On September 26, 2026, Silmo Paris hosted its 33rd Silmo d’Or Awards ceremony at Pavillon Dauphine. Hosted by president Amélie Morel, the event honored winners in 13 categories and three special awards. The International Opticians’ Association named Jessica Gowing, lead optician at Great Ormond Street Children’s Hospital in London, as International Optician of the Year. Other notable winners included Julbo for Sport eyewear, Mega Optic for Vision technology, and Victoria Beckham for Sunglasses Labels. The Jury’s Special Prize went to Paloceras, while Andy Wolf received the Responsible Company Award. Additionally, Sophia Denison won the optical design contest with “DreamScape,” and Aliénor Vienne-Jumeau secured the Silmo Academy grant.
Italian National Association of Optical Goods Manufacturers (ANFAO) data reveals that Italian eyewear exports fell 2.7 percent in the first half of 2026 compared to the same period in 2025. ANFAO attributes this decline primarily to a "sharp contraction" in the U.S. market driven by tariff policies and trade barriers. Total exports reached just over €2.7 billion, with frames down 1.1 percent to €830 million and sunglasses down 3.7 percent to €1.81 billion. Conversely, lens exports rose 6 percent to €68 million. Exports to the U.S. specifically dropped 25.1 percent, resulting in over €107 million in lost revenue. Despite the overall decline, monthly trends improved from -14.3 percent in January to +3.7 percent in June, supported by resilience in European markets.
Marchon Eyewear and Marcolin announced the passing of industry veteran Laurence “Larry” Roth on September 27, 2026, at age 75. A co-founder of Marchon in 1983 alongside Al Berg and Jeff White, Roth served as co-president and shaped US sales strategies until the company’s sale to VSP Vision in 2008. Nicola Zotta, president of eyewear at VSP Vision and managing director of Marchon and Marcolin, praised Roth’s analytical skills and lasting influence on the teams. After leaving Marchon, Roth founded the racing and breeding operation LNJ Foxwoods with his wife Nanci and daughter Jaime. He is survived by his wife, three children, and two grandchildren.
SILMO Paris 2026, held at Paris Nord Villepinte from September 25 to 28, welcomed 32,108 professionals from nearly 150 countries. International attendees accounted for 53% of visitors. The event featured over 950 exhibitors and 1,500 brands across 80,000 m². Key highlights included the SILMO Next Tech Village, which focused on smart glasses and AI, hosting a hackathon where Kimoo won for its attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder assistance app. The Trends Forum showcased styles like FANCY and AURA. Awards recognized innovations such as Laclarée’s autofocus glasses and GETD & Marienfeld’s luxury smart eyewear. CSR initiatives highlighted Andy Wolf’s sustainable production, while the Optic Design Contest winner DREAMSCAPE addressed visual distortion.
Tender Claws announced Body Proxy, a location-based immersive game designed for Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses. Players wear the glasses to complete randomized physical challenges while AI agents monitor their actions through the device's camera and audio features. The experience, which won the SXSW 2026 XR Experience Jury Award and was selected for TIFF: The Market 2026, relies on real-world objects rather than digital visual immersion. Co-director Danny Cannizzaro stated that versions for free-roaming spaces are in development, with plans to tour events this year and next. Additional prototypes running on phones and webcams are also being created. The current installation includes approximately 100 unusual tasks and generates video reports analyzing player performance.
German brand h-i köln has announced three new eyewear collections crafted from natural buffalo horn. The lineup includes the h3321 pear-shaped frame, the h3322 classic square frame, and the h3325 crown-shaped frame. Each piece utilizes horns from naturally deceased water buffaloes to ensure sustainability and unique textures. Distinctive design elements include matte metal nose bridges on the h3321-4, temple tips inspired by Cologne Cathedral with hand-hammered silver and Gothic motifs on the h3322-m2, and nose pads engraved with the Cologne coat of arms on the h3325-m4. The brand emphasizes a combination of rigorous German structural aesthetics and the skin-friendly properties of buffalo horn.
