Rike Middendorf, an optician master at Optik Hölscher in Schüttorf, Lower Saxony, is one of only five individuals in Germany holding the "Master Professional Optometrie (HWK)" qualification. She will receive her certificate on December 9, 2025, alongside four other graduates, following training at the ZVA Education Center and examination by the Düsseldorf Chamber of Crafts. The program comprised five two-week blocks over twelve months, including a home-schooling week, and required a study on central corneal thickness as a factor in orthokeratology target refraction. Middendorf applies this advanced expertise to fit specialty lenses for patients with conditions like keratoconus or post-keratoplasty needs, utilizing OCT technology to identify retinal degeneration and refer patients appropriately.
French eyewear brand Oxibis, based in the Haut-Jura region, has released its first-ever sunglasses line, named Colorsun. The collection comprises three distinct sub-lines: Halo, Transat, and Animals. The Halo series features translucent colored acetate laminated around sober circles, exemplified by model SHA2. Transat, positioned as a feminine line, utilizes bayadère patterns across opaque, translucent, and tortoiseshell materials, including models STR2 and STR7. The Animals line introduces engraved rose-gold animal heads on temple hinges, such as a bulldog on SAN1 and a panda on SAN2. Additionally, the LINKOX001 chain accessory complements the range with thick cream acetate links interspersed with colored segments. This launch marks Oxibis’s expansion into solar eyewear after previously featuring animal motifs only in visual campaigns for its Wasabi collection.
US-based Wolfspeed announced on October 29 the commercial launch of TSiC, a technology producing optically transparent silicon carbide. The company now offers optical wafers specifically designed for waveguide displays in augmented reality glasses. The material features a high refractive index, hardness, and thermal conductivity, enabling compact optics with wide fields of view without multi-layer structures. Technical specifications for 4H polytype monocrystalline wafers include light absorption below 0.05 cm⁻¹ (450–650 nm), surface roughness under 1 nm RMS, and nominal thickness of 500 µm ± 20 µm. Commercial sizes are 150 mm and 200 mm diameters, with 300 mm samples available upon request. While prior prototypes like Orion and Goeroptics modules demonstrated SiC's utility, Wolfspeed has not disclosed prices, production volumes, or customer names, leaving the immediate effect on consumer AR eyewear costs undetermined.
Leonardo Maria Del Vecchio has proposed acquiring all family shares in holding company Delfin, which controls 32.4% of EssilorLuxottica, to prevent a takeover by Czech billionaire Michal Strnad. In a letter to Italian newspaper QN, Del Vecchio stated he secured confidential international financial backing for an immediate or phased acquisition. The move aims to provide liquidity to family members while preserving Italian sovereignty over assets including stakes in Monte dei Paschi di Siena, Generali, UniCredit, and Covivio. This initiative follows Del Vecchio’s resignation from operational roles at Ray-Ban and strategy positions on August 31 due to disagreements with CEO Francesco Milleri. He retains 12.5% of Delfin and plans to present his full buyout proposal to other shareholders on November 7.
For its 60th anniversary in 2027, Silmo Paris has launched the sixth edition of its Optical Design Competition. The contest invites design students worldwide to reimagine eyewear under the theme "Reinvent the codes," focusing on form freedom, innovative materials, and emotional dimensions. Belgian designer Alain Gilles will chair the jury, which evaluates entries based on innovation, function, responsible engagement, and technical feasibility. Up to ten projects will be selected for prototyping and exhibition at Silmo Paris 2027. Eligible participants are adult students in their third, fourth, or fifth year of a design curriculum, who may form multidisciplinary teams. Entries must be submitted by June 16, 2027. The winner, announced on September 24, 2027, receives a €10,000 prize split equally between the student and their institution.
A July 2026 study by recruitment firm IseeOp surveyed approximately 40 optical professionals in France, representing nearly one-tenth of the estimated 400 relief opticians. The findings challenge the notion that temporary store replacements are merely transitional roles; 65% describe the work as an assumed career choice rather than a waiting solution. Most respondents (73%) entered this field after prior salaried or managerial experience, with only 7% starting immediately after graduation. While 57% report monthly net earnings or billed revenue exceeding €2,500, half cite difficulty finding regular missions as their primary structural obstacle. Notably, 62% would cease relief work if offered an attractive permanent contract, indicating a persistent link to traditional employment despite the current preference for flexibility among many practitioners.
