Rodenstock (Munich) has launched a Christmas campaign titled "Das Geschenk besten Sehens" (The Gift of Best Vision) to support partner opticians. The initiative provides a comprehensive communication package centered on biometric B.I.G. Vision eyeglass lenses, featuring festive key visuals and emotional marketing materials. Tools include customizable customer mailings with detachable vouchers to activate existing clients, newspaper inserts for local reach among potential new customers, and social media posts to extend digital engagement. Additionally, the campaign offers individualizable gift vouchers in high-quality envelopes for shoppers seeking presents. Rodenstock states the goal is to create opportunities for customer conversations, enhance loyalty, and help opticians start the new year successfully.
Wöhlk Contactlinsen, based in Schönkirchen near Kiel, received the German Health Award 2026 in the contact lens manufacturer category. The award was presented by Brigitte Zypries, former Federal Minister of Economics and chair of the DISQ advisory board, during a ceremony in Berlin hosted by the "Big Bang KI" festival. Organized by the German Institute for Service Quality and news channel ntv, the recognition followed a population-representative survey involving 42,824 participants across 70 categories. Wöhlk achieved a score of 80.8 out of 100 points, evaluating price-performance ratio, product range, customer service, and recommendation rates. This marks the company's fifth consecutive win since 2020, when it became a subsidiary of Japan’s Seed Co, Ltd. Sales Director Nadine Ohletz attributed the success to employee efforts and product quality, noting the company will celebrate its 80th anniversary next year.
Professional Eye Care Associates of America (PECAA) and VSP Vision announced two rebate opportunities for PECAA Max members. A new Marcolin frame rebate, effective October 1, 2026, allows members aligning Marcolin with their accounts to earn up to 10 percent on eligible purchases. Additionally, a limited-time exam bonus runs from January through March 2027; members aligning all three VSP eyewear partners—Marcolin, Marchon, and Altair—receive a $3 bonus atop the existing $15 exam rebate per qualifying commercial patient. This bonus ends in April 2027, reverting to the standard up-to-$15 rebate. Since its 2023 inception, the Vision Exam Rebate has provided $128 million to over 4,200 practices.
ZEISS Vision Care has completed the acquisition of OcuPlan in the United Kingdom. This move integrates OcuPlan’s solutions into ZEISS’s existing portfolio, which already includes eyeglass lenses, ophthalmic instruments, and digital apps for eye care professionals and consumers. The acquisition aligns with ZEISS Vision Care’s focus on providing comprehensive solutions across the ophthalmic optics value chain, emphasizing individualized vision and lifelong visual health. As part of the ZEISS Consumer Markets segment, this addition supports the company’s broader strategy in digitalization and healthcare within the optical industry.
Editorial relevance: This completed acquisition signals ZEISS's expansion into digital eye care management tools, potentially influencing how online eyewear retailers integrate professional prescription services.
The 33rd edition of the SILMO d’Or awards, chaired by Joachim Froment, announced its 2026 winners. The jury recognized innovations in autofocus technology, virtual-reality vision tools, and luxury smart eyewear. Key category winners include Karavan Kids for Children’s eyewear, Julbo for Sport, Mega Optic for Vision, and Eschenbach Optik for Low Vision. Nidek won Materials/Equipment, while Laclarée received the Technological Innovation award for Autofocus glasses. GETD & Marienfeld were honored for Smart Eyewear. In frames and sunglasses, Lancel, Victoria Beckham, Caroline Abram, Maison Lune, Brett, and rolf. Eyewear secured design and craftsmanship prizes. Paloceras received the Jury’s Special Prize. These awards serve as an internationally recognized label for industry innovation.
SILMO Paris 2026 attracted 32,108 professionals, including 53% international visitors, across four days. The event featured over 950 exhibitors and 1,500 brands showcasing innovations in connected optics, artificial intelligence, and predictive health tools. A notable highlight was the first international hackathon for smart glasses health applications, won by Kimoo, an ADHD support assistant developed on the HTC platform. The Trends Forum identified four stylistic themes: Fancy, Charisma, Adrenaline, and Aura. The SILMO d’Or awards recognized winners such as Laclarée for autofocus glasses and GETD & Marienfeld for Luxury AI glasses. Additionally, Andy Wolf received the Committed Company Award for its sustainability efforts, including Acetate Renew materials and European production. The next edition is scheduled for 2027.
