US Trade Representative Visits the AO Factory

Last month, we had the honor of hosting Katherine Tai, the US Trade Representative, for a tour of our factory. Ms. Tai and AO CEO Scott Shapiro had the opportunity to discuss the unique challenges of manufacturing eyewear and sunglasses in the USA as well as the benefits and opportunities of reshoring the eyewear craft.

“The challenges that face American manufacturers are many and often nuanced. Ambassador Tai’s willingness to show up and tune into the specific obstacles a company like ours is facing speaks volumes.” – Scott Shapiro

Ms. Tai also spent time viewing our museum exhibit (in cooperation with the Optical Heritage Museum), AO Through the Centuries, that highlights some of the many eyewear innovations made by American Optical since its founding in 1833.

Ambassador Tai views the onsite AO museum

We would like to thank Ambassador Tai for her visit and being so gracious and generous with her time and insights.

If you are interested in touring the AO factory, please email us at contact@aoeyewear.com.