Skip to content

Published through 2026-11-02 13:45 UTC · Automated cloud publishing.

#Industry News

Today 14 items
6-17Wed
  1. Rudy Project25

    Rudy Project signs British ultrarunner Josh Wade as technical partner

    Rudy Project announced a two-year partnership with British ultrarunner Josh Wade, who will race in the brand's eyewear and provide product feedback. Wade, currently ranked third at UTMB Mont Blanc and a podium finisher at Transgrancanaria, selected the Turbolence model with polarized lenses for his debut race at the 80 km Ultra Trail Snowdonia by UTMB®. He cited the frame’s under-30-gram weight, adjustable nosepiece, ventilation system, and lens clarity for terrain reading in varying light conditions as key factors. The collaboration aims to strengthen Rudy Project’s presence in trail running, following its designation as Official Eyewear of the UTMB World Series 2025–2027. Simone Barbazza, Marketing Director, emphasized the alignment with athletes focused on constant evolution.

6-5Fri
  1. Vision Monday — Frame Collections45

    The Eye Consortium Adds 17 New Supplier Partners to Independent Vendor Ecosystem

    The Eye Consortium (TEC), an independent doctor alliance based in Fort Worth, Texas, announced the addition of 17 new vendor supplier partners to its national ecosystem. This expansion aims to support private practices by providing access to solutions across premium and independent eyewear, performance sunwear, practice technology, compliance, continuing education, consulting, specialty devices, and business support. New partners include Design Eyewear Group, Europa Eyewear, OVVO Optics, The Optical Foundry, Thierry Lasry, LunetteUSA, Bollé, Revo, Serengeti Eyewear, SPY+, ZEISS VTS, Adit, TEEM, Hoops, CEwire, Rinsada, and Advanced Genomics. Co-founders Robert Chu and Matthew Alpert stated that TEC remains focused on building a stronger independent alternative amid industry consolidation, offering a curated platform without membership fees or long-term contracts to help doctors remain competitive and profitable.

6-2Tue
  1. HOYA Vision Care42

    HOYA Vision Care Presents Clinical Research and Names EMEA Case Study Winner at EAOO 2026

    At the 17th European Academy of Optometry and Optics Conference in Riga, Latvia (May 15–17, 2026), HOYA Vision Care presented seven papers, four posters, a lecture, and a workshop. The company announced France’s Marion Wolff as the winner of its MiYOSMART Case Study Contest for EMEA, selected from submissions across 30 countries. These activities followed recent ARVO 2026 findings on MiYOSMART iQ, which reported that nine out of ten children showed no clinically relevant myopia progression over twelve months. HOYA also introduced Hoyalux iD MySense progressive lenses and hosted sessions on blue light attenuation and presbyopia correction. Professor Bruce Evans delivered a lecture on optometric research evidence. Product availability varies by jurisdiction; the material is not intended for promotion in regions where products are unapproved, including the United States.

6-1Mon
  1. Seiko Optical Products (Japan)10

    Seiko Optical Products Unveils New Visuals for "Your Vision, Your World" Campaign

    Seiko Optical Products launched new visual assets for its "Your Vision, Your World" eyeglass lens campaign on June 1, 2026. The initiative, which began in January 2026 to promote the concept that lenses expand one's worldview beyond mere vision correction, now features Japanese actress and artist Kyoko Koizumi as the key figure. Accompanying her image is a quote emphasizing that seeing equates to knowing, thereby enabling deeper perception of the world. A new project movie featuring Koizumi’s narration was also released alongside the visuals. The company states it will continue disseminating messages under this core theme to encourage users to broaden their personal worlds through clear vision provided by eyeglass lenses.

4-27Mon
  1. Optiswiss15

    Optiswiss Participates in Basel Region Industry Night 2026

    Optiswiss participated for the first time in the Basel Region Industry Night held on April 24, 2026. The event recorded a new visitor total of 20,300 attendees. At the Optiswiss site, nearly 1,000 visitors engaged with demonstrations including live production tours and biometric lens information areas featuring OCULUS Myopia Master measurements. Company representatives reported consistently positive feedback from both visitors and organizers regarding their involvement.

