NEW YORK— The Jones Group Inc. (NYSE: JNY) has announced that it has entered into an exclusive, worldwide license agreement with Altair, a division of Marchon Eyewear for the creation, production, marketing and global distribution of ophthalmic eyewear and sunglasses under the Anne Klein brand.

"The Anne Klein eyewear license is an exciting and proud addition to the Altair portfolio,” said Steve Wright, president of Altair. “We recognize the Anne Klein brand's rich heritage in providing women with evolving modern style and look forward to translating those high-quality, timeless designs into compelling eyewear perfectly suited for the Anne Klein woman."

“We are pleased to enter into this agreement with Altair, a best-in-class partner, for Anne Klein eyewear, as we continue to develop Anne Klein as a global fashion iconic brand,” added Richard Dickson, president and CEO of branded businesses for The Jones Group. “We believe this collaboration with Altair and Marchon will help Anne Klein further extend its powerful heritage and brand message in the global optical and accessories arena."

Under the new agreement, the Anne Klein ophthalmic eyewear and sunglass collections will be marketed and sold globally in upscale optical chains and specialty retailers and by individual eyecare professionals, beginning in Spring 2013.

The Anne Klein ophthalmic eyewear and sunglass collections are currently produced and marketed under a worldwide license agreement with Luxottica Group S.p.A., which will expire on Dec. 31, 2012.