MyEyeDr., a leading provider of comprehensive eyecare and eyewear solutions, announced an agreement to acquire EyeCare Partners' optometry division. The transaction involves more than 300 offices operating under brands including Clarkson Eyecare, EyeCare Associates, EyeCare Center, Nationwide Vision, and The Eye Doctors. MyEyeDr. stated the acquisition aims to expand its ability to serve patients, grow its position in optometry, and support long-term investment through shared best practices. EyeCare Partners CEO Chris Throckmorton described the move as a milestone for growing the profession and expanding access to neighborhood-based care. The deal is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2026, subject to regulatory approvals. Both companies were ranked among the top 10 in Vision Monday’s 2026 Top 50 U.S. Optical Retailers report.
MODO has introduced the Lumia Collection, a line of six lightweight optical frames that emphasizes vibrant color and clean silhouettes. The collection includes styles 2000 through 2005, ranging from rectangular and Navigator-inspired shapes to softly geometric, rounded, feminine upswept, and bold square designs. Colorways feature vivid accents such as Electric Blue, Acid Green, Fuchsia, Orange, and Fluo Green, alongside understated options like Ink, Mocha, Crystal, and Matte Black. Each frame’s character varies based on its specific shape and color combination. This release integrates color as a core design element rather than a decorative addition, maintaining MODO’s focus on effortless, lightweight eyewear while introducing a more playful aesthetic dimension.
J.F. REY collaborated with fragrance house ROBERTET to create the limited-edition SAKURA project, combining eyewear and scent. Developed within J.F. REY LAB, the collection features a sculptural sunglass inspired by Japanese cherry blossoms, constructed with fine metal and 3D-printed acetate rings for an openwork silhouette. The frames include brown gradient polarized lenses with anti-reflective coating and are limited to 350 numbered pieces. Each set includes an exclusive Cherry Blossom Eau de Toilette developed by ROBERTET, presented in a 15 ml bottle alongside the frame and custom case in a coffret reflecting Japanese aesthetics.
Grosfilley France announced the signing of a long-term licensing agreement with Bentley Motors to develop and globally distribute Bentley Eyewear. Leveraging 75 years of eyewear expertise, Grosfilley will create collections that translate Bentley’s design language into frames and sunglasses, focusing on precision materials and construction. The first collection developed under this partnership is scheduled to debut at SILMO Paris 2027, preceding an exclusive launch to a selected international market. Marine Andruetan, President of Grosfilley France, described the agreement as a landmark moment aimed at establishing Bentley Eyewear as a recognized name internationally.
Swiss Eyewear Group announced its INVU Timeless Style collection, featuring frames made from TR90, acetate and stainless steel. Each model includes a precision magnetic clip with ultra-polarized lens technology that converts prescription eyewear into sunglasses. The clips provide UV400 protection, glare reduction and visual clarity for driving and changing light conditions. Specific models IM32505, IM32501 and IM42605 will be showcased at the ADCL booth during the Silmo Show. INVU is distributed in over 95 countries globally.
Rodenstock has introduced the "B.I.G. Vision Lift & Learn Wall," an interactive in-store consultation system designed to visually demonstrate lens benefits. The setup features a large touchscreen (43, 55, or 65 inches) paired with twelve RFID-tagged demonstration lenses. When a consultant places a specific lens into a sensor-equipped frame on the wall, the system automatically triggers relevant visualizations comparing near, intermediate, and distance vision across different lens technologies. Unlike pure software solutions like EssilorLuxottica’s Eyecast, this hardware-based approach emphasizes haptic interaction and serves as a visual anchor in the retail space. Alexander Horn, owner of Optik Horn in Würzburg, reports that the tool streamlines consultations, aids in explaining premium lens value, and increases customer decisiveness by making complex optical concepts intuitively understandable.
At Meta Connect, the company announced several new eyewear products. The headline device is the Meta VR Glasses (previously known as Phoenix), a lightweight mixed-reality headset featuring OLED displays, eye/hand/face tracking, and Snapdragon Reality Elite chipset. Scheduled for release this Spring at $1300, it aims to compete with Apple Vision Pro but has faced criticism for its limited field of view. Additionally, Meta unveiled the third generation of Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses with new styles like Aviator, and introduced 'Meta Audio Glasses,' a camera-free version focused on privacy. A special edition collaboration with K-pop idol Lisa was also revealed. Separately, Viture launched audio-only 'Vonder' glasses starting at $299 in the US.
