UV Protection Rate at 70.7%, but Sunglasses Usage Only 26.1%: Megane Ichiba Launches Project to Protect Eyes of Everyone Working Outdoors

Megane Top Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Shizuoka City, Shizuoka Prefecture; Representative Director and President: Masahiro Tomizawa; hereinafter 'Megane Ichiba') announced a new social issue solution project, the '100 Million Sunglasses Plan,' at its 'UV Protection Business Strategy Briefing' held on Wednesday, June 3, 2026.

In recent years, UV risks have been increasing in Japan due to prolonged heatwaves and climate change. In a survey conducted by the company in May 2026, while 70.7% of people implemented some form of UV protection, only 26.1% used sunglasses. This reveals that while sunscreen, hats, and parasols are common, 'eye UV protection' has not yet sufficiently penetrated.

Megane Ichiba views this situation as a 'social issue related to eye health' and is launching the '100 Million Sunglasses Plan' to evolve sunglasses from mere fashion items into a daily health habit for everyone.

A New Challenge for Megane Ichiba as it Celebrates its 20th Anniversary

Celebrating its 20th anniversary in October 2026, Megane Ichiba has continuously refined six values as a 'total vision lifestyle advisor': vision, quality, peace of mind, health, fashion, and technology. This year, marking its 20th anniversary, the company takes on the mission of not only supporting 'seeing' but also 'protecting the eyes of the future.'

1. Product Development

The UV cut range for prescription sunglass lenses has been expanded to 400nm, and the lenses have been upgraded with a back-surface UV cut and heat-resistant coating at no additional cost.

2. Corporate Consultation Desk

To protect the eyes of people working outdoors, a consultation desk for corporations and organizations will be established to support the introduction of sunglasses that balance function and fashion for those in construction, logistics, tourism, security, agriculture, and other outdoor occupations.

▼ Megane Ichiba | Sunglasses Uniform Introduction Support Desk (for Corporations/Organizations) sales@meganetop.co.jp

3. Launch of Kōyaren-Certified Sports Sunglasses

As the first domestic eyewear retailer, Megane Ichiba will launch sports sunglasses that meet the regulations of the Japan High School Baseball Federation (Kōyaren). Designed with anti-fog and durability features in addition to UV protection, they aim to improve the playing environment for high school baseball players.

4. Megane Ichiba Eye Care Classes

Experiential workshops on UV rays and eye health will be held at elementary, junior high, and high schools nationwide to promote the habit of 'protecting eyes' among children and students.

▼ Megane Ichiba | Eye Care Classes (Inquiry Desk for School Personnel) pr@meganetop.co.jp

5. UV Protection Campaign

A campaign will offer the high-performance 'Perfect UV Block' lenses at half price to individuals aged 18 and under, supporting the eye health of the next generation.

・Period: Thursday, June 4, 2026 – Monday, August 31, 2026
・Condition: Individuals aged 18 or under who have downloaded the Megane Ichiba app

6. Launch of Pet Sunglasses 'WANGLASS'

To protect dogs' eye health, Megane Ichiba has developed its first sunglasses for dogs. Featuring photochromic lenses and frames designed for canine skeletal structure, the initiative addresses the eye health of pets as well as humans.

Ophthalmologist Warns of 'UV Threat'

At the briefing, ophthalmologist and Doctor of Medical Science Reiko Arita commented, 'In recent years, more patients are complaining of 'eye discomfort' due to UV rays. Sunglasses are becoming an essential item for eye protection.'

Megane Ichiba, which has provided the joy of sight, will now spread a 'culture of protecting eye health' throughout society. Through the '100 Million Sunglasses Plan,' Megane Ichiba aims for a future where sunglasses are standard equipment for everyone—children, workers, athletes, and beloved family pets—protecting the eyes of all who work hard outdoors.