American luxury eyewear house T HENRI has secured a strategic investment from industry veteran Harvey Ross of Ross Holdings. The partnership aims to support international expansion while maintaining the brand’s exclusive, limited-production model. Founded by Tyler Henri Gelb in Detroit, T HENRI produces hypercar-inspired frames handcrafted in Sabae, Japan, with serialized batches typically limited to 199 pieces per style and colorway. Currently distributed through over 300 authorized retailers worldwide, the independent label seeks to strengthen its global presence without compromising rarity. Gelb will remain at the helm, overseeing creative direction and operations. Ross brings more than six decades of experience in eyewear manufacturing and retail, having founded Viva International Group and currently leading OPTYX New York.
Synsam AB repurchased 124,574 own shares between October 19 and October 23, 2026, as part of a share buy-back program initiated to adjust the company’s capital structure. The transactions were executed on Nasdaq Stockholm by DNB Carnegie Investment Bank AB. This activity falls within the maximum MSEK 200 program announced on May 28, 2026, which runs from June 1, 2026, until February 26, 2027. Following these purchases, Synsam holds 5,084,209 own shares out of 145,313,746 total outstanding shares. Daily volumes ranged from 24,574 to 25,000 shares, with weighted average prices between SEK 53.55 and SEK 55.41.
100% Optical announced Frame of Mind, a new destination celebrating independent eyewear design, scheduled to launch when the annual event returns to Excel London from February 27 to March 1, 2027. Organizers state the space is created to connect innovative eyewear designers with independent opticians, practice owners and boutique retailers. The announcement precedes the actual opening of the curated area at the upcoming show dates.
VisionLab relocated its Gijón store to Corrida Street, expanding the space to over 90 square meters. The new location implements the company's updated concept, featuring Kümer IA lenses and proprietary Custom Lab technology for in-store 3D-printed frames. VisionLab also highlights its exclusive Kümer by VisionLab contact lenses and myopia management services. Currently operating 109 stores across Spain and Portugal with more than 600 professionals, the chain remains the only Spanish optical retailer with an ophthalmic lens factory in Madrid. Recent innovations include a partnership with IOT to produce progressive lenses via light flash, making VisionLab the first global distributor of Light Form.
The Optonia vocational school for optometry and ophthalmic optics held its ninth career day on September 16, 2026, in Diez. More than 200 attendees, including students, alumni, and company representatives, engaged with approximately 25 exhibiting firms to discuss professional perspectives and entry opportunities in the optical industry. Four former graduates delivered keynote presentations detailing diverse career paths ranging from self-employment and leadership roles to specialized technical positions and early business ownership. Twelve workshops provided practical insights into current industry topics. Additionally, informal "Nice-to-meet-you" sessions allowed students to establish initial contacts with potential employers. Holger Werner, Managing Director of Optonia, emphasized the importance of personal exchange and strong networks for professional success.
EssilorLuxottica reported a group revenue of €7.49 billion for the third quarter of 2026, representing a 9% nominal increase from €6.87 billion in the prior-year period. Currency-adjusted growth was 7.2%, slower than the 11.7% constant-currency rise seen in the same quarter last year. The Direct to Consumer segment grew 10.6% on a currency-adjusted basis to €4.09 billion, outpacing the Professional Solutions segment, which rose 3.4% to €3.39 billion. E-commerce contributed 7% of total group revenue, unchanged from previous levels. Key growth drivers included myopia management, with sales up 24% at constant exchange rates, and wearables, which increased 20% currency-adjusted to €486 million. However, wearable sales declined in the EMEA region despite gains in North America, Asia, and Latin America. The company also launched the Nuance Audio Plus smart hearing glasses in mid-September 2026.
Italian manufacturers' association ANFAO reported that Italian eyewear exports reached €2.7 billion in the first half of 2026, a 2.7% year-on-year decline. While total exports fell due to a significant 25.1% drop in shipments to the US (€320 million), monthly trends showed gradual recovery, with June exports rising 3.7%. Europe strengthened its position as the primary market, growing 4.4%, led by gains in Germany (+7.1%) and Poland (+20.9%). Conversely, Asia saw a 6.0% decrease. Domestically, Italy's optical retail market remained stable at €1.8 billion (+0.3%), outperforming broader European declines. ANFAO President Lorraine Berton emphasized geographic diversification as essential for competitiveness amid ongoing geopolitical uncertainties.