4-13Mon
  1. MASUNAGA News15

    MASUNAGA Opens Yaesu Dai Building Boutique in Tokyo

    MASUNAGA opened a new boutique, MASUNAGA1905 TOKYO YAESU, at the Yaesu Dai Building in 2026. The store features direct access to Tokyo Station and the Yaesu Underground Mall. Operating under the concept of “Heritage and Innovation,” the space utilizes a deep, dark-toned palette to convey quiet sophistication through restraint. Gallery-inspired elements introduce an artistic sensibility, allowing the environment to unfold with subtlety rather than statement. Within this setting, details are composed with intention to guide customers toward MASUNAGA’s craftsmanship, framing the selection of eyewear as a reflection of individual character.

  2. MASUNAGA News20

    MASUNAGA Opens New Boutique in Osaka Shinsaibashi

    MASUNAGA opened a new boutique, MASUNAGA1905 OSAKA SHINSAIBASHI, in 2026 within Quartz Shinsaibashi. Directly connected to Shinsaibashi Station, the store embodies the brand’s values of heritage, craftsmanship, and quality through a restrained design. A signature lighting installation inspired by the G.M.S.999 frame, historically presented to Emperor Showa, defines the interior space. Display shelves are arranged with deliberate spacing to highlight each frame’s form, balance, and proportion independently. The environment aims to provide an intentional experience of pure craftsmanship, reflecting the company's enduring standards without additional promotional claims or specific product availability details beyond the physical opening.

3-25Wed
  1. HOYA Vision Care22

    HOYA Vision Care Accelerates Renewable Electricity Target to 2030 in One Vision Update

    On March 26, 2026, HOYA Vision Care announced an update to its One Vision program via a new “Sustainability in Action” report. The company accelerated its pledge to achieve 100% renewable electricity usage across all operations by 2030, moving up from the previous 2040 target and aligning with the Climate Group RE100 initiative. The report details progress since FY21, including a 25% reduction in global carbon emissions, 11% less energy per lens produced, and 11.5% less water used. Through partnerships like the REACH Project in India, HOYA has delivered eye care services to over 85,000 households. Future commitments include reducing supply chain carbon emissions by 2030 and cutting water consumption by more than 25% per lens.

3-24Tue
  1. SPECTR12

    LOOKKINO Releases New Eyewear Campaign Focusing on Children’s Imagination

    Eyewear brand LOOKKINO has released a new campaign centered on childhood imagination, movement, and possibility. The visuals depict children navigating everyday scenarios with curiosity, transforming ordinary moments into playful adventures without defining fixed roles. Bright, dynamic imagery and fluid compositions reinforce a sense of spontaneity and authenticity, avoiding an overly staged appearance. The campaign shifts the brand's focus from product specifics to perspective, inviting viewers to see the world through curiosity and embrace potential outcomes. Photos for the campaign are credited to LOOKKINO.

3-18Wed
  1. BBGR12

    BBGR Sézanne plant reports 2025 waste reduction and recycling initiatives

    BBGR’s Sézanne factory implemented three waste management initiatives in 2025. The site collected plastic caps for the Les Bouchons d’Amour association, with proceeds funding wheelchairs. In partnership with ESAT Sézanne, 785 kg of used paper were sorted and recycled into new paper products, avoiding 2 MWh of energy, 21 m³ of water, and 744 kg of waste compared to virgin pulp. Additionally, BBGR replaced 120,000 annual disposable cardboard cups with reusable mugs, achieving zero disposable cup usage. New sorting rules and internal recycling processes increased monthly recycling volume from zero to seven bags. These actions resulted in a 55% decrease in hazardous waste at the facility.

