ZVA Celebrates 75th Anniversary in Berlin

The Central Association of Opticians and Optometrists (ZVA) marked its 75th anniversary on October 9, 2026, during the SICHT.KONTAKTE event in Berlin. Founded in Bad Godesberg in 1951, the association hosted a gala attended by representatives from crafts, science, and industry. President Kai Jaeger highlighted recent regulatory successes, including new master optician ordinances and remote refraction clarifications, while emphasizing the value of craft-based representation. Guests included ZDH executive Karl-Sebastian Schulte and ECOO president Gabriëlle Janssen, who underscored national and European cooperation. Professor Timo Mappes discussed the upcoming reopening of the German Optical Museum in Jena, noting the ZVA’s donation of a historical eyewear collection. A panel addressed future challenges involving smart glasses, AI, and evolving optometric care models.