This year marks a remarkable dual celebration: the 90ᵗʰ birthday of Hans Stepper, founder of STEPPER EYEWEAR, and the 55ᵗʰ anniversary of the brand’s founding. These milestones will be celebrated at the Hong Kong Optical Fair in November, where the STEPPER EYEWEAR booth will serve as the focal point for honouring a legacy that has shaped modern eyewear design.

Hans Stepper’s journey began not as a designer, but as a German Master Optician, a professional who understood that eyewear is a medical device, not a fashion accessory. His belief that fit comes first redefined how frames are conceived, transforming eyewear from a style-driven object into a precision-engineered instrument for better vision.

In 1970, Hans created the first SI frames, applying anatomical data and optical science to develop eyewear that truly fits. His commitment to comfort, stability, and optical precision became the cornerstone of the STEPPER EYEWEAR philosophy, a principle that continues to define every frame produced today.

Hans Stepper’s innovations have been numerous and enduring:

The “Fit First” Concept
Pioneering a patient-centric approach to eyewear design that aligns frames precisely with the anatomy of the face.

World Fit
An inclusive design philosophy based on decades of global facial measurement research, ensuring European Fit, Asian Fit, African Fit, and Paediatric Fit frames meet diverse anatomical needs.

TX5 Technology
A lightweight, hypoallergenic, and durable material developed to deliver superior comfort and stability, engineered specifically for STEPPER EYEWEAR frames.

Professional Partnership
Fostering a deep respect for the role of eyecare professionals, whose expertise ensures that each frame delivers the best possible visual outcome for every patient.

From a single optician’s workshop in Germany, STEPPER EYEWEAR has grown into a global brand present in more than 60 countries, trusted by optical professionals and wearers alike.

Today, the STEPPER name extends beyond frames with the development of STEPPER VISIONCARE lenses, bringing frames and lenses together in perfect optical harmony.

As the brand celebrates this incredible dual milestone, its philosophy remains unchanged: designing eyewear that fits the face, supports the lens, and enhances lives through comfort and clarity.

“Hans Stepper’s contribution to modern eyewear is immeasurable. His work redefined what it means for a frame to fit—not just in style, but in science. We honour his 90ᵗʰ year and 55 years of STEPPER EYEWEAR by continuing his mission: to deliver The Perfect Fit to faces across the world.”
– Saskia Stepper, Director, STEPPER EYEWEAR

About STEPPER EYEWEAR

In today’s world of fast fads and throwaway trends, STEPPER EYEWEAR revolves around timeless designs and sophisticated elegance. Its focus is on premium quality and unmatched fit and comfort. When your eyewear is this comfortable, fits this well, and looks this good; it can only be STEPPER.

About WestGroupe

Established in 1961, WestGroupe is family operated with over 60 years of industry insight. Our mission is to provide unique and superior quality eyewear for the fashion-focused consumer. We are driven by our commitment to excellent customer service and exceptional products.

WestGroupe is dedicated to defining future standards in the optical industry by developing, creating, and supporting innovative products and services that allow our customers to succeed. WestGroupe offers a premium selection of international brands in over 40 countries, including FYSH, KLiiK denmark, EVATIK, Superflex® and OTP.



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