Quay Australia
Quay Australia is an eyewear brand from Melbourne, founded in 2004 by Linda and Allen Hammond. It makes trend-led sunglasses and prescription frames and is known for celebrity collaborations.
| Founded | 2004 |
|---|---|
| Founders | Linda and Allen Hammond |
| Origin | Melbourne, Australia |
| US expansion | 2009 |
| Products | Sunglasses and optical frames |
| Website | quayaustralia.com |
What is Quay Australia?
Quay is an eyewear brand from Melbourne, Australia, built as a family business by Linda and Allen Hammond, whose son Zak joined in 2009. It began as a sunglasses stall at Australian music festivals.
History
The founders' first venture dates from 1999 and the Quay brand from 2004. Early growth came through an Australian retail chain, and the company expanded into the United States in 2009.
Products and positioning
Quay designs sunglasses and optical frames in cellulose acetate across five main shapes: aviators, squares, cat-eyes, shields and round frames. Lens options include polarised, gradient, solid and mirrored lenses, as well as prescription and blue-light options.
The brand is known for collaborations, including:
- Jennifer Lopez and Alex Rodriguez
- Paris Hilton
- SZA
- Lizzo
Distribution
Quay sells through its own website and around 2,000 retailers worldwide, including Nordstrom and ASOS, as well as optical practices that carry its prescription collection.
Why it matters
Quay is an example of an Australian accessories brand that grew from festival stalls into an international fashion eyewear business, supported by celebrity partnerships.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Quay from?
Quay is an Australian eyewear brand from Melbourne.
Who founded Quay Australia?
Quay was founded by Linda and Allen Hammond, and their son Zak joined the business in 2009.