reflect changes in, or cash requirements for, working
       capital needs;
    -- EBITDA does not allow us to analyze the effect of certain recurring and
       non-recurring items that materially affect our net income or loss; and
    -- The ratio of net debt to EBITDA is net of cash and cash equivalents,
       restricted cash and short-term investments, thereby reducing our debt
       position.  Because we may not be able to use our cash to reduce our
       debt on a dollar-for-dollar basis, this measure may have material
       limitations.


We compensate for the foregoing limitations by using EBITDA and the ratio of net debt to EBITDA as two of several comparative tools, together with U.S. GAAP measurements, to assist in the evaluation of our historical and forecasted operating performance and leverage.

See the tables on the following pages for a reconciliation of historical net debt to long-term debt, which is the most directly comparable U.S. GAAP financial measure, a reconciliation of historical and forecasted EBITDA to operating income, which is the most directly comparable U.S. GAAP financial measure, as well as the calculation of the historical and forecasted ratio of net debt to EBITDA.



    Non-U.S. GAAP Measure: Net debt and Net debt / EBITDA

    Millions of Euro
                                        June 30, 2008      Sept 30, 2008

    Long-term debt                         2,153.5            2,516.5
    (+)

    Current portion of long-term debt (+)    462.3              245.0

    Bank overdrafts (+)                      454.0              454.1

    Cash (-)                                (229.9)            (305.0)


    Net debt (=)                           2,839.7            2,910.6

    EBITDA (1)                              1083.6             1052.4

    Net debt/EBITDA                           2.6x               2.8x


    Net debt @ avg exchange rate(2)
     for the period                         2884.1             2748.5

    EBITDA pro forma @ avg exchange
     rate (2) for the period                1047.2             1043.1

    Net debt / EBITDA                         2.8x               2.6x


    (1) Last twelve months pro forma EBITDA
    (2) Calculated using the 6-month average exchange rate as of June 30, 2008
        and the 9-month average exchange rate as of September 30, 2008,
        respectively


    Non-U.S. GAAP Measures: EPS before Trademark Amortization

Earnings per share before trademark amortization: Earnings per share (EPS) before trademark amortization means earnings per share before trademark and other similar intangible asset amortization expense, net of taxes, per share. The Company believes that EPS before trademark amortization is useful to both management and investors in evaluating the Company's operating performance and prospects compared to that of other companies in its industry. Our calculation of EPS before trademark amortization allows us to compare our earnings per share with those of other companies without giving effect to the accounting effects of the amortization of the Company's trademarks and other similar intangible assets, which may vary for different companies for reasons unrelated to the overall operating performance of a company's business.

EPS before trademark amortization is not a measure of performance under accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (U.S. GAAP). We include it in this presentation in order to:

    -- improve transparency for investors;
    -- assist investors in their assessment of the Company's operating
       performance;
    -- ensure that this measure is fully understood in light of how the
       Company evaluates its operating results;
    -- properly define the metrics used and confirm their calculation; and
    -- share this measure with all investors at the same time.


EPS before trademark amortization is not meant to be considered in isolation or as a substitute for items appearing on our financial statements prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP. Rather, this non-GAAP measure should be used as a supplement to U.S. GAAP results to assist the reader in better understanding the operational performance of the Company. The Company cautions that this measure is not a defined term under U.S. GAAP and its definition should be carefully reviewed and understood by investors. Investors should be aware that Luxottica Group's method of calculating EPS before trademark amortization may differ from methods used by other companies. The Company recognizes that the usefulness of EPS before trademark amortization as an evaluative tool may have certain limitations, including:

    -- EPS before trademark amortization does not include the effects of
       amortization of the Company's trademarks and other intangible assets.
       Because trademarks and other intangible assets are important to our
       business and to our ability to generate sales, we consider trademark
       amortization expense as a necessary element of our costs.  Therefore,
       any measure that excludes trademark amortization expense may have
       material limitations.


We compensate for these limitations by using EPS before trademark amortization as one of several comparative tools, together with U.S. GAAP measurements, to assist in the evaluation of our operating performance.

See the table on the following page for a reconciliation of EPS before trademark amortization to EPS, which is the most directly comparable U.S. GAAP financial measure.


