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.
Neyece and partnerauge/eyebizz announced a free "Myopie-Management machen!" event scheduled for November 11, 2026, at Panik City in Hamburg. The program runs from 18:00 to 22:00, with an optional tour starting at 16:30. Zeiss will present its integrated myopia management ecosystem, featuring the new Myo200 biometer and MyoConsult software, alongside upcoming MyoActive lenses planned for the DACH market next spring. Mark’ennovy will discuss efficiency gains from covering daily, monthly, and Ortho-K contact lenses within a single portfolio. Neyece and pricon will contribute practice and frame advice respectively. Registration is required via email due to limited capacity.
BusinessOutside hosted its eighth annual Eyecare Innovation Summit in Boulder, Colorado, from September 28–30, 2026. The invite-only event, produced with Sanitas Advisors, gathered 75 executives and founders from over 60 companies, including EssilorLuxottica, Alcon, and Kaiser Permanente. Six emerging innovators selected by Sanitas Advisors presented products such as hearing eyeglasses, captioning glasses, AI clinical assistants, and a presbyopia eye drop. Attendees participated in small working sessions, outdoor hikes, and discussions on industry trends like declining meeting attendance. Sponsors included Shamir, Advancing Eyecare, Newton, and FYidoctors. The summit aimed to foster trust and provide early market access through direct interaction between senior decision-makers and startup teams.
Japanese AR display developer Cellid and optics retailer Megane Top have partnered to develop and commercialize the Linse Display AR glasses. Cellid leads technical development, including optics and electronics, while Megane Top handles productization and distribution through its network of over 1,000 stores in Japan. The device, an evolution of Megane Top's existing Linse line, features binocular green microLED displays, AI-powered functions like translation and meeting summaries, and support for corrective lenses. Pre-orders begin October 23 on the GREEN FUNDING platform, followed by retail sales at an undetermined date. A presentation price of ¥119,000 was mentioned but not officially confirmed. Separately, Cellid unveiled Crux, a reference design for partners integrating its waveguides with Qualcomm Snapdragon platforms.
Snap Inc. announced its second-quarter 2026 financial results on August 3, reporting total revenue of $1.599 billion, a 19% year-over-year increase, with net losses narrowing to $164 million from $263 million in the prior year. The company confirmed that its new smart glasses, 'Specs,' will have a commercial launch this fall, with a detailed product reveal scheduled for September 16 in Los Angeles. Developed over ten years, Specs are described by CEO Evan Spiegel as superior to current AI glasses in functionality and more wearable than VR headsets. Direct billing revenue from Lens+, Snapchat+, and Memories Storage grew 85% year-over-year to $316 million, though specific AR-only sales figures were not disclosed. Snap views Specs as its largest long-term opportunity, investing within existing operating expense forecasts while maintaining core business profitability.
Meta has paused its planned international expansion of Ray-Ban Display Glasses with Neural Band to the UK, France, Italy, and Canada, originally scheduled for early 2026. The company cited "unprecedented demand and limited inventory," noting that product waitlists now extend well into 2026 as it focuses on fulfilling US orders. Concurrently, Meta launched a handwriting recognition feature in Early Access in the United States for English users, allowing message sending via WhatsApp and Messenger by writing on any surface while wearing the Neural Band. Additionally, pedestrian navigation support was expanded to Denver, Las Vegas, Portland, and Salt Lake City, and a phased rollout began for a new teleprompter feature.
Bloomberg reports that Meta and Ray-Ban owner EssilorLuxottica are discussing doubling their annual smart glasses production target from 10 million to 20 million units, with a potential increase to 30 million if demand justifies it. This follows EssilorLuxottica’s earlier plan to reach 10 million units by end-2026, citing strong sales of Ray-Ban Meta glasses which recently accounted for over a third of its revenue growth. The discussions occur as Meta shifts investment from VR content to AI glasses and wearables, having laid off over 10% of Reality Labs staff. The move aims to expand market footprint ahead of anticipated competition from Apple, Google, and Samsung.
Editorial relevance: The reported production expansion highlights the strategic shift of major eyewear and tech players toward scaling smart glasses manufacturing to meet demand and preempt competitor entry.
