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Published through 2026-11-03 03:15 UTC · Automated cloud publishing.

#Industry News

Today 5 items
10-8Thu
  1. Rodenstock45

    Rodenstock’s B.I.G. EXACT Sensitive lens technology receives TOP OPTA and Belgoptic awards in 2026

    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.

  2. Acuité25

    Optic 2000 and Maison Lissac join AsnaV's 2026 Vision Days prevention campaign

    Optic 2000 and Maison Lissac are participating in the 22nd edition of Journées de la Vision, organized by the French association AsnaV, from October 8 to 31, 2026. The initiative aims to raise public awareness about visual health challenges, including screen overexposure, new work modes, and population aging, while facilitating nationwide screening. Participating stores will offer free vision tests and invite visitors to complete an anonymous online questionnaire managed by AsnaV to assess French visual habits. Martine Loyer, General Director of Groupement Optic 2000, stated that opening stores for these tests helps make visual prevention accessible across France.

  3. Ottica Italiana25

    Alleanza gruppi ottica to host fifth national meeting in Italy on October 18

    Alleanza gruppi ottica, alongside networks Cio and Ottici Associati, will hold the fifth edition of its national meeting on Sunday, October 18, at Devero Hotel Centro Congressi in Cavenago di Brianza, Italy. The event focuses on "relational intelligence," distinguishing AI's role in precision from relational skills' value. The morning features seven partner-led workshops repeated across four sessions, with participation from Hoya, Rodenstock, Zeiss, EssilorLuxottica, CooperVision, Menicon Soleko, Safilens, and Marcolin. Afternoon sessions include personal branding expert Riccardo Scandellari and optometrist Roberto Pregliasco. Organizers Grazia Lamperti and Carlo Vannucci emphasize the meeting as a practical starting point for optical centers, including career awards and the Futurlab program launch.

  4. FOCUS Augenoptik10

    Zeiss Appoints Jesper Wiegandt as Vision Care CEO

    Effective October 1, 2026, Jesper Wiegandt assumed the role of CEO at Zeiss Vision Care, overseeing both strategic and operational leadership. He succeeds Sven Hermann, who remains CEO of Zeiss Consumer Markets and continues to lead that division’s management. Wiegandt will temporarily retain his position as Chief Commercial Officer of Zeiss Vision Care. He joined the company in 2022 as Chief Marketing Officer and was promoted to Chief Commercial Officer in January 2026. Prior to joining Zeiss, Wiegandt held international leadership roles at Procter & Gamble, founded a strategy and marketing consultancy, and served on supervisory boards for companies and non-profit organizations.

  5. The Optical Journal10

    MOREL Donates $2 Per Frame to Breast Cancer Research Foundation During Pink October Initiative

    French eyewear company MOREL announced a donation initiative for October, Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The company will donate $2 from every frame purchased from its curated “Pink October Collection” to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. This collection features styles in pink, purple, and red shades. Each qualifying order includes a symbolic pink ribbon keychain. Additionally, MOREL is offering accounts an exclusive graphic featuring imagery from its latest ODYSSEA campaign. The initiative aims to support breast cancer research and awareness, noting that 2.3 million people are diagnosed with breast cancer annually.

  6. The Optical Journal30

    Vision Council Opens 2027 NOW Awards to Global Eyewear Brands

    The Vision Council and RX have opened free submissions for the sixth annual 2027 NOW Awards, welcoming eyewear designers and brands worldwide. Entries close February 5, 2027, with product samples due by February 10. Finalists will be announced in late February, and winners honored on March 11 during the NOW Awards ceremony at Vision Expo 2027, held March 10–13 at The Venetian Expo in Las Vegas. Building on last year’s expansion beyond exhibitors, the competition is open to established houses, licensed collections, and independent designers. Each submitting brand guarantees at least one frame in the NOW Showcase. Judging panels represent design, retail, education, and fashion, chaired by Nico Roseillier. Award categories include Best Optical, Sunglass, Direct-to-Consumer, Emerging Designer, and Wearable Technology.