    Non-U.S. GAAP Measure: EPS before Trademark Amortization

    Millions of Euro, unless otherwise noted

                                            9M08     9M07            % Change

    Trademark amortization and other
     similar intangible assets                53       44
    (+)

    Taxes on trademark amortization and
     other similar intangible assets         (19)     (16)
    (-)

    Trademark amortization and other
     similar intangible assets, net of
     taxes                                    33       27
    (=)

    Average number of shares outstanding
     as of 3Q (in thousands) (/)         456,479  454,894

    Trademark amortization and other
     similar intangible assets, net of
     taxes, per share (=)                   0.07     0.06

    EPS(1) (+)                              0.75     0.84              -11.2%

    EPS before trademark amortization
     and other similar intangible
     assets, net of taxes
    (=)                                     0.82     0.90               -9.0%

    US$ / euro average exchange rate      1.5219   1.3442

    EPS before trademark amortization
     and other similar intangible
     assets, net of taxes in US$            1.25     1.21               +3.1%


    (1) Excluding non-recurring gain related to the sale of a real estate
        property in 2Q 2007. The impact of the sale was a gain of
        approximately euro 20 million before taxes and approximately
        euro 13 million after taxes, equivalent to euro 0.03 at EPS level.


    Non-U.S. GAAP Measure: EPS before Trademark Amortization
    Millions of Euro, unless otherwise noted

                                             3Q08     3Q07          % Change

    Trademark amortization and other
     similar intangible assets                12       13
    (+)

    Taxes on trademark amortization and
     other similar intangible assets          (5)      (5)
    (-)

    Trademark amortization and other
     similar intangible assets, net of
     taxes                                     7        8
    (=)

    Average number of shares outstanding
     as of 3Q (in thousands) (/)         456,614  455,672

    Trademark amortization and other
     similar intangible assets, net of
     taxes, per share (=)                   0.02     0.02

    EPS (+)                                 0.23     0.25              -7.2%

    EPS before trademark amortization
     and other similar intangible
     assets, net of taxes (=)               0.25     0.26              -7.4%

    US$ / euro average exchange rate      1.5055   1.3738

    EPS before trademark amortization
     and other similar intangible
     assets, net of taxes in US$            0.37     0.36              +1.5%



    Non-US GAAP Measures: Free Cash Flow

Free cash flow represents income from operations before depreciation and amortization (i.e. EBITDA - see table on page 14) plus or minus the decrease/(increase) in working capital over the prior period, less capital expenditures, plus or minus interest income/(expense) and extraordinary items, minus taxes paid. The Company believes that free cash flow is useful to both management and investors in evaluating the Company's operating performance compared to other companies in its industry. In particular, our calculation of free cash flow provides a clearer picture of the Company's ability to generate net cash from operations, which may be used, among other things, to fund discretionary investments, pay dividends or pursue other strategic opportunities.

Free cash flow is not a measure of performance under accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (U.S. GAAP). We include it in this presentation in order to:

    -- Improve transparency for investors;
    -- Assist investors in their assessment of the Company's operating
       performance and its ability to generate cash from operations in excess
       of its cash expenses;
    -- Ensure that this measure is fully understood in light of how the
       Company evaluates its operating results;
    -- Properly define the metrics used and confirm their calculation; and
    -- Share this measure with all investors at the same time.


Free cash flow is not meant to be considered in isolation or as a substitute for items appearing on our financial statements prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP. Rather, this non-GAAP measure should be used as a supplement to U.S. GAAP results to assist the reader in better understanding the operational performance of the Company. The Company cautions that this measure is not a defined term under U.S. GAAP and its definition should be carefully reviewed and understood by investors. Investors should be aware that Luxottica Group's method of calculation of free cash flow may differ from methods used by other companies. The Company recognizes that the usefulness of free cash flow as an evaluative tool may have certain limitations, including:

    -- The manner in which the Company calculates free cash flow may differ
       from that of other companies, which limits its usefulness as a
       comparative measure;
    -- Free cash flow does not represent the total increase or decrease in the
       net debt balance for the period since it excludes, among other things,
       cash used for funding discretionary investments and to pursue strategic
       opportunities during the period and any impact of the exchange rate
       changes; and
    -- Free cash flow can be subject to adjustment at the Company's discretion
       if the Company takes steps or adopts policies that increase or diminish
       its current liabilities and/or changes to working capital.


