Published through 2026-11-03 03:15 UTC · Automated cloud publishing.
Gigi Studios held an event titled “La Soirée” in Paris. The source material confirms the occurrence of this gathering but provides no further details regarding specific attendees, product announcements, or business outcomes associated with the celebration.
Amsterdam-based eyewear brand Ace & Tate reduced CO2 emissions from frame and lens production by 43 percent in 2025, falling from 2,030 to 1,155 tonnes of CO2 equivalent. Total corporate footprint decreased 10.2 percent to 6,446 tonnes, while the average per-product footprint dropped 9 percent to 7.99 kilograms. These figures, calculated with Vaayu and verified by SGS, show 96.7 percent of emissions originate outside company stores. The brand replaced non-prescription sunglass lenses with Tritan Renew plastic containing up to 50 percent certified recycled material starting spring/summer 2025. Ace & Tate was recertified as a B Corp in July 2026 under stricter new standards introduced by B Lab in April 2025.
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.
Eyestylist reported on the SILMO Paris exhibition held from September 25 to 28, which attracted over 32,000 visitors and 950 exhibitors. The event highlighted key design directions for 2027, including aviator and navigator shapes, round and oval frames, and two distinct color moods: bright and restrained neutral tones. The Trends Forum presented four themes: Fancy, Charisma, Adrenaline, and Aura. Notable releases included anniversary collections from Rigards and Charmant, as well as artistic collaborations such as J.F. Rey x Robertet’s SAKURA limited edition and NINA MÛR’s Freedom collection. Alpagota launched its Vision Twist travel spray. The Silmo d’Or awards recognized winners across categories, including ROLF, Maison Lune, Caroline Abram, and Paloceras. SILMO Paris is scheduled to return September 24–27, 2027, marking its 60th anniversary.
The Hall of Frames 2026 eyewear trade fair was held for the first time in Zurich, following four years in Lucerne. Organizers reported more than 60 exhibitors, a number increased by larger available floor space. However, attendance dropped to approximately 120 industry visitors from around 60 optical businesses, fewer than the previous year. Organizers attributed this decline partly to market caution, the new location, and late-summer weather. A notable trend was the extensive display of 3D-printed frames, described as the segment's largest presence ever. Exhibits also featured smart glasses with integrated hearing technology, minimalist designs, and natural materials like horn, wood, and stone. Additionally, organizers introduced the Swiss Future Prize for Optics, with applications open until the end of November.
MIDO has opened applications for the MIDO AWARDS 2027, recognizing innovation and sustainability in the optical industry. The CSE Award (5th edition) and CSE Corporate Award (2nd edition), promoted with ANFAO and Certottica, accept submissions until January 8, 2027; the latter is restricted to companies exhibiting at MIDO 2027. The Best Store Award (12th edition) remains open to global optical retailers until December 31. Additionally, applications for the Sergio Cereda Eyewear Design Award close on November 30. Winners will be announced during an official ceremony held at Fiera Milano Rho from February 6 to 8, 2027. Regulations and forms are available on www.mido.com.
Eyebizz published its biweekly video news update, "scharfgestellt!", on October 5, 2026. The episode highlights the winners of the SILMO d’Or awards and covers industry trade fair news. It also reports on the opening of the House of Silhouette in Hamburg. The source describes the content as relevant industry news that encourages further inquiry to reveal exclusive answers and detailed perspectives. No specific product launches, financial figures, or availability dates beyond the publication date are provided in the text.
Levitt-Safety has acquired Belco Safety Products, a Canadian provider of prescription and non-prescription safety eyewear with over 50 years of experience. The acquisition aims to strengthen Levitt-Safety’s optical capabilities while allowing Belco to access broader workplace safety resources. Belco continues operating under its own name with the same team and points of contact, ensuring existing contracts and services remain uninterrupted. Integration will occur gradually, with customers notified in advance of any changes. This move complements Levitt-Safety’s network of 17 locations across Canada, established since 1935, by adding specialized prescription eyewear expertise to its portfolio of safety products, training, and consulting services.
Optical Prism Magazine announced that applications for the MIDO AWARDS are now open. The source provides no further details regarding eligibility criteria, submission deadlines, award categories, or geographic scope.