EssilorLuxottica announced the launch of Nuance Audio Plus, the next generation of its invisible, open-ear assistive listening glasses for adults with perceived mild to moderate hearing loss. The new product features improved audio performance, extended battery life of approximately ten hours, and an expanded range of styles including Square 53, Panthos 48, and Upturn 52. Available from September 24th in Canada through authorized professionals and online in selected countries, the recommended retail price starts from $1,149 depending on lens configuration. Key advancements include directional amplification, intuitive on-frame controls, and compatibility with Transitions lenses. This release builds on the original Nuance Audio Glasses, which have expanded to 14 countries and over 18,000 stores.
Data from the Italian eyewear trade association Anfao indicates that the value of Italian eyewear exports declined by 2.7 percent in the first half of 2026 compared to the same period in the previous year, totaling €2.705 billion. During this timeframe, France surpassed the United States to become the largest export market for the Italian industry. The figures reflect a decrease in export value rather than unit volume, highlighting a shift in geographic distribution where France edged out the US as the primary destination for Italian eyewear products.
At SILMO Paris in Paris, Sunday’s programming focuses on broader industry shifts rather than immediate product launches. The event features discussions across SILMO NEXT, the Tech Village, the CSR Spot, SILMO Talks, and the Trends Forum regarding how smart glasses are redefining eyewear boundaries and the role of artificial intelligence in the profession. Additional topics include evolving retail models, health considerations, sustainability efforts, and changing consumer expectations. Organizers emphasize that these transformations will not affect all businesses equally, urging attendees to listen, question, and compare perspectives to understand emerging developments. A digital edition of Silmo Today is available for September 27, 2026.
Show organizers announced that registration is now open for visitors and press for Mido 2027, scheduled for Feb. 6-8, 2027, at Fiera Milano Rho. President Lorraine Berton stated the edition will feature an updated format with a strong international presence, attracting professionals from over 160 countries. The exhibition covers the entire eyewear supply chain, including dedicated areas for new talent like Academy and Start Up. A key component, The Vision Stage, will host approximately 20 events in Pavilion 1 to celebrate its 20th anniversary. Organizers also introduced "My Fair Plus – Beyond the Exhibition," a digital platform by Fondazione Fiera Milano allowing attendees to book cultural activities across Milan. Special travel deals are available for visitors from North America, Latin America, and specific Chinese cities.
CooperVision Inc. initiated a Class II recall for Pearle Vision 1 day (somofilcon A) contact lenses after discovering that a small number of lenses in one lot had the incorrect power. The US Food and Drug Administration announced the recall, listing the affected product quantity as 3,060 units. The recall began on August 12 and was classified as Class II by the FDA on September 18. The specific affected product is identified by Carton Lot # 11727620152030 and Blister Lot # CB132348, with distribution limited to Minnesota, Ohio, and Wisconsin.
EssilorLuxottica has announced the launch of Nuance Audio Plus, the next generation of its FDA-cleared open-ear hearing glasses designed for adults with perceived mild to moderate hearing loss. The new model features improved amplification, clearer speech-in-noise performance, extended battery life of approximately 10 hours, and hands-free phone call capability when paired with a compatible iPhone. Available in three frame styles (Square, Panthos, Upturn) and five colors, the glasses support prescription lenses and Transitions® options. Currently available in the United States through authorized optical and hearing-care professionals starting at $829 USD, online availability varies by country.
MIDO reports that Italian eyewear exports totaled just over €2.7 billion in the first half of 2026, a 2.7% decrease year-on-year. The decline was primarily driven by a 25.1% drop in exports to the United States, reflecting ongoing trade tensions and tariff uncertainties. However, Europe reinforced its position as the primary market with 4.4% growth, led by strong performances in Germany (+7.1%) and Poland (+20.9%). Monthly trends indicated a gradual recovery, with June exports rising 3.7%. Domestically, the Italian optical market remained stable at approximately €1.8 billion (+0.3%), contrasting with a 2.8% decline across major European markets. ANFAO President Lorraine Berton emphasized the industry's geographic rebalancing and resilience despite persistent pressure from the US market.
Editorial relevance: The report provides critical data on how tariff policies and trade tensions are reshaping Italian eyewear export flows, highlighting a strategic shift from the US to European markets.