We compensate for the foregoing limitations by using free cash flow as one of several comparative tools, together with U.S. GAAP measurements, to assist in the evaluation of our operating performance.

See the table on the following page for a reconciliation of free cash flow to EBITDA and the table in page 14 for a reconciliation of EBITDA to operating income, which is the most directly comparable U.S. GAAP financial measure.


    Non-U.S. GAAP Measure: Free cash flow

    Millions of Euro

    EBITDA (1)                                    259
    Change working capital                         81
    Capex                                         (65)

    Operating cash flow                           274
    Financials charges (2)                        (32)
    Taxes                                         (54)
    Extraordinary charges(3)                       (2)

    Free cash flow                                186

    (1) EBITDA is not a U.S. GAAP measure; please see table on page 14 for a
        reconciliation from operating income
    (2) Equal interest income minus interest expenses
    (3) Equal extraordinary income minus extraordinary expenses

SOURCE Luxottica Group S.p.A.

http://www.luxottica.com

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Companies: Luxottica Group, S.P.A. (LUX)

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Oakley and Surfline Create First Free Mobile iPhone Application for the Global Surf Community -

Convenient Worldwide Mobile Access to Surf Reports and More

Oakley, Inc. and Surfline today announced the release of an Apple(R) iPhone(R) application that provides worldwide mobile access to surf reports. Developed by Oakley in conjunction with Surfline, the application utilizes a media rich format to present real-time information from Surfline, the leading provider of surf reports, forecasts and editorial content on the sport.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20081110/LA44797)

Pro surfers have responded favorably to the new application. In the words of Sebastian Zietz, Oakley global surf team member, "It's 'sick' being able to check the waves without having to turn on a computer. No matter where I go, I always know how the waves are."

"Surfline is excited to launch the first mobile iPhone surf report application with Oakley who shares our passion for surfing and creating the best products available in the marketplace," said Brian J. Mezger, director of technology, Surfline.

The initial release of the free downloadable mobile iPhone application will provide continually updated information on surf and weather conditions, as well as information on the surf community and culture including news, photos and videos.

Users can bookmark their favorite beaches or find locations by city, state, zip code, name or region. Additional information includes surf conditions, weather, safety notices and reports. General weather forecasts are available, along with projected surf conditions for the following three days. Directions to beaches are available via convenient map links. A separate screen offers news and information on surfing events, videos optimized for the iPhone from Surfline, as well as imagery on the sport and biographies of Oakley team riders.

To download the free application, owners of an iPhone (or iPod(R) touch) running iPhone OS 2.1 or later can simply open the "App Store" application. On a computer, users can open iTunes(R) and download the application through the "Music Store" section. Direct links are available at www.oakley.com/SurfReport, and www.surfline.com/iphone.

About Oakley, Inc.

The global leader in performance sunglasses, goggles and prescription eyewear, Oakley also offers technical and lifestyle apparel, footwear, watches and accessories. The company was created for athletes who see impossibility as just another challenge, and their dedication inspires Oakley to seek out problems, solve with innovation and wrap invention in art. Exceeding the limits of possibility for more than thirty years, Oakley serves the demands of world-class athletes with unbeatable technologies including High Definition Optics(R) (HDO(R)). Additional information is available at www.Oakley.com.

About Surfline

Surfline/Wavetrak Inc. is the world's leading collection of water enthusiast websites, all of which combine proprietary conditions-reporting and forecasting with timely news, information and entertainment. The sites are aimed at the core of each sport, yet they include content that appeals to a broader lifestyle audience as well. As a group, Surfline websites are visited are by over 1.5 million unique people each month - the largest and most loyal audience of surf and beach enthusiasts in the world. Since 1985, Surfline has merged premier surf report, forecast and editorial talent with industry-leading technology to produce "must-have" content of unparalleled quality aimed at active participants in the sports of surfing, windsurfing, bodysurfing and bodyboarding.

