| Transitions Optical, Inc. | |
| Type: | Subsidiary |
| Area Served: | Worldwide |
| Key People: | Chrystel Barranger (President of Photochromics) |
| Industry: | Optical; Eyewear, eyeglass, Lenses |
| Products: | Photochromic lenses |
| Num Employees: | 320 |
| Parent: | Essilor |
| Location City: | Pinellas Park, Florida |
| Location Country: | United States |
Transitions Optical is a U.S.-based company known for manufacturing photochromic lenses, which darken on exposure to specific types of light. The company was founded in 1990.[1]
In 1991, Transitions Optical became the first company to commercialize and manufacture plastic photochromic lenses.[2] From inception the company has been a joint venture between PPG Industries (51%) and Essilor (49%).[3] [4] In April 2014, Essilor acquired the entire stake of PPG in Transitions.[5]
From 2009 to 2012, Transitions Optical was the title sponsor of the Transitions Championship, a PGA Tour event held at Innisbrook Resort and Golf Club in Palm Harbor, Florida. The firm was the Official Eyewear of the PGA Tour, Champions Tour and Nationwide Tour. It also sponsors pro cycling Team Garmin-Cervelo.[6]