Armani is preparing to initiate discussions with EssilorLuxottica, L’Oreal, and LVMH regarding the sale of a 15 percent stake in the company. This move follows instructions outlined in the will of Giorgio Armani, according to media reports. The talks represent a strategic step in executing the late founder's succession plan, involving key players in the luxury and optical sectors.
Peter Frankenstein has left his role as head of the Consumer Optics division at the German industry association Spectaris after 28 years. The departure, which occurred in late July, was confirmed by a farewell email from Frankenstein to eyebizz editor-in-chief Jörg Mayer and other industry participants. Frankenstein stated that their paths would likely not cross again in this life but expressed hope for future meetings filled with laughter. Spectaris Managing Director Jörg Mayer noted he had planned to retire alongside Frankenstein. While the Trendforum event did not take place this year, sources indicate this cancellation is unrelated to Frankenstein’s exit. Frankenstein has not disclosed his next professional steps, though Spectaris remains open to his return.
Organizers announced that 32,108 eyewear industry professionals attended the 2026 edition of SILMO Paris, held from September 25 to 28 at Paris Nord Villepinte. More than half of the attendees, specifically 53 percent, traveled from outside France, representing nearly 150 countries. These visitors engaged with over 950 exhibitors during the event. The source highlights smart glasses and autofocus lenses as standout categories but does not provide specific sales figures, product launch details, or independent verification of these trends beyond the attendance statistics.
SILMO Paris 2026 attracted 32,108 trade visitors from nearly 150 countries, with 53% international attendance. The fair featured over 950 exhibitors across 80,000 square meters, emphasizing 'SILMO Next' innovations including smart glasses, AI, and predictive healthcare. A key highlight was the first international hackathon for smart-glass health applications, won by 'Kimoo,' an ADHD assistant developed on the HTC platform. The SILMO d’Or awards recognized advancements such as autofocus glasses for presbyopia and VR-customized progressive lenses. Additionally, Andy Wolf received the CSR award for reducing acetate frames' ecological footprint by 53% between 2021 and 2024. The next edition will celebrate the fair's 60th anniversary in September 2027.
Silmo Paris 2026 attracted 32,108 optical professionals from nearly 150 countries, featuring 950 exhibitors and 1,500 brands across an 86,000-square-foot space. Held September 25–28, the event emphasized innovation through the Silmo Next Futurology and Tech Village, showcasing smart glasses, AI, and predictive health technologies. A highlight was the first international hackathon for smart glasses health applications, where the Kimono assistant won top honors. The Trends Forum presented four design themes: FANCY, CHARISMA, ADRENALINE, and AURA. Andy Wolf received the Responsible Company Prize for reducing its acetate frame footprint by 53% between 2021 and 2024. Additionally, the 20/20 Europe Most Influential Women in Optical awards were held, honoring 26 industry leaders. Future events include Silmo Istanbul in November 2026 and Silmo Riyadh in April 2027.
The Vision Council Foundation, AccuWeather, and The Skin Cancer Foundation announced a collaboration on May 27, 2026, ahead of National Sunglasses Day on June 27. This marks the first joint effort among these organizations to promote comprehensive UV protection through sunglasses, sunscreen, and weather data. Citing 2025 Market inSights data, The Vision Council noted that over 37% of American adults do not regularly wear sunglasses, while The Skin Cancer Foundation highlighted skin cancer as the most common US cancer caused by UV radiation. AccuWeather provides an hour-by-hour UV Index and AccuLumen Brightness Index to support informed decisions. The partners will coordinate digital campaigns leading up to June 27. Free 2026 toolkits are currently available at thevisioncouncilfoundation.org/national-sunglasses-day for eyecare providers and consumers.
The Vision Council Foundation and the United Opticians Association (UOA) have partnered to advance UV safety awareness for National Sunglasses Day on June 27, 2026. This collaboration coincides with the UOA Leadership Conference in Chicago, Illinois, held June 25–27. The initiative aims to encourage year-round sunglasses use and highlight the role of opticians in eye health protection. According to The Vision Council, approximately 30 million pairs of plano sunglasses are sold annually through optical stores, representing about 10% of the market, yet more than 37% of U.S. adults lack adequate UV eye protection. Free educational toolkits, including social graphics and fact sheets, are available at thevisioncouncilfoundation.org/national-sunglasses-day. Consumers are invited to share photos using the hashtag #NationalSunglassesDay to spread awareness.
