Luxottica (LUX.MI) said on Friday it had bought the world’s top manufacturer of optical glass sun lenses Barberini in a 140 million euro ($163 million) deal. The transaction allows the group to strengthen its know-how in glass sun and prescription lenses, which is considered the most valuable among optical materials,” Luxottica said in a statement.

Milan-based Luxottica, the world’s biggest eyewear group, is expected to close soon its merger with French lens manufacturer Essilor (ESSI.PA) agreed at the start of last year.