  7. VisionPlus45

    VisionPlus EXPO 2027 Announces Collaboration with United Optometrist Forum for OPTOVERSE-7 Conference

    VisionPlus EXPO announced a collaboration with the United Optometrist Forum (UOF) to host the OPTOVERSE-7 conference alongside its 2027 exhibition. Scheduled for April 24–25, 2027, at the Dubai World Trade Centre, the event will integrate business and educational offerings for optical brands, manufacturers, retailers, and eye-care professionals. The OPTOVERSE-7 conference runs from April 24–26, 2027, providing scientific presentations and clinical discussions. This partnership aims to connect commercial innovation with professional knowledge, targeting participants from Middle East, Africa, Europe, and Asia markets.

  8. Vision Monday — Business67

    Kits Eyecare Reports Preliminary Q3 2026 Revenue Growth with Glasses Segment Up 59.3 Percent

    Kits Eyecare Ltd. announced selected preliminary unaudited results for its third quarter ended September 30, 2026. Total revenue grew 21.6 percent year-over-year to approximately $63.7 million, accelerating from 17.8 percent growth in Q2 2026. Glasses revenue specifically increased 59.3 percent year-over-year to approximately $11.3 million, up from 54.0 percent growth in the previous quarter. The company attributed this acceleration to investments in marketing, glasses expansion, and its Toronto retail location. Adjusted EBITDA exceeded $2.9 million, representing more than 4.5 percent of total revenue. Net revenue retention was approximately 92 percent at 24 months for the Q3 2024 customer cohort and 189 percent at 48 months for the Q3 2022 cohort. Cash increased by $3.2 million to approximately $30.6 million, with no debt. Full third-quarter results are scheduled for release in early November 2026.

  9. Vision Monday — Business65

    Innovative Eyewear Reports Record Preliminary Q3 2026 Net Sales and Expands Wholesale Channels Ahead of Lucyd Aero Launch

    Innovative Eyewear reported preliminary Q3 2026 net sales of approximately $1.04 million, a 55 percent year-over-year increase and its highest quarterly revenue to date. Nine-month net sales reached approximately $2.8 million, surpassing full-year 2025 figures. Growth reflected a 25 percent increase in direct-to-consumer and online marketplace sales alongside first shipments under new wholesale programs. The company opened three new channels: a major U.S. big-box retailer, FYihealth Group in Canada, and Directed Electronics in Australia and New Zealand. Initial purchase orders from Directed Electronics for more than 3,000 units are expected to ship in October 2026 and are not included in Q3 results. Full financial results are scheduled for mid-November 2026.

  10. INVISION27

    The Vision Council Opens 2027 NOW Awards Submissions to Global Eyewear Brands

    The Vision Council and RX have opened free submissions for the sixth annual 2027 NOW Awards, expanding eligibility to eyewear designers and brands worldwide. Entries close February 5, 2027, with product samples due by February 10. Finalists will be announced in late February, and winners will be honored during a ceremony on March 11 at Vision Expo 2027, held March 10–13 at The Venetian Expo in Las Vegas. The competition features categories including Best Optical, Sunglass, Direct-to-Consumer, Emerging Designer, and Wearable Technology. A judging panel chaired by Nico Roseillier will evaluate entries, with the full panel scheduled for announcement in January. Every submitting brand is guaranteed at least one frame display in the NOW Showcase on the show floor.

  11. Vision Monday — Business27

    Mido Opens Applications for 2027 Awards, Including Best Store Award for Independent Optical Retail

    Show organizers announced that applications are now open for the Mido Awards 2027 in Milan. The program features three categories: the CSE Award for Certified Sustainable Eyewear, the second edition of the CSE Corporate Award, and the 12th edition of the Best Store Award. The sustainability awards recognize companies for product innovation and corporate ESG integration, with application deadlines set for January 8, 2027. The Best Store Award, targeting independent optical retailers worldwide, evaluates design and innovation in customer experience, with submissions due by December 31, 2026. Winners will be revealed during an official ceremony at Mido, scheduled for February 6–8, 2027, at Fiera Milano Rho.