Apple, iPod and iTunes are registered trademarks and iPhone is a trademark of Apple, Inc.

SOURCE Oakley, Inc.

http://www.Oakley.com

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Tags: apparel   art   community   computer   entertainment   forecasts   media   music   optics   products   technology   water   weather  

Companies: Oakley, Inc. (OO)

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Oakley Supports International Breast Cancer Awareness - Zibb.com

Oakley, Inc. today announced an international partnership with the Young Survival Coalition(R) (YSC), the only international, non-profit network focused on the concerns and issues unique to young women affected by breast cancer, to develop special YSC breast cancer awareness edition Oakley Ravishing(TM) and Oakley Enduring(TM) women's sunglasses.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20080929/LAM016)

Oakley is supporting the Young Survival Coalition's mission of action, advocacy and awareness by donating US$20 from each sale of the special YSC breast cancer awareness edition sunglasses to the organization. The YSC's core purpose is to improve the quality and quantity of life for all young women facing the challenges of breast cancer.

"This is not about supporting a month of breast cancer awareness in October," said Jenn Bradley, women's brand director, Oakley. "It's about supporting an ongoing battle. Oakley partnered with the Young Survival Coalition on this special edition eyewear because we believe in the positive impact that they make on young women suffering from breast cancer in the form of research and awareness."

"The YSC's continuing efforts to bring programs and research to young women affected by breast cancer will be greatly enhanced by the funds raised from YSC's partnership with Oakley," said Marcia Stein, CEO, YSC. "We are thrilled to be a part of Oakley's launch of the special edition YSC Ravishing and Enduring women's sunglasses. Our joint efforts will continue to raise young women's awareness that breast cancer does occur in young women."

The special YSC breast cancer awareness edition Oakley Ravishing and Oakley Enduring sunglasses feature lush contours of lightweight O Matter(R) frame material that is accented with a pink ribbon design. The breast cancer awareness ribbon is also laser etched at the corner of the lens with Oakley's pure Plutonite(R) lens material filtering out 100% of all UV rays. Oakley's High Definition Optics(R) takes clarity to the edge of a wide peripheral view with impact protection and is also available with Oakley authentic prescription lenses. Each sunglass comes with a specially designed pin, an eyewear case, plus a custom MICROCLEAR(TM) bag for lens cleaning and frame storage.

The suggested retail price for the special YSC breast cancer awareness edition women's sunglasses is US$130 for Oakley Ravishing(TM) and US$165 for Oakley Enduring(TM). Both are available beginning Oct. 1 at participating Oakley retail locations worldwide or at Oakley.com.

About Oakley, Inc.

Oakley is a worldwide leader in performance optics including premium sunglasses, goggles and prescription eyewear. Headquartered in Southern California, the company's optics brand portfolio includes Fox Racing, Mosley Tribes, Oliver Peoples and Paul Smith Spectacles. In addition to its worldwide wholesale business, Oakley operates retail locations including Oakley Stores and The Optical Shop of Aspen. The company also offers a wide selection of Oakley-branded technical and active apparel, footwear, watches and accessories. Additional information is available at http://www.Oakley.com.

About Young Survival Coalition

The Young Survival Coalition (YSC) is the premier international, nonprofit network of breast cancer survivors and supporters dedicated to the concerns and issues that are unique to young women and breast cancer. Through action, advocacy and awareness, the YSC seeks to educate the medical, research, breast cancer and legislative communities and to persuade them to address breast cancer in women 40 and under. The YSC also serves as a point of contact for young women living with breast cancer. For more information, visit http://www.YoungSurvival.org.

Young Survival Coalition is a registered trademark of Young Survival Coalition, Inc.

SOURCE Oakley, Inc.

http://www.Oakley.com

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Tags: apparel   breast cancer   business   california   cancer   ceo   optics   partnership   research   retail   wholesale   women  

Companies: Oakley, Inc. (OO)

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Video: Oakley Launches First Signature Women's Apparel Series - Zibb.com

Oakley, Inc. today announced the launch of the Gretchen Bleiler Signature Series Collection, a women's line of technical outerwear, lifestyle apparel and accessories available this fall from Olympic silver medalist and four-time X Games snowboard champion.