Organised by the HKTDC and HKOMA, the 34th Hong Kong International Optical Fair will be held from November 4 to 6 at the HKCEC. The event features over 600 exhibitors from 14 countries, showcasing products including smart eyewear, frames, lenses, and eye-care solutions. Highlighting sector growth, organizers cited IDC data showing global smart glasses shipments reached 3.566 million units in Q1 2026, up 130.1% year-on-year. The fair adopts an EXHIBITION+ hybrid model, utilizing Click2Match and Scan2Match tools for business connections until November 13. Concurrent events include the 24th Hong Kong International Optometric Symposium and the 26th Hong Kong Eyewear Design Competition.
Retail locations in Taree and Forster, New South Wales, are seeking joint venture partners. The opportunity offers a guaranteed salary, a share in dividends, and the chance to build and lead a team. The source text does not specify the company name, the number of available positions, or the exact nature of the retail business beyond the location context.
At the European Council of Optometry and Optics (ECOO) autumn meeting in Billund, Denmark, from October 16–18, 2026, ZVA Vice President Sylvia Alps was elected for the first time to the Public Affairs and Economic Committee (PAEC). The PAEC is one of two central specialist committees within ECOO, focusing on political, regulatory, and economic frameworks for the optical industry in Europe. Alps succeeds ZVA President Kai Jaeger, who previously represented the association on the committee. This appointment allows the ZVA to actively shape European developments and advocate for German optical interests in early-stage decision-making processes. Alps stated her goal is to ensure European decisions remain practical for businesses. The ZVA also highlighted its ongoing efforts to enforce Medical Device Regulation standards for corrective eyewear sold via international online platforms from non-EU countries.
Online eyewear retailer Zenni announced the appointment of Erica J. Scott as chief commercial officer, effective September 28, 2026, and Zoe Richards as director of public relations. Scott will lead Zenni’s commercial strategy, bringing over 25 years of experience in global consumer brands, including her recent role as global CMO at Signet Jewelers’ Milestone Brands Division. Co-founder and CEO Julia Zhen stated that Scott’s background is instrumental for expanding reach and strengthening the brand during Zenni's next growth phase. Richards joins from Rothy’s, where she served as director of communications and public relations for nearly seven years, following agency work with brands such as Olay and GANT.
S&P Global Ratings has upgraded the long-term credit ratings of EssilorLuxottica, assigning a stable outlook to the company. The action was reported on October 25, 2026, by Philip Webster for Eyewear Intelligence. The source confirms the rating upgrade and the stability of the outlook but does not specify the previous or new rating levels, nor does it detail the financial metrics or strategic factors driving the decision. No information regarding the impact on stock performance, debt costs, or operational changes is provided in the available text.
Spanish optical group MO Global Eyewear, operating under the Mó and Multiópticas banners, plans to expand its presence into Guatemala and the Dominican Republic. This growth is scheduled for early 2027 and relies on an agreement with Disresa, which will serve as the master franchise in both countries. The source confirms these are expansion expectations based on a signed agreement, rather than completed store openings or launched operations at this time.
During Paris Fashion Week, Thélios, the eyewear division of luxury giant LVMH, showcased the spring-summer 2027 collection of American label Barton Perreira. Acquired by Thélios in 2024 for an estimated 80 million dollars, the brand retains its independence in design and production with Japanese artisans, according to co-founder Patty Perreira and managing director Cédric Moreau. The new collection features architectural inspiration with hand-bevelled Japanese acetate and titanium frames. While operating five boutiques domestically and reaching over 1,500 specialist opticians globally, the brand plans to expand its network in Europe and increase marketing investment in China and Japan. Prices remain between 400 and 700 euros, unchanged for two years, as the company leverages Thélios’s distribution capabilities without diluting its identity.
Eyewear brand ic! berlin has announced a motorsport-inspired retail pop-up experience scheduled to coincide with the Austin race weekend. This event marks the company's first-ever physical retail pop-up location. The initiative aims to provide an immersive eyewear experience linked to the racing context in Austin, Texas. Specific details regarding exact dates, product availability, or operational hours were not provided in the source material.
Ocuco has appointed Mike Sullivan to the role of Enterprise Account Executive, specifically covering the North American market. This personnel change was announced via a press release distributed by Optical Prism. The source material confirms the appointment and the geographic scope but does not provide further details regarding Sullivan’s previous experience, specific responsibilities, or the effective date of the new position beyond the announcement itself.
The organizers of the international eyewear trade show MIDO have opened applications for the 2027 edition of its awards. The program features three distinct categories: Best Store Award, CSE Award, and CSE Corporate Award, which recognize businesses and projects demonstrating creativity, innovation, and forward-looking visions in retail, sustainability, and storytelling. These awards are associated with MIDO 2027, scheduled to take place from February 6 to 8, 2027, at Fiera Milano in Rho. The event is described as a hub for business connections, new collections, and industry trends. The source confirms that applications are currently open but does not specify deadlines, eligibility criteria, or prize details.
