Leonardo Maria Del Vecchio has proposed acquiring all family shares in holding company Delfin, which controls 32.4% of EssilorLuxottica, to prevent a takeover by Czech billionaire Michal Strnad. In a letter to Italian newspaper QN, Del Vecchio stated he secured confidential international financial backing for an immediate or phased acquisition. The move aims to provide liquidity to family members while preserving Italian sovereignty over assets including stakes in Monte dei Paschi di Siena, Generali, UniCredit, and Covivio. This initiative follows Del Vecchio’s resignation from operational roles at Ray-Ban and strategy positions on August 31 due to disagreements with CEO Francesco Milleri. He retains 12.5% of Delfin and plans to present his full buyout proposal to other shareholders on November 7.
For its 60th anniversary in 2027, Silmo Paris has launched the sixth edition of its Optical Design Competition. The contest invites design students worldwide to reimagine eyewear under the theme "Reinvent the codes," focusing on form freedom, innovative materials, and emotional dimensions. Belgian designer Alain Gilles will chair the jury, which evaluates entries based on innovation, function, responsible engagement, and technical feasibility. Up to ten projects will be selected for prototyping and exhibition at Silmo Paris 2027. Eligible participants are adult students in their third, fourth, or fifth year of a design curriculum, who may form multidisciplinary teams. Entries must be submitted by June 16, 2027. The winner, announced on September 24, 2027, receives a €10,000 prize split equally between the student and their institution.
Silmo has announced the theme for the sixth edition of its Optical Design Contest, scheduled for 2027. Titled "Reinvent the Codes," the competition invites design students globally in their third, fourth, or fifth year to challenge eyewear conventions through innovative silhouettes, materials, and manufacturing techniques. Belgian designer Alain Gilles will chair the jury. Up to ten selected projects will be prototyped and exhibited at Silmo from September 24–27, 2027. Applications are due by June 16, 2027, with the winner revealed on September 24. The prize is €10,000, split equally between the student and their institution. Sophia Denison won the 2026 edition.
Eyewear brand MYKITA has opened a new boutique in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, marking its third location in the United States. The store features a light, open interior designed by Berlin studio Gonzalez Haase AAS to "engage the senses," utilizing materials such as natural oak, aluminium, and matt white powder coating. Central to the design is a reinterpreted version of the iconic MYKITA wall, formed from flowing aluminium surfaces with suspended shelves for frame display. The space integrates comprehensive vision care services, offering advanced diagnostic technologies and eye examinations alongside retail. Founder Moritz Krueger described the concept as elevating the experience beyond transactional interactions, creating a restorative atmosphere.
Everyday Optics announced an exclusive licensing partnership with chef and television personality Carla Hall to create her first eyewear collection. The line, designed to celebrate confidence and individuality, is expected to debut in optical retailers nationwide in 2027. It features bold colors, sophisticated neutrals, and various silhouettes including cat-eyes and rounds. A key focus is inclusive sizing and universal-fit engineering to serve women historically underserved by fashion-forward options, particularly celebrating African American women while remaining universally appealing. John Castagnetti stated the collection emphasizes purpose over mere celebrity endorsement. Hall described the frames as personal accessories intended to make women feel confident and seen.
To mark its 60th anniversary, SILMO Paris announced the sixth edition of its Optical Design Competition under the theme “Reinventing the Codes.” Belgian designer Alain Gilles will serve as Jury President. The competition invites design students aged 18 and over in their third to fifth year to submit projects exploring new forms, materials, and emotional connections in eyewear. Applications close on June 16, 2027. Up to ten shortlisted projects will receive prototype production support and be exhibited at SILMO Paris 2027. The winning project, selected based on innovation, function, responsible design, and technical feasibility, will be announced on September 24, 2027, with a €10,000 prize shared equally between the student and their institution.