    To view the Multimedia News Release, go to:
http://www.prnewswire.com/mnr/oakley/34879/


The Gretchen Bleiler Signature Series Collection by Oakley is the first time the company will release a comprehensive apparel series inspired by a single athlete. The unparalleled designs in the new collection offer a bold and edgy attitude in simple yet sophisticated style.

"With her independence, inner strength and outgoing style, Gretchen is the perfect partner to ignite our women's movement," said Jenn Bradley, women's brand director, Oakley. "Oakley evolved in the youth culture of action sports, empowering those who define their own lifestyles. Gretchen embodies the courage and charisma that inspire women today, and her sense of style and individuality shines through in her collection."

Gretchen adds fashion designer to her ever-expanding repertoire of accomplishments. Every aspect of the new line echoes her independent spirit. She worked with Oakley's expert designers to create a 17-piece collection that ranges from goggles and sunglasses to jackets and accessories, many of which carry her signature lion motif.

"This collection mirrors snow sports themselves -- it's a little racier than downhill skiing, a little bolder than cross-country but respectful of the power of the mountain and the heritage of mountain sports," said Snowboarding Legend, Gretchen Bleiler. "I wanted to create clothing I would be excited to wear, and something entirely new that could take me from daily riding to just chillin'. That desire was fulfilled for instance by the beanies which fit under helmets but also can be worn around town, as well as a long sweater that can be worn as a base layer and still adds feminine flair off the mountain."

The new collection puts an edge on classic styling by blending subtle lines with bold details. Bridging the gap between form and function, every detail in the line embodies Gretchen's spirit. From the most desirable technical outerwear to the lightest organic cotton tees, there's a sense of rhythm that mirrors a smooth ride down the mountain. Antique brass hardware adds personality to functionality, but the line is still highly technical with up to 20,000mm breathable waterproofing in performance pieces.

Designs include added features that Gretchen looks for in her gear, such as the button system added to the back of the pant leg to keep it from dragging. The jackets have an asymmetrical zipper with leather snaps across and a removable fur-trim on the hood to give it a designer feel. The pants are low-rise and boot-cut with a belt to accessorize, offering a relaxed performance fit but with a more flattering slimness than conventional designs today.

Gretchen's concerns about the environment led to the use of recycled ECO STORM(TM) materials in select performance pieces. These textiles are a benefit of ECO CIRCLE(TM) technology that reduces energy and carbon dioxide emissions by one-fifth compared to the manufacture of raw polyester. Solvents are not used in the production of the protective layer, and even if the textiles are burned, few toxic gases are released -- cutting down on eco assaults.

The Gretchen Bleiler Signature Series collection will be available online and at select retail stores. These retailers are chosen for their knowledgeable sales staff, wide selection and convenient locations. They currently include Zumiez, Intrawest US Retail, Specialty Sports, The House, Christy Sports, Aspen Skiing Co, Sun Logic Inc, Evo, Sport Chalet, Backcountry Store, and Radio Boardshop in Aspen, among others.

For more information including pricing of the new Gretchen Bleiler Signature Series Collection, visit www.oakley.com/women/gbcollection.

About Oakley, Inc.

Oakley is a worldwide leader in performance optics including premium sunglasses, goggles and prescription eyewear. Headquartered in Southern California, the company's optics brand portfolio includes Fox Racing, Mosley Tribes, Oliver Peoples and Paul Smith Spectacles. In addition to its worldwide wholesale business, Oakley operates retail locations including Oakley Stores and The Optical Shop of Aspen. The company also offers a wide selection of Oakley-branded technical and active apparel, footwear, watches and accessories. Additional information is available at www.oakley.com.

ECO STORM and ECO CIRCLE are trademarks of Teijin Fibers Ltd.

SOURCE Oakley, Inc.

http://www.oakley.com

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Tags: apparel   business   california   cotton   energy   fashion   hardware   olympics   online   optics   radio   retail   sales   silver   skiing   snowboarding   sports   technology   textiles   toxic   video   wholesale   women  

Companies: Oakley, Inc. (OO)

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Avery Pahls & Oakley Inc - Filmography, Year, Role - Variety Profiles

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