Luxottica, Stella McCartney sign new sunglass deal

MILAN (Reuters) - Italy's Luxottica has signed a new deal with fashion designer Stella McCartney for the design, production and distribution of sunglasses.

The eyewear group said in a statement the deal signed with Stella McCartney Ltd, a joint venture between the designer and Gucci, would begin in January for an initial six-year term.

Afterwards, it would be automatically renewable for an additional five-year term, it said.

The first collection will be launched in summer 2009.

Stella McCartney's luxury fashion and accessories label is part of French retail group PPR, which also owns Gucci and other luxury brands.