Bloomberg Businessweek Macron’s Blue Aviators Spur 70% Surge in Tiny Italian Firm
Jan 26, 2026
Stefano Fulchier, CEO of iVision Tech and head of family-owned Henri Julien, runs a high-end, made-in-France eyewear brand pursuing smart and assistive-tech projects. He recounts a sudden sales boom after France’s president wore the blue aviators. He describes website crashes, rapid orders, artisanal production in France and Italy, and plans to expand into smart eyewear.
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Macron Moment Sparked Immediate Sales Surge
- Stefano Fulchier said Macron wearing the Henri Julien blue aviators crashed their website with orders pouring in.
- They sold over 200 pieces in one day, matching a year's production for that model.
Heritage And ‘Made In France’ Drive Prestige
- The Élysée ordered Henri Julien frames as a French-made gift, highlighting heritage value.
- Stefano links the brand's 100-year history to its appeal for state-level gifting and prestige.
Craftsmanship Trumps Low-Cost Outsourcing
- Stefano emphasized specialized regional know-how in France and Italy for premium eyewear.
- He said craftsmanship and experienced staff justify keeping production local despite higher costs.