To mark its 60th anniversary, SILMO Paris has launched the sixth edition of its Optical Design Competition under the theme “Reinventing the Codes.” The initiative invites global design students aged 18 or over, enrolled in their third to fifth year, to reimagine eyewear through new forms, materials, and emotional connections. Belgian designer Alain Gilles serves as Jury President, evaluating entries on innovation, function, responsible design, and feasibility. Up to ten projects will be shortlisted, with prototypes exhibited at SILMO Paris 2027. Applications close on June 16, 2027, via concoursdesign.silmo.fr. The winning project will be announced on September 24, 2027, receiving a €10,000 prize shared equally between the student and their educational institution.
Berlin-based design house MYKITA has opened a new eyewear retail location in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles. The store features an in-house developed interior concept designed by Gonzalez Haase AAS, incorporating a new interpretation of the iconic MYKITA WALL made from flowing aluminium surfaces. Key design elements include pale peach accents, natural oak structures, and sculptural Softy display pieces utilizing reclaimed foam. Beyond retail, the space integrates comprehensive vision care services, offering eye examinations, retinal imaging, and intraocular pressure measurements through licensed remote optometrists and an in-house optical team. Additional sensory features include biodynamic lighting, engineered acoustics, a signature scent, and specialized tea offerings. The location also provides lens consultation, individual fittings, and access to the MYCARE aftercare program for adjustments and repairs.
British eyewear company Eyespace announced the appointment of Tim Halter as Director of Global Strategy on January 26, 2026. The move aims to accelerate international and export growth. Halter brings over 25 years of experience in the global eyewear industry, joining from Menrad where he served as Managing Director leading international strategy and operations. In his new role, Halter will focus on strengthening export operations, supporting international customers, and aligning long-term strategy with local market execution. Co-Founder Julie Abel emphasized that Halter’s expertise supports sustainable growth in new markets. This appointment reflects Eyespace’s continued investment in leadership for its next phase of expansion.
Hoya Corporation reported a 10.9 percent year-over-year revenue increase to 260.2 billion yen for the second quarter ended September 30, 2026, with operating profit rising 27 percent. The Life Care segment, which includes eyeglass and contact lenses, saw revenue grow 4.4 percent to over 153 billion yen. Eyeglass lens sales increased 8 percent (1 percent at constant currency), attributed to stable sales of high-value-added products such as MiYOSMART and foreign exchange effects, though U.S. eyeglass sales remained broadly flat due to restructuring. Contact lens sales via Eyecity stores rose 1 percent, supported by customer retention, private brand hoyaONE products, and subscription services. Intraocular lens sales grew 5 percent, driven by premium product demand in Europe and Japan. The Information Technology segment led overall growth with a 23.4 percent revenue increase. For the first half of 2026, total revenue reached 515.9 billion yen, up 13.4 percent.
Megane Top announced the opening of its "Megane Ichiba Costa Yukuhashi" store in Fukuoka Prefecture on October 30, 2026, at 10:00. The new location aims to provide a comfortable environment for both eyewear selection and hearing aid consultations. The store features large glass windows to enhance visibility from outside, with an interior design based on wood grain and green tones to create a bright, open atmosphere. Display fixtures utilize backlighting to highlight frames, allowing customers to easily compare options. A dedicated hearing aid salon is positioned at the rear of the store, maintaining distance from the main sales floor to ensure privacy and reduce noise during consultations. An opening commemorative event offering original goods and coupons will also be held.
Megane Top, operating as Megane Ichiba, announced two limited-edition "Lucky Bag 2027" sets themed around the Year of the Sheep. The online-exclusive set costs ¥9,900 (tax included) and includes a Shaun the Sheep blanket plus a ¥12,100 eyewear voucher; applications run from November 2 to November 23, 2026, with winners notified in late November and pickup available at selected stores between the start of 2027 operations and January 31, 2027. The store-exclusive set costs ¥11,000 (tax included), featuring a tote bag and a ¥13,200 eyewear voucher. It launches on the first day of 2027 store operations nationwide, excluding Miyagi Prefecture and certain locations, until stock runs out.