Optik Matt GmbH announced the acquisition of the Vision System Store (VSS) group, effective October 1, 2026. The deal involves 16 VSS locations, primarily situated in Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg, aiming to strengthen Optik Matt’s presence in southern Germany. Existing VSS stores will continue operating as independent entities with their current teams retained. Maximilian Matt, who joined the executive board in 2024, will assume management of VSS from founder Christoph Reinhard on the acquisition date. Reinhard stated that the transition ensures long-term perspectives for employees and locations while preserving VSS values. Both parties emphasized shared commitments to high-quality consultation and product standards. This move supports Optik Matt’s long-term growth strategy as a third-generation family business with over 75 branches.
Registration is now open for visitors and journalists attending MIDO 2027, scheduled for February 6–8 at Fiera Milano Rho. President Lorraine Berton confirmed the edition will feature new exhibitors alongside returning companies, reinforcing its role as a platform for the global eyewear supply chain. The event includes The Vision Stage in Pavilion 1, hosting approximately 20 cultural and industry events over three days. New digital initiative My Fair Plus allows attendees to book city experiences beyond the exhibition halls. Special travel deals are arranged for professionals from the US, Canada, Latin America, and Chinese cities including Wenzhou, Shenzhen, and Shanghai.
20/20 Europe and Jobson Optical Group celebrated the inaugural European edition of the “Most Influential Women in Optical” (MIWO) initiative during a luncheon at SILMO Paris on September 25, 2026. Originally launched in the United States by Vision Monday in 2003, the program recognized 26 women from across the European optical and eyewear industry. Honourees were acknowledged in five categories: Business Leaders, Mentors, Rising Stars, Founders, and Innovators. Lorraine Berton was among those honored for her leadership in the Italian optical industry and as the first woman to lead ANFAO. Approximately 160 guests attended the event, which brought together optical professionals, industry leaders, and sponsors including The Vision Council, READ ON, MIDO, and Go Eyewear Group.
At Meta Connect 2026, Mark Zuckerberg announced a strategic reversal for the company's hardware division. Previously built on the assumption that the metaverse would precede AI superintelligence, Meta is now prioritizing AI functionality first. This shift centers on 'Muse,' the company’s personal AI agent. The move signals an intent by Meta and partner EssilorLuxottica to occupy significant market share in the AI glasses sector by aligning product development with current AI capabilities rather than future metaverse promises.
Yohji Yamamoto has unveiled two new eyewear models, YYSUN504 and YY040, alongside a new marketing campaign. The YYSUN504 hexagonal sunglasses feature 3D bevels on the bridge, matt black titanium temples, and nose pads with Y-shaped end-pieces, finished with signature gold screws. The YY040 combination frames incorporate distinctive Y-shaped end-pieces, titanium temples, and nose pads, with sleek 3D bevels and seamless structural detailing on the top bar. YY040 is available in three color combinations: black and brushed gun, tortoise brown and gold, and crystal grey and brushed silver. These releases extend the brand’s influence within its eyewear collection, which emphasizes a balance of volume and lightness using industrial metals and rich textures.
British eyewear manufacturer Eyespace, founded in 2013 by sisters Jayne and Julie Abel, has been active in the German market since last year. The B-Corp certified company, headquartered in Worcestershire, operates as a family business with 55 employees and offers over 490 sustainable items across brands including Cocoa Mint and Arhlo. Eyespace claims to be the leading independent eyewear provider in the UK, with products available in 95 countries. The firm emphasizes sustainability through initiatives like solar power at its headquarters, electric vehicle charging, and shifting to sea freight. Recent accolades include being named one of the Sunday Times’ "Best Places to Work 2025" and winning multiple Optician Awards. The company aims to reduce CO2 emissions and eliminate single-use plastics from its supply chain, positioning itself as an industry leader in ethical manufacturing practices.
At Connect 2026, Meta announced plans to bring its personal AI agent, Muse, to its AI glasses in the coming months. The update enables users to ask about products on shelves or lists via voice mode. To enhance shopping capabilities, Meta added new connectors including Walmart, Best Buy, Sephora, and Ulta, alongside existing Shopify access. Additionally, Meta introduced Ray-Ban Meta Audio glasses and Gen 3 models, and announced an FDA-cleared hearing enhancement feature launching in the US later this year for $149.99. These developments aim to integrate personal superintelligence into wearable devices.
