NEWS
EssilorLuxottica expands its myopia management platform with smart glasses and plano lenses
EssilorLuxottica announced the evolution of its Essilor Stellest platform at the China International Import Expo (CIIE) in Shanghai. In the future, in addition to the latest version of Essilor Stellest 2.0 lenses, plano lenses and smart glasses for myopia management will also be released.
The Vision Council advocates against expanded tariffs on optical products and manufacturing equipment
The Vision Council has submitted formal comments to the U.S. Department of Commerce in response to two ongoing Section 232 national security investigations that could lead to new tariffs on key products used by the optical industry.
EssilorLuxottica acquires RetinAI
EssilorLuxottica announces the acquisition of Ikerian AG, a health technology company, operating under the RetinAI brand, specializing in AI and data management in eyecare.
OWA celebrated global connection event at Silmo
The Optical Women’s Association (OWA) is proud to announce the successful conclusion of its Global Connection Event at Silmo Paris, “Seeing Beyond: The Power of Women in Optical Innovation”.
Rodenstock sets benchmarks in international standardisation
Dr Stephan Trumm, who is responsible for standardisation work in the field of optics and devices at Rodenstock, has been honoured by the International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) with a special award – the ISO Award of Excellence.
ISSUE 06/2025
Overview
Special: Markets Worldwide: Data and figures on lenses and smart glasses // Vision Expo West 2025 // Silmo 2025 // Technology: What If… AI could optimize your lab and save resources daily? // A generalization of the Minkwitz theorem and its benefit for progressive addition lenses // Interview: “Personalization is still not well understood” // Business: Effectively managing remote projects // Spotlight: MAFO – The Conference 2026
FEATURED ARTICLES
Effectively managing remote projects
Remote and virtual project management has become part of everyday life in the optical industry. Teams work independently of location, but leadership remains a key challenge. This article shows how managers can effectively lead remote teams, clarify expectations, and make roles transparent.
Vision Expo West: All eyes on a new beginning
It is a conclusion without much fanfare or big surprises. The last fall trade show in Las Vegas, held from September 18 to 20, presented itself as a solid finale. Visitors were treated to fewer spectacular product unveilings, but the trade show proved to be a good trend monitor.
What If…
AI could optimize your lab and save resources daily? Would you hesitate to trust decisions made by AI – especially if there were proof that it could reduce breakage, streamline processes, and significantly cut costs? Now is the time to realize; this is not a distant possibility.
IOT: “Personalization is still not well understood”
Freeform for every lab: Twenty years ago, three Spanish scientists had a revolutionary idea. The innovative freeform technology should not be reserved exclusively for large groups. Instead, new software should enable every independent lab to manufacture freeform progressive lenses. MAFO is on site to mark the company’s 20th anniversary.
Do not take rejectionor ghosting personally
Rejection and ghosting are not the exception in everyday sales, but rather the rule. Nevertheless, there is rarely any discussion about how to deal with these setbacks professionally. Yet it is precisely this ability, to view disappointments objectively and protect one’s self-esteem. This is a key prerequisite for long-term success in sales.
Case study: Lens brush cleaning
To meet high-quality standards, it is essential for operational managers to continuously review all process steps. In a well-known German company, the cleaning process was optimized by adopting a state-of-the-art aqueous cleaner.
The future of lens manufacturing
To lead the industry towards smarter, connected workflows, we have to constantly challenge conventions. One example is the paper job ticket. In an age defined by automation, IoT integration, and real-time data, it is time to rethink the paper ticket’s role and explore the digital alternatives.
NEWS
Global gathering at Lensware: people, progress, and powerful new tools
This last summer the traditional yearly Lensware convention took place at the headquarters in Langen, Germany, welcoming all its consultants, arriving from all continents.
IXI unveils strategic moves to accelerate market entry of autofocus glasses
IXI, one pioneer behind innovative autofocus glasses, announced at Silmo two strategic moves to further its mission of building the future of eyewear by strengthening its production pipeline in Europe.
Optotech and Zeiss Vision Care announce new vacuum blocking technology for ophthalmic lenses
After several years of joint development, Optotech and Zeiss Vision Care are introducing an innovation in ophthalmic lens production: an eco-friendly manufacturing technology that replaces the conventional blocking process based on alloy or plastic adhesive.
Next Generation of AI glasses unveiled at global technology event
EssilorLuxottica and Meta Platforms showcased the evolution of their celebrated partnership at Meta Connect, where they unveiled the next generation of AI glasses.
Deepcove Optical and Optiswiss sign distribution agreement
The Swiss lens manufacturer Optiswiss and the UK-based lens company Deepcove Optical announced the signing of a long-term exclusive distribution agreement for the UK market, further strengthening their decade-long collaboration.
The Vision Council: new report on myopia treatment trends released
The Vision Council released a new two-part research report, Focused inSights 2025: Myopia Management, combining a global analysis of pediatric myopia treatment strategies with a survey of U.S. eyecare providers.
Horizons Optical appoints Lara Olivias as Chief Marketing Officer
Horizons Optical appoints Lara Olivas as its new Chief Marketing Officer. With 15+ years’ experience in optical, pharma, and consumer goods, she should lead global marketing to boost innovation, brand visibility, and transformative solutions for eye care professionals worldwide.
Leadership changes announced in North America operations at Hoya Vision Care
Hoya Vision Care has appointed Meg Weathers as SVP Global Key Accounts and Samy Lauriette as VP Strategic Marketing in North America. The changes are aimed at strengthening customer relations and marketing across the region.
The Vision Council supports the optical industry in the new customs situation
The White House has issued formal notice that updated reciprocal tariffs for key trade partners will go into effect beginning August 7, 2025
EssilorLuxottica acquires Automation & Robotics
EssilorLuxottica announces today the acquisition of Automation & Robotics (A&R), a renowned player in the design and manufacture of automated systems for optical lens quality control, serving both mass production facilities and prescription laboratories.
The Vision Council announces updated Data Communication Standard
The Vision Council, the leading voice for the optical industry, is pleased to announce the completion and approval of Version 3.14 of the Data Communication Standard.