3-3Tue
  1. Rudy Project47

    Rudy Project appoints Pro-Ride Australia Pty Ltd as new distributor for Australia and New Zealand

    Rudy Project S.p.A. has appointed Pro-Ride Australia Pty Ltd as its official distribution partner for Australia and New Zealand, replacing former independent distributor Pursuit Sports Pty Ltd. The transition follows significant operational issues at Pursuit Sports, which operated rudyproject.com.au. Rudy Project clarified it had no ownership or contractual relationship with the former distributor but is voluntarily honoring undelivered orders from affected customers as a goodwill gesture, explicitly stating this does not admit liability. Rudy Project has taken direct control of the website rudyproject.com.au. Pro-Ride Australia will manage distribution, retail support, and customer inquiries to restore market continuity. Products remain designed and manufactured in Italy.

2-23Mon
  1. Rudy Project65

    Rudy Project Acquires North American Distributor to Operate Directly in US Market

    As of February 2026, Rudy Project has acquired ownership of Rudy Project North America L.P., its long-standing exclusive distributor based in San Clemente, California. Founded in 1998, the subsidiary will now operate under direct control, allowing the Italian brand to manage business directly in the U.S. market and the Caribbean region. CEO Cristiano Barbazza stated that this move follows the consolidation of direct control over key European markets and is supported by an ambitious multi-year investment plan. Brad Shapiro, co-founder of the North American entity, noted the decision reunites the independent company with parent firm Rudy Project S.p.A. after 25 years. The brand currently operates in more than 60 countries.

    Editorial relevance: The acquisition of the North American distributor signals a strategic shift toward direct-to-market operations for a premium sports eyewear brand, potentially influencing channel dynamics in the US.

1-13Tue
  1. BBGR10

    BBGR outlines 2026 RÉSOLUMENT RSE actions including 180th anniversary and biodiversity initiatives

    BBGR announced its 2026 plans under the RÉSOLUMENT RSE corporate social responsibility program, structured around visual health, environment, employee well-being, and local anchoring. Key 2026 activities include celebrating the company’s 180th anniversary and highlighting manufacturing roles at its Provins and Sézanne laboratories to emphasize French know-how. Environmental efforts involve participating in Biodiversity Week in June at both sites and promoting a "petits gestes" initiative for sustainable practices. Visual health commitments include supporting AFM Téléthon’s 40th anniversary, Vision Solidarité, and prevention partnerships with ASNAV. The source describes these as planned steps within an ongoing deployment, without specifying completed launches or financial metrics.

1-5Mon
  1. Seiko Optical Products (Japan)15

    Seiko Optical Products Launches "Your Vision, Your World" Project in 2026

    Seiko Optical Products announced the launch of its "Your Vision, Your World" project for 2026. The initiative centers on the theme of expanding one’s world through eyeglass lenses, positioning them as tools that support daily life and open new perspectives. As a symbolic element, the company released a key visual featuring a portrait of musician Ryuichi Sakamoto. This visual includes a quote attributed to Sakamoto regarding seeing sound and listening to time, which the company states symbolizes the broadening of horizons via clear vision. The project will continuously distribute content based on the core message to encourage users to expand their own worlds.

11-13Thu
  1. SDC Technologies45

    SDC Technologies Announces New Global Headquarters in Rancho Santa Margarita

    SDC Technologies, a subsidiary of Mitsui Chemicals, announced the relocation of its Group Headquarters to a new facility in Rancho Santa Margarita, California. Scheduled for completion in Q4 2026, this project represents the company’s largest expansion to date. The 124,044-square-foot mixed-use campus sits on 6.82 acres and integrates office space, warehousing, production lines, R&D laboratories, and an Innovation Center. Backed by Mitsui Chemicals, the investment involves acquiring and redeveloping land previously owned by IMI CCI. The facility aims to enhance coating manufacturing, increase R&D capacity, and support global distribution. It will also feature solar panels expected to generate most of the site’s electricity requirements. This move supports Mitsui Chemicals’ Vision 2030 goals for advanced materials and operational innovation.