In January 2026, L’Amy America announced a long-term partnership with French manufacturer Grosfilley, establishing itself as the North American distribution partner for Grosfilley eyewear brands, including Charriol. The agreement enables Charriol eyewear availability through select optical retailers across the United States and Canada. Coralie Charriol Paul, CEO and creative director of Charriol, stated that eyewear extends the brand’s luxury lifestyle portfolio, translating design codes from watches and jewelry into frames featuring the signature cable motif. She emphasized that L’Amy America was chosen for its expertise and relationships with premium retailers. This announcement details the distribution structure and brand positioning but does not confirm specific product launch dates or independent sales performance metrics.
Founder and licensed optician Konstantin Tokarev discussed the operational strategy of his New York City boutique, Konstantin, with 20/20 Magazine. The store, which first opened in 2025, combines medical eyecare, advanced lens technology, and luxury fashion within a Chelsea location near major transportation hubs. Tokarev emphasized treating every pair of glasses as a custom project through extensive measurements and individual frame fitting. The approximately 1,200-square-foot ground-floor showroom houses over 2,000 frames from brands including Lindberg, Mykita, and Blake Kuwahara, with retail prices ranging from $500 to $8,000. Supported by six employees and an in-house edging laboratory, the business focuses on personalized service and value rather than price competition, catering to professionals and creatives seeking distinctive eyewear.
On 8 July, Hoya hosted the Sensei Innovation event at Japan House London for independent optometry practitioners. Managing Director Jonathan Cohen addressed market forces like consumer fatigue and vertical integration, emphasizing the agility of independent practices. The company introduced the Miyosmart iQ lens, which arrived in the UK on 9 July, featuring enhanced defocus segments and a power range up to -13.00D. Clinical trials showed no average myopia progression in children aged four to twelve over 12 months. Additionally, Hoya previewed the Hoyalux iD MySense progressive lens, scheduled for autumn launch, which utilizes visuSense technology to personalize prescriptions based on seven dimensions including gaze shifting and posture. Retail expert Jack Stratten advised independents to leverage service and community to counter e-commerce saturation.
On 29 September 2026, Specsavers appointed optometrist John McGuiness as its new head of professional advancement. Qualified in 2010, McGuiness joins the leadership team with extensive experience in patient care, clinical supervision, and operational management across the UK. He previously spent 14 years at Boots Opticians before joining Specsavers in 2022, where he served as regional relationship manager for Northern Ireland and head of operations for Specsavers Home Visits. In his new role, McGuiness will represent clinician needs during the development of clinical services, technology, and future ways of working. Paul Morris, director of professional advancement, cited McGuiness’s blend of clinical expertise and operational understanding as key to improving patient care and supporting colleagues within the optical multiple.
Specsavers launched its Access to Care 2026 Report at the Labour Party Conference on Sunday, 27 September. The report highlights that sight loss affects 2.38 million people in the UK, a figure expected to rise by 31% by 2040. It proposes a new care model aimed at saving approximately £2.91 billion annually by 2040 through expanded community services and reduced hospital pressure. Key insights include the positive impact of devolved nation investments in Wales and Scotland, the clinical value of community glaucoma services per NHS GIRFT guidance, and significant regional variations in eye care access visualized via an interactive map. Specsavers also emphasized primary care optometry's role in health reforms and cited adding £1.767 billion in gross added value to the UK economy in 2026.
Hakim Group was recognised as one of the top-performing private businesses in the UK Best Managed Companies 2026 awards, announced on 29 September 2026. Led by Deloitte, the programme assesses companies across four pillars: strategy, culture and commitment, capabilities and innovation, and governance and financial performance. The initiative operates in more than 45 territories globally to highlight private companies' contributions to economic growth. Representatives from Hakim Group attended a celebratory evening at the V&A East Storehouse in London to receive their accolade alongside other 2026 winners. CEO Imran Hakim attributed the recognition to the strength of the company’s people, partnerships, and shared commitment to practices, patients, and communities.
EssilorLuxottica has announced ELevate, a new partnership programme designed to support independent eye care practitioners in the UK. Launched at an event in Birmingham on 10 September, the initiative consolidates existing Essilor and Luxottica loyalty schemes into a single portal offering rewards, training, business support, and clinical expertise. The programme features four pillars: Clinical excellence, Connect, Accelerate, and Differentiate, including access to brand accreditations like Ray-Ban Legends and Oakley Pro. It retains a three-tiered points system based on annual spend, ranging from Aspire (up to £12,000) to Advanced (over £96,000). Giona Riccetti, general manager for UK and Ireland, described it as a global first, aiming to help independents navigate rising costs and competition by providing dedicated account management and digital insights.
