Silhouette Group announced that its eyewear production in Linz will operate entirely without fossil natural gas starting in April 2026. The transition involves electrifying key production steps, projected to save several hundred megawatt-hours of natural gas and over 100 tons of CO₂ annually. A significant milestone was achieved in 2025 when the coating facility’s exhaust air purification system switched from gas-fired afterburning to electric power using renewable electricity, saving approximately 363 MWh of gas and reducing emissions by about 85 tons of CO₂e per year. The final conversion step in 2026 targets the last gas-heated warehouse, expected to save an additional 70 MWh of natural gas and around 18 tons of CO₂e annually. Thomas Windischbauer, COO of Silhouette Group, stated that eliminating natural gas demonstrates that emission reduction measures can be economically viable.
During Expo Óptica in São Paulo, OptoTech hosted an exclusive customer event attended by approximately 80 participants from more than 40 labs across Brazil and Latin America. The gathering featured the presentation of the new IQ-Synergy product line and a comprehensive overview of the company’s machine and software portfolio. A key highlight was the LDS solution OptoCalc 4.0, which generated strong interest among attendees. Mark Hollmann, Head of Ophthalmics Division, emphasized that Latin America is a critical market where OptoTech aims to build long-term partnerships through local presence and service. Following positive feedback, the company plans to expand its regional sales and service activities. OptoTech will next exhibit at an upcoming trade show in Bogotá with its own booth.
OptoTech Optikmaschinen GmbH celebrated its 40th anniversary, marking four decades since founder Roland Mandler established the company in Wettenberg, Germany, in 1985. The precision optics and ophthalmics machinery provider, now employing approximately 600 people globally, hosted an international customer day featuring new technologies and industry trends. Since joining the Schunk Group in 2018, OptoTech has expanded from CNC grinding solutions to include ultra-precision machining centers like the UPG 2000 and complete ophthalmic manufacturing systems. Managing Directors Jens Schäfer and Dr. Stefan Seifried emphasized partnership-based collaboration and continued innovation in automation and AI-based software as key drivers for future growth in optical manufacturing processes.
On August 31, 2026, OptoTech Optikmaschinen GmbH and XONOX Technology GmbH announced a strategic partnership in metrology. The collaboration aims to integrate XONOX interferometers and measurement systems into OptoTech machine manufacturing processes to enhance reliability and quality control. Key areas include optimizing the OptoTech portfolio with integrated solutions, expanding global availability of XONOX products, establishing joint service structures, and developing high-precision measurement technologies. This initiative supports both companies' strategic goals by offering customers worldwide coordinated machining and quality assurance solutions.
Optiswiss expanded its Executive Management Board by appointing Johannes Schubart as Chief Product & Marketing Officer (CPMO) effective January 2026. In this role, Schubart oversees the operational and strategic direction of Product Management and Marketing. He has been with the independent Swiss lens manufacturer for over four years, previously serving as Head of Global Marketing, Product Management & Tools, where he managed major product launches and brand positioning. CEO Samuel Frei stated that Schubart’s expertise will strengthen the company’s strategic direction. This leadership addition aligns with Optiswiss’s vision to support traditional optical retailers through innovative ophthalmic lenses manufactured 100% in Switzerland.
Rodenstock Group announced strong financial results for the 2021 fiscal year, reporting a 23% increase in revenue to €494 million from €401 million in the previous year. Recurring EBITDA rose by 41% to a record high of €127 million. The company attributes this growth to the execution of its B.I.G. VISION™ strategy and the patented DNEye® Pro technology, which enables individualized eyeglass lenses. Despite pandemic-related store closures, Rodenstock expanded its international business, rolling out B.I.G. VISION™ outside Europe, including in Chile. CEO Anders Hedegaard noted increased market share in core countries, while CFO Marcus Desimoni confirmed the company remains on track with its growth strategy following its acquisition by Apax Partners funds in March 2021.
On May 31, 2022, the Rodenstock Group announced the appointment of Martin Lange as Executive Vice President Sales & Marketing and the promotion of Dr. Dietmar Uttenweiler to Executive Vice President Research & Development and Product Management. Both roles are effective June 1, 2022, joining a newly established Executive Management Team that includes CEO Anders Hedegaard, CFO Marcus Desimoni, and COO Roland Dimbath. This structural change aims to support Rodenstock’s growth objectives and its B.I.G. VISION™ strategy. Lange brings prior sales and marketing leadership experience from global Med-Tech companies, while Uttenweiler has worked at Rodenstock for over 18 years, previously serving as Vice President and Head of R&D and Strategic Marketing Lenses.
