Since 1955, the Red Dot seal has been awarded to designs that push the boundaries of creativity, craftsmanship and innovation. Each of these award-winning pieces impressed the international jury with their vision, sustainability and refined aesthetics - and now joins the ranks of the world's best designs.

The centerpiece of Silhouette's Clear Sky Collection is a true design breakthrough: SPX Green+. Winner of the Red Dot Design Award 2025, this biocircular material is made from organic waste from agriculture, forestry and aquaculture. SPX Green+ is made from 100 % renewable energy and reduces carbon emissions by up to 50 % compared to conventional fossil-based materials. This ground-breaking design family from the market leader in optical innovation embodies the unstoppable progress of a society moving towards greener technologies.

Atelier Next: The future of luxury eyewear

The Red Dot jury also recognized the pioneering spirit of Atelier Next, Silhouette's exclusive design laboratory, where advanced materials meet visionary aesthetics. Two different sun models stood out for their refined craftsmanship, innovation and pioneering use of sustainable materials.