The 2026 ASEAN Int’l Optics Expo (WOF | Bangkok) is scheduled for October 9–11, 2026, at the IMPACT Exhibition Centre in Bangkok. Organisers have announced exclusive benefits for professional buyers, including up to three nights of complimentary hotel accommodation for non-Bangkok attendees who pre-register and submit applications with flight itineraries by specific deadlines. Pre-registered visitors can redeem free coffee vouchers on-site using personal QR codes during the show dates. Attendees also receive limited-edition customised eyewear cleaning cloths. On-site orders of USD 1,000 or more qualify for scratch cards to win prizes such as iPhones, iPads, Xiaomi watches, smart eyewear, and power banks, with a maximum of two cards per company. Foreign-currency orders are converted to USD or RMB for eligibility calculations.
Jeanne Saw, Manager of Professional Affairs at Myopia Profile, advocates for treating childhood myopia management as a standard clinical practice rather than a niche service. She notes that international bodies including the International Myopia Institute, World Council of Optometry, and World Society of Paediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus recognize it as standard care due to rising prevalence and early onset risks. Saw emphasizes that practices can begin with existing resources, using validated online tools for axial length estimation before investing in optical biometers or corneal topographers. Comprehensive care involves education, risk assessment, and evidence-based interventions such as myopia control lenses, orthokeratology, and atropine. Myopia Profile supports this shift through free certification courses, multilingual guidelines, and its new AI-powered clinical assistant, Ask Kate, available on their websites.
MIDO has opened visitor registration for its 2027 edition, scheduled for February 6–8, 2027, at Fiera Milano Rho. Organizers describe the event as featuring continuous evolution, with returning exhibitors, new companies, and a strengthened international presence across the eyewear sector. The show continues to attract professionals from over 160 countries, including manufacturers, opticians, and buyers. Key features include dedicated spaces for Academy and Start Up, and The Vision Stage in Pavilion 1, which will host approximately 20 events over three days. For 2027, MIDO is expanding the visitor experience through My Fair Plus, a digital platform by Fondazione Fiera Milano allowing bookings for cultural activities throughout Milano. Special travel arrangements are organized for visitors from the United States, Canada, Latin America, Wenzhou, Shenzhen, and Shanghai.
CooperVision announced the grand opening of The Vision Centre, its new global innovation hub located in Southampton, England. The facility spans 9,940 square meters and will house approximately 350 employees, combining research and development, clinical expertise, pilot manufacturing, and commercial capabilities to accelerate product development. During the event, CooperVision revealed six major product advancements planned for launch over the next several years, including the world’s first complete family of 1-day contact lenses for myopia control, novel premium 1-day silicone hydrogel technology, and advanced toric multifocal options. The company states these developments represent one of its most ambitious product pipelines to date, aiming to shorten the path from idea to market-ready solution using advanced modeling and AI-enabled tools.
MyEyeDr. has entered into an agreement with EyeCare Partners to acquire its optometry division, which comprises more than 300 offices operating under brands including Clarkson Eyecare, EyeCare Associates, EyeCare Center, Nationwide Vision, and The Eye Doctors. According to a press release from MyEyeDr., the transaction aims to expand patient service capabilities, strengthen its position in optometry, and support long-term investments in doctors and associates through shared best practices across a larger organization. The acquisition is expected to close in Q4 2026, contingent upon receiving required regulatory approvals.
The Vision Council concluded its sold-out 2026 Lab Leadership Forum in Henderson, Nevada, from September 16–18, gathering over 200 optical laboratory leaders for networking and professional development. The agenda featured expert-led panels on lens design, equipment, and lab management systems, alongside updates on market research and regulatory issues. Brandon Butler, Founder and CEO of Artisan Lab Network, received the 2026 Goodfellow Award during a special dinner. Prior to the main forum, the association hosted the annual Emerging Optical Leaders (EOL) Retreat, offering participants leadership workshops and networking at Red Rock Canyon. Michael Vitale, Vice President of Membership, Government Relations & Technical Affairs, stated that attendees would implement changes inspired by these gatherings. Sponsors included Coburn Technologies, Hoya Vision Care, and Shamir.