On September 6, 2022, the Rodenstock Group announced the successful completion of its acquisition of Indo Optical, a leading ophthalmic lens manufacturer based in Spain. This transaction is part of Rodenstock’s global growth strategy, aiming to expand business into high-growth markets in Europe and North America by gaining direct access to core European markets. Indo Optical operates primarily in Spain, Portugal, and Morocco, with headquarters in Sant Cugat del Vallès and production plants in El Papiol (Spain) and Tanger (Morocco). The company employs approximately 440 people. Rodenstock expects these markets to become significant revenue contributors, reinforcing its position as a market-leading Med-Tech company.
The Rodenstock Group announced that Marcus Desimoni, currently Chief Financial Officer, will succeed Anders Hedegaard as Chief Executive Officer. Hedegaard’s departure takes effect at the end of January 2023, with Desimoni assuming the role on February 1, 2023. Hedegaard will remain a non-executive member of the Advisory Board and serve as a part-time consultant. A new CFO is expected to join during the first quarter of 2023. Desimoni has served as CFO since 2020, overseeing key transactions including the sale of the eyewear business to De Rigo in December 2022 and the acquisition of Indo Optical in May 2022. The company stated this leadership transition maintains continuity in strategic direction and investment in biometric lens innovation.
The Rodenstock Group announced that Dr. Mani Herold will join its Executive Management Board as Chief Financial Officer on April 1, 2023. He succeeds Marcus Desimoni in the role and joins from the Pfleiderer Group, where he served as CFO and Labor Director. Herold brings over 25 years of international financial management experience, including tenures at E.ON and Cerdia. CEO Marcus Desimoni stated that Herold’s leadership skills are expected to support the company's future transformational path. This appointment completes the Executive Management Team for the Munich-based ophthalmic lens manufacturer, which employs approximately 5,100 people globally across more than 85 countries.
On March 14, 2023, the Rodenstock Group announced its entry into the Spanish market to introduce its Biometric Intelligent Glasses (B.I.G.) technology. The Munich-based lens manufacturer aims for significant growth in Spain by leveraging local and global laboratories for its value chain. This move follows the 2020 launch of the B.I.G. VISION™ FOR ALL philosophy and the 2022 introduction of B.I.G. NORM™ biometric lenses. Rodenstock emphasizes individual eye measurement using thousands of data points for lens production. The company, founded in 1877, employs approximately 5,100 people globally, operates five central production hubs, and maintains a presence in over 85 countries.
Rodenstock Group announced solid like-for-like revenue growth of 4% in fiscal year 2022, reaching pro-forma net sales of 505 million euros. The company attributed this performance to demand for its B.I.G. VISION™ biometric progressive lenses and the launch of the B.I.G. NORM™ range. Strategic milestones included the acquisition of Indo Optical in September 2022 and the announced sale of its eyewear business to De Rigo in December 2022, with legal transfer expected in Q2 2023. These moves support Rodenstock’s transformation into a pure-play Med-Tech company focused on lenses. Despite macro-economic headwinds and the exit from the Russian market, recurring EBITDA reached 118 million euros. Leadership changes saw Marcus Desimoni become CEO in February 2023 and Dr. Mani Herold join as CFO in April 2023.
Rodenstock Group announced its financial results for fiscal year 2023 in May 2024, reporting consolidated pro-forma net sales of €506.1 million, a slight increase from €505.3 million the previous year. Recurring EBITDA rose by €0.3 million to €122.3 million on a comparable basis. The company attributed this performance to an 8% sales growth in its B.I.G. VISION® biometric progressive lens portfolio and the successful launch of MyCon® lenses for children in Europe. The sale of the Rodenstock eyewear business marked the completion of its transformation into a pure-play Med-Tech company. Despite challenging macroeconomic conditions, including inflation and geopolitical tensions, management expects positive development to continue throughout 2024 based on operational efficiencies and further innovations.
The Rodenstock Group announced on June 20, 2024, that Catherine Stahl has joined its management team as Executive Vice President Marketing & Strategy. Based in Munich, the ophthalmic lens manufacturer stated that Stahl completes the Executive Management Team alongside CEO Marcus Desimoni and other executives. Starting in June, she will oversee global marketing, product management, business development, and strategy. Stahl brings extensive experience in the med-tech sector, including expertise in integration and transformation projects. CEO Marcus Desimoni noted that bundling these activities aims to strengthen focus on B2B and B2B2C target groups and expand the company's B.I.G. Vision™ strategy. This appointment represents a leadership change within the group, which employs approximately 5,000 people worldwide.