SILMO Paris announced that Belgian designer Alain Gilles will preside over the jury for its 60th-anniversary Optical Design Competition in 2027. The event, themed "Reinvent the Codes," invites design students aged 18+ in their third to fifth year to submit entries by June 16, 2027. Participants must explore freedom of form, materials as expression, and objects and emotion. A panel will assess submissions based on innovation, function, responsible design, and technical feasibility. Up to ten shortlisted projects will receive produced prototypes for exhibition at SILMO Paris 2027. The winning project, to be announced on September 24, 2027, will share a €10,000 prize with their educational institution.
Hoya Corporation reported stability in its second quarter of fiscal year 2026 for the Health Care business, which includes eyeglass and contact lens activities. Divisional revenues increased by 0.7 percent year-on-year, reaching 120.0 billion Japanese yen (€682.1 million). The source title indicates that US sales fell while value-added products grew, though specific figures for these segments are not detailed in the provided text excerpt.
Optical Prism Magazine published a post titled "Expert optical care meets trendsetting eyewear at St. Catharines boutique." The source material consists solely of the headline and a YouTube link, without providing specific details about the store's name, location within St. Catharines, product offerings, or service specifics. No factual claims regarding the boutique's operations, inventory, or customer experience are supported by the available text beyond the general description in the title.
Independent optometry clinics from across Canada gathered at the Westin Harbour Castle in Toronto for Eye Recommend’s National Training Event (NTE) East 2026, held October 21–23. With more than 1,000 attendees and a sold-out tradeshow featuring 65 ER Supplier Partners, this was the cooperative’s largest NTE since inception. The event offered practical education on AI, benchmarking, myopia management, and organizational culture, alongside networking and wellness activities. CEO Lee Raffey emphasized community building and peer learning. Upcoming events are scheduled for Edmonton (May 13–15, 2027) and London, Ontario (October 21–23, 2027).
Transitions Optical opened applications for its 2027 Change Agent program on October 27, 2026. Eyecare professionals in the U.S. and Canada can apply via TransitionsPRO.com/ChangeAgent until November 15, 2026. The peer-to-peer community aims to build awareness of Transitions lenses through social media, focus groups, speaking engagements, and product trials. Applicants must submit details on their goals, social media links, and responses to specific questions. Selected candidates will be notified in December to participate during the 2027 calendar year. Arlene Barringer, trade marketing director at Transitions Optical, stated the program seeks professionals passionate about advancing patient care and shaping dynamic lens conversations.
Independent eyewear brand T HENRI, founded by Tyler Henri and inspired by hypercar design, has secured a strategic investment from Harvey Ross of Ross Holdings. The company announced that this partnership supports the brand's next phase of selective international growth. Ross is described as a longtime eyewear entrepreneur. The announcement was reported on October 30, 2026, by Vision Monday Business. No specific financial terms, equity percentages, or detailed expansion timelines were disclosed in the source material.
Alleanza gruppi ottica, alongside Cio and Ottici Associati networks, held the fifth Ago National Meeting on October 18 at Devero Hotel in Cavenago di Brianza. The event gathered 140 professionals to emphasize relational value over technical precision alone. President Grazia Lamperti and scientific coordinator Carlo Vannucci introduced the theme, supported by marketing lead Valentina Magliano. Partner companies including Hoya, Rodenstock, Zeiss, CooperVision, Menicon Soleko, Safilens, and EssilorLuxottica conducted multiroom workshops. Marcolin presented a dedicated experience session. New tools Vista Club and Futurlab were announced. Career awards went to six affiliates. Digital communication expert Riccardo Scandellari concluded the day, stressing that trust drives customer retention more than visibility.
Seiko Optical France will run its first television sponsorship campaign from November 2 to 29, 2026. The four-week initiative features continuous presence on BFM TV, LCI, CNEWS Sport, and RMC Découverte, primarily within weather segments and news blocks. The media plan includes over 1,500 spots, targeting more than 60 million contacts with a 45.2% coverage rate among the priority 35–59 age group. Complementary multimedia deployment occurs on Meta and YouTube platforms. Kevin Walcker, marketing manager at Seiko Optical France, stated the goal is to raise public awareness of Seiko as an ophthalmic lens brand beyond its horology reputation, highlighting precision and innovation through eight-second formats.