Specsavers has been announced as the Presenting Partner for Vision Australia’s 2026 Carols by Candlelight, marking the first time the eyewear retailer supports this fundraising event. The partnership aims to raise funds for children who are blind or have low vision, addressing a significant annual funding gap for specialist early intervention services not fully covered by government funding. Vision Australia CEO David Williamson stated the collaboration hopes to achieve another record year of donations. Specsavers head of marketing Anri McHugh expressed pride in supporting the cause and integrating brand elements into the tradition. The event is scheduled for Christmas Eve, Thursday December 24, at the Sidney Myer Music Bowl, with home viewing available via Channel 9 broadcast.
Seneca Polytechnic and CooperVision Canada have opened the CooperVision Contact Lens Centre of Excellence at Seneca’s Newnham Campus. This state-of-the-art training facility is designed to expand hands-on learning for Opticianry students by providing modern instrumentation for contact lens fitting, assessment, dispensing, and patient education. Beyond supporting the academic program, the Centre will host educational events, demonstrations, and collaborative programming to connect students, eye care professionals, and CooperVision teams with emerging technologies. Seneca President David Agnew noted that the partnership ensures students learn using tools identical to those in professional practice, while CooperVision Canada Country Manager Enrique Contreras emphasized the company’s commitment to investing in future professionals and advancing vision care across Canada.
Registration is now open for visitors and journalists attending Mido 2027, scheduled to take place February 6–8 at Fiera Milano Rho. The event, which has more than fifty years of history, is preparing for a new edition characterized by new developments and an increasingly strong international presence. Organizers reaffirm Mido's role as a leading platform for the entire eyewear industry.
On September 26, 2026, Silmo Paris hosted its 33rd Silmo d’Or Awards ceremony at Pavillon Dauphine. Hosted by president Amélie Morel, the event honored winners in 13 categories and three special awards. The International Opticians’ Association named Jessica Gowing, lead optician at Great Ormond Street Children’s Hospital in London, as International Optician of the Year. Other notable winners included Julbo for Sport eyewear, Mega Optic for Vision technology, and Victoria Beckham for Sunglasses Labels. The Jury’s Special Prize went to Paloceras, while Andy Wolf received the Responsible Company Award. Additionally, Sophia Denison won the optical design contest with “DreamScape,” and Aliénor Vienne-Jumeau secured the Silmo Academy grant.
Marchon Eyewear and Marcolin announced the passing of industry veteran Laurence “Larry” Roth on September 27, 2026, at age 75. A co-founder of Marchon in 1983 alongside Al Berg and Jeff White, Roth served as co-president and shaped US sales strategies until the company’s sale to VSP Vision in 2008. Nicola Zotta, president of eyewear at VSP Vision and managing director of Marchon and Marcolin, praised Roth’s analytical skills and lasting influence on the teams. After leaving Marchon, Roth founded the racing and breeding operation LNJ Foxwoods with his wife Nanci and daughter Jaime. He is survived by his wife, three children, and two grandchildren.
SILMO Paris 2026, held at Paris Nord Villepinte from September 25 to 28, welcomed 32,108 professionals from nearly 150 countries. International attendees accounted for 53% of visitors. The event featured over 950 exhibitors and 1,500 brands across 80,000 m². Key highlights included the SILMO Next Tech Village, which focused on smart glasses and AI, hosting a hackathon where Kimoo won for its attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder assistance app. The Trends Forum showcased styles like FANCY and AURA. Awards recognized innovations such as Laclarée’s autofocus glasses and GETD & Marienfeld’s luxury smart eyewear. CSR initiatives highlighted Andy Wolf’s sustainable production, while the Optic Design Contest winner DREAMSCAPE addressed visual distortion.
MyEyeDr., a leading provider of comprehensive eyecare and eyewear solutions, announced an agreement to acquire EyeCare Partners' optometry division. The transaction involves more than 300 offices operating under brands including Clarkson Eyecare, EyeCare Associates, EyeCare Center, Nationwide Vision, and The Eye Doctors. MyEyeDr. stated the acquisition aims to expand its ability to serve patients, grow its position in optometry, and support long-term investment through shared best practices. EyeCare Partners CEO Chris Throckmorton described the move as a milestone for growing the profession and expanding access to neighborhood-based care. The deal is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2026, subject to regulatory approvals. Both companies were ranked among the top 10 in Vision Monday’s 2026 Top 50 U.S. Optical Retailers report.
