BBGR was created after the merger of two French ocular optics companies in 1974.

In 1846, Louis Berthiot set up one of the world's first ophthalmic lens surfacing factories. Located at Sézanne, this plant is now BBGR's production site for its semi-finished organic lenses. In 1848, GR was set up by a group of workers. This company, specialised in manufacturing mineral lenses, swiftly became a company operating under the name of Guilbert Routit. Its activity also included instruments for ophthalmology, photography and the cinema. Located at Provins, this site is now BBGR's prescription laboratory.

  From 1974 to the present day

1974  Merger of BB and GR
In 1974, the two French ocular optics companies merged, combining their talents and specific skills to create a new entity with international standing.
It produced the first progressive lens, known as the ZOOM®.

1979  Launch of the new ZOOM®, a significantly more advanced version than its predecessor.

1983  First multi-layer anti-reflective treatment for organic lenses – the STAR®.

1986  Launch of VISA®, combining the most advanced technology of the day with superior comfort. Acquisition of BBGR Svenska, BBGR's subsidiary in Sweden.

1995  Launch of SELECTIVE®, very high technology multi-design progressive lens.

1997  Introduction of APTIVE®, the progressive lens offering excellent price performance.

1998  Acquisition of HOC, BBGR's exclusive distributor in the Netherlands.

2001  Launch of EVOLIS®, the progressive lens which meets individual presbyope's specific demands according to their degree of ametropia. Acquisition of D & A Labs, now BBGR UK.

2003  Acquisition of Rupp+Hubrach, BBGR's subsidiary in Germany.

2004  Launch of BBGR Ibéria, BBGR's subsidiary in Spain.
BBGR completes its range of progressive lenses with the introduction of SINGULAR®, the personalised progressive lens dedicated to small frames.

2005  Acquisition of ATRMec Optical, BBGR's Italian distributor.

2007  Acquisition of a new subsidiary in Norway: SentralSlip.
BBGR introduces ANATEO®, the first progressive lens which adapts to ocular anatomy by means of biometric technology.

2008  BBGR celebrates its 34th anniversary
BBGR is the N°2 French lens manufacturer and also ranked N°3 in Europe for progressive lenses. BBGR is actively pursuing its international development, particularly in Europe.