  12. Vision Monday — Business35

    IDOC Launches Rewards Program for Independent Optometrists

    IDOC, a global community of over 7,000 independent optometrists, announced the launch of IDOC Rewards, a program designed to provide financial savings to members utilizing multiple IDOC products and services. Members earn points quarterly for qualifying activities such as becoming an IDOC Labs customer, adding contact lens share programs, enrolling in vendor programs, using practice support services, or attending Vision Forward events. Achieving three points grants Gold status, offering free Essential Membership and 10 percent off Books & Benchmarks and Optometry Marketing Services, with potential annual savings up to $4,074. Four or more points secure Platinum status, which includes free Select or Vantage share program access and 25 percent off those services, yielding up to $8,145 in annual savings. The initiative aims to help independent practices compete against corporate chains and other commercial interests.

10-7Wed
  1. Optical Prism10

    MODO Marks World Sight Day by Adding Two Vision Centers

    MODO recognized World Sight Day with a focus on the addition of two more vision centers. The provided source material consists solely of the article title and publication metadata from Optical Prism Magazine, offering no further details regarding the location, opening dates, or specific nature of these new facilities.

  2. VisionPlus50

    CIOF 2026 Opens in Beijing with Over 600 Exhibitors and 1,500 Global Brands

    The 37th China International Optics Fair (CIOF 2026) opened on September 8 at the China International Exhibition Centre in Beijing. Held under the guidance of the China National Light Industry Council, the three-day event features more than 600 exhibitors and over 1,500 global brands across 55,000 square metres. The showcase covers frames, lenses, contact lenses, smart eyewear, myopia prevention, vision training, eye health, manufacturing equipment, and fitting instruments. International participation includes a pavilion with 90 exhibitors from 20 countries and regions, representing 183 international brands. Established names such as Marchon, Marcolin, STEPPER, Safilo, and Silhouette are presenting alongside debut exhibitors including Nano Vista, Rupp+Hubrach, GLANCE Optical, Megane Ichiba, and Skywings. Dedicated areas explore technology themes like AI, audio interaction, display technologies, and personalised vision solutions, while designer pavilions highlight independent brands.

  3. VisionPlus15

    Safilo India Marks 25 Years with Sri Lanka FW’26 Buying Event

    Safilo India hosted its Fall/Winter 2026 Buying Days in Sri Lanka to celebrate the company’s 25th anniversary of operations in India. The event, held at the Anantara-Avani Kalutara Resort, brought together 153 top retailers from across the Indian sub-continent to explore the latest eyewear collections from Safilo’s international brand portfolio. Key executives, including Commercial Director Arup K Sinha, CFO Sayali Khadilkar, and Head of Sales Operations Maya Ramachandran, engaged directly with participating customers. Beyond product discovery, the gathering aimed to strengthen business relationships and discuss future growth opportunities. The source describes the event as concluding positively, highlighting a blend of professional interactions and hospitality, though it does not specify sales figures or new product launches beyond general collection viewing.

  4. VisionPlus30

    IIOO Expo Announces 11th Edition for March 2027 in Mumbai

    The IIOO Expo has announced its 11th edition, scheduled for March 13–15, 2027, at the CIDCO Exhibition Centre in Navi Mumbai, India. This upcoming event follows a recent Chennai edition that attracted over 200 exhibitors, 1,200 brands, and 10,500 visitors. The Mumbai expo aims to serve as a platform for the optical community, featuring eyewear, frames, sunglasses, spectacle lenses, contact lenses, optical instruments, machinery, accessories, technology, packaging, and retail solutions. Manufacturers, importers, distributors, dealers, opticians, retailers, optometrists, and eye-care professionals are expected to participate to explore products, meet suppliers, and create business opportunities.

  5. FOCUS Augenoptik57

    ANFAO Reports Italian Eyewear Exports at €2.7 Billion in H1 2026 with Recovery Signals Despite Overall Decline

    Italian eyewear industry exports reached slightly over €2.7 billion in the first half of 2026, a 2.7% decrease year-on-year, according to data from ANFAO. While sunglasses and frames exports fell by 3.7% and 1.1% respectively, lens exports grew by 6.0%. The sector showed improving monthly trends, moving from a 14.3% drop in January to positive growth of 3.0% in April and 3.7% in June. The US market remained a significant burden, with frame and sunglasses exports there falling 25.1% to approximately €320 million; ANFAO stated that without this decline, overall exports would have grown. Europe served as a key growth driver, with frame and sunglasses exports rising 4.4%, led by Poland (+20.9%), Portugal (+13.4%), Germany (+7.1%), and Spain (+3.5%). Other regions saw mixed results, including strong growth in Hong Kong (+72.9%) and Turkey (+7.8%), but declines in China (-22.8%), Mexico (-20.0%), and the UAE (-20.9%). ANFAO expressed cautious optimism for the second half of 2026, citing ongoing economic and geopolitical uncertainties.