Apple has acquired Q.ai, a stealth-mode startup founded in 2022 that converts "silent speech" into text via computer vision. Mainstream outlets like Reuters report the deal value at $1.6 billion, which would make it Apple's second-largest acquisition after Beats. The company's co-founders include Aviad Maizels (formerly of PrimeSense) and Dr. Yonatan Wexler (formerly of OrCam). Unlike hardware-based competitors using jaw sensors, Q.ai employs optical sensing to detect subvocal muscle movements from a distance. This technology could be integrated into future Apple Vision headsets, AirPods stems, or smart glasses reportedly targeted for late 2026 launch. The move highlights the industry focus on enabling private text entry for wearable eyewear.
Editorial relevance: The acquisition of Q.ai by Apple signals a strategic move to secure silent speech technology, which is critical for private text input in future smart glasses and AR devices.
Snap has spun off its Specs AR glasses business into a new wholly-owned subsidiary, Specs Inc., to enhance operational focus, enable potential minority investment, and support brand growth ahead of the consumer product's planned launch later this year. The company is currently hiring for nearly 100 global roles in preparation for release. While current developer Spectacles cost $99/month ($50/month for students) and weigh 226 grams with a 45-minute battery life, CEO Evan Spiegel claims the upcoming consumer Specs will feature a significantly smaller form factor and lighter weight while maintaining app compatibility. Snap OS 2.0 was recently released, adding first-party apps like Browser and Gallery to improve readiness for consumers.
During its Q4 2025 earnings report, EssilorLuxottica announced that it sold more than 7 million units of Ray-Ban and Oakley smart glasses in 2025 alone. This figure represents more than triple the volume from 2024 and suggests approximately 9 million units have been sold since the launch of Ray-Ban Meta two and a half years ago. The company described these products as the dominant driver of wholesale growth in the second half of the year, noting exponential growth in North American wholesale. This announcement follows Bloomberg reports that Meta and EssilorLuxottica are discussing doubling or tripling production capacity, potentially raising targets to 20–30 million units by 2026. The data underscores strong consumer demand for smart eyewear amidst increasing competition from Apple, Google, and Samsung.
Editorial relevance: The reported sales figures and production capacity discussions highlight the rapid scaling of smart eyewear, a key growth segment for online and omnichannel retail.
Bloomberg reporter Mark Gurman states that Apple plans to launch smart glasses in early 2027, targeting December for mass production. The device is reported to feature two cameras—one for high-quality capture and another for computer vision—along with microphones and speakers, but no display. Unlike competitors partnering with established brands, Apple will design its own frames using acrylic elements. This announcement follows reports of next-generation Ray-Ban Meta glasses by Meta and EssilorLuxottica featuring facial recognition for 2026, and Google’s Gemini-powered platform launching this year with partners including Gentle Monster and Warby Parker.
According to The Information, Meta is accelerating plans to launch a successor to the current monocular Meta Ray-Ban Display later this year, moving up from previous reports citing a 2027 release. The new device, internally codenamed Hypernova 2, is expected to feature binocular displays, addressing limitations of the current US-exclusive model which uses only the right lens. While earlier supply-chain analyses suggested a 2027 timeline, recent reports indicate Meta executives are concerned about confusing customers with too many rapid releases, particularly given upcoming Horizon OS headset and true AR glasses plans. However, uncertainty remains regarding whether the final product will prioritize binocular capabilities or a lighter design, as Meta CTO Andrew Bosworth recently polled users on these trade-offs without confirming specific features.
Veteran tech journalist Alex Heath reports that Snap will launch its standalone true AR glasses, named Specs, this fall with a price point of around $2500. The company officially announced the release of these glasses just under one year ago. Compared to the bulky Spectacles development kit rented to developers for $99/month, CEO Evan Spiegel claims the consumer Specs will feature a smaller form factor, lighter weight, and greater capability while running the same Snap OS. Snap OS is Android-based but restricts native code installation, requiring developers to build sandboxed 'Lenses' using JavaScript or TypeScript via Lens Studio. Recent updates like Snap OS 2.0 have improved first-party apps to prepare for consumer readiness. If launched as reported, Specs would be the first standalone true AR glasses from a major tech company, targeting a wide field of view binocular display system with head tracking, hand tracking, and real-time environment meshing.