Zeiss announced that Bryan Rossi will transition from his role as head of Zeiss Vision Care Canada to become the head of Zeiss Medical Technology Canada. In addition to this new responsibility, Rossi will continue to serve as the head of Zeiss Canada and president of Carl Zeiss Canada Ltd., ensuring continuity in the leadership of the Canadian organization. The announcement was made on October 23, 2026.
The source material consists solely of a redirect notice to an article titled "EssilorLuxottica revenue boosted by traditional eyewear strength" published in Optical Prism Magazine. No factual details, financial figures, dates, or specific performance metrics are provided within the text itself. Consequently, the summary cannot verify the extent of the revenue boost, the definition of "traditional eyewear," or any other supporting data points.
Bryan Rossi has been appointed as the head of ZEISS Medical Technology Canada. He will continue to lead ZEISS Canada in his new role. The source provides no further details regarding the effective date, specific responsibilities, or organizational changes associated with this appointment.
Kering reported third-quarter group revenue of €3,345 million, stable on a reported basis but down 1 percent on a comparable basis year-over-year. The eyewear segment demonstrated resilience, reaching €373 million in revenue, an increase of 6 percent as reported and 4 percent on a comparable basis. Group CFO Armelle Poulou attributed this to the strength and scalability of the eyewear platform, noting growth across all regions supported by initiatives such as the Maui Jim Fall Winter 2026 launch and Lindberg’s 40th anniversary celebrations. While wholesale revenues rose 3 percent on a comparable basis, directly operated retail sales, including e-commerce, decreased by 3 percent. Kering also advanced its store network optimization, completing 105 net closures in the first nine months of 2026, exceeding its full-year objective ahead of schedule.
Acuité has launched a survey to assess the impact of recent civil unrest on optical retail operations in France. The inquiry follows reports of severe disturbances and targeted looting affecting numerous businesses, including several dozen optical stores, during the weekend prior to the week of October 19. During that week, retailers experienced boarded-up storefronts, precautionary early closures, and a sharp decline in pedestrian traffic within metropolitan city centers. The survey seeks to measure how this climate of concern and reduced footfall affected business activity. Additionally, Acuité is conducting a separate poll asking readers whether they plan to open their stores on Saturday, October 24, 2026.
Kering Eyewear reported revenues of €373 million for the third quarter of 2026, marking its highest-ever performance for that period. This figure represents a 6 percent increase compared to the same quarter in the previous year. When adjusted for like-for-like and constant currency bases, the revenue growth was 4 percent. The data reflects financial results announced by the company, distinguishing nominal growth from organic performance metrics.
Mainline Optical has appointed Gavin Miller to the newly created role of commercial manager. The appointment aims to expand the company's market presence and develop its eyewear portfolio. Miller brings extensive industry experience from previous commercial and sales positions at CooperVision, Rodenstock, and Shamir. He assumes nationwide responsibility for sales development across Mainline’s eyewear offerings, including the Dibble Optical paediatric range, sports and safety collections, and the recently launched bespoke 3D-printed eyewear line. Managing Director Tanya Storey stated that Miller’s expertise will help strengthen existing partnerships and support long-term business ambitions.
Specsavers founders Doug and Dame Mary Perkins received the Lifetime Contribution Award at the Retail Gazette Awards on 14 October for their role in building a leading UK retail business and transforming access to optical and audiology care over four decades. The company stated the award recognized their contribution, while Dame Mary expressed surprise and credited partners and colleagues. Additionally, Carina Hummel, managing director of UK and ROI optics and a qualified dispensing optician, received a Highly Commended accolade in the Women in Leadership category. Her recognition cited overseeing Specsavers’ most successful year of trading yet and championing the Homelessness Programme.
The 16th Assottica Conference will take place October 25–26, 2026, at the Ergife Palace Hotel in Rome. Organizers selected “Il valore che si applica” as the theme, emphasizing contactology’s role in creating value for professionals and optical centers. Journalist Mia Ceran will host sessions featuring scientific research, market analysis by GfK, and workshops. A new survey by Jarach & Associati regarding Gen Z, Millennials, and Over 45 behaviors will be presented alongside a consumer roundtable. The event strengthens its partnership with TFOS, including updates on Dews III dry eye guidelines. Initiatives for young professionals, such as “Buongiorno Futuro” networking and Student Voice, are also scheduled.