On April 16, 2025, Rodenstock announced the appointment of Laurent Saada as Executive Vice President Sales Europe and Søren Østergaard as Executive Vice President Sales International. Both executives will assume their new responsibilities in May 2025, joining the company's Executive Management Team alongside CEO Marcus Desimoni. Saada, previously holding leadership roles at Sonova Group, Straumann Group, and Johnson & Johnson, will oversee sales across all European markets and Morocco. Østergaard, who has been with Rodenstock for four years and served as Vice President and Head of International Sales, will manage sales for all markets outside Europe, including direct operations in Thailand, Australia, Chile, Brazil, and Uruguay. The appointments aim to strengthen the sales division’s market focus and support the implementation of the B.I.G. VISION™ strategy.
In May 2025, Munich-based ophthalmic lens manufacturer Rodenstock received the German Innovation Award 2025 in the "Excellence in Business to Consumer" category for Medical Health. The award recognizes its new product, B.I.G. EXACT® Sensitive, a biometric lens that incorporates both eye biometrics and individual visual perception. According to the company, this technology provides smoother vision, improved reading flow, and better orientation for spectacle wearers. The German Design Council initiated the award, with an independent jury evaluating innovations based on originality, implementation, effectiveness, user benefit, and cost-effectiveness. Rodenstock executives stated the recognition highlights their commitment to biometric vision and aims to raise awareness among consumers and partner opticians.
Rodenstock announced its financial results for the 2024 fiscal year, reporting consolidated net sales of EUR 512.4 million, a moderate increase from EUR 506.1 million in 2023. On a comparable basis, revenue rose by 1.2% despite ongoing macroeconomic challenges. The company achieved an adjusted EBITDA of EUR 128.6 million, representing a 5.1% increase compared to the previous year. Key drivers included strong demand for the B.I.G. VISION® biometric lens portfolio and MyCon™ lenses for children, which saw worldwide sales grow by 62% since their 2023 launch. Additionally, key account business excluding GrandVision grew by 11%. CEO Marcus Desimoni attributed these results to strategic product performance and efficiency improvements, noting a positive growth outlook for 2025.
The Rodenstock Group announced on September 30, 2025, that Dr. Martina Bentele will join the Executive Management Team as Chief Financial Officer, effective February 1, 2026. Bentele transfers from Siemens Energy AG, where she served as Chief Accounting Officer and Corporate Controller for the past five years, leading accounting transformations. With over 20 years of international financial management experience, her appointment completes the executive team. CEO Marcus Desimoni cited her expertise in finance and corporate governance as key to driving growth and value creation. Bentele expressed intent to support the company’s ambitious growth strategy through financial excellence and efficient processes.
In September 2025, Rodenstock won the Silmo d'Or award in the Vision category at the SILMO optical trade fair in Paris for its B.I.G. EXACT™ Sensitive lenses. Selected by an international jury from 75 nominations, these lenses are described as the world's first spectacle lenses optimized for individual visual sensitivity and biometry. The technology builds on Rodenstock's B.I.G. VISION™ platform, using DNEye® Scanner measurements to tailor lenses to each person's unique visual perception reactions. Company executives stated the award recognizes innovation and supports differentiation for optician partners.
Editorial relevance: The award highlights a new lens technology that differentiates products for opticians, potentially influencing consumer demand and retail positioning.
In October 2025, the International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) honoured Dr. Stephan Trumm with its Award of Excellence during a conference ceremony in Tokyo. As Senior Principal Innovation Optics and Standardisation at Rodenstock, Trumm contributes to global optical standards through his work with DIN and ISO committees. The award recognises individuals who have made exceptional contributions to international standardisation with lasting impact. The laudatory speech highlighted the quality of Trumm’s contributions and his successes in project management. Rodenstock, a Munich-based lens manufacturer founded in 1877, employs approximately 4,100 people globally and operates in more than 85 countries.
Rodenstock Poland received the Gold Medal from optical association Grupa MTP for its B.I.G. EXACT® Sensitive lenses on October 17, 2025, during the OPTYKA Fair in Poznań. The award recognizes innovative products evaluated by a professional jury, with nearly 500 entries competing annually. Pawel Malon, Country Manager of Rodenstock Poland, highlighted the medal as proof of commitment to biometric precision. At the fair, Rodenstock also showcased the DNEye® Scanner. This recognition follows previous accolades including the SILMO d’Or and German Innovation Award, plus a nomination for the Optician Awards 2025 (UK). The Poznań International Fair serves as a key platform for industry professionals in Central and Eastern Europe.
