Published through 2026-11-02 21:41 UTC · Automated cloud publishing.
Revista Ver+ reports that EasyFit Trend, a professional lens beveling machine, has introduced the "Smart Facets" feature. The source describes this update as an evolution of the existing product but provides no specific details regarding the functionality, technical specifications, or availability timeline of the new capability. Consequently, the exact nature of the change and its market impact remain undefined in the provided text.
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.
Ma.Be. Italian Jewel announced that its independent brand, FourSeasons Eyewear, will present new collections at Expo Ottica Sud. The designs reflect the Cadore region’s eyewear heritage and are developed in collaboration with local artisan workshops under the direction of Mariangela Bertagnin. According to a company statement, the collections aim to provide independent opticians with distinctive products through design and aesthetic research. Beyond product launches, Ma.Be. highlighted Optical Experience Cadore, a project designed to connect professionals, companies, training, and younger generations. This initiative seeks to expand the optical sector’s role beyond traditional trade fair formats by fostering culture and collaboration. The announcement distinguishes the specific debut of the new eyewear lines from the broader educational and cultural vision represented by the Optical Experience project.
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.
Silmo Paris 2026 concluded at Paris Nord Villepinte with 32,108 trade visitors from nearly 150 countries, a decrease from 33,358 in the previous year. The event featured over 950 exhibitors and 1,500 brands showcasing new frames, sustainability initiatives, and digital solutions like connected eyewear. Sophia Denison from the Savannah College of Art and Design won the Optic Design Contest for her project "Dreamscape." Austrian manufacturer Andy Wolf received the CSR Award, while British optician Jessica Gowing was named International Optician of the Year by the International Opticians‘ Association. The next edition is scheduled for September 24–27, 2027, marking the fair’s 60th anniversary.
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.
Samsung’s forthcoming smart glasses have cleared FCC testing, indicating a release is near. Two product codes, SM-O200P and SM-O200J, correspond to Warby Parker and Gentle Monster frames respectively, with three Warby Parker variations and two Gentle Monster styles identified so far. Built in collaboration with Google, these devices will be the first to run Android XR. They feature onboard cameras, microphones, off-ear speakers, and integration with Google Gemini. Reported specifications include a Qualcomm Snapdragon AR1 Gen 1 chipset, a 12MP front-facing camera with an indicator LED, and up to 9 hours of battery life per charge. No pricing or specific launch date has been announced beyond a Fall 2026 window.
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.
Eyewear brand MASUNAGA has updated its official COLLECTION page with new models and colors for the 2026 Fall & Winter season. The additions are identified by "NEW" and "NEW COLOR" markers on the site, which also features a lookbook for the upcoming collection. The source confirms these items are available via the provided link but does not specify exact launch dates, pricing, or geographic availability restrictions beyond the digital update itself.
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.
ZEISS Vision Care announced ZEISS MyoActive, a new spectacle lens designed to slow myopia progression in children. The lens applies Dynamic Signal Theory through patented M.O.V.E. (Micro Optical Variable Elements) technology, which creates continuously changing retinal signals to reduce visual adaptation. Clinical trial data (NCT06563700) indicates that at 12 months, ZEISS MyoActive demonstrated 0.60D less myopia progression and 0.22mm less axial elongation compared to single vision lenses. Mean progression was -0.23D/year, below the clinical relevance threshold of 0.25D. Additionally, 98% of participants fully adapted to the lenses within one week. This product expands ZEISS's myopia management portfolio.
Editorial relevance: The launch of a clinically supported myopia management lens by a major optical manufacturer represents a significant product innovation relevant to the eyewear ecommerce sector.
At the American Academy of Optometry Annual Meeting in Anaheim, California, SightGlass Vision presented two studies examining how children use myopia-management spectacles with DOT lenses compared to standard single-vision lenses. Conducted with Indiana University and Midwestern University, the research assessed visual and behavioral responses during activities such as reading, gaming, walking, and simulated motion capture tasks including obstacle detection and object fixation. Results indicated no significant differences in viewing behavior or head position between lens types across age groups or scenarios. David Webley, senior director at SightGlass Vision, stated that practitioners need not instruct children to alter their behavior when prescribing these lenses. The findings suggest DOT lenses support comparable visual function to single-vision glasses for tested daily activities. However, DOT lenses are not available for sale in the US.
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.
