During OPTI 2026, VANNI Head of Design Irene Chinaglia participated in a round-table discussion with trend analyst Niels Holger Wien regarding the evolution of eyewear design. Chinaglia emphasized that designers must selectively interpret fast-paced global trends rather than ignore them, focusing on value, craftsmanship, and brand consistency. She highlighted the tension between standardized production and consumer desire for uniqueness, noting that glasses significantly influence personal identity. The discussion addressed sustainability concerns arising from rapid fashion cycles and the importance of adapting shapes to diverse facial features. Chinaglia described inspiration as a layering of experiences and noted that while shapes change slowly, colors follow seasonal rhythms. For VANNI, color research is a cornerstone, aiming to create recognizable identities through structural details rather than added decoration.
VANNI, a creative designer eyewear brand, and Oscalito, a high-quality knitwear weaver, announced a collaborative sunglasses capsule collection. Both Turin-based companies emphasize ethical production using certified raw materials and local supply chains to contrast with fast fashion. The collection features three models—Dora, Aurora, and Valentine—crafted from cellulose acetate derived from cotton, the same fiber used in Oscalito’s yarns. Frame colors echo Oscalito’s textile palettes, including black, white, blue, moss green, and havana shades, alongside exclusive VANNI-personalized acetates like DAMA, Pixel, and Blade. Packaging includes pouches upcycled from Oscalito silk satin and cotton necklaces. The brands are part of the Exclusive Brands Torino network, with Oscalito supporting Slow Fiber since 1936.
Turin-based eyewear brand VANNI and textile manufacturer Oscalito have announced a collaborative sunglasses collection featuring three models: Dora, Aurora, and Valentine. The project emphasizes material continuity, utilizing cellulose acetate derived from cotton to bridge the brands' industrial heritage. Color palettes draw inspiration from Oscalito’s yarns, including black, white, blue, moss green, and Havana tones, alongside exclusive VANNI acetates like DAMA, Pixel, and Blade. Packaging incorporates upcycled Oscalito silk and filoscozia cotton collars. Both companies are part of the Exclusive Brands Torino network, with Oscalito supporting the Slow Fiber movement. The collaboration positions itself against fast fashion practices by prioritizing certified raw materials and controlled supply chains, focusing on design subtlety rather than immediate visual recognition.
A Xerfi barometer for the Rassemblement des opticiens de France reported optical revenue growth of 2% in July and 0.5% in August compared to the same periods last year. Performance varied by distribution channel: chains, branches, and franchises saw a 4% increase in July and 1% in August, while independents grew 1.5% in July but stagnated in August. Cooperative groups rose 1.5% in July but fell 0.5% in August; mutualists declined 3% in July before recovering slightly with 0.1% growth in August. Regionally, all areas posted gains in July, led by the West (+3%) and South (+2.5%). In August, only the South maintained positive growth at +1.5%. September data remains unavailable, though survey expectations indicate 55% of opticians anticipate stable sales, 35% expect declines, and 10% foresee increases.
Fin Ronan Poll from Mecklenburg-Vorpommern was named Germany's best young optician at the national championship final held on November 15 in Karlsruhe. The 23-year-old, trained at Fielmann Greifswald, outperformed eleven other finalists selected via state-level journeyman exams and won a Carl Zeiss Vision special prize for progressive lenses. Ruth Rebecca Maas from Lower Saxony secured second place, while Fabienne Latz from Saarland took third. Noah-Constantin Jung from Rhineland-Palatinate received the "Good Form" award for designing the best rimless glasses. Samantha Samira Becker from Bremen won a low-vision seminar voucher for her consultation performance with a macular degeneration patient.
The Central Association of Opticians and Optometrists (ZVA) held its member assembly in Lübeck on March 7–8, 2026. Delegates unanimously elected Kai Jaeger as the new president, succeeding Christian Müller, who served nearly 17 years and was named honorary president. The meeting focused on regular elections for the executive board and committees. During his final report, Müller highlighted the upcoming optician master regulation effective July 2026 and intensified political advocacy regarding medical aids supply. He also addressed market competition involving Brillen.de, emphasizing fair trade compliance. Lars Hellberg and Stefan Pape received the Golden ZVA Honorary Award for long-standing contributions to vocational training and industry representation.