In December 2025, Rodenstock announced that its B.I.G. EXACT® Sensitive lenses won the Lens Award at the Optician Awards 2025 in the UK. The company describes these as the world’s first spectacle lens solution integrating individual visual sensitivity with precise biometric data to deliver a fully personalised visual experience. This recognition follows three other international distinctions received by the same product line: the German Innovation Award, the Silmo d’Or, and the Gold Medal of Grupa MTP. Peter Travers, Managing Director of Rodenstock UK, stated the award highlights the brand's commitment to biometric lens design. The Optician Awards are recognised honours within the UK optical sector.
Synsam AB (publ) repurchased a total of 100,000 own shares between September 28 and October 2, 2026. These transactions are part of a share buy-back program announced on May 28, 2026, with a maximum value of MSEK 200, running from June 1, 2026, to February 26, 2027. The repurchases were executed on Nasdaq Stockholm by DNB Carnegie Investment Bank AB (publ) to adjust the company’s capital structure. Daily volumes ranged from 20,000 shares each day, with weighted average prices between SEK 52.025440 and SEK 53.113280. Following these purchases, Synsam holds 4,709,635 own shares out of 145,313,746 outstanding shares.
Ocuco has appointed Dr Mark Clark as Sales Executive for North America to support its Acuitas 3, OptiCommerce, and Innovations 3 platforms. Clark brings over two decades of experience in optical laboratory operations, practice ownership, and digital solutions. His background in website strategy aligns with OptiCommerce, while his lab expertise supports Innovations 3. In previous roles, he launched optical eCommerce brands and managed virtual try-on software development. Dermot Walsh, Ocuco’s Chief Revenue Officer, stated that Clark’s combined perspective is vital for accelerating the company’s US product strategy. The appointment strengthens Ocuco’s sales presence in North America as the Dublin-based firm continues regional expansion.
Blackfin announced its FW26 Urban Sync campaign on 10 September 2026, marking a shift from decorative luxury to a conceptual, performance-driven aesthetic. The visual narrative utilizes the architectural dynamism of Berlin as a conscious expression of identity, reflecting the brand’s balance between local roots and international outlook. Models move through urban spaces to create synchronicity between individuals, titanium materials, and global contexts. The campaign highlights precise cuts and construction mechanics of various eyewear families, allowing each series to express distinct stylistic personalities within a cohesive language. Styling draws on historic haute couture archives to add cultural depth, reinforcing premium positioning while projecting continuity with the brand's history.
On July 29, 2026, Oliver Fischbach was elected president of EUROM 1 Optical Industries during the association’s General Assembly in Naples. Fischbach serves as Senior Vice President for Western Europe and North America at Hoya Vision Care and represents SPECTARIS, the German industrial association. This appointment marks his second term leading the European umbrella organization, having previously served from 2017 to 2020. EUROM 1 unites national associations representing manufacturers of spectacle lenses, frames, sunglasses, and optical equipment, advocating for industry interests regarding regulation, standardization, and trade policy within European institutions. The assembly also addressed current market trends and regulatory developments, with input from partner association ECOO on European eye care issues.
OptoTech promotes its Applications Lab in Germantown, Wisconsin, as a facility for North American customers to engage with ophthalmic lens production technology. The lab supports hands-on training, execution of customer-specific jobs, troubleshooting through error reproduction, and on-site testing of new equipment using metrology capabilities. Current installations include the IQ-Synergy Generator, IQ-Synergy ECO Blocker & ECO Deblocker, and IQ-Synergy S2 Blocker. The space allows customers to evaluate solutions before integrating them into their own production environments. OptoTech invites interested parties to schedule private visits for themselves and their teams to experience these services firsthand.
In April 2026, Rodenstock announced that its B.I.G. EXACT Sensitive lens technology received the TOP OPTA Award in the Czech Republic for ‘Quality Vision for All Generations’ and the Belgoptic Award in Belgium for ‘Innovation of the Year’. These recognitions follow four international prizes awarded to the same technology in 2025, including the German Innovation Award, Silmo d’Or, Grupa MTP Gold Medal, and Optician Lens Awards. The lenses utilize biometric data from the DNEye Scanner and AI to create personalized spectacle lenses based on individual eye anatomy and visual sensitivity. Catherine Stahl, Executive Vice President Marketing & Strategy at Rodenstock, stated that the awards confirm the company's innovative strength and commitment to individualized vision care.