Czech businessman Michal Strnad has offered €30 billion to acquire Delfin, the holding company controlled by the Del Vecchio family. Delfin holds a 32.4 percent stake in EssilorLuxottica, along with minority interests in Italian insurance and banking groups Generali, UniCredit, and Banca Monte dei Paschi di Siena. The report, published on October 30, 2026, describes an offer rather than a completed transaction or confirmed acceptance.
Editorial relevance: This potential acquisition of EssilorLuxottica's parent holding company could significantly impact the ownership structure and strategic direction of a major player in the global eyewear market.
CooperCompanies announced leadership changes, electing independent director Walter M. Rosebrough Jr. as executive chair of the board. Albert White III stepped down as president, CEO, and board member effective immediately, with Rosebrough assuming direct oversight of day-to-day operations until a permanent CEO is appointed. White will remain employed as a strategic advisor through April 1, 2027. The company also outlined board refreshment plans: Shlomi Nachman, a former Johnson & Johnson executive, will join as an independent director effective December 8. Additionally, current directors Barbara Carbone, Colleen Jay, and Robert Weiss intend not to stand for reelection at the 2027 Annual Meeting. These changes follow the appointment of two independent directors in January and July 2026.
The optical group VISTALIA has incorporated Óptica Domenech, located in Pinoso within the province of Alicante. This addition includes owner and optometrist María Carbonell Domenech. Óptica Domenech provides services including optometry, visual therapy, contact lens fitting, myopia control, dry eye studies, and audiology. The move represents a step in VISTALIA's growth strategy, emphasizing professional care and patient-centered service. No specific financial figures or unit sales data were disclosed regarding this integration.
Optical retailer Écouter Voir and publisher Bayard Jeunesse announced a nationwide awareness campaign on childhood myopia, running from November 2 to 30 across their 700 stores in France. The initiative features Ariol, a character from J'aime Lire magazines, to engage children and parents through window displays offering special educational magazine editions and in-store visual acuity tests. Lucie Redonnet, Écouter Voir’s health director, stated the goal is early prevention rather than just equipment provision. The campaign highlights protective habits such as outdoor time and regular breaks from near-vision activities, noting that while genetics play a role, timely medical intervention can help slow progression.
Eyewear brand One Degree has appointed Indian actor Jim Sarbh as its brand ambassador. The partnership aims to embody the company’s philosophy of combining lightweight titanium engineering, minimalist aesthetics, and ergonomic comfort in eyewear designed for individual expression. One Degree states that Sarbh’s refined sensibility and versatility across cinema and theatre align with its ambition to meet global design standards while retaining a distinct point of view. The announcement describes the collaboration as extending beyond typical celebrity endorsement to reflect shared values in craftsmanship and subtlety. No specific product launches, pricing details, or sales figures were disclosed in this statement regarding the appointment.
Barcelona-based eyewear brand Woodys has introduced "Woodys Universe," a first collection of clothing, accessories, and objects designed to extend its brand experience beyond frames. The initial release includes a unisex t-shirt and tote bag inspired by the recent "Les Fleurs" campaign, four multicolored scarves, and stickers. Additionally, an exclusive Open/Closed storefront sign will be available for opticians. All items are produced in limited quantities. While currently positioned as marketing tools, the launch raises questions about whether Woodys will pursue serious diversification beyond its core optical business.
Silhouette opened its first "House of Silhouette" location in Germany, situated in Hamburg. This marks the second store of this format globally, following an initial opening in Vienna. The Austrian eyewear manufacturer aims to expand direct customer access through these retail spaces while promising optical retailers greater proximity rather than new competition. Tom Smits, Managing Director for Germany and Switzerland, and Michael Schmied, Co-owner and Chief Sales Officer of Silhouette, officially inaugurated the Hamburg site. The company references experiences from the Vienna location to demonstrate that direct-to-consumer channels and wholesale partnerships can coexist.
