The grand inauguration of MEI Srl’s India facility marks a significant step in the company’s global expansion. In this exclusive conversation with VisionPlus, Rodolfo Scatigna, General Manager of MEI Srl, and Stefano Sonzogni, President of MEI Srl, reflect on the event, the market response, and their long-term strategy for India.
VisionPlus: The MEI India facility has officially opened. How would you describe the overall experience of the Grand Opening and Open House in Bangalore?
Rodolfo Scatigna: Meeting our customers personally is part of our mission. Giving them the opportunity to meet our staff and show them directly our premises and what we can do for them is something that makes us proud. Meeting them is always a pleasure.
VP: What kind of response did you receive from Indian industry professionals during the live demonstrations and interactions?
RS: Indian professionals are very knowledgeable about lens processing. However, our machines have piqued their interest and curiosity. We can offer a variety of solutions for both high-volume industries and local eyewear suppliers.
VP: Looking ahead, what are your immediate priorities for the India operation, and how do you envision MEI’s role evolving in the region over the next few years?
RS: We aim to be true partners for our customers. We are starting with local parts refurbishing and tool resharpening activities, maintaining Mei’s standard quality, and improving the running costs of our equipment here in India. A large stock of parts will allow for fast delivery times for tools, consumables and emergency situations. Our demo area will enable high-level training for customers’ operators and maintenance teams. Remote support and field engineers based in Bangalore and Delhi are a strong asset for our company.
VP: You have extensive experience in business development across international markets. How has your global perspective helped shape MEI’s strategy for India specifically?
RS: Establishing our company site here in India has been the first step of a potentially long journey. In my past management experience, I have seen the discovery of India give a strong boost to the company’s business. Here, we have millions of people whose need for affordable eyeglasses and prescription lenses will rise significantly in the coming years. And we will be ready for that!
VP: As President of MEI, what did the inauguration of the India facility mean to you personally and professionally?
Stefano Sonzogni: Personally, I’m extremely proud of MEI and the team for accomplishing this result. From a business perspective, finally being here in India—close to one of the world’s fastest-growing markets and near our customers, who are our most valuable asset—is truly motivating. It drives us to do more and more in the eyeglass field.
VP: During the Open House, MEI’s latest high-tech machinery was showcased. How do these innovations reflect MEI’s ongoing commitment to automation and precision?
SS: Our DNA guides us through the continuous improvement—if not revolution—of our customers’ manufacturing processes.
Their engagement with us is a source of inspiration, and in return, we provide them with solutions that enhance their internal manufacturing operations.
VP: With the growing number of optical labs in India, how do you see MEI positioning itself in this evolving landscape?
SS: We have the ambition to become the leader in lens edging and generation here in India as well.
We’re not 100% there yet globally, but we have promising new solutions, innovative machining techniques, and a team that consistently challenges the status quo. These new approaches have already drawn strong interest from the market.
VP: With MEI now having a stronger presence in India, what long-term role do you see the country playing in MEI’s global growth and innovation strategy?
SS: We strongly believe in the value of local presence. When a vendor is embedded within the territory it serves.
A close relationship with our customers fuels both our proactivity and creativity. We are confident that Mei’s new branch in India will significantly strengthen our presence and effectiveness in supporting our customers, who depend on us for their business success.
In addition, we believe that our Indian branch, located in such a dynamic and fast-growing environment, will create new opportunities for both our manufacturing and global operations teams.
MEI’s commitment to India extends far beyond delivering advanced machinery—it’s about fostering sustainable growth and empowering the local optical industry. Through close collaboration with partners and a strong focus on technical education, MEI is helping businesses of all sizes unlock their full potential.
This is a journey of shared progress, where innovation meets tradition and reliable service builds lasting relationships. Looking ahead, MEI envisions a thriving ecosystem driven by cutting-edge technology, skilled professionals, and accessible solutions that address the evolving vision care needs of millions. With trust, expertise, and a deep-rooted dedication to customer success, MEI is ready to help shape a new era for eye care in India.