On October 7, 2026, in Treviso, Italy, Rudy Project announced a new partnership with Belgian triathlete Marten Van Riel. The collaboration formalizes an existing relationship where Van Riel had already used the Wingdream aero helmet for racing prior to this agreement. Under the campaign theme “Focused on what matters,” the announcement highlights preparation and equipment fit, aligning with Rudy Project’s “Performance Starts In Your Head” philosophy. The launch features content from Van Riel’s preparation in Kona, marking the opening chapter of the formal partnership. Van Riel is a three-time Olympian (Rio 2016, Tokyo 2020, Paris 2024) and the inaugural T100 World Champion. He recently won IRONMAN 70.3 Elsinore and IRONMAN Lake Placid in June and July 2026, respectively.
ZEISS has appointed Jesper Wiegandt as the new Chief Executive Officer of its Vision Care division. This leadership change affects ZEISS Vision Care, a business unit within the Consumer Markets segment that develops and manufactures solutions for ophthalmic optics, including eyeglass lenses, partner programs, instruments, and digital services. The appointment occurs against the backdrop of ZEISS Group’s recent financial performance, which reported annual revenue totaling almost 12 billion euros in the fiscal year ending September 30, 2025. As an internationally leading technology enterprise headquartered in Oberkochen, Germany, ZEISS operates globally with over 47,400 employees across approximately 50 countries. The company maintains significant investment in research and development, allocating 14 percent of its revenue to innovation efforts.
MIDO has opened applications for its 2027 awards, recognizing innovation and sustainability in the optical industry. Entries for the fifth CSE Award – Certified Sustainable Eyewear and the second CSE Corporate Award are accepted until 8 January 2027. The CSE Award evaluates eyewear frames, sunglasses, and cases using eco-friendly solutions, while the Corporate Award assesses ESG integration by exhibiting companies. Applications for the 12th Best Store Award remain open until 31 December 2026, targeting global optical stores judged on design and innovation. Additionally, submissions for the Sergio Cereda Eyewear Design Award close on 30 November 2026. Winners will be announced during an official ceremony at MIDO, held from 6 to 8 February 2027 at Fiera Milano Rho.
The Silhouette Group opened its first German HOUSE OF SILHOUETTE location at the Kaisergalerien in Hamburg on October 1, following a successful launch in Vienna. The 120-square-meter store features ultra-lightweight Silhouette designs, urban-progressive NEUBAU styles, and evil eye performance eyewear, combining modern technology with personalized vision consultations. Designed by the Ippolito Fleitz Group, the space aims to redefine the premium eyewear experience. Approximately 160 guests from fashion, culture, and media attended the opening event, which included a live performance by The BossHoss and DJ sets. Michael Schmied, CSO of the Silhouette Group, stated that the store embodies their vision of eyewear as an expression of personality and quality.
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 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.
On July 28, 2026, The Vision Council announced guidance for the optical industry regarding new Section 301 tariffs imposed by the Trump Administration on 60 economies. These duties replace expired Section 122 tariffs and include a 12.5% rate on major sourcing markets like China, Vietnam, Thailand, and Cambodia, and a 10% rate on India and Indonesia. The Council advises that the new 12.5% duty on Chinese goods stacks with existing Section 301 rates (7.5% or 25%) rather than superseding them. Traditional eyewear HTS codes do not qualify for exemptions. Additionally, a separate 25% Section 301 duty effective July 22 applies to Brazilian optical products. A proposed 50% penalty on Canadian goods has not yet taken effect. The Council offers a Tariff Dashboard for members to model cost impacts.
Editorial relevance: The Vision Council provides critical guidance on new Section 301 tariffs affecting optical imports, highlighting duty stacking risks and exemption limitations for eyewear products.
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.
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.
At Connect 2026, Meta announced plans to bring its personal AI agent, Muse, to its AI glasses in the coming months. The update enables users to ask about products on shelves or lists via voice mode. To enhance shopping capabilities, Meta added new connectors including Walmart, Best Buy, Sephora, and Ulta, alongside existing Shopify access. Additionally, Meta introduced Ray-Ban Meta Audio glasses and Gen 3 models, and announced an FDA-cleared hearing enhancement feature launching in the US later this year for $149.99. These developments aim to integrate personal superintelligence into wearable devices.
Editorial relevance: The announcement expands Meta's AI commerce ecosystem by integrating Muse with major retail connectors and introducing new hardware features, directly impacting the smart eyewear market.