Quay australia

Quay Australia (pronounced "key") is an eyewear company that originated on the Australian music festival circuit in 2004. The brand was established in Melbourne by Linda and Allen Hammond, who were inspired by the musicians and festival-goers around them to create a line of fashion-forward sunglasses at an accessible price point. Their journey began roadside, and they identified a market gap between low-quality gas station sunglasses and high-end designer frames. This vision was a family affair, with their son Zak joining the business in 2009, helping to launch the brand into the international market.

The company operates on a direct-to-consumer and wholesale business model. Its products are sold online through its own website and through major retailers like Nordstrom and ASOS, with a presence in over 35 countries and at more than 2,000 retail locations worldwide. While initially focused on sunglasses, Quay has expanded its product line to include blue light filtering glasses and, more recently, prescription eyewear, targeting the Gen Z and millennial demographic. This expansion included setting up brick-and-mortar retail showrooms and kiosks to offer an omnichannel experience. The business generates revenue through the sale of its eyewear and accessories.

Quay's products are characterized by their bold, often oversized frames and a wide variety of styles, from classic aviators to modern cat-eye designs. The brand positions itself as a provider of accessible, on-trend eyewear for individuals with a "fearless style" and a "carefree attitude." A key part of its market strategy involves collaborations with celebrities and social media influencers, which has significantly boosted its visibility and appeal. The company has successfully leveraged social media, particularly Instagram, since its early days to build a global following. Despite its international growth and San Francisco head office, the brand maintains its connection to its Australian roots, often using the Australian market as a testing ground for new styles.

Keywords: eyewear, sunglasses, fashion accessories, direct-to-consumer, wholesale, Australian brand, festival fashion, affordable luxury, blue light glasses, prescription eyewear, influencer marketing, Gen Z market, millennial fashion, e-commerce, retail, omnichannel retail, celebrity collaborations, oversized sunglasses, Melbourne origin, fashion-forward eyewear