Editorial relevance: The announcement expands Meta's AI commerce ecosystem by integrating Muse with major retail connectors and introducing new hardware features, directly impacting the smart eyewear market.
Longchamp has introduced the LO800S sun frame, featuring a contemporary teardrop shape crafted from lightweight, durable bio-injected G820 material. Inspired by the Roseau line, the design combines bright transparent colourways with solid lenses to create a sophisticated aesthetic. A distinctive bamboo-style metal detail on the top bridge serves as a signature element of the brand. The product is distributed by Marchon Eyewear, which operates through a global network serving over 80,000 accounts in more than 100 countries. While the source highlights the frame's materials and design inspirations, it does not specify pricing, exact launch dates, or regional availability restrictions for this particular model.
Ray-Ban Meta has announced its first audio-only AI glasses, Ray-Ban Meta Audio, alongside the next-generation camera-equipped models, Ray-Ban Meta (Gen 3). The Ray-Ban Meta Audio features open-ear listening and Meta AI assistance in Clubmaster and Burbank frames, weighing 43 grams. The Gen 3 models introduce a slimmer profile, a 3K Ultra HD camera, six-array microphone, and up to 9 hours of battery life across Wayfarer, Aviator, and Zena silhouettes. This expansion includes new seasonal colorways for Blayzer Optics (Gen 2) and Scriber Optics (Gen 2). Ray-Ban Meta (Gen 3) is available starting September 23 via Ray-Ban stores, Ray-Ban.com, select EssilorLuxottica banners, and Meta.com. Ray-Ban Meta Audio launches October 13 through similar channels. Global rollout continues with planned launches in markets including Hong Kong, South Africa, and Portugal.
Editorial relevance: The release of audio-only AI glasses and Gen 3 smart eyewear expands the product portfolio available through major retail channels, directly impacting consumer choice in the smart eyewear segment.
Eyewear brand BLACKFIN has announced the launch of its new Atlantic collection, described as a premium evolution. The collection is available for discovery on the FAVR platform. The source material provides no specific details regarding product features, pricing, geographic availability beyond the digital platform, or launch dates.
At Meta Connect, EssilorLuxottica and Meta announced new AI glasses lines, including the camera-free Ray-Ban Meta Audio in Clubmaster and Burbank styles, and the slimmer Ray-Ban Meta Gen 3. The portfolio expands with new Oakley Meta Capri and Nova styles, plus LISA-designed models, aiming for over 100 styles by year-end. New features include the Muse AI agent, Hearing Enhancement (US only), and private processing. Retail expansion covers ten new markets including Poland and South Africa. Meta Ray-Ban Display is now available online, launching today in the UK and Canada, with pre-orders starting in France, Italy, and Germany.
Editorial relevance: The release of camera-free audio glasses and expanded retail markets directly impacts the smart eyewear segment within online optical retail channels.
The Vision Council concluded its sold-out 2026 Lab Leadership Forum, held September 16–18 at the M Resort Spa Casino in Henderson, Nevada. Over 200 optical laboratory leaders attended the three-day event, which featured panel discussions on lens design, equipment, and lab management systems, alongside networking activities including a golf tournament. During a special dinner, the organization presented the 2026 Goodfellow Award to Brandon Butler, Founder and CEO of Artisan Lab Network, recognizing his outstanding leadership and contributions to independent optical laboratories over his 25-year career. Additionally, The Vision Council hosted the 2026 Emerging Optical Leaders Retreat prior to the forum, offering participants leadership development workshops and networking opportunities at Red Rock Canyon.
At Snapdragon Summit 2026, Qualcomm announced the Sound Elite Gen 2 chipset, designed to enhance voice input and neural processing for audio devices within its 'personal AI' ecosystem. The initiative aims to enable agentic AI workflows across a constellation of devices, including phones, watches, and glasses, by running models directly on silicon for efficient context-aware execution. Qualcomm confirmed that its Snapdragon AR1+ Gen 1 chip will power upcoming AI glasses from Warby Parker and Gentle Monster, which are set to release later this year and compete with Ray-Ban Meta Smartglasses. Additionally, the company highlighted partnerships with Samsung and Google for Android XR devices and introduced the START program to lower barriers for eyewear manufacturers entering the AI glasses market.