  6. Rudy Project15

    Rudy Project Announces Partnership with Triathlete Marten Van Riel

    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.

  7. Vision Monday — Business15

    Zeiss Appoints Jesper Wiegandt as Global CEO of Vision Care

    Zeiss announced the appointment of Jesper Wiegandt as CEO of Zeiss Vision Care, effective October 1. In this role, Wiegandt assumes strategic and operational leadership of the global vision care business while continuing to serve as acting chief commercial officer. He succeeds Sven Hermann, who remains CEO of Zeiss Consumer Markets. Wiegandt joined Zeiss in 2022 as chief marketing officer and was appointed chief commercial officer in January 2026. Gary Rosenbaum retains responsibility for the U.S. market as president and CEO of Zeiss Vision Care US. The announcement follows the recent appointment of Axel Christian as president of Zeiss North America, also effective October 1, 2026, a newly created role intended to unify activities across the U.S. and Canada.

10-6Tue
  1. Optical Prism10

    Charmant USA and Isaac Mizrahi New York Announce Collaboration to Support Breast Cancer Research Foundation

    Charmant USA Inc. and Isaac Mizrahi New York have announced a collaboration aimed at supporting The Breast Cancer Research Foundation. The announcement was reported by Optical Prism Magazine on October 5, 2026. The available source material confirms the partnership's existence and its charitable objective but does not provide specific details regarding product designs, financial contributions, or launch timelines. As the text is limited to the headline and publication attribution, further factual specifics about the nature of the collaboration remain unverified in this report.

  2. OptikNow27

    MIDO Opens Applications for 2027 Awards Recognizing Innovation and Sustainability

    MIDO has opened applications for the MIDO AWARDS 2027, honoring excellence in innovation, sustainability, and industry leadership. Three programs are accepting submissions: the CSE Award – Certified Sustainable Eyewear (fifth edition) and the CSE Corporate Award (second edition), both with a January 8, 2027 deadline; and the Best Store Award (12th edition), closing December 31, 2026. The CSE awards evaluate eco-friendly product design and ESG integration, while the Best Store Award assesses retail experience through layout and digital communication. Winners will be announced at an official ceremony during MIDO 2027, held February 6–8, 2027, at Fiera Milano Rho. Additionally, applications for the Sergio Cereda Eyewear Design Award remain open until November 30.

  3. Ottica Italiana12

    Ottica Italiana Releases Digital Preview of L’Eos 2026 for Expo Ottica Sud

    Ottica Italiana has published a digital preview of the 2026 edition of L’Eos, the official newspaper for Expo Ottica Sud. The 11th edition of this Mediterranean optical and optometric trade show is scheduled to take place from October 10 to 12, 2026, at the Centro Sicilia Fiera in Misterbianco, Catania. Produced by the Ottica Italiana editorial team in collaboration with Eos Catania organizers, the tabloid serves as a guide to exhibitor news and key participants. While the publication will be distributed free of charge in print format at the fair entrances during the event, the current online version allows industry professionals to access content ahead of the opening date to plan their visits.

  4. FashionUnited — Business70

    Innovative Eyewear Reports Record Q3 Sales Ahead of Lucyd Aero Launch and Retail Expansion

    US-based smart eyewear manufacturer Innovative Eyewear reported preliminary unaudited net sales of approximately $1.04 million for the third quarter ended September 30, 2026, marking a 55% year-over-year increase and the highest quarterly sales in company history. Growth was driven by a 25% rise in direct-to-consumer and online marketplace sales, alongside initial wholesale shipments. The company announced new distribution channels, including an initial purchase order to a US big-box retailer for Lucyd Armor products (expected in-store October 2026), a Canadian launch with FYihealth Group across ~345 locations, and orders from Australian distributor Directed Electronics for over 3,000 units (shipping October 2026). Nine-month sales reached $2.8 million, surpassing full-year 2025 revenue. CEO Harrison Gross stated these results clear the way for the planned fourth-quarter launch of Lucyd Aero smartglasses.