The Central Association of Opticians and Optometrists (ZVA) released its 2025/26 industry report, indicating a stable but less dynamic German optical market. Revenue rose by 0.6% in 2025 to over €7 billion, lagging behind inflation, while complete eyeglass sales dropped 2% to nearly 12 million units. The number of optical businesses fell to approximately 10,700, with the top ten companies now holding 55% of total revenue. Online sales of glasses and accessories remained insignificant at a 5% revenue share, with only 6% of purchases decided online. ZVA President Kai Jaeger noted that structural changes are advancing, particularly affecting small owner-operated businesses due to succession issues. The report emphasizes that personal consultation remains the dominant model, though digital tools like online booking are increasingly adopted.
Editorial relevance: The report provides authoritative data on the German optical market, highlighting that online sales remain a minor channel compared to brick-and-mortar retail.
The Central Association of Opticians and Optometrists (ZVA) has launched a new round of its nationwide "Ihre Innungsoptiker – Qualität, die man sieht" campaign. Visually updated with stronger color accents to highlight optician services, the initiative combines federal online advertising with local participation tools for member businesses. Key components include the consumer website innungsoptiker.de featuring an optician search function and customizable business profiles. Starting in autumn 2026, the campaign will target students via Germany’s largest learning platform, Studyflix, displaying videos and career profiles. Additionally, members can utilize socialPALS for automated or customized posts on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Materials are available through regional associations and the zva.de member area, aiming to strengthen visibility for stationary optical care and attract vocational talent.
The Central Association of Opticians and Optometrists (ZVA) announced the continuation of the Working Group of Health Crafts through a new cooperation agreement covering the years 2027 to 2031. Five participating associations are involved in this arrangement, which aims to strengthen their collective voice in health policy. The ZVA stated that this initiative also reinforces the political representation of opticianry as a health craft. The source confirms the existence and timeframe of the agreement but does not provide details on specific policy goals or operational changes beyond the stated intent to enhance joint advocacy efforts.
The German Bundesrat approved the "First Ordinance Amending the Professional Driver Qualification Ordinance" on July 10, enabling optician businesses to conduct vision checks for professional truck and bus drivers. This decision by the upper house of parliament clears the path for including optical shops in the mandatory medical fitness assessments required for these driving license classes. The ordinance originates from the Federal Ministry of Transport.
The Central Association of Opticians and Optometrists (ZVA) has expressed criticism regarding the newly passed Contribution Rate Stabilization Act, which introduces several relevant new regulations for the eyewear industry. The primary point of contention is the expanded right to request information granted to the National Association of Statutory Health Insurance Funds (GKV-Spitzenverband). While the legislation has been officially adopted, the ZVA maintains a critical stance on these specific provisions affecting optical professionals.
Blackfin announced the limited-edition Prometheus Two on March 19, 2026. Milled from solid titanium with aluminum rims and a double bridge inspired by 1970s eyewear, the frame features PVD finishes and gradient lenses. Three versions are available: two Obsidian Black Gold iterations with Light Gold or Ruthenium rims (250 pieces each) and one Light Gold version with Palladium rims (150 pieces). The original Prometheus One also returns in a limited edition with upgraded micro-details, sharing the same color palettes. Both models are individually numbered and produced at the Black Shelter Sustainable Factory. Currently open for pre-order, official sales begin in May through select global optical partners.
Blackfin announced the expansion of its One Sun line for the Spring/Summer 2026 season, introducing three new titanium styles: Iron Harbor, Coronado, and Sandy Hook. Each frame is cut from a single block of titanium using delicate milling to create sculpted geometries and gradient colorways. Iron Harbor features a squared shape-within-a-shape effect, while Coronado offers a rounded version; both utilize dual-plane fronts and distinct bridge shifts. Sandy Hook presents a softer, feminine elegance with an elegant round shape and radiating color nuances. All models are conceived and produced internally at the Black Shelter, the company’s sustainable headquarters in the Dolomites, adhering to an ethical approach that combines technological innovation with social responsibility.