10-3Fri
  1. Rudy Project25

    Rudy Project Renews Team Bahrain Victorious Partnership Through 2026

    On January 11, 2024, Rudy Project announced the renewal of its collaboration with Team Bahrain Victorious as the official helmet and eyewear partner through 2026. This marks the eighth consecutive season of partnership since 2016, making Rudy Project one of the longest-standing sponsors of the team. The announcement coincided with the team’s debut at the Tour Down Under in Australia on January 13, where riders will wear new equipment in white, blue, and gold colors. The updated gear includes Kelion and Astral glasses, featuring cylindrical lenses and optical insert compatibility, alongside three helmet models: Egos for ventilation, Nytron for aerodynamics, and Nytron Pro for enhanced efficiency. Both companies emphasized shared goals of performance and innovation.

7-28Mon
  1. Rudy Project57

    Rudy Project Announces Three-Year Partnership with UTMB World Series to Launch Official Eyewear Collection

    On June 25, 2025, Rudy Project and UTMB World Series announced a three-year partnership rooted in shared values of innovation and sustainability. As an official supplier, Rudy Project will integrate into event villages starting with the La Sportiva Lavaredo Ultra Trail, offering on-site product testing and expert advice to athletes. The collaboration includes the launch of a dedicated 'UTMB World Series × Rudy Project' collection featuring models such as Astral Sphere, Astral X, Propulse, Spinair 57, and the new Spinshield Pro. These products utilize photochromic lenses designed to enhance contrast for trail conditions. The collection is scheduled to become available from late August 2025.

7-18Fri
  1. Rudy Project37

    Rudy Project Signs Partnership with Italian Cycling Federation Through 2028 Olympics

    On February 11, 2025, Rudy Project and the Italian Cycling Federation (FCI) announced a partnership agreement extending through the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games. Facilitated by Infront, the deal provides FCI athletes with high-tech cycling helmets and eyewear across all disciplines, with a specific focus on track cycling. National team members will utilize the Wingdream helmet, developed over two years with Bahrain Victorious and validated by Swiss Side, alongside The Wing and Nytron Pro models. FCI President Cordiano Dagnoni emphasized safety and performance standards, while Rudy Project CEO Cristiano Barbazza highlighted innovation for upcoming World Championships and Olympics. This collaboration expands Rudy Project’s existing support for various international sports teams.

7-2Wed
  1. SDC Technologies67

    SDC Technologies Enters Strategic Investment and Collaboration Agreement with flō Optics

    SDC Technologies announced a strategic investment and collaboration agreement with flō Optics to advance next-generation lens coating and surface treatment technologies. The partnership combines flō’s digital coating platform with SDC’s expertise in specialty coatings to co-develop solutions focused on performance, scalability, and sustainability in ophthalmic lens processing. SDC’s investment is part of flō Optics’ recently closed $35 million funding round. Jonathan Jaglom, CEO of flō Optics, highlighted the alignment of capabilities, while Richard Chang, President and CEO of SDC Technologies, noted that flō’s digital-first approach supports SDC’s vision for material innovation across ophthalmics.

    Editorial relevance: This partnership integrates digital coating technology with established material science, potentially influencing future lens processing standards and supply chain collaborations in the optical industry.

7-1Tue
  1. Rudy Project20

    Rudy Project Extends Partnership with Italian Ice Sports Federation Through 2026

    On October 21, 2024, Rudy Project announced the continuation of its support for Italian national speed skating and short track teams until at least 2026. This marks the 20th anniversary of the partnership with the Italian Ice Sports Federation (FISG), which began in 2004. The collaboration aims to support athletes ahead of the Milan-Cortina Olympics. Over two decades, FISG athletes backed by Rudy Project have secured 19 Olympic medals, including four golds, and 47 World Championship medals, five of which were gold. The Treviso-based company provides specialized eyewear models such as Defender, Cutline, and Turbolence, alongside Nytron Pro and The Wing helmets. These products feature patented lenses designed to enhance contrast and safety, meeting strict federation requirements for shatterproof materials and aerodynamic performance without blade-penetrating gaps.