Andy Wolf received the Responsible Company Prize at Silmo Paris, an award developed with Hyssop agency to recognize comprehensive responsible business practices. The brand demonstrated concrete actions from product carbon footprint assessments, including using Acetate Renew for 85% of acetate frames and replacing aluminium cases with cardboard and recycled materials. Between 2021 and 2024, Andy Wolf reduced its acetate frame product footprint by 53% and metal products by 38%. The company maintains a 100% European supply chain without air freight and offers lifespan-extending services like repairs, second-hand options, and a seven-year warranty on the AWearness collection. Socially, people with disabilities comprise 6% of its workforce, supported by four local work-integration organizations contributing to production activities such as keyrings, labelling, and displays.
Giorgio Armani’s heirs plan to meet LVMH, L’Oréal and EssilorLuxottica to discuss selling an initial 15% stake in the fashion group, following founder Giorgio Armani’s succession instructions. Chief Executive Giuseppe Marsocci stated the holding could be shared among investors, though terms remain undecided. The will prioritizes these three groups but allows for comparable buyers, with a deadline of March 2027 that may extend due to market conditions. A possible split would grant each party a 5% holding. Valuation gaps persist, with insiders suggesting €10 billion against investor estimates of €3–7 billion. EssilorLuxottica holds an eyewear agreement until 2038, while L’Oréal’s beauty licence runs through 2050. Further sales of 30% to 54.9% are planned over three to five years.
The Milan-based Mido trade show has opened applications for its 2027 awards, recognizing innovation and sustainability in the optical industry. Three main categories are accepting entries: the fifth edition of the CSE Award (Certified Sustainable Eyewear), which evaluates products like frames and sunglasses on recycled material use and energy reduction; the second edition of the CSE Corporate Award, focusing on company-wide ESG integration; and the 12th Best Store Award, assessing retail design and customer experience globally. Applications for the CSE awards close January 8, 2027, while Best Store submissions end December 31, 2026. Winners will be announced during an official ceremony at Fiera Milano Rho from February 6 to 8, 2027. Additionally, the Sergio Cereda Design Award ceremony will take place at the event, with applications open until November 30.
Seneca Polytechnic and CooperVision Canada announced the opening of the CooperVision Contact Lens Centre of Excellence on October 2, 2026. The state-of-the-art training facility is designed to expand hands-on learning opportunities for opticianry students. Additionally, the centre aims to strengthen ties between education, industry, and patient care.
Zeiss Group appointed Axel Christian as president of Zeiss North America, effective October 1, 2026. This newly created role unites operations across the U.S. and Canada to strengthen regional integration and growth. Christian will lead initiatives spanning Medical Technology, Consumer Markets, Semiconductor Manufacturing Technology, Industrial Quality & Research, and Photonics & Optics. He will collaborate with Gary Rosenblum, named president and CEO of Zeiss Vision Care US in June 2025, on region-wide opportunities. Based at the Zeiss Innovation Center California in Dublin, Christian brings over 20 years of strategic management experience, having served as CFO of Zeiss Greater China and head of corporate finance at headquarters. The appointment reaffirms Zeiss’s long-term commitment to North America, where it employs more than 3,750 people across over 34 locations.
Nathan Garnett announced First Look London, a trade-only eyewear event scheduled for September 17, 2027, at the Town Hall in King’s Cross. Designed to showcase independent brands and emerging designers, the event will feature up to 50 curated labels, including early adopters such as Bird Eyewear, Kirk & Kirk, and Linda Farrow, with Nikon Lenswear UK serving as the official lens sponsor. The venue, designed by Tom Dixon, aims to provide buyers meaningful engagement time with makers. A high-profile advisory group will steer editorial direction through meetings and round tables beginning in early 2027. Industry leaders, including Dr Pretty Basra and Rob Barrow, endorsed the initiative, citing a need for focused, design-led spaces that support independent retail practices beyond traditional product displays.
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.
Optical Prism Magazine reported that the MIDO eyewear exhibition has opened registration for its upcoming event. Concurrently, ANFAO, the Italian association representing the optical industry, presented data covering the first half of 2026 regarding the Italian sector. The source text provides only these headline announcements and does not include specific figures, growth rates, or detailed market analysis within the provided excerpt. Consequently, the summary reflects the initiation of the registration process and the release of the statistical report without elaborating on the content of the data itself.