Blackfin announced that its Vitra eyewear collection has entered the distribution phase and is now available for shipping, following a preorder launch in January 2026. The company reports strong preorder volumes, positioning Vitra as a new ultralight category within its portfolio. The frames combine a high-performance polymer front called VitraCore™ with minimalist components forged from aerospace-grade titanium. Key design features include weld-free construction and a patented invisible micro-hinge. Despite these structural innovations, the line retains a standard lens-mounting system to ensure universal lab processing. All products are designed and manufactured at the Black Shelter Sustainable Factory. This update marks the transition from pre-order availability to official delivery readiness.
On September 2, 2026, Blackfin announced it created a special edition series of titanium sunglasses as the official gift for guests attending the David Foster Foundation’s 40th-anniversary celebrations in Victoria, British Columbia. The Italian brand sponsored the events, which included a welcome dinner at Government House, a charity gala with private concerts, and a public concert at Inner Harbour drawing over 60,000 attendees. Notable guests included Prince Harry, Meghan Markle, and Bill Gates. The partnership reflects shared values between Blackfin and the Foundation, established by composer David Foster in 1986 to support families of children needing organ transplants. Blackfin CEO Nicola Del Din stated the collaboration stems from an alignment of social commitment and product excellence.
Blackfin announced it will present its new Fall/Winter 2026 eyewear collection at the SILMO trade show in Paris. The event is scheduled for September 25–27, 2026, at the Paris Nord Villepinte exhibition center. Attendees can view the collection at Pad 7, Booth G146. This announcement confirms the brand's participation and location details for the upcoming industry event but does not specify individual product models, pricing, or immediate retail availability outside the trade show context.
On 23 September 2026, Blackfin announced the Atlantic collection, a new premium eyewear line emphasizing titanium construction and architectural design. The launch features two models: Tucker, characterized by a double bridge, and Pembroke, defined by a squared shape. Both frames incorporate a new finely engraved texture on the bridge and profiles, available in shiny gold or shiny lunar white gold finishes. Additionally, a gradient colorway transitioning from glossy black to matte cosmic grey is offered. The front of each style is sculpted from a single block of titanium, integrating the rim lock and hinge into one piece. A patented system enables invisible adjustment of the temples' pantoscopic angle, while silicone nose pads provide omnidirectional fitting precision. All Atlantic frames are manufactured at the Black Shelter, the brand's sustainable headquarters located in the Dolomite Mountains, ensuring complete control over the Italian production process.
On 8 October 2026, Blackfin Newsroom announced new styles for the Blackfin One line, emphasizing precision titanium engineering and hand-applied chromatic details. The collection includes Hamilton and Hayman models featuring double bridges with bi-level fronts milled from single titanium blocks in satin light gold paired with black or dark brown. Lanai introduces a feminine shape with a triple horizontal gradient front to enhance visual lightness. Mercer offers a vintage-inspired round frame, while Alys presents a cat-eye design with iridescent finishes. Dunmore features a squared silhouette with 1970s influences and luminous hues. All frames are conceptualized, designed, and manufactured at the brand’s sustainable headquarters, the Black Shelter, reflecting Italian know-how.
SPECTARIS Consumer Optics and EUROM Optical Industries successfully addressed a conflict in the EU Medical Device Regulation (MDR) that risked forcing eyewear manufacturers into non-compliance. The issue involved EUDAMED registration deadlines preceding the technical feasibility of Master UDI-DI implementation, potentially exposing producers to sanctions for up to 30 months. Following advocacy efforts, the European Commission published an official position paper on July 10 clarifying that manufacturers may register products with Master UDI-DI before mandatory deadlines if technically feasible, but are not required to do so. Alternatively, existing identifiers like GS1 codes remain valid until the specific Master-UDI deadlines: November 9, 2026, for contact lenses and September 2028 for eyeglass frames, lenses, and ready-made readers. This clarification provides essential legal certainty and audit readiness for the optical industry.
Mirjam Rösch, Managing Director of Hoya Lens Deutschland and Seiko Optical Europe, was re-elected as chair of the SPECTARIS Consumer Optics association for a three-year term. The vote occurred at the Consumer Optics Industry Forum in Berlin, part of the SPECTARIS Future Festival. The assembly also confirmed her role as deputy chair of the overall SPECTARIS association. Leading the association since 2022, which represents eyewear, optics, and photography sectors, Rösch emphasized priorities including skilled labor retention, sustainability, digitalization, and strengthening Germany’s production location. She stated that eye health awareness would remain a key focus. The festival gathered over 250 guests from politics, business, and science. Additionally, Rösch is scheduled to open the 24th Eyewear Trend Forum in Berlin on November 3.