  5. Ottica Italiana17

    Ottica Italiana and Federottica to Participate in Expo Ottica Sud 2026

    Ottica Italiana and Federottica will participate in Expo Ottica Sud 2026, serving as the official media partner. The event features a dedicated exhibition space for opticians and optometrists to network and discover industry updates. Key Federottica representatives attending include national vice president Michele Schirone, Sicily regional president Leoluca Provenzano, and Catania president Rosario Cannavò. Ottica Italiana’s editorial team will operate from the fair, distributing free copies of L’Eos, the official newspaper, along with issues of Ottica Italiana magazine and Indi-Eyewear. Video coverage by OITV will capture interviews and product news for release on YouTube, the ottica-italiana.it portal, and social media. On Sunday, October 11, from 12:00 to 13:00, staff at stands 120-121 will offer independent opticians copies of Indi-E Mag and opportunities for brief interviews.

  6. Vision Monday — Business27

    First Look London Eyewear Event Announced for September 2027

    A new eyewear trade event, First Look London, is scheduled to debut in September 2027. The platform is dedicated exclusively to independent brands and emerging designers. Organizers describe the format as a tightly curated selection of labels presented in a clean, gallery-style environment. This setting aims to provide buyers with meaningful time to engage directly with designers, founders, and makers. As an announcement for a future date, the event has not yet launched. Specific details regarding exhibitor lists, pricing, or geographic availability beyond the London location are not provided in the source material.

  7. Ottica Italiana27

    FE-Group Consolidates Optical and Ophthalmic Brands Following 2026 Frastema Asset Acquisition

    FE-Group announced a unified vision integrating specialized brands across the optical and ophthalmic sectors. The group comprises Frastema Ophthalmics for Italian instrumentation and technical support, Easyopht for international software and disposable products, Easylac for specialty contact lenses, Fiso for refraction units, and Keratron for corneal topographers. This structure was strengthened in 2026 by the acquisition of assets from Frastema, a historic producer of ophthalmic examination chairs, reinforcing Made in Italy design and manufacturing capabilities. The company describes this ecosystem as offering professionals a single interlocutor spanning distribution, production, technology, and assistance, combining human expertise with technological innovation under one common strategic direction.

  8. MAFO25

    Zeiss Vision Care appoints Jesper Wiegandt as CEO effective October 1, 2026

    Effective October 1, 2026, Jesper Wiegandt was appointed CEO of Zeiss Vision Care. He assumes strategic and operational leadership while continuing to serve as acting Chief Commercial Officer. Wiegandt succeeds Sven Hermann, who remains CEO of Zeiss Consumer Markets and leads its Board of Management. Joined in 2022 as Chief Marketing Officer, Wiegandt became Chief Commercial Officer in January 2026. His background includes international leadership roles at Procter & Gamble and founding a strategy consultancy. Hermann cited Wiegandt’s contributions to brand strength and business growth as key factors for the appointment.

  9. Eyewear Intelligence25

    ZEISS Vision Care appoints Jesper Wiegandt as CEO

    ZEISS Group appointed Jesper Wiegandt as CEO of ZEISS Vision Care, effective October 1. He succeeds Sven Hermann, who remains CEO of the ZEISS Consumer Markets segment and continues to head its board of management. Wiegandt will also stay on as acting chief commercial officer of ZEISS Vision Care.

  10. MAFO32

    Mido Opens Registration for 2027 Eyewear Exhibition in Milan

    Mido has opened registration for visitors and journalists attending its 2027 exhibition, scheduled for February 6–8 at Fiera Milano Rho. President Lorraine Berton stated the event will feature new developments and a strong international presence, with positive exhibitor responses including returning companies and new participants. The platform attracts professionals from over 160 countries, covering the entire eyewear supply chain. Key features include dedicated areas for emerging talent (Academy and Start Up) and The Vision Stage, which will host approximately 20 events in Pavilion 1. A new digital platform, My Fair Plus – Beyond the Exhibition, allows attendees to book cultural activities in Milan. Special travel deals are arranged for visitors from the United States, Canada, Latin America, and specific Chinese cities including Wenzhou, Shenzhen, and Shanghai.