DAVIDOFF EYEWEAR, produced under license by MPG GmbH, announced that its new collection received the Red Dot Award: Design Concept 2026. The award specifically recognizes the Ultralight Hyphen Concept, which comprises two pairs of sunglasses and two pairs of prescription frames. Crafted in Italy from premium acetate and titanium, these frames emphasize sophisticated lightweight construction and minimalist design. The broader collection targets men with youthful energy and a mature outlook, embodying the brand’s philosophy of understated luxury. While the source highlights the award-winning concept and general collection ethos, it does not provide specific pricing, release dates, or availability details for individual models beyond the recognition of the design quality.
The United Opticians Association released the second installment of its comprehensive guide on optician certification. Established in 2024 through the merger of the Opticians Association of America and the National Federation of Opticianry Schools, the association maintains a policy prohibiting discrimination and ensuring impartial decision-making. The provided source material consists primarily of organizational background information, including its founding details and social media links, rather than specific technical content or new regulatory changes regarding the certification process itself.
EssilorLuxottica reported six-month interim findings from an ongoing randomized, double-masked clinical trial in China for its Essilor Stellest 2.0 lens design. The study showed treatment effects of 0.51 D for myopia progression and 0.21 mm for axial elongation compared to single-vision lenses. These results are comparable to those previously reported after 12 months with first-generation Stellest lenses, suggesting a potentially accelerated response using H.A.L.T. MAX technology. Principal investigator Professor Yang Xiao noted the treatment response appeared approximately twice as fast. Over 90% of children wore the spectacles more than 12 hours daily, and 98% adapted within one week. The trial remains ongoing, with one-year analysis serving as the primary efficacy endpoint.
Monica Jong, Head of Medical Affairs North America at EssilorLuxottica, discussed recent findings on Stellest lenses' effectiveness in controlling myopia progression. A two-year randomized clinical trial involving 159 US children showed a 71% reduction in myopia progression compared to single-vision lenses, with 34% of wearers experiencing no progression. The study, published in JAMA Ophthalmology, supports the FDA-approved status of the lenses. Additionally, the American Medical Association recently passed a resolution classifying myopia as a formal disease, including Stellest lenses as a treatment option for children aged 6-12 years. This classification may support insurance coverage for pediatric eye care. EssilorLuxottica stated it has trained over 30,000 eye care professionals on myopia management.
EyewearSearch News reports that midle.glasses, a curated eyewear brand from Taiwan, has announced the release of six new frame models. The collection integrates lightweight pure titanium and warm acetate materials, featuring design elements such as cat-eye lines, hollowed-out metal motifs on temples, and ceramic nose pads for comfort. Specific models include L2055 through L2060, offering varied shapes like minimalist titanium plates, dual-tone metal structures, and acetate-titanium combinations. Color options range from rose gold and matte pink to lake green and tortoiseshell patterns. The brand emphasizes a "just right" philosophy, balancing aesthetics with practicality through details like weighted temple tips and hypoallergenic components. This launch highlights the brand's focus on subtle retro charm and refined daily wearability without overwhelming design statements.
Jiubida Eyewear, established in 1984 with locations in Tainan and Kaohsiung, has selected three Chrome Hearts eyewear models for display. The featured frames include the BONE PRONE I (BK/SS) priced at $48,300, the BUBBA-A (AG-P) at $60,350, and the JUST IN-A (ARY) at $52,300. These pieces incorporate Chrome Hearts' signature gothic motifs such as crosses and daggers, utilizing materials like 925 sterling silver, 18K gold, and acetate. The selection highlights distinct design aesthetics ranging from geometric lines to vintage copper tones and olive green contours, emphasizing the brand's craftsmanship within the optical market.
Italian eyewear brand LOOK has introduced new models in its Sport Utility series, specifically frames 10441, 10442 and 10443. These designs reinterpret the collection’s original concept, which dates back to the 1990s with designer Giuseppe De Riva’s iconic model 10440. The new frames maintain the series' distinctive Xinox bar and patented LHS hinge while incorporating modern proportions. LOOK describes the collection as balancing technical performance with everyday wearability, featuring a sporty base curve and flexible architecture that adapts to different head shapes. Although inspired by sports motorcycles and engineered for movement, the brand states these are not exclusively sports-only frames but are designed to transition between active lifestyles and urban settings.