Kits Eyecare Ltd. (TSX: KITS) was ranked No. 221 overall and No. 25 in the Consumer category on The Globe and Mail’s 2026 Report on Business list of Canada’s Top Growing Companies. The Vancouver-based eyecare provider achieved this position through a reported three-year revenue growth of 121%. The editorial ranking, which recognizes innovative Canadian businesses based on revenue expansion, included 376 companies for the current year. Co-Founder and CEO Roger Hardy attributed the milestone to customer loyalty and accessible pricing models. The full list is available on The Globe and Mail’s website and in the October issue of Report on Business magazine.
Italian eyewear exports totaled €2.7 billion in the first half of 2026, a 2.7% decrease year-over-year, according to ANFAO data reported by OptikNow. The decline was driven by a sharp 25.1% drop in exports to the United States, representing over €107 million in lost value, while the Americas region fell 20.1%. Conversely, Europe grew as the primary stabilizing market with a 4.4% increase, led by gains in Germany, Spain, Portugal, Poland, and Hungary. By category, lenses rose 6.0%, frames dipped 1.1%, and sunglasses fell 3.7%. Monthly trends showed recovery after a weak January, with growth recorded in April and June. The domestic Italian optical retail market remained stable at €1.8 billion, up 0.3%.
BlackDog Company holds the exclusive representation rights for Lacoste Eyewear and Peacock reading glasses. The source material identifies these two brands as being under this specific distribution arrangement but provides no further details regarding product launches, geographic availability, financial terms, or operational timelines.
Safilo has appointed Oscar Cera as its new Commercial Officer for Latin America to strengthen the company's regional presence. Cera, who has over 12 years of experience within the Safilo Group, previously served as Country Director North, overseeing the United Kingdom and Nordic countries. His career at Safilo began in Spain as Sales Director before moving to Italy for approximately five years in various commercial roles. In his new position, Cera will lead commercial development across Latin American markets, focusing on strengthening client relationships, supporting brand growth, and identifying new opportunities while aligning global strategies with local needs. The appointment reflects Safilo’s commitment to enhancing its commercial strategy in the region.
DaTE 2026 held September 12–14 at Salone Margherita in Naples attracted more than 1,080 attendees, including 77 international buyers from 18 countries—over double the 2025 figure. International participation rose to approximately 8% of total visitors, up from 3% previously, aided by a delegation of around 20 European buyers organized with the Italian Trade Agency. President Davide Degl’Incerti Tocci stated the move to Naples expanded reach into central and southern Italy while maintaining national attendance. The event’s roaming format aims to foster direct dialogue among manufacturers and professionals. DaTE 2027 is scheduled for September 11–13 at Paladozza in Bologna, selected for its central location and versatile venue suitable for industry networking.
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.
Rodenstock (Munich) has launched a Christmas campaign titled "Das Geschenk besten Sehens" (The Gift of Best Vision) to support partner opticians. The initiative provides a comprehensive communication package centered on biometric B.I.G. Vision eyeglass lenses, featuring festive key visuals and emotional marketing materials. Tools include customizable customer mailings with detachable vouchers to activate existing clients, newspaper inserts for local reach among potential new customers, and social media posts to extend digital engagement. Additionally, the campaign offers individualizable gift vouchers in high-quality envelopes for shoppers seeking presents. Rodenstock states the goal is to create opportunities for customer conversations, enhance loyalty, and help opticians start the new year successfully.
Wöhlk Contactlinsen, based in Schönkirchen near Kiel, received the German Health Award 2026 in the contact lens manufacturer category. The award was presented by Brigitte Zypries, former Federal Minister of Economics and chair of the DISQ advisory board, during a ceremony in Berlin hosted by the "Big Bang KI" festival. Organized by the German Institute for Service Quality and news channel ntv, the recognition followed a population-representative survey involving 42,824 participants across 70 categories. Wöhlk achieved a score of 80.8 out of 100 points, evaluating price-performance ratio, product range, customer service, and recommendation rates. This marks the company's fifth consecutive win since 2020, when it became a subsidiary of Japan’s Seed Co, Ltd. Sales Director Nadine Ohletz attributed the success to employee efforts and product quality, noting the company will celebrate its 80th anniversary next year.
Professional Eye Care Associates of America (PECAA) and VSP Vision announced two rebate opportunities for PECAA Max members. A new Marcolin frame rebate, effective October 1, 2026, allows members aligning Marcolin with their accounts to earn up to 10 percent on eligible purchases. Additionally, a limited-time exam bonus runs from January through March 2027; members aligning all three VSP eyewear partners—Marcolin, Marchon, and Altair—receive a $3 bonus atop the existing $15 exam rebate per qualifying commercial patient. This bonus ends in April 2027, reverting to the standard up-to-$15 rebate. Since its 2023 inception, the Vision Exam Rebate has provided $128 million to over 4,200 practices.