During its Q1 2026 earnings call, Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg stated that daily usage of the company's smart glasses tripled year-over-year, describing them as one of the fastest-growing consumer electronics categories. This claim follows February data from partner EssilorLuxottica, which reported selling 7 million Ray-Ban Meta and Oakley Meta units in 2025. Bloomberg previously noted discussions between Meta and EssilorLuxottica about potentially doubling or tripling production capacity, though completion is unconfirmed. The announcement comes as competition intensifies: Google confirmed Gemini-powered smart glasses from Warby Parker and Gentle Monster will launch this fall, while Apple is rumored to enter the market in 2027.
Meta announced it will provide free Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses to every legally blind US veteran, an eligible population exceeding 130,000 individuals. The program includes hands-on training via guides, monthly webinars, and in-person events nationwide, facilitated by partnerships with the Blinded Veterans Association and TechSoup. The initiative was championed by Don Overton, a Gulf War veteran who lost his sight. The glasses utilize Meta AI's visual capabilities, including a 'Detailed Responses' accessibility setting designed for vision-impaired users to describe objects and text. Additionally, wearers can access Be My Eyes volunteers for real-time assistance. Eligible veterans can request their pair at bva.org/glasses.
Meta is currently debating how to handle the privacy LED on its upcoming smart glasses featuring an always-on AI capability internally referred to as “super sensing.” Reports from The Financial Times and The Information indicate the device would continuously capture audio and periodic images for AI analysis. A key point of contention is whether the privacy LED should flash during this mode; current plans suggest it will not, arguing that processed data is not stored or available to users. This stance contrasts with Meta’s recent announcement of improved firmware to detect tampering with the privacy LED on existing models. Mark Zuckerberg has expressed a goal for these glasses to act as personal agents, while Chief Scientist Michael Abrash described future iterations capable of creating dynamic 3D maps of physical environments. No final decision on the privacy implementation has been made.
The Norwegian government announced plans to introduce a temporary ban on smart glasses, referred to as 'AI glasses' in official bulletins, in various public locations including parks, beaches, museums, shopping malls, and events. Citing privacy concerns regarding non-consensual filming and audio recording, Minister Torgeir Micaelsen stated the measure aims to facilitate thorough investigation and informed debate for lasting regulation. The proposal is not an outright ban; devices remain permitted for private use and in certain other contexts. Potential extensions under consideration include schools, health institutions with changing rooms, and universities. A special council will examine permanent national regulation of wearable technology. This move follows similar restrictions in US states and cities and sales halts by Dutch retailer Hans Anders due to privacy issues.
Professional Eye Care Associates of America (PECAA) and VSP Vision announced two rebate opportunities for PECAA Max members. A limited-time bonus adds $3 to the existing $15 exam rebate, totaling $18 per qualifying commercial patient exam from January through March 2027, provided members align all three eyewear partners: Marcolin, Marchon, and Altair. This bonus ends in April 2027, reverting to the standard up-to-$15 rebate. Separately, a new Marcolin frame rebate offering up to 10% on eligible purchases began October 1, 2026, following Marcolin’s addition to the VSP Vision family. Since its 2023 inception, the Vision Exam Rebate has distributed $128 million across more than 4,200 practices.
Cathleen Kabashi, director of the Munich-based opti trade fair, announced that the upcoming opti 2027 edition will operate under the "See. Hear. Next." campaign. This initiative focuses on technologies, new business models, and industry evolution. A key addition is opti SMART TECH, a dedicated space for smart glasses, wearables, hearables, and connected technologies designed to bridge tech providers with optical and audiology professionals. While maintaining its primary focus on the DACH region (Germany, Austria, Switzerland), Kabashi emphasized that this concentration allows innovators to test relevance in a demanding European market early. Other highlighted formats include opti SPHEARE for optics-audiology interaction, TOMORROW VISION for contact lens trends, and expanded design stages like opti FINE EYEWEAR and opti DESIGN STAGE.