Centro Visión Santander has transitioned to the ZEISS VISION CENTER brand, marking a new phase for the optical practice with 42 years of history. The change integrates ZEISS technology and standards into the existing service model while retaining the original team led by director Sergio Calvo, alongside José and Alejandro. This evolution aims to combine advanced measurement precision with personalized patient care, emphasizing that technology complements rather than replaces human interaction. The center focuses on visual health prevention and tailored solutions for changing digital habits. The rebranding represents an adoption of the ZEISS VISION CENTER concept in Santander, maintaining the established local presence and commitment to individualized attention without altering the core operational staff.
The Optical Women’s Association (OWA) held its "START STRONG" global connection breakfast at SILMO Paris, marking a milestone in its international expansion. The event focused on leadership and networking for optical professionals, featuring the "In Focus" program with speakers from MOREL, New Look Vision Group, and EssilorLuxottica Retail. SILMO President Amélie Morel provided opening remarks. Attendees included International Optician of the Year finalists, such as Karen Michaelson, who noted she did not win the title but valued the recognition. OWA stated the initiative aims to build a supportive global community for women’s professional growth in the optical industry.
EssilorLuxottica’s training ecosystem, Leonardo, is offering comprehensive educational resources to help opticians manage pediatric visual health and myopia progression. The initiative addresses the growing need for expertise in child development, risk factors, and parental guidance. Leonardo provides digital content covering vision science, myopia management, and optical solutions, allowing professionals to learn at their own pace. Additionally, a face-to-face course titled “L'expertise enfant, un atout pour développer votre activité” combines clinical perspectives from a pediatric ophthalmologist with practical insights from Nathalie Neirynck, Leonardo’s visual health lead. This training focuses on screening, identifying warning signs, and selecting appropriate equipment. By enhancing both technical and relational skills, Leonardo aims to support opticians in delivering personalized care, thereby improving family satisfaction and business retention amid rising pediatric eye health concerns.
French digital health insurer Alan will open applications for its closed optical network from November 3 to November 30, 2026. The network is scheduled to become operational on January 1, 2027, with featured opticians highlighted in the Alan app. Applicants must use a fully digital process starting with their FINESS number and meeting prerequisites including OptoAMC-compatible software and an agreement with Almérys, Alan’s third-party payment operator. Selection criteria include staff qualifications, certifications, store equipment, and contactology expertise, with bonuses for Veritas or AFNOR accreditation. To prevent oversaturation in specific areas, ties among candidates will be broken by the date of complete file submission. Alan currently serves over one million members across approximately 37,000 organizations.
Indi-Eyewear Magazine released issue #06, previewed at Silmo Paris and distributed to optical centers within the Indi-E community. The edition is also available online as a flipbook. Centered on the "Backstage" concept, the magazine explores the creative processes behind independent eyewear brands, designers, and professionals. The cover features Belgian brand Theo and its collection Les pleins et les vides, developed in collaboration with French designer Matali Crasset. This project examines the relationship between presence and absence through unconventional design language. The back cover complements the visual narrative by highlighting the ideas and skills that form independent identities. The publication aims to foster dialogue among independent optical retailers and creators, emphasizing independence as a mindset rather than just a market category.
Optiswiss has appointed Thomas Ruland as Sales Manager for the Northwest and West regions of Germany, effective early October. Ruland, a certified optician and master optician with prior leadership experience at the Viehoff Group, will focus on developing existing customer relationships and establishing new partnerships within the optical trade. He reports to Regional Sales Director Stephan Sachau. The company states this addition reinforces its commitment to high-quality Swiss-made lenses and emphasizes close collaboration with retail partners. This personnel change is limited to the specified German regions and does not indicate broader organizational restructuring or product launches beyond the stated sales strategy.
Following a weekend marked by severe unrest and targeted looting across France, including dozens of optical stores, the retail sector faced a complex week beginning October 19. EyewearSearch News reports that Acuité has launched a survey to assess the specific impact of this climate of concern and the resulting drop in foot traffic on optical businesses. The source notes precautionary measures such as shuttered storefronts and early closures in metropolitan city centers. Additionally, Acuité is conducting a separate poll asking readers if they intend to open their shops on Saturday, October 24, 2026. These initiatives aim to measure the operational consequences for the profession during this period of reduced store attendance.