Franziska Zückmantel, an optician from Erfurt, plans to launch a new eyewear industry trade fair named "Leivis" in Leipzig. The event is scheduled for its premiere in May 2028 at the Messe Leipzig grounds. Zückmantel aims to establish a growth-oriented industry platform rather than a small regional exhibition, drawing on her experience running an optical shop. While she reports significant interest in the concept, the project remains in the planning phase; concrete commitments from exhibitors and visitors must still be secured before the fair can proceed. The initiative leverages Leipzig’s historical status as a major trade fair hub, which currently hosts approximately 200 events annually, including specialized medical and cultural exhibitions.
At Silmo Paris 2026, the 33rd annual Silmo d’Or awards were presented across 14 categories during a gala at the Pavillon Dauphine. The jury, chaired by industrial designer Joachim Froment, recognized innovations in eyewear design, vision care, technical equipment, and smart eyewear. Austrian brand Andy Wolf won the Sustainability award for using 'Acetate Renew' in 85% of its acetate frames and maintaining a 100% European production chain. Rolf Eyewear received the Craftsmanship & Know-how award for its 'Superbird' model featuring slate stone layers. Other notable winners included Laclarée for technological innovation in correction frames, GETD & Marienfeld for Smart Eyewear, and Karavan Kids for the Children category. The event underscored industry advancements in eco-friendly materials, specialized designs, and AI-integrated glasses.
VisionPlus EXPO 2027, the sixth edition of the optical trade show, is scheduled for April 24–25, 2027, at the Dubai World Trade Centre. The event targets manufacturers, distributors, retailers, and optometrists from the Middle East and GCC markets. A new collaboration with the United Optometrist Forum will feature OPTOVERSE-7, a flagship optometry conference running concurrently from April 24–26, 2027. Organizers report that international pavilion bookings are underway to attract European and Asian brands seeking regional expansion. The exhibition aims to showcase eyewear collections, lens technologies, and diagnostic equipment, facilitating business meetings and professional engagement within the optical industry.
Dallas-based digital optics lab Elevate Digital Optics announced the appointment of Thomas “Bud” Hawkins as chief financial officer and head of AI strategy, effective October 2026. The move reflects the company’s investment in financial leadership and technology to support independent eyecare practices nationwide. Hawkins will oversee EDO’s financial strategy, reporting, and planning while leading AI initiatives focused on automation and operational efficiency. CEO Grant Guilbert stated that combining finance and AI under Hawkins positions EDO to compete effectively while maintaining personalized service. Hawkins previously contributed by developing automated reporting systems and a centralized AI knowledge base. He emphasized using practical technology solutions to help independent businesses operate smarter and improve customer response times.
EssilorLuxottica reported significant interest from opticians and hearing aid professionals during its appearance at the 70th International Hearing Aid Congress (EUHA) in Hannover, held October 14–16. The company showcased the second generation of its Nuance Audio Plus glasses, marking their first presentation to a broader audience of both optical and audiological specialists. This integrated solution embeds hearing technology directly into the frame for individuals with mild to moderate hearing loss, offering improved audio performance, longer battery life, and additional frame options. Attendees tested the device on-site, which also supports phone functions via iPhone connectivity. According to EssilorLuxottica, the event highlighted growing demand for combined vision and hearing solutions, fostering discussions on cross-sector collaboration and marketing strategies between the two professions.
Meta announced a partnership with CNIB, a Canadian non-profit founded in 1918, to support individuals who are blind, Deafblind, or have low vision. The initiative aims to explore the potential of AI wearable technology by leveraging community expertise to shape accessible future products. Meta’s funding will support four key areas: engaging the community to understand their experiences, supporting peer training and demonstrations led by affected individuals, sharing insights with Meta’s product teams, and providing accessible learning resources. Additionally, Meta is donating AI glasses through CNIB’s Come to Work program to help participants assess how wearable technology can assist in securing employment and building careers. This collaboration builds on previous global accessibility efforts, including donations to blind veterans in America and work with Vision Ireland.