ZEISS Vision Care has completed the acquisition of OcuPlan in the United Kingdom. This move integrates OcuPlan’s solutions into ZEISS’s existing portfolio, which already includes eyeglass lenses, ophthalmic instruments, and digital apps for eye care professionals and consumers. The acquisition aligns with ZEISS Vision Care’s focus on providing comprehensive solutions across the ophthalmic optics value chain, emphasizing individualized vision and lifelong visual health. As part of the ZEISS Consumer Markets segment, this addition supports the company’s broader strategy in digitalization and healthcare within the optical industry.
Editorial relevance: This completed acquisition signals ZEISS's expansion into digital eye care management tools, potentially influencing how online eyewear retailers integrate professional prescription services.
The 33rd edition of the SILMO d’Or awards, chaired by Joachim Froment, announced its 2026 winners. The jury recognized innovations in autofocus technology, virtual-reality vision tools, and luxury smart eyewear. Key category winners include Karavan Kids for Children’s eyewear, Julbo for Sport, Mega Optic for Vision, and Eschenbach Optik for Low Vision. Nidek won Materials/Equipment, while Laclarée received the Technological Innovation award for Autofocus glasses. GETD & Marienfeld were honored for Smart Eyewear. In frames and sunglasses, Lancel, Victoria Beckham, Caroline Abram, Maison Lune, Brett, and rolf. Eyewear secured design and craftsmanship prizes. Paloceras received the Jury’s Special Prize. These awards serve as an internationally recognized label for industry innovation.
SILMO Paris 2026 attracted 32,108 professionals, including 53% international visitors, across four days. The event featured over 950 exhibitors and 1,500 brands showcasing innovations in connected optics, artificial intelligence, and predictive health tools. A notable highlight was the first international hackathon for smart glasses health applications, won by Kimoo, an ADHD support assistant developed on the HTC platform. The Trends Forum identified four stylistic themes: Fancy, Charisma, Adrenaline, and Aura. The SILMO d’Or awards recognized winners such as Laclarée for autofocus glasses and GETD & Marienfeld for Luxury AI glasses. Additionally, Andy Wolf received the Committed Company Award for its sustainability efforts, including Acetate Renew materials and European production. The next edition is scheduled for 2027.
Armani is preparing to initiate discussions with EssilorLuxottica, L’Oreal, and LVMH regarding the sale of a 15 percent stake in the company. This move follows instructions outlined in the will of Giorgio Armani, according to media reports. The talks represent a strategic step in executing the late founder's succession plan, involving key players in the luxury and optical sectors.
Peter Frankenstein has left his role as head of the Consumer Optics division at the German industry association Spectaris after 28 years. The departure, which occurred in late July, was confirmed by a farewell email from Frankenstein to eyebizz editor-in-chief Jörg Mayer and other industry participants. Frankenstein stated that their paths would likely not cross again in this life but expressed hope for future meetings filled with laughter. Spectaris Managing Director Jörg Mayer noted he had planned to retire alongside Frankenstein. While the Trendforum event did not take place this year, sources indicate this cancellation is unrelated to Frankenstein’s exit. Frankenstein has not disclosed his next professional steps, though Spectaris remains open to his return.
Organizers announced that 32,108 eyewear industry professionals attended the 2026 edition of SILMO Paris, held from September 25 to 28 at Paris Nord Villepinte. More than half of the attendees, specifically 53 percent, traveled from outside France, representing nearly 150 countries. These visitors engaged with over 950 exhibitors during the event. The source highlights smart glasses and autofocus lenses as standout categories but does not provide specific sales figures, product launch details, or independent verification of these trends beyond the attendance statistics.
SILMO Paris 2026 attracted 32,108 trade visitors from nearly 150 countries, with 53% international attendance. The fair featured over 950 exhibitors across 80,000 square meters, emphasizing 'SILMO Next' innovations including smart glasses, AI, and predictive healthcare. A key highlight was the first international hackathon for smart-glass health applications, won by 'Kimoo,' an ADHD assistant developed on the HTC platform. The SILMO d’Or awards recognized advancements such as autofocus glasses for presbyopia and VR-customized progressive lenses. Additionally, Andy Wolf received the CSR award for reducing acetate frames' ecological footprint by 53% between 2021 and 2024. The next edition will celebrate the fair's 60th anniversary in September 2027.