  11. MAFO70

    Silmo Paris 2026 Draws Over 32,000 Visitors with Focus on AI and Smart Eyewear Innovations

    Silmo Paris 2026 attracted 32,108 visitors from nearly 150 countries, with 53% international attendance, featuring over 950 exhibitors across 80,000 square metres. The event emphasized connected optics, hosting the first international hackathon for health applications on smart glasses platforms like HTC and EverySight, won by Kimoo. The Silmo d'Or awards recognized innovations such as autofocus glasses and luxury smart eyewear. Sustainability was highlighted through the CSR Spot and Andy Wolf's Committed Company Award. Over 60 talks covered AI and healthcare trends, setting the stage for the industry's evolution ahead of the fair's 60th anniversary in 2027.

  12. FOCUS Augenoptik20

    Glasklar Consolidates Operations at New Troisdorf Facility

    Oliver Bartsch GmbH, operating as Glasklar, is relocating its headquarters to a new facility in Troisdorf near Cologne. The move aims to consolidate production, warehousing, and administrative functions currently spread across multiple sites into one location. Renovation work is scheduled for October 2026, with the operational start at the new site planned for November 2026. According to the company, the transition will create additional capacity for future development, including larger areas for production and offices, as well as space for new machinery and products. Glasklar specializes in individual eyewear cleaning products and customer retention concepts.

  13. Auganix72

    Cellid Partners With Japanese Retailer Megane Top to Commercialize Linse Display AR Glasses

    Cellid, an AR display developer, has announced a business partnership with Japanese eyewear retailer Megane Top to develop and sell AR glasses under the Megane Top brand. The collaboration spans product development through market expansion, with Cellid leading optical and hardware engineering while Megane Top contributes eyeglass expertise and its nationwide store network, including the Megane Ichiba chain. The jointly developed 'Linse Display' AR glasses feature navigation, notifications, translation, AI notes, and entertainment functions. Preorders via crowdfunding on GREEN FUNDING begin October 23, 2026, followed by in-store sales after the campaign ends. Current images show prototypes, indicating final designs may differ.

  14. Optik Gazete67

    Turkish Chambers of Commerce Collect Industry Feedback on Draft Guidelines for Online Contact Lens Sales

    The Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Turkey (TOBB) has distributed a draft guideline to relevant chambers, seeking industry feedback by October 8, 2026. This draft aims to specify implementation details for the July 3, 2026 regulation change, which restricts consumer-facing online contact lens sales to licensed optician websites with valid prescriptions. The proposed guidelines mandate that sales occur only through a single authorized domain name, explicitly prohibiting orders via social media or electronic marketplaces. Key provisions include strict prescription verification before order approval, product traceability requirements involving ÜTS obligations, and bans on misleading health claims or false discounts. Entities holding pharmacy licenses but lacking separate optician permits are excluded from this online sales authorization. The final text may change after the consultation period.

  15. Vision Monday — Business12

    Optical Industry Mourns Larry Roth, Marchon Eyewear Co-Founder

    Laurence “Larry” T. Roth, co-founder and former co-president of Marchon Eyewear, died at age 75 on September 27, 2026, following a battle with cancer. Born in Queens, New York, Roth established Marchon in 1983 alongside Al Berg and Jeff White, overseeing U.S. sales structures as the company grew into a global leader in licensed eyewear brands including Nike, Calvin Klein, Fendi, Coach, and Michael Kors. VSP Vision acquired Marchon in 2008. Afterward, Roth founded the racing and breeding operation LNJ Foxwoods with his wife Nanci and daughter Jaime. Industry colleagues, including VSP Vision’s Nicola Zotta and The Vision Council’s Mitch Barkley, issued tributes highlighting his analytical mind, sales strategies, and lasting impact on optical industry culture.

  16. Vision Monday — Business12

    Hoya Vision Care Appoints Pamela Andrews and Kellie Wesley to North American Leadership Roles

    Hoya Vision Care announced two leadership appointments effective October 2026. Pamela Andrews joins as vice president of marketing for Hoya North America, overseeing product management, channel marketing, digital marketing, and brand communications across the U.S. and Canada. She brings over 20 years of vision care experience, including recent interim marketing leadership at Zeiss. Kellie Wesley returns to Hoya as national sales director for ECPs, leading the U.S. sales organization focused on independent eyecare professionals. Her background includes strategic account roles at ABB Optical Group, Euclid Vision, and STAAR Surgical. Steven Haifawi, SVP of U.S. Commercial, cited their industry expertise and customer relationship strengths in supporting these hires.