Meta announced a partnership with the Canadian National Institute for the Blind (INCA) to expand access to its AI glasses for blind, deafblind, and low-vision individuals in Canada. The collaboration involves funding across four areas: community engagement, supporting local champions, guiding product development, and providing accessible learning resources. Additionally, Meta is donating AI glasses through INCA’s “Opening Doors to Work” program, which offers training and tools to help participants evaluate how wearable technology can support employment goals. This initiative builds on previous global accessibility efforts, including donations to US veterans and collaborations with Vision Ireland.
Synsam AB (publ) will publish its interim report for the third quarter of 2026 on Thursday, November 12, at 07.30 CET. The release includes a CEO comment from Håkan Lundstedt and a results presentation by CFO Per Hedblom, available on the company website. Two live webcast Q&A sessions are scheduled for the same day: one in Swedish at 09.30 CET and one in English at 10.30 CET. No pre-registration is required. For this quarter, the Swedish session introduces AI-generated English translation to aid international stakeholders, though the source notes potential inaccuracies and states that Swedish remarks prevail in case of discrepancies.
Bausch + Lomb reported third-quarter 2026 contact lens revenues of $286 million. This figure represents a 5 percent increase compared to the same period in the prior year. When adjusted for constant currency rates, the growth was 6 percent. The data reflects company-reported financial results for the specific quarter ending in late 2026.
Transitions Optical is accepting applications for its 2027 Change Agent program, a peer-to-peer initiative established in 2016 that connects eyecare professionals from the United States and Canada to promote awareness of Transitions lenses. Participants share expertise through social media, focus groups, speaking engagements, and interviews, while gaining access to product trials and technology testing sessions. Applicants must submit an online form detailing their interest and goals, along with links to their social media profiles, via TransitionsPRO.com/ChangeAgent. The application deadline is November 15, with selected candidates notified in December to participate throughout the 2027 calendar year.
Vision Expo, organized by The Vision Council and RX, has opened submissions for the sixth annual 2027 NOW Awards. Independent designers, brands, and creators worldwide may enter free online until February 5, 2027, with product samples due by February 10. Finalists will be announced in late February, and winners honored on March 11 during Vision Expo 2027 at The Venetian Expo in Las Vegas. Categories include Best Optical and Sunglass (Independent/Licensed), Direct-to-Consumer, Emerging Designer/Brand, and Wearable Technology. A judging panel chaired by creator Nico Roseillier evaluates entries. At least one frame from each submitting brand is featured in the NOW Showcase on the show floor.
On October 13, 2026, eyewear maker Friendly Frenchy announced its rebrand to GLAZ. The name derives from the Breton word for the shifting blue-green-grey hues of water, reflecting the brand’s focus on materials sourced from coastal shells. The company remains based in Morbihan with French manufacturing certified by Origine France Garantie. Two models illustrate the new identity: the LOCOAL CLO111 optical frame uses oyster shells from Lège-Cap-Ferret, featuring a unique green-grey tortoiseshell pattern, while the MESKL ME002 sunglasses, part of the 2026 collection, utilize blue lobster shells from Lorient and category 3 tinted lenses. The brand states this shift emphasizes material evolution over national identity, expanding beyond previous shell types to include mussels, scallops, and abalone collected along the French coast.
National Vision Holdings, Inc. announced it will release its third quarter 2026 financial results before the market opens on Thursday, November 12, 2026. The company will host a conference call at 8:30 a.m. Eastern Time on the same day. Participants must pre-register via the Investors section of the company’s website to obtain dial-in details and passcodes. A live audio webcast with related materials will be available online in the Investors section, followed by a replay shortly after the broadcast. This announcement precedes the actual earnings report; no financial figures or performance metrics were disclosed in this notice.