OptikNow features the ÖRIGIN collection by MOREL, which combines premium rosewood or oak with lightweight titanium. The eyewear includes sculpted wooden temples, sometimes accented by a translucent acrylic line, signature screwless hinges, and contemporary detailing. The article presents the ORIGIN 5 BG14 as a featured model within this refined collection, describing it as a sophisticated reinterpretation of MOREL’s iconic design that offers comfort and craftsmanship. Distributed by Morel Canada via morel-france.com, the family-owned company operates in over 90 countries and emphasizes environmentally and socially responsible initiatives. The text serves as a promotional highlight rather than reporting a new product launch or specific market performance data.
Following the launch of its debut model DRIFT, EYEFLY by HOUSE of MODO expanded its smart audio eyewear range with three new styles: AXIS, NOVA and AMP. Built around "Sound in Motion," these frames combine contemporary design with open-ear audio technology for music, calls and voice assistant access while maintaining environmental awareness. The collection features distinct silhouettes—rectangular AXIS, cat-eye NOVA and navigator-inspired AMP—in various colourways including Black, Blue, Smoke, Olive, Burgundy and Havana. Each model is available as an optical frame with blue-light filtering lenses or as a ready-to-wear sunglass. A key feature is the interchangeable temple system; frames include both Smart Tech Temples for Bluetooth connectivity and regular temples, allowing users to switch between connected and classic eyewear. Weighing 30 grams, the glasses support navigation, real-time translation, health tracking and audio notes via smartphone applications.
HOYA Vision Care, Canada has announced the Canadian market launch of HOYA LensPreview™, a virtual try-on solution integrated into the HOYA Hub™ ecosystem. Powered by Fittingbox technology, the tool allows eye care professionals and patients to preview HOYA’s premium lenses, including the Sensity® Family, Mirror Collection, Lumacore™, and polarized options, in a true-to-colour interactive environment. The initiative aims to reduce costs associated with physical samples, manage patient expectations, and boost second-pair and sun lens sales. HOYA LensPreview™ is currently free for existing HOYA Hub customers via Single Sign-On (SSO). Non-Hub users can request access through local HOYA Territory Managers.
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.
ANDY WOLF has announced a new metal eyewear collection centered on the "Silver White" tone, described as a softer and brighter interpretation of classic silver. The collection features polished metallic finishes, clean lines, and balanced proportions, aiming for a contemporary yet timeless aesthetic. These designs are characterized by fine lines and sculptural shapes that emphasize architectural precision rather than elaborate details. Manufactured at the brand’s vertically integrated facility in the French Jura, the frames offer lightweight comfort and precise construction. The Silver White finish provides a versatile alternative to traditional gold tones and darker metals, bringing subtle variation to the collection while maintaining clarity and purity in each silhouette.
Eyewear brand ANDY WOLF has introduced a new metal eyewear collection centered on the "Silver White" tone. This specific finish offers a softer, brighter interpretation of classic silver, described as luminous without being overly shiny, and serves as a versatile alternative to traditional gold tones and darker metals. The collection features polished metallic finishes combined with clean lines and balanced proportions, emphasizing refined, lightweight designs with sculptural shapes. Manufactured at ANDY WOLF’s vertically integrated facility in the French Jura, the frames rely on precise construction and architectural quality rather than elaborate details. The source presents this as a current collection introduction but does not specify exact launch dates or geographic availability restrictions for the new styles.
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.
Belgian eyewear brand theo has introduced WAVES, a new line of acetate frames within its DISCOVERY collection. The design features hinge structures that mimic breaking waves, transitioning into two gentle curves on the front of the frame. According to the source, this release aims to present a more intuitive and spontaneous side of the brand to a new generation of wearers. Founded in 1987 and headquartered in Antwerp, Belgium, theo currently distributes products in approximately 45 countries through 1300 retail locations. The announcement describes specific aesthetic inspirations drawn from surfing maneuvers but does not provide pricing, exact launch dates, or independent sales figures.
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.
CooperVision released a report titled “Unmet Opportunities: Multifocal Contact Lenses and the Anti-Aging Movement (U.S.),” combining survey data from US adults aged 38 and older with market insights on healthy aging. The findings reveal that while consumers actively invest in anti-aging products, many remain unaware of multifocal contact lenses’ potential to support youthful vision. This awareness gap presents untapped opportunities for eyecare professionals to introduce these lenses earlier in patient care. The report provides practical guidance for integrating anti-aging themes into presbyopia discussions, including annual exam prompts to facilitate natural conversations about lens options.
United Opticians Association (UOA) board members offered eyecare reflections to honor the 40th anniversary of Eyecare Business. The UOA, established in 2024 through the unification of the Opticians Association of America and the National Federation of Opticianry Schools, released these statements without specifying individual contributors or detailed content. The source material confirms the association's founding year and constituent organizations but provides no further information on the specific nature of the reflections or additional context regarding the anniversary celebration.