On November 3, 2025, the 24th SPECTARIS Trendforum took place at Classic Remise Berlin, gathering 400 participants from the optical industry. The event focused on future trends, including artificial intelligence applications by Dr. Vanessa Just, smart glasses developments discussed by Richard Gutjahr, and workforce recruitment strategies. Key speakers included former Federal Minister Volker Wissing and table tennis legend Timo Boll. Mirjam Rösch, Chair of Consumer Optics, emphasized optimism regarding new products and services. Additional highlights featured the "Tomorrow Vision" trade fair concept, a social media campaign for apprenticeships, and discussions on eye screening and retail megatrends.
At the opti 2026 trade fair in Munich, SPECTARIS reported that the German consumer optics industry exceeded €5 billion in revenue for the first time in 2025, achieving low single-digit growth. While domestic sales rose by approximately 0.5 percent amid consumer restraint, foreign business grew more dynamically at nearly 3 percent, maintaining an export share of around 50 percent. Preliminary data indicates a slight decline in employment during 2025, with companies expecting stable to slightly decreasing staffing levels in 2026. For the current year, firms anticipate similar overall revenue trends, driven primarily by stronger international performance. The association also outlined product trends for 2026, including modular designs, 3D-printed glasses, sustainable materials, and digital health features like myopia management.
Editorial relevance: The report highlights a divergence between domestic and international growth, emphasizing the critical role of cross-border trade in sustaining revenue for the German consumer optics sector.
The German industry association SPECTARIS announced that its Consumer Optics Trendforum will now take place every two years, responding to industry requests for more time for content development and planning. The 25th edition is scheduled for November 8, 2027. To bridge the gap, SPECTARIS introduced the "SPECTARIS Future Festival" in Berlin on September 16, 2026. This new cross-industry event focuses on transformation and growth paths, featuring discussions on high-tech locations in Germany and optical AR technologies. Mirjam Rösch, chair of the SPECTARIS Consumer Optics division, highlighted the festival as a strong platform for innovation and geopolitical perspectives across all four SPECTARIS industries.
German industry association SPECTARIS submitted four statements to the European Chemicals Agency’s SEAC consultation, opposing the proposed blanket restriction on over 10,000 PFAS substances. The group advocates for a risk-based approach with exemptions for fluoropolymers, arguing no unacceptable risk has been proven. In eyewear, PFAS enable durable, easy-clean lens coatings; SPECTARIS claims these applications are low-emission and lack equivalent alternatives, warning of reduced product quality and competitiveness. The association also highlights risks to medical technology, noting potential impacts on patient care and the availability of approximately 150,000 established medical devices. SPECTARIS criticizes procedural deficits, including insufficient sector-specific assessments and short transition periods, citing a BDI legal opinion that challenges the ban’s proportionality and regulatory basis.
The German industrial association SPECTARIS announced that Stephan Schenk will assume leadership of its Consumer Optics division on July 15, 2026. He succeeds Peter Frankenstein, who is departing after 28 years with the organization at his own request. Schenk brings decades of experience in optics, marketing, and market analysis, having recently advised startup hellomateo and held executive roles at Euronet Software GmbH and EVEX Group. Mirjam Rösch, Chair of the Consumer Optics division, highlighted Schenk’s industry connections and strategic expertise. Frankenstein, who served as press spokesperson and later led the division for over 25 years, also held positions at Kuratorium Gutes Sehen and EUROM 1. His tenure was marked by significant contributions to the SPECTARIS Trend Forum and deep engagement with the optical sector.
Eyewear brand Götti has introduced two new models, Mona and Myles, to its Dimension line as part of the 2025 spring collection. Manufactured via 3D printing from fine polyamide powder at the company’s Swiss facility, both frames feature a beveled geometry with concave detailing that creates soft light reflections and a distinct tactile feel. Despite their angular shapes, the designs incorporate emphasized upper edges and newly designed wide temples to enhance versatility. The frames are available as both sunglasses and prescription eyewear, offering custom-fit adjustments through a dedicated function. Specific dimensions include size 50-20 mm for the Mona model and 50-19 mm for the Myles model. Both styles come in 15 color variants, reflecting the manufacturer's focus on modern adaptability and refined surface aesthetics within the Dimension series.
