House of Modo

House of Modo has cemented its reputation as a visionary leader in the eyewear industry, combining impeccable design with a strong social and environmental purpose. Known for its minimalist aesthetic, innovative spirit, and commitment to sustainability, the group has become a symbol of timeless elegance and meaningful change. Giovanni Lo Faro, CEO of Modo International, offers insight into the company’s journey, philosophy, and ambitions as it continues to make its mark on the global stage.

House of Modo was founded in 1990 in New York by Alessandro Lanaro with the vision of creating "Eyewear for the Individual." This mantra remains at the core of the company’s philosophy even today. From its inception, House of Modo has distinguished itself through a minimalist and discreet aesthetic that combines lightness, comfort, and timeless elegance.

Discussing the brand’s history, Giovanni Lo Faro, CEO of Modo International, explains: "Since 2006, with the establishment of Modo International in Milan, the global adventure began, further enriched by the creation of a creative lab in New York, Milan, and Stockholm, thus have become our habitat, a combination that makes us unique and multicultural."

In 2009, the company took another significant step with the launch of Eco, a brand that established House of Modo as a pioneer in sustainability within the eyewear sector. Lo Faro highlights: "Eco is entirely made from sustainable materials, with a 360° approach that includes POP and packaging. This makes us a Carbon Negative brand." The company also introduced functional innovation with the sun clip-on concept, merging style and practicality.

However, Modo’s commitment to sustainability goes beyond environmental impact—it extends to social responsibility as well. Through the Seva Foundation, the brand provides free eye care to children in underserved areas of India and Nepal. "This initiative was born from a trip to India by our founder, Alessandro Lanaro. He immediately understood that there was a need Modo could address and found Seva Foundation to be the ideal partner," Lo Faro says.

Thanks to this partnership, the company has successfully treated over 1.8 million children, a truly extraordinary milestone. "The program continues strongly, and we are sponsoring Seva in the construction of seven Vision Centers in India and an equal number in Nepal, which will provide free eye care to over one million people by 2025," Lo Faro adds. Modo’s commitment goes beyond immediate care: "Buy a Frame – Help a Child See not only provides free care in the moment but involves schools and families, educating them on prevention and the importance of eye health. This is about building a future, not just acting in the present. Even the Vision Centers should be seen as part of a larger perspective: they will be permanent, creating job opportunities for many," he explains.

In 2023, Italia Independent was acquired, marking another major milestone for the company. "Italia Independent attracted us because of its courage to take risks and explore other sectors. This brand completes our offering with its exuberance and expressiveness," Lo Faro states. Today, the three brands—Modo, Eco, and Italia Independent—represent through House of Modo a "One-Stop Shop," with unique aesthetic and conceptual identities unified by a shared philosophy of innovation and independence. "Currently, we work with over 80 countries worldwide, and we consider ourselves a ‘glocal’ company: global in mindset but rooted in local territories and cultures," he adds.

Looking to the future, House of Modo sees significant opportunities for its three brands, each with its unique identity. "Each brand has a distinct story and identity, but together they represent a strategic offering for our clients," Lo Faro says. The acquisition of Italia Independent, in particular, opens the door for new collaborations and explorations. "We will follow the brand’s DNA, with collaborations that will explore new worlds for us," he adds.

Future collaborations will be chosen carefully, with a strong focus on shared values and credibility. "We seek partners with whom we feel a strong affinity and who are certified. Seriousness and soundness are fundamental, as our partnerships are always long-term," Lo Faro concludes.

With a clear vision and a constant commitment to innovation, sustainability, and social responsibility, House of Modo continues to redefine the boundaries of the eyewear sector, remaining true to its mission of creating eyewear that reflects the individuality and values of those who wear it and for future generations.

For more information: www.modo.com ; @modoeyewear