Acuité has launched a survey asking optical retailers to compare their October 2026 revenue against October 2025 figures. This initiative follows confirmed market recovery data for September 2026, which showed a 1% year-on-year increase in revenue, after an August rise of 1.7%. The source notes the first half of 2026 was difficult but highlights two consecutive months of growth prior to October. Respondents completing all questions will receive early access to the analysis results. The article emphasizes the importance of monthly tracking amid economic uncertainty and aims to provide comparative benchmarks for participants. No specific October 2026 market totals are reported; the text focuses solely on soliciting retailer input to determine if the positive trend continued.
Silmo has announced the theme for the sixth edition of its Optical Design Contest, scheduled for 2027. Titled "Reinvent the Codes," the competition invites design students globally in their third, fourth, or fifth year to challenge eyewear conventions through innovative silhouettes, materials, and manufacturing techniques. Belgian designer Alain Gilles will chair the jury. Up to ten selected projects will be prototyped and exhibited at Silmo from September 24–27, 2027. Applications are due by June 16, 2027, with the winner revealed on September 24. The prize is €10,000, split equally between the student and their institution. Sophia Denison won the 2026 edition.
Eyewear brand MYKITA has opened a new boutique in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, marking its third location in the United States. The store features a light, open interior designed by Berlin studio Gonzalez Haase AAS to "engage the senses," utilizing materials such as natural oak, aluminium, and matt white powder coating. Central to the design is a reinterpreted version of the iconic MYKITA wall, formed from flowing aluminium surfaces with suspended shelves for frame display. The space integrates comprehensive vision care services, offering advanced diagnostic technologies and eye examinations alongside retail. Founder Moritz Krueger described the concept as elevating the experience beyond transactional interactions, creating a restorative atmosphere.
Safilo, as the licensed partner for Etro, will develop and distribute the brand's new spring/summer 2027 eyewear collection. The sunglasses, which featured warm natural tones, large lenses, and prominent metal accents, were showcased during Etro's womenswear show in Milan in September. A key model, "Etrogem," combines a continuous lens shape with a metal frame and decorative jewelry stones on the temples, available in gold tones with gray, burgundy, or green tinted lenses. The collection reflects current fashion design elements, including beige, brown, and sand color palettes. Availability begins in January 2027 through Etro, while selected optical retailers will receive the products starting February 2027.
Spanish lens technology provider IOT, in partnership with optical chain VisionLab, has introduced the first commercially available progressive lenses manufactured using its Light-Form technology to the Spanish market. The Light-Form method is a light-based 3D production process that creates an entire progressive lens in a single step via controlled light-guided polymerization, replacing traditional grinding and polishing. IOT claims this multi-year development reduces energy consumption by 90% and waste by 76%, requiring no water during production. This launch marks the transition from research to practical application for IOT, which originated from Complutense University Madrid in 2005. The company also identifies potential future applications in intelligent glasses and augmented reality systems.
Everyday Optics announced an exclusive licensing partnership with chef and television personality Carla Hall to create her first eyewear collection. The line, designed to celebrate confidence and individuality, is expected to debut in optical retailers nationwide in 2027. It features bold colors, sophisticated neutrals, and various silhouettes including cat-eyes and rounds. A key focus is inclusive sizing and universal-fit engineering to serve women historically underserved by fashion-forward options, particularly celebrating African American women while remaining universally appealing. John Castagnetti stated the collection emphasizes purpose over mere celebrity endorsement. Hall described the frames as personal accessories intended to make women feel confident and seen.
To mark its 60th anniversary, SILMO Paris announced the sixth edition of its Optical Design Competition under the theme “Reinventing the Codes.” Belgian designer Alain Gilles will serve as Jury President. The competition invites design students aged 18 and over in their third to fifth year to submit projects exploring new forms, materials, and emotional connections in eyewear. Applications close on June 16, 2027. Up to ten shortlisted projects will receive prototype production support and be exhibited at SILMO Paris 2027. The winning project, selected based on innovation, function, responsible design, and technical feasibility, will be announced on September 24, 2027, with a €10,000 prize shared equally between the student and their institution.