12-24Tue
  1. SDC Technologies25

    Coburn Technologies Ships Final SGX Pro Lens Generator Ending 33-Year Production

    SDC Technologies announced that its subsidiary, Coburn Technologies, completed the final shipment of the SGX Pro Surface Lens Generator in December 2024. This event marks the end of over 33 years of production for the device. The announcement coincides with Coburn’s 70th anniversary and highlights the company's legacy in ophthalmic lens processing systems. Headquartered in South Windsor, Connecticut, Coburn is owned by American interests but operates under SDC Technologies, which was acquired by Mitsui Chemicals in 2008. SDC, based in Irvine, California, specializes in high-performance specialty coatings for various industries, including vision eyewear. The source describes this milestone as reflecting the evolution of lens manufacturing technology.

8-30Fri
  1. SDC Technologies57

    SDC Technologies Enters Strategic Alliance with James Robinson Speciality Ingredients for Photochromic Dyes

    SDC Technologies announced a strategic alliance with James Robinson Speciality Ingredients (JRSI) involving the purchase and exclusive licensing of JRSI’s comprehensive patent portfolio for high-performance photochromic dyes. Founded in 1840 and headquartered in Huddersfield, UK, JRSI is described as the dominant global leader in specialty ingredients for premium photochromic dyes used in eyewear applications such as ophthalmic lenses, visors, face shields, and goggles. The agreement enhances SDC’s product offerings in the photochromic market, integrating CrystalChrome® photochromic coatings and primers with Coburn Technologies’ spin coating equipment. JRSI will continue to manufacture, develop, and sell next-generation photochromic dyes exclusively through SDC, ensuring business continuity for existing customers while accelerating product advancements.

6-5Wed
  1. SDC Technologies12

    SDC Technologies Achieves ISO 14001:2015 Certification for Irvine and Singapore Operations

    SDC Technologies, Inc. has achieved ISO 14001:2015 certification from Alliance International Registrar, LLC. This certification affirms that the environmental management systems at the company’s operations in Irvine, California, and Singapore adhere to internationally recognized standards. Richard Chang, President and CEO of SDC Technologies, stated that the achievement validates their continual efforts towards sustainability and harmony with the environment while providing high-quality products. SDC, a pioneer in specialty coatings for applications including vision eyewear, aerospace, and automotive parts, was founded in 1986 and acquired by Mitsui Chemicals, Inc. in 2008. The company has also maintained ISO 9001:2015 certification for its quality management systems since 2001.

9-14Thu
  1. BBGR17

    BBGR and Nikon Verres Optiques to Exhibit at Silmo 2024

    BBGR and Nikon Verres Optiques will exhibit at Silmo 2024, the Mondial de l’Optique trade show. The event is scheduled from Friday, September 20, to Monday, September 23, 2024, running daily from 9:00 AM to 6:30 PM at the Paris Nord Villepinte exhibition center. Attendees can find the companies in the dedicated BBGR-Nikon space within the EssilorLuxottica stand. The announcement invites visitors to request badges and access practical information via provided links. This notice confirms participation plans for the upcoming optical industry exhibition without detailing specific product launches or sales figures.

7-15Sat
  1. Seiko Optical Products (Japan)10

    Seiko Optical Products launches new advertising visuals featuring model Kyoko Muto

    Seiko Optical Products announced on July 15, 2023, that it will roll out new advertising visuals starting this summer. The campaign continues the catchphrase "My glasses are Seiko," which has been in use since fiscal year 2016 and aims to position Seiko eyewear as a tool for enriching lifestyles with optimal performance across various scenes. Fashion model Kyoko Muto, known for her work in women's fashion magazines and TV commercials, serves as the image model. Promotional materials will be distributed via store posters and the company website.