Grosfilley France announced the signing of a long-term licensing agreement with Bentley Motors to develop and globally distribute Bentley Eyewear. Leveraging 75 years of eyewear expertise, Grosfilley will create collections that translate Bentley’s design language into frames and sunglasses, focusing on precision materials and construction. The first collection developed under this partnership is scheduled to debut at SILMO Paris 2027, preceding an exclusive launch to a selected international market. Marine Andruetan, President of Grosfilley France, described the agreement as a landmark moment aimed at establishing Bentley Eyewear as a recognized name internationally.
At SILMO Paris in Paris, Sunday’s programming focuses on broader industry shifts rather than immediate product launches. The event features discussions across SILMO NEXT, the Tech Village, the CSR Spot, SILMO Talks, and the Trends Forum regarding how smart glasses are redefining eyewear boundaries and the role of artificial intelligence in the profession. Additional topics include evolving retail models, health considerations, sustainability efforts, and changing consumer expectations. Organizers emphasize that these transformations will not affect all businesses equally, urging attendees to listen, question, and compare perspectives to understand emerging developments. A digital edition of Silmo Today is available for September 27, 2026.
Show organizers announced that registration is now open for visitors and press for Mido 2027, scheduled for Feb. 6-8, 2027, at Fiera Milano Rho. President Lorraine Berton stated the edition will feature an updated format with a strong international presence, attracting professionals from over 160 countries. The exhibition covers the entire eyewear supply chain, including dedicated areas for new talent like Academy and Start Up. A key component, The Vision Stage, will host approximately 20 events in Pavilion 1 to celebrate its 20th anniversary. Organizers also introduced "My Fair Plus – Beyond the Exhibition," a digital platform by Fondazione Fiera Milano allowing attendees to book cultural activities across Milan. Special travel deals are available for visitors from North America, Latin America, and specific Chinese cities.
Optik Matt GmbH announced the acquisition of the Vision System Store (VSS) group, effective October 1, 2026. The deal involves 16 VSS locations, primarily situated in Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg, aiming to strengthen Optik Matt’s presence in southern Germany. Existing VSS stores will continue operating as independent entities with their current teams retained. Maximilian Matt, who joined the executive board in 2024, will assume management of VSS from founder Christoph Reinhard on the acquisition date. Reinhard stated that the transition ensures long-term perspectives for employees and locations while preserving VSS values. Both parties emphasized shared commitments to high-quality consultation and product standards. This move supports Optik Matt’s long-term growth strategy as a third-generation family business with over 75 branches.
Registration is now open for visitors and journalists attending MIDO 2027, scheduled for February 6–8 at Fiera Milano Rho. President Lorraine Berton confirmed the edition will feature new exhibitors alongside returning companies, reinforcing its role as a platform for the global eyewear supply chain. The event includes The Vision Stage in Pavilion 1, hosting approximately 20 cultural and industry events over three days. New digital initiative My Fair Plus allows attendees to book city experiences beyond the exhibition halls. Special travel deals are arranged for professionals from the US, Canada, Latin America, and Chinese cities including Wenzhou, Shenzhen, and Shanghai.
20/20 Europe and Jobson Optical Group celebrated the inaugural European edition of the “Most Influential Women in Optical” (MIWO) initiative during a luncheon at SILMO Paris on September 25, 2026. Originally launched in the United States by Vision Monday in 2003, the program recognized 26 women from across the European optical and eyewear industry. Honourees were acknowledged in five categories: Business Leaders, Mentors, Rising Stars, Founders, and Innovators. Lorraine Berton was among those honored for her leadership in the Italian optical industry and as the first woman to lead ANFAO. Approximately 160 guests attended the event, which brought together optical professionals, industry leaders, and sponsors including The Vision Council, READ ON, MIDO, and Go Eyewear Group.
British eyewear manufacturer Eyespace, founded in 2013 by sisters Jayne and Julie Abel, has been active in the German market since last year. The B-Corp certified company, headquartered in Worcestershire, operates as a family business with 55 employees and offers over 490 sustainable items across brands including Cocoa Mint and Arhlo. Eyespace claims to be the leading independent eyewear provider in the UK, with products available in 95 countries. The firm emphasizes sustainability through initiatives like solar power at its headquarters, electric vehicle charging, and shifting to sea freight. Recent accolades include being named one of the Sunday Times’ "Best Places to Work 2025" and winning multiple Optician Awards. The company aims to reduce CO2 emissions and eliminate single-use plastics from its supply chain, positioning itself as an industry leader in ethical manufacturing practices.