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.
Following the expiration of Section 122 duties on July 24, 2026, the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) has proposed new Section 301 tariffs citing forced labor concerns. The proposal includes a 10% additional tariff on imports from 14 countries/regions (including the EU, UK, Canada, Mexico, Taiwan, and Malaysia) and a 12.5% tariff on 46 other countries (including China, India, Japan, South Korea, Vietnam, and Thailand). Separately, a 25% tariff on Brazilian goods is expected after July 15, 2026. These measures target countries lacking effective forced labor prohibitions, distinct from existing 2018 trade practice tariffs. No implementation date is set; a public hearing and comment period are open. The Vision Council notes these changes could increase costs across the optical supply chain.
Editorial relevance: This update highlights imminent tariff changes affecting the optical supply chain, directly impacting import costs and ecommerce operations for eyewear retailers.
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 June 25, 2026, The Vision Council released "Focused inSights: Beyond UV Awareness," a research report supported by HOUSE of MODO. Based on a survey of 608 U.S. adults conducted in April and May 2026, the study examines why 37% of U.S. adults (approximately 82 million people) do not wear sunglasses despite routine outdoor exposure. Findings indicate that most non-wearers are former users who stopped due to practical barriers such as forgetfulness, discomfort, and loss or breakage, rather than a lack of UV awareness; 65% are already familiar with UV risks. The report suggests that reactivating these consumers requires improvements in comfort, cost, and style, noting that three in four non-wearers feel the category was not designed for them. The full report is available for free download.
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.
The Vision Council released its Q2 2026 Consumer inSights report, based on a survey of 12,137 U.S. adults conducted between April 10 and June 12, 2026. The findings indicate a stabilizing market following cautious spending, with consumers deliberately stretching existing eyewear rather than skipping purchases due to affordability issues. Spending remains distributed across price tiers: the under-$100 segment edged down, while the $200+ tier increased. Key insights include that 16% of recent buyers purchased smart eyewear, and contact lens sales shifted toward corporate and chain locations (62%). FSA/HSA usage is common among those with access, with three-quarters using them for eye exams. The report is complimentary for members and available for purchase by non-members.
Editorial relevance: Provides quarterly data on U.S. consumer spending tiers, smart eyewear adoption rates, and channel shifts relevant to optical ecommerce strategy.
The Vision Council released its Market inSights and Provider inSights reports for Q1-Q2 2026, revealing that while the optical industry surpassed $19 billion in value in Q2 2026, this growth was primarily due to higher per-unit pricing. Unit volumes declined across nearly all categories, with exam volume dropping by nearly 2.5 million visits compared to the first half of 2025. Provider sentiment softened significantly; 63% believe the U.S. economy worsened in early 2026, and 61% reported tariffs impacting their practices. Despite these headwinds, 49% of providers now offer smart eyewear, up from 39% a year ago, and 92% carry frames priced at $350 or more.
Editorial relevance: This report highlights that optical market revenue growth is driven by price increases rather than volume, with significant declines in patient visits and provider confidence affecting the broader eyewear supply chain.
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.
Color-enhancing lenses utilize filter tints, coatings, and polarizers to manipulate color spectrum bands, enhancing perception by promoting colors the eye is most sensitive to while reducing less-sensitive areas. This technology improves contrast and detail recognition across various lighting conditions. Manufacturers offer specific lens configurations for activities such as skiing, fishing, and golf; for instance, gray lenses suit offshore blue water, while copper aids inshore visibility. However, polarization is not universally suitable, as it can interfere with pilots’ flight instruments or certain automobile digital displays. Non-polarized options are available for these scenarios. High-performance designs often integrate back-surface anti-reflective coatings and mirror or flash finishes to manage glare in extreme environments like snowfields or open water.
At the United Opticians Association Leadership Conference in Chicago, Joel Wolf, national trainer for Optikam, addressed concerns about digital measurement tools falling into disuse after initial excitement. Wolf stated that Optikam maintains low drop-off rates by proactively monitoring usage patterns and providing additional training when data indicates reduced engagement. The discussion emphasized that successful integration of digital dispensing technology depends on ongoing support rather than acquisition alone. While acknowledging various strong tools exist in the market, the article notes that digital solutions improve accuracy, consistency, and patient experience compared to traditional manual methods like PD rulers. This shift aims to transform eyewear selection into an interactive, educational process that builds consumer confidence and elevates practice perception.
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.