Chrystel Barranger, President of EssilorLuxottica’s Professional Solutions segment, detailed the group’s medium-term strategic priorities for EMEA and Asia during an interview. She emphasized a shift toward preventive healthcare, leveraging eye analysis to detect systemic diseases like diabetes early, and transforming eyewear into connected interfaces that integrate technology to reduce mobile dependency. Barranger highlighted the critical role of optical professionals in this ecosystem, citing partnerships with over 300,000 practitioners globally alongside direct-to-consumer sales through more than 18,000 stores. The strategy focuses on combining lens technology, frame design, and innovations such as Nuance Audio glasses and Varilux lenses. She stressed that collaboration between medical professionals and opticians is essential to move from reactive to preventive care models, positioning EssilorLuxottica as a key partner in driving industry transformation through scientific evidence and technological integration.
Visionis, a Spanish optical distributor founded by CEO Enrique Cabrera, celebrated its 20th anniversary. The company has grown from four employees in a 400 m² facility to over 50 professionals operating from 4,000 m² premises, offering more than 20,000 products. Initially an exclusive Alcon distributor, Visionis now provides private labels like Bod Lenses, industrial beveling, and personalized maintenance solutions including sodium hyaluronate. Recent investments include three Kardex vertical storage systems achieving over 99% order precision and two MEI automatic beveling machines. The firm emphasizes combining advanced logistics with human advisory services through eight commercial advisors across Spain, maintaining its focus on supporting opticians amidst sector digitalization and consolidation.
ExpoÓptica + Audio 2026, the 36th edition organized by IFEMA Madrid, closed April 9–11 with over 8,000 professional visitors and 130 exhibitors. The event reported a 10% increase in exhibitors compared to the previous year and a 48% rise in foreign companies relative to 2024, marking a 28% share of new participants. Inaugurated by Health Minister Mónica García, the fair highlighted growth in visual optics and audiology offerings. A new "Espacio Glam" area targeted mid-high and high-end optical fashion. Concurrently, the OPTOM 2026 Congress and the first FEDAO Congress took place, where a Deloitte report on the 2030 optical market was presented.
The international optical and design trade fair opti has announced a new visual identity and campaign slogan, "See. Hear. Next.", for its 2027 edition. According to Cathleen Kabashi, director of opti, the initiative aims to position the event as an active platform shaping the industry's future rather than just reflecting it. The slogan highlights the convergence of optics and hearing acoustics, alongside technological advances and design trends. The new branding will be implemented gradually over the coming months. The opti 2027 trade fair is scheduled to take place from January 29 to 31, 2027, in Munich, serving as a key meeting point for the global sector.
The trade show SILMO Paris will take place from September 25 to 28, 2026, at Paris Nord Villepinte. Organizers report that 90% of exhibition space is already reserved, with approximately 900 exhibitors and more than 1,500 brands expected from over 40 countries, including France, Italy, Germany, Spain, the United States, Japan, South Korea, and China. The event covers all optical segments, such as frames, lenses, connected glasses, store equipment, and services. A dedicated Tech Village within SILMO NEXT will showcase innovations in artificial intelligence, data, and digital services. President Amélie Morel stated the fair aims to help professionals navigate sector transformations. The SILMO d’Or awards will also recognize industry excellence during the event.
On May 4, the VII CSR Innovation Award was presented to Opticalia’s online training program at the Casino de Madrid. The award recognizes a flexible, continuous education initiative for optical professionals, covering technical optics, visual health, customer service, and business management to enhance service quality and profitability. During the event, Dr. Celia Sánchez-Ramos introduced new CSR photosensitive lenses, described as the first patented lenses blocking natural and artificial blue light. These lenses combine indoor and outdoor protection with blue light attenuation and are manufactured by Industrias de Ópticas Prats under a utility model patent. Eduardo Morán, Dean of the National College of Optometrists (CNOO), presented the award to Marta Alonso and Montse Cremonesis of Opticalia, praising the company’s nearly 20-year commitment to accessible professional development.