To mark its 60th anniversary, SILMO Paris has launched the sixth edition of its Optical Design Competition under the theme “Reinventing the Codes.” The initiative invites global design students aged 18 or over, enrolled in their third to fifth year, to reimagine eyewear through new forms, materials, and emotional connections. Belgian designer Alain Gilles serves as Jury President, evaluating entries on innovation, function, responsible design, and feasibility. Up to ten projects will be shortlisted, with prototypes exhibited at SILMO Paris 2027. Applications close on June 16, 2027, via concoursdesign.silmo.fr. The winning project will be announced on September 24, 2027, receiving a €10,000 prize shared equally between the student and their educational institution.
Berlin-based design house MYKITA has opened a new eyewear retail location in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles. The store features an in-house developed interior concept designed by Gonzalez Haase AAS, incorporating a new interpretation of the iconic MYKITA WALL made from flowing aluminium surfaces. Key design elements include pale peach accents, natural oak structures, and sculptural Softy display pieces utilizing reclaimed foam. Beyond retail, the space integrates comprehensive vision care services, offering eye examinations, retinal imaging, and intraocular pressure measurements through licensed remote optometrists and an in-house optical team. Additional sensory features include biodynamic lighting, engineered acoustics, a signature scent, and specialized tea offerings. The location also provides lens consultation, individual fittings, and access to the MYCARE aftercare program for adjustments and repairs.
Optical Prism outlined nine dominant eyewear trends expected in 2026, focusing on frame geometry, materials, and accessories. The report highlights a shift toward architectural geometrics with sharp structural designs like hexagons and asymmetrical edges, alongside modern ovals featuring sleek silhouettes in lightweight metal or shiny acetate. Color palettes are predicted to favor earthy neutrals such as olive green and dusty rose, while translucent crystal acetates offer an airy aesthetic. Oversized statement frames and chunky eyewear chains represent maximalist choices, contrasting with ultra-minimalist feather-light titanium designs. Additionally, refined retro styles update 90s shapes with premium materials, and elongated cat-eye frames continue their evolution. These observations reflect anticipated market directions rather than confirmed sales data or specific product launches.
British eyewear company Eyespace announced the appointment of Tim Halter as Director of Global Strategy on January 26, 2026. The move aims to accelerate international and export growth. Halter brings over 25 years of experience in the global eyewear industry, joining from Menrad where he served as Managing Director leading international strategy and operations. In his new role, Halter will focus on strengthening export operations, supporting international customers, and aligning long-term strategy with local market execution. Co-Founder Julie Abel emphasized that Halter’s expertise supports sustainable growth in new markets. This appointment reflects Eyespace’s continued investment in leadership for its next phase of expansion.
Hoya Corporation reported a 10.9 percent year-over-year revenue increase to 260.2 billion yen for the second quarter ended September 30, 2026, with operating profit rising 27 percent. The Life Care segment, which includes eyeglass and contact lenses, saw revenue grow 4.4 percent to over 153 billion yen. Eyeglass lens sales increased 8 percent (1 percent at constant currency), attributed to stable sales of high-value-added products such as MiYOSMART and foreign exchange effects, though U.S. eyeglass sales remained broadly flat due to restructuring. Contact lens sales via Eyecity stores rose 1 percent, supported by customer retention, private brand hoyaONE products, and subscription services. Intraocular lens sales grew 5 percent, driven by premium product demand in Europe and Japan. The Information Technology segment led overall growth with a 23.4 percent revenue increase. For the first half of 2026, total revenue reached 515.9 billion yen, up 13.4 percent.
Eyebizz published its biweekly video news update, titled "scharfgestellt!", on November 2, 2026. The episode centers on an extensive interview with Dr. med. Steffen Emil Künzel, an ophthalmologist and co-founder of Skleo Health. The source describes the series as providing relevant industry news that encourages further inquiry to reveal exclusive answers and detailed perspectives. Released every Monday for a fortnightly cycle, this specific edition highlights the discussion with Künzel. No additional product launches, financial figures, or broader market data are included in the provided text.