Silmo Paris 2026 attracted 32,108 optical professionals from nearly 150 countries, featuring 950 exhibitors and 1,500 brands across an 86,000-square-foot space. Held September 25–28, the event emphasized innovation through the Silmo Next Futurology and Tech Village, showcasing smart glasses, AI, and predictive health technologies. A highlight was the first international hackathon for smart glasses health applications, where the Kimono assistant won top honors. The Trends Forum presented four design themes: FANCY, CHARISMA, ADRENALINE, and AURA. Andy Wolf received the Responsible Company Prize for reducing its acetate frame footprint by 53% between 2021 and 2024. Additionally, the 20/20 Europe Most Influential Women in Optical awards were held, honoring 26 industry leaders. Future events include Silmo Istanbul in November 2026 and Silmo Riyadh in April 2027.
The Vision Council Foundation, AccuWeather, and The Skin Cancer Foundation announced a collaboration on May 27, 2026, ahead of National Sunglasses Day on June 27. This marks the first joint effort among these organizations to promote comprehensive UV protection through sunglasses, sunscreen, and weather data. Citing 2025 Market inSights data, The Vision Council noted that over 37% of American adults do not regularly wear sunglasses, while The Skin Cancer Foundation highlighted skin cancer as the most common US cancer caused by UV radiation. AccuWeather provides an hour-by-hour UV Index and AccuLumen Brightness Index to support informed decisions. The partners will coordinate digital campaigns leading up to June 27. Free 2026 toolkits are currently available at thevisioncouncilfoundation.org/national-sunglasses-day for eyecare providers and consumers.
The Vision Council Foundation and the United Opticians Association (UOA) have partnered to advance UV safety awareness for National Sunglasses Day on June 27, 2026. This collaboration coincides with the UOA Leadership Conference in Chicago, Illinois, held June 25–27. The initiative aims to encourage year-round sunglasses use and highlight the role of opticians in eye health protection. According to The Vision Council, approximately 30 million pairs of plano sunglasses are sold annually through optical stores, representing about 10% of the market, yet more than 37% of U.S. adults lack adequate UV eye protection. Free educational toolkits, including social graphics and fact sheets, are available at thevisioncouncilfoundation.org/national-sunglasses-day. Consumers are invited to share photos using the hashtag #NationalSunglassesDay to spread awareness.
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.
According to China's Ministry of Commerce, sales of smart glasses on major platforms rose 120% year-on-year during the first eight months of 2026. This surge aligns with a broader consumer shift toward smart and health products, as electrocardiogram monitor sales increased by 75%. The growth occurred alongside a 2.5% rise in combined retail sales of goods and services. Services outpaced goods, growing 4.9% compared to a 1.0% increase for goods. Rural retail sales reached $651.65 billion (4.4 trillion yuan), up 2.3% year-on-year. To support this trend, the government expanded its 2026 consumer goods trade-in programme, offering a 15% subsidy capped at 500 yuan per item for smart glasses.
Schneider Optical Machines hosted DigiCON 2026 in July at its facilities in Fronhausen and Marburg, Germany, welcoming over 250 industry professionals from 50 countries. The event focused on the company’s vision for “lights-off production,” an autonomous manufacturing environment designed to address labor shortages, rising costs, and complex delivery expectations through AI integration. Key announcements included the world premiere of a fully integrated inline coating solution creating a single connected production chain from blank to finished lens, a new photochromic lens production solution using precision 3D inkjet technology, and Modulo ZERO, which addresses alloy-free blocking in high-speed surfacing. Additional showcases featured a new automated warehousing system, the Modulo Center One Pro surfacing concept, and the HSE Modulo One edging system.
In January 2026, L’Amy America announced a long-term partnership with French manufacturer Grosfilley, establishing itself as the North American distribution partner for Grosfilley eyewear brands, including Charriol. The agreement enables Charriol eyewear availability through select optical retailers across the United States and Canada. Coralie Charriol Paul, CEO and creative director of Charriol, stated that eyewear extends the brand’s luxury lifestyle portfolio, translating design codes from watches and jewelry into frames featuring the signature cable motif. She emphasized that L’Amy America was chosen for its expertise and relationships with premium retailers. This announcement details the distribution structure and brand positioning but does not confirm specific product launch dates or independent sales performance metrics.