French luxury group Kering reported third-quarter 2026 revenue of €3.35 billion ($3.76 billion), remaining stable on a reported basis but declining 1 percent on a comparable basis year-over-year. The performance was supported by a positive currency effect of one percentage point. While the Fashion & Leather Goods division saw a 3 percent comparable decline driven by Gucci's 6 percent drop in retail sales due to lower traffic in Mainland China and Japan, other segments performed well. Kering Eyewear recorded revenue of €373 million, up 4 percent on a comparable basis, aided by regional expansion and new collections from Lindberg and Maui Jim. The Jewelry division also grew 11 percent comparably. In terms of distribution, Kering closed 128 stores and opened 23 during the first nine months, surpassing its initial target of 100 net closures ahead of schedule. CEO Luca de Meo stated that Gucci's recovery remains the defining priority.
Ocuco, a global provider of omnichannel eyecare solutions, appointed Mike Sullivan as Enterprise Account Executive focused on Acuitas 3 sales to optical groups across North America. Sullivan brings over 20 years of sales experience, including nearly two decades in eyecare technology, with roles spanning enterprise software sales and account management. He holds a business degree from De Anza College and a Sandler Sales Certification. Dermot Walsh, Ocuco’s Chief Revenue Officer, stated that Sullivan’s background in practice operations and complex enterprise sales will support the company’s growth with North American optical groups using Acuitas 3, Innovations 3 and OptiCommerce.
Silhouette Group has partnered with the AOA Foundation to offer a total of $3,500 in scholarships to second-year optometry students (class of 2029). The program awards $2,500 to the top essay on sustainability in eyecare and $1,000 to the second-highest rated submission. Applicants must be members in good standing of both the AOA and the American Optometric Student Association and submit essays under 1,500 words by November 2, 2026. This initiative aligns with Silhouette’s stated sustainability efforts, including CO2-neutral production and waste reduction. The Linz-based manufacturer, which exports 95 percent of its production, recently appointed Christian Bachler as CEO.
Marcolin-owned German eyewear brand ic! berlin announced its first-ever retail pop-up at the Fairmont Austin during Austin Race Weekend, October 23–25, 2026. The event celebrates the brand’s partnership with the Audi Revolut F1 Team and highlights a campaign featuring drivers Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto wearing Ryan and Gabriel styles. Presented in partnership with Visionworks and Ideal Eye Team, the pop-up offers visitors a chance to shop a curated selection of sunglasses and optical frames from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. on October 23 and 24. The collection showcases ic! berlin’s signature screwless hinge mechanism, lightweight construction, and advanced materials, aligning with the technical precision shared by the brand and its motorsport partner.
Kering reported third-quarter group revenue of €3,345 million, stable on a reported basis and down 1 percent on a comparable basis year-over-year. The Kering Eyewear segment demonstrated resilience, achieving €373 million in revenue, up 6 percent as reported and 4 percent on a comparable basis. Group CFO Armelle Poulou attributed this to the platform's strength and scalability, noting growth across all regions driven by initiatives such as the Maui Jim Fall Winter 2026 launch and Lindberg’s 40th anniversary. Channel performance varied: wholesale revenues rose 3 percent on a comparable basis, while directly operated retail network sales, including e-commerce, decreased 3 percent. North America accounted for 25 percent of group revenue, a 2 percent increase. For the first nine months, group revenue totaled €10,565 million, down 2 percent as reported. Kering completed 105 net store closures during this period, exceeding its full-year objective ahead of schedule, with plans for at least 125 net closures for 2026.
Essilor Stellest spectacle lenses were named one of TIME magazine’s Best Inventions of 2026 in the Health and Wellness category. Designed to slow myopia progression in children, the lenses are supported by clinical evidence, including a United States randomised trial published in JAMA Ophthalmology that documented a 71% reduction in progression over two years compared with single-vision lenses. This recognition follows the US Food and Drug Administration’s De Novo market authorisation in September 2025, which EssilorLuxottica states makes these the first and only FDA-authorised spectacle lenses for slowing childhood myopia in the US. The FDA previously granted Breakthrough Device designation in April 2021. Company executives cited the award as validation of evidence-based innovation in vision care.
Groupe Afflelou and Institut Supérieur d’Optique (ISO) have officially expanded the Masterclass Afflelou program from its initial Paris launch in 2024 to all 13 ISO campuses, including ISO Digital. The national rollout began with a September 30, 2026, event at Afflelou’s La Défense headquarters, welcoming approximately 120 new students into the BTS Opticien-Lunetier curriculum. The work-study model features six training days annually, held at headquarters for Paris-region students and on-campus for others, focusing on practical store cases. Company-reported results for the first cohort show an 85% BTS pass rate compared to the 59% national average, with 50% of graduates joining the Afflelou network.