Eyewear brand Face à Face is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year. To mark the occasion, the company announced a new design era called Face à Face 3.0 and introduced "Faces," a limited-edition eyewear concept developed specifically for the milestone. The collection was created in collaboration with US artist Jessica Poundstone, featuring vibrant color palettes and bold architectural forms. The sunglasses emphasize duality through double colors, double F-silhouettes, and distinctive double bars. Available in two shapes, each model comes in four color variants.
Italian brand Look has released the Rigato eyewear series for men, scheduled for spring and summer 2025. The collection comprises four models crafted from high-quality acetate, featuring fine parallel lines on the front that evoke traditional Italian craftsmanship. Model numbers 4680 and 4681 present smaller, soft square shapes inspired by 1950s styles, while model 4682 includes a prominent bar reflecting 1980s aesthetics. Model 4683 offers larger frames reinterpreting 1970s designs. Color options range from classic Havana tones to modern blue, green, and rust orange, with some frames incorporating bold accents. The series alternates between polished and matte finishes to create distinct tactile and visual effects.
Ray-Ban announced the Blacked Out Collection, its first line created under the creative direction of rapper A$AP Rocky for Ray-Ban Studios. The collection features three reinterpreted classic designs—Mega Wayfarer, Mega Clubmaster, and Mega Balorama—presented in a deep black look with gold-plated details. A key element is the custom AWGE branding in a tattoo style, reflecting A$AP Rocky’s signature aesthetic described as "rebellious, elegant, and bold." This collaboration aims to highlight Ray-Ban's cultural influence and connection to the avant-garde while making a statement in the premium segment. The brand claims the eyewear is both timeless and forward-looking, targeting fashion enthusiasts and independent opticians.
Karl Lagerfeld has announced its Spring/Summer 2025 eyewear collection, featuring designs inspired by Parisian rock chic. The lineup includes the KL6188S, a men’s sunglasses model made from bio-based high-tech polymer with a rectangular front and bold temples, available in black, white, and dark tortoise. The KL6182S unisex sunglasses are crafted from acetate, showcasing a striped finish, geometric shape, and an enameled metal element bearing the Karl autograph on the temples; color options include blue striped, black, and dark tortoise. Additionally, the KL6198 is a modern optical unisex frame characterized by a wide silhouette and straight top line, offered in classic black and transparent green, brown, and blue tones.
Flair Eyewear has released its April 2025 collection, emphasizing design, quality, and craftsmanship with products made in Germany. The lineup highlights faceted demo lenses, fine titanium, and stylish surfaces. Key models include the Art Couture 9134, featuring elegant titanium temples and matte/gloss effects; the men's 9131, a full-rim titanium frame with guilloché detailing; and the 9133 and 9136, which incorporate stainless steel segments, zirconia stones, and laser technology. The 9136 is noted as an evolution of model 9124. Additionally, new frames in the 1600 series offer a subtle design, weighing only three grams and available in eight color variants.
Actor and racing driver Patrick Dempsey will serve as the official face of the new TAG Heuer Eyewear collection starting in 2025. This role expands his brand ambassadorship with the Swiss luxury watchmaker, which began in 2014. The eyewear line was developed in collaboration with Thélios, an LVMH subsidiary specializing in eyewear. Dempsey contributes his motorsport experience and design sensibility to the collection's development. The campaign features two models from the new line: "Jack Heuer" and "Mini Vingt-Sept," visually referencing the brand's racing heritage. The full collection comprises three distinct lines: Jack Heuer, featuring retro-style titanium frames; Mini Vingt-Sept, offering technical designs with modern hinges and polarized lenses; and Shield Pro, designed for extreme conditions with flexible frames and interchangeable lenses.
Spanish eyewear label Gigi Studios has released its new "Revivre" capsule collection. The line comprises 14 sun and prescription glasses models, characterized by striking silhouettes and high-quality materials. Design elements blend classic shapes with modern aesthetics, drawing inspiration from past decades to create a contemporary interpretation. The frames feature premium acetate in warm earth tones, including beige, brown, copper, ochre, pink, and blue. Gigi Studios aims to use nostalgic elements as creative drivers while establishing new stylistic directions. The collection targets an elegant, timeless look with personality, positioning itself beyond fast-moving fashion trends.