Megane Top announced the opening of its "Megane Ichiba Costa Yukuhashi" store in Fukuoka Prefecture on October 30, 2026, at 10:00. The new location aims to provide a comfortable environment for both eyewear selection and hearing aid consultations. The store features large glass windows to enhance visibility from outside, with an interior design based on wood grain and green tones to create a bright, open atmosphere. Display fixtures utilize backlighting to highlight frames, allowing customers to easily compare options. A dedicated hearing aid salon is positioned at the rear of the store, maintaining distance from the main sales floor to ensure privacy and reduce noise during consultations. An opening commemorative event offering original goods and coupons will also be held.
Megane Top, operating as Megane Ichiba, announced two limited-edition "Lucky Bag 2027" sets themed around the Year of the Sheep. The online-exclusive set costs ¥9,900 (tax included) and includes a Shaun the Sheep blanket plus a ¥12,100 eyewear voucher; applications run from November 2 to November 23, 2026, with winners notified in late November and pickup available at selected stores between the start of 2027 operations and January 31, 2027. The store-exclusive set costs ¥11,000 (tax included), featuring a tote bag and a ¥13,200 eyewear voucher. It launches on the first day of 2027 store operations nationwide, excluding Miyagi Prefecture and certain locations, until stock runs out.
SILMO Paris announced that Belgian designer Alain Gilles will preside over the jury for its 60th-anniversary Optical Design Competition in 2027. The event, themed "Reinvent the Codes," invites design students aged 18+ in their third to fifth year to submit entries by June 16, 2027. Participants must explore freedom of form, materials as expression, and objects and emotion. A panel will assess submissions based on innovation, function, responsible design, and technical feasibility. Up to ten shortlisted projects will receive produced prototypes for exhibition at SILMO Paris 2027. The winning project, to be announced on September 24, 2027, will share a €10,000 prize with their educational institution.
Hoya Corporation reported stability in its second quarter of fiscal year 2026 for the Health Care business, which includes eyeglass and contact lens activities. Divisional revenues increased by 0.7 percent year-on-year, reaching 120.0 billion Japanese yen (€682.1 million). The source title indicates that US sales fell while value-added products grew, though specific figures for these segments are not detailed in the provided text excerpt.
In October 2026, LOOKKINO expanded its TRI-X collection with the new 3945 series, comprising models 3945 and 3946 designed for children aged 5 to 9. The frames feature an injection-moulded NIL front and 3D-printed temples, building on the TRI-X 3930 concept to enhance stability and versatility for active use. The NIL material allows for glossy or matt finishes across four colour options. The BLOCK-IN SYSTEM connecting temples to the front remains unchanged from previous fully 3D-printed series. Temple design improvements include adjustable straight tips with internal cores and holes for exclusive adjustable straps, ensuring secure fit during movement. This release reaffirms LOOKKINO’s focus on combining technology, functionality, and colour in children’s eyewear.
NanoVista has expanded its Nano Rebel collection, part of the #Indestructible line for pre-teens and teens, by introducing two new models: Revolt NAO343 and Backstreet NAO344. The company also released new color combinations for existing styles, including Xtreme 3.0 NAO329 and Pulse 3.0 NAO330. Revolt NAO343 features a square, sport-inspired shape for ages 8 to 14, while Backstreet NAO344 offers a larger rectangular silhouette for teens aged 12 to 16. Both models utilize dual-injection Siliflex™ fronts and flexible temples combining Siliflex™ with rubber. The update aims to strengthen the brand’s position in the teen eyewear segment through a more contemporary aesthetic inspired by urban culture. WestGroupe distributes NanoVista in North America as part of its global portfolio.
On October 27, 2026, eyewear manufacturer Marcolin launched the new Fall/Winter 2026 adidas Sport Eyewear collection from Longarone, Italy. The line draws inspiration from sport, streetwear, and contemporary culture, featuring classic navigator, rectangular, oval, and cat-eye shapes with bold proportions and Trefoil logo temples. Metal styles include plaque details, while acetate frames utilize bilayer constructions and contrasting finishes. The seasonal palette features brown, powder blue, and mauve shades paired with tinted lenses. Specific models announced include sun frames OR0152 and OR0156, and optical frames OR5156, OR5160, and OR5161.
