Vision-Ease Lens temporarily consolidates manufacturing efforts after fire

Ramsey, MN

-The Jakarta, Indonesia, ophthalmic lens manufacturing plant of Vision-Ease Lens (VEL) sustained damage from a major fire in November.

All employees were evacuated safely. Interim manufacturing operations of lenses made in Indonesia have been moved to VEL’s other manufacturing facility, in Ramsey, MN. Company officials said they expect to meet continued customer demand with existing inventory at key distribution centers.

“Our priority right now is ensuring employee and customer needs are met,” said Doug Hepper, chief executive officer, VEL. “The Jakarta facility is a vital part of our operation. We will leverage the skills and knowledge of our Jakarta employees to rebuild a world-class facility.”

VEL opened the 80,000-square-foot Jakarta facility in 1997. It was operational around the clock and employed approximately 500 employees.