Eyewear brand Akoni has introduced a new collection inspired by classic Southern California surf culture. The frames are manufactured from high-quality Japanese acetate, noted for stability, and feature handcrafted organic-linear structures that provide distinct tactile qualities and individual appearances. Blending retro charm with modern design, the collection offers a stylish yet understated look. The models are available under the name Columba in four colorways: Black Scraped, Green Swirl, Black, and Crystal Dark Grey.
Italian eyewear manufacturer Persol presented its 2025 Steve McQueen collection during the Cannes Film Festival. The line honors the actor’s connection to the brand, featuring a limited edition of the Model 714, famously worn by McQueen in the 1968 film "The Thomas Crown Affair." This foldable model is crafted from high-quality acetate with specific metal details and includes an engraved "1968" plaque. It features Barberini mineral glass lenses available in four colors. The limited edition package includes a leather case, logo strap, microfiber cloth, and informational materials about Steve McQueen.
Morel has expanded its Noémie eyewear collection, originally launched last autumn, by introducing two new frame shapes and additional color combinations for the new season. The line features a distinctive gradient effect created by layering three different acetate sheets, producing targeted contrasts, transparency effects, and light play that highlight the brow line. The frames combine solid and translucent acetate elements with clear lines and a lightweight fit, utilizing Morel’s screw-free and solder-free hinge technology found in many of its models. This update maintains the collection's focus on technical refinement and a reduced weight while offering a feminine aesthetic through the new design variations.
Eschenbach Optik has launched Tom Tailor Eyewear, a new licensed brand expanding its portfolio with fashion-focused offerings. The initial collection features 30 prescription frames and 30 sunglasses models, designed with clear shapes and modern details inspired by Nordic lifestyle aesthetics. Positioned in the mid-range lifestyle segment, the line targets customers valuing wearable design trends. Availability is currently limited to optical retail stores and selected Tom Tailor locations. CEO Dr. Peter Braunhofer stated that the partnership combines Eschenbach’s eyewear expertise with Tom Tailor’s brand strength, emphasizing authenticity and reliability. This launch marks the first joint collection between the two companies, aiming to integrate casual fashion elements into functional eyewear products for the optical market.
Götti has announced two new models, the FL04 and FL05, for its Perspective collection in the Spring/Summer 2025 season. These sunglasses feature a frameless construction with an oversized shape and feminine silhouette, designed to offer a minimalist look with low weight. The frames utilize stainless steel tones in Gold (Oro) and Silver (Argento), avoiding screws or solder joints to combine lightness with stability. Lens options include standard UV-protection colors such as Rose, Forest, Atlantic, and G15, alongside subtle tint variants like Tan, Azure, and Nude. Curved temples are intended to emphasize the side profile. The company states these models target individuals prioritizing design and individuality, though specific pricing and retail availability details were not provided in the announcement.
Italian brand Valentino launched its new eyewear collection for autumn in June 2025, developed in collaboration with the Swiss AKN Group. The line features sunglasses and optical frames for men and women, incorporating retro-inspired designs and modern manufacturing techniques. Sunglasses include elongated rectangular acetate frames with contrasting colors and logo accents, as well as rimless variants with lightweight lines. Optical frames offer round designs with crystal embellishments and 1970s-inspired styles using thick acetate with precision milling to reduce weight. Details such as metal rivets, geometric motifs, and oversized logos are prominent across models. Color options range from classic black and Havana to crystal or gradient variations. The collection aims to balance vintage elements with clear forms and high-quality processing.
Flair announced its August 2025 eyewear collection, emphasizing German-made craftsmanship. The Art Couture series introduces model 9137, a handcrafted rimless frame with jewelry elements; model 9138, featuring a floating zirconia stone and softer lens shape; and model 9142, which builds on the 9125 design with hand-colored accents and stronger contrast. Additional highlights include the "Zeitgeist in Titan" line of ultralight full-rim and rimless frames with laser engraving, and the annual "Pure Colour Special" under the theme "Spot on," showcasing unique hand-coloring and laser techniques. Model 1602 offers a minimalist design weighing only 3 grams with a classic nose pad.