Optical Prism Magazine published a post titled "Expert optical care meets trendsetting eyewear at St. Catharines boutique." The source material consists solely of the headline and a YouTube link, without providing specific details about the store's name, location within St. Catharines, product offerings, or service specifics. No factual claims regarding the boutique's operations, inventory, or customer experience are supported by the available text beyond the general description in the title.
Independent optometry clinics from across Canada gathered at the Westin Harbour Castle in Toronto for Eye Recommend’s National Training Event (NTE) East 2026, held October 21–23. With more than 1,000 attendees and a sold-out tradeshow featuring 65 ER Supplier Partners, this was the cooperative’s largest NTE since inception. The event offered practical education on AI, benchmarking, myopia management, and organizational culture, alongside networking and wellness activities. CEO Lee Raffey emphasized community building and peer learning. Upcoming events are scheduled for Edmonton (May 13–15, 2027) and London, Ontario (October 21–23, 2027).
Optical Prism Magazine announced the Fall 2026 Seraphin and Seraphin Shimmer collections. The source describes these eyewear lines as celebrating timeless elegance, exceptional craftsmanship, and thoughtful details. No specific product models, pricing, availability dates, or geographic launch restrictions were provided in the text.
Transitions Optical opened applications for its 2027 Change Agent program on October 27, 2026. Eyecare professionals in the U.S. and Canada can apply via TransitionsPRO.com/ChangeAgent until November 15, 2026. The peer-to-peer community aims to build awareness of Transitions lenses through social media, focus groups, speaking engagements, and product trials. Applicants must submit details on their goals, social media links, and responses to specific questions. Selected candidates will be notified in December to participate during the 2027 calendar year. Arlene Barringer, trade marketing director at Transitions Optical, stated the program seeks professionals passionate about advancing patient care and shaping dynamic lens conversations.
Independent eyewear brand T HENRI, founded by Tyler Henri and inspired by hypercar design, has secured a strategic investment from Harvey Ross of Ross Holdings. The company announced that this partnership supports the brand's next phase of selective international growth. Ross is described as a longtime eyewear entrepreneur. The announcement was reported on October 30, 2026, by Vision Monday Business. No specific financial terms, equity percentages, or detailed expansion timelines were disclosed in the source material.
Alleanza gruppi ottica, alongside Cio and Ottici Associati networks, held the fifth Ago National Meeting on October 18 at Devero Hotel in Cavenago di Brianza. The event gathered 140 professionals to emphasize relational value over technical precision alone. President Grazia Lamperti and scientific coordinator Carlo Vannucci introduced the theme, supported by marketing lead Valentina Magliano. Partner companies including Hoya, Rodenstock, Zeiss, CooperVision, Menicon Soleko, Safilens, and EssilorLuxottica conducted multiroom workshops. Marcolin presented a dedicated experience session. New tools Vista Club and Futurlab were announced. Career awards went to six affiliates. Digital communication expert Riccardo Scandellari concluded the day, stressing that trust drives customer retention more than visibility.
Seiko Optical France will run its first television sponsorship campaign from November 2 to 29, 2026. The four-week initiative features continuous presence on BFM TV, LCI, CNEWS Sport, and RMC Découverte, primarily within weather segments and news blocks. The media plan includes over 1,500 spots, targeting more than 60 million contacts with a 45.2% coverage rate among the priority 35–59 age group. Complementary multimedia deployment occurs on Meta and YouTube platforms. Kevin Walcker, marketing manager at Seiko Optical France, stated the goal is to raise public awareness of Seiko as an ophthalmic lens brand beyond its horology reputation, highlighting precision and innovation through eight-second formats.
In Italy, approximately 1,600 opticians and optometrists are hired each year, while the educational system certifies only 600 to 700 professionals. This imbalance leaves about 400 positions vacant annually, with companies reporting recruitment difficulties for 77.6% of open roles. Job searches typically last three to five months, though most new graduates secure employment within a quarter at gross annual salaries between €25,000 and €28,000. With 21,500 active workers nationwide, demographic turnover is expected to worsen shortages over the next 5–10 years. US Bureau of Labor Statistics data indicates low AI exposure for optometrists (15-20%) and moderate exposure for opticians (30-35%), suggesting technology will aid rather than replace clinical tasks. These findings were released by the Istituto Benigno Zaccagnini Observatory ahead of a November 23 event in Milan.
Czech businessman Michal Strnad has offered €30 billion to acquire Delfin, the holding company controlled by the Del Vecchio family. Delfin holds a 32.4 percent stake in EssilorLuxottica, along with minority interests in Italian insurance and banking groups Generali, UniCredit, and Banca Monte dei Paschi di Siena. The report, published on October 30, 2026, describes an offer rather than a completed transaction or confirmed acceptance.
Editorial relevance: This potential acquisition of EssilorLuxottica's parent holding company could significantly impact the ownership structure and strategic direction of a major player in the global eyewear market.
CooperCompanies announced leadership changes, electing independent director Walter M. Rosebrough Jr. as executive chair of the board. Albert White III stepped down as president, CEO, and board member effective immediately, with Rosebrough assuming direct oversight of day-to-day operations until a permanent CEO is appointed. White will remain employed as a strategic advisor through April 1, 2027. The company also outlined board refreshment plans: Shlomi Nachman, a former Johnson & Johnson executive, will join as an independent director effective December 8. Additionally, current directors Barbara Carbone, Colleen Jay, and Robert Weiss intend not to stand for reelection at the 2027 Annual Meeting. These changes follow the appointment of two independent directors in January and July 2026.
The Ocuvia Ultrasonic Contact Lens Cleaner G11 is now available. According to the company, the device combines ultrasonic cleaning with UVC treatment in a single automatic 3-minute cycle to address surface contaminants and microbial reduction. The ultrasonic function uses high-frequency vibrations at 105 kHz ± 10 kHz to loosen deposits, while the built-in UVC source emits light at a wavelength of 270 nm for disinfection. Both processes operate simultaneously. The cleaner requires fresh multipurpose contact lens solution and is compatible with soft lenses, hard GP lenses, and orthokeratology lenses.
The optical group VISTALIA has incorporated Óptica Domenech, located in Pinoso within the province of Alicante. This addition includes owner and optometrist María Carbonell Domenech. Óptica Domenech provides services including optometry, visual therapy, contact lens fitting, myopia control, dry eye studies, and audiology. The move represents a step in VISTALIA's growth strategy, emphasizing professional care and patient-centered service. No specific financial figures or unit sales data were disclosed regarding this integration.
J.F. REY LAB, the brand’s creative experimentation space, has announced SAKURA, a limited-edition sunglasses collection developed in exclusive collaboration with fragrance house ROBERTET. Inspired by the ephemeral beauty of cherry blossoms, the design features a delicate metal structure combined with 3D-printed acetate rings. The eyewear includes category 3 polarized lenses with a brown gradient and an interior anti-reflective coating for UV protection. A custom-made cherry blossom-inspired fragrance accompanies each pair within its case, adding an olfactory dimension to the visual experience. Production is strictly limited to 350 numbered units, reflecting the lab’s focus on merging craftsmanship, innovation, and advanced technology in eyewear design.
OptikNow published an article by Jade Bodzasy, an Emotional Intelligence Facilitator based in Kingston, Ontario, arguing that successful optometry practice transitions rely more on emotional management than legal contracts. The piece outlines how transparency with staff prevents rumor-driven anxiety and attrition, while early, direct communication to patients preserves trust through continuity of care. For family-owned practices, the author suggests addressing identity and control issues directly rather than relying solely on legal frameworks. Bodzasy posits that managing uncertainty through empathy protects workplace culture and patient relationships better than financial documentation alone. The article concludes by encouraging early engagement in succession conversations to safeguard the practice’s legacy, noting that legal documents protect transactions but emotional intelligence safeguards interpersonal dynamics.