NEWS
Mido 2026 exhibitors list online
The constantly updated exhibitors list of Mido 2026, the 54th edition of the largest international eyewear event, scheduled from 31 January to 2 February 2026 at Fieramilano Rho, is now online. The show is preparing for an edition with great expectations, with a forecast of around 1,200 exhibitors from 50 countries, in line with last…
New research spotlighs optical market trends for third quarter of 2025
The Vision Council released new market data and analysis detailing the performance of the $17.5 billion optical industry in the third quarter of 2025.
Silmo Istanbul – at the crossroads of continents
True to its signature “Everything About Eyewear,” Silmo Istanbul established itself, from November 19 to 22, as the reference platform for the Eurasian optical industry.
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.
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
Zeiss invests in Ocumeda to advance tele-ophthalmology platform with Fielmann Group
Zeiss Vision Care announced the acquisition of a 10% stake in Ocumeda AG (“Ocumeda”) from the Fielmann Group for €10 million.
New CFO of the Rodenstock Group announced
The Rodenstock Group, a global leader in eye health innovation and manufacturer of biometric lenses, will complete its Executive Management Team with the appointment of Dr Martina Bentele as CFO, effective February 1st, 2026.
Essilor Stellest becomes first FDA-authorized spectacle lens to slow myopia progression
EssilorLuxottica announced the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted market authorization for its Essilor Stellest lens using the De Novo pathway.
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.