  17. eyebizz30

    opti 2027 Announces "See. Hear. Next." Theme and New Smart Tech Special Area

    The opti 2027 trade fair announced its new theme, "See. Hear. Next.", focusing on emerging technologies, partnerships, and business opportunities in optics and hearing acoustics. A key addition is the "Smart Tech" special area, dedicated to smart eyewear, wearables, hearables, and connected technology. Director Cathleen Kabashi emphasized that this initiative aims to bridge technology providers with industry professionals to create concrete solutions rather than abstract visions. While positioned as an international event for optics and design, the core market remains the DACH region (Germany, Austria, Switzerland). Other highlighted areas include "opti Spheare," "Tomorrow Vision" for contact lenses, and expanded design stages. The strategy also incorporates support for startups, talent, and business succession through dedicated formats.

  18. Insight50

    EssilorLuxottica Hosts Clinical Conference in Melbourne Focusing on Myopia, Dry Eye and AI Glasses

    EssilorLuxottica convened over 200 eyecare professionals in Melbourne for its 2026 Clinical Conference. The event addressed myopia management, dry eye conditions, presbyopia, and the role of Ray Ban Meta AI glasses for low-vision patients. Dr Björn Drobe detailed 45 years of Essilor’s translational myopia research, noting a 1982 study where progressive lenses reduced refractive progression by 46% compared to controls. He highlighted current Highly Aspherical Lenslet technology and Essilor Stellest lenses, which now have seven-year clinical data. Dr Kate Gifford presented evidence from more than 80 papers supporting Stellest across various visual functions and patient demographics. Panel discussions focused on translating emerging scientific evidence into everyday clinical practice, including treatment selection and family engagement strategies.

  19. The Eyewear Forum20

    TEF Magazine marks 10th anniversary with Club Bizarre exhibition at BOLD XXL

    TEF Magazine celebrated its tenth anniversary by launching "Club Bizarre," a theatrical exhibition at the BOLD XXL trade show. Rather than a traditional retrospective, the event transformed a decade of championing unconventional eyewear into an immersive physical experience featuring dark lighting, red cocktails, and themed displays. The exhibition highlighted brands that challenge commercial categories, including IMPURI Eyewear as the "Headliner" on a dedicated stage, showcasing experimental acetate, wood, carbon, and nylon frames designed by Goran Ilic. FUNK/SCHUSTER served as the "Featured Act," presenting bespoke pieces like the "BATWOMAN" frame handcrafted in Upper Bavaria. Additional displays included "Supporting Acts" and "Guest Appearances," emphasizing creative attitudes over standard product categorization.

  20. Vision Monday — Business20

    Mido Opens Applications for 2027 Optical Industry Awards

    Mido has opened applications for the Mido Awards 2027, an initiative recognizing companies, products and industry players in the optical sector. The awards specifically honor achievements in innovation, sustainability and the ability to interpret the evolution of the industry. Interested parties can access the official regulations and application forms through the Awards section of the Mido website. This announcement marks the start of the submission process for the upcoming cycle, distinct from any completed launch or award ceremony results.

10-5Mon
  1. Optical Prism65

    CooperVision Opens Global Vision Centre in Southampton and Announces Six Contact Lens Pipeline Advancements

    CooperVision unveiled the grand opening of The Vision Centre, its new global innovation hub in Southampton, England, alongside six major product advancements planned for launch over the next several years. The facility, spanning 9,940 square meters and housing approximately 350 employees, integrates research, development, clinical expertise, and pilot manufacturing to accelerate commercialization. Key pipeline announcements include the world’s first complete family of 1-day myopia control lenses, novel premium 1-day silicone hydrogel technology, a next-generation monthly SiHy material, an entry-level 1-day SiHy innovation, an advanced 1-day SiHy toric multifocal lens, and a new toric 1-day experience for astigmatic patients. President Jerry Warner stated the initiative aims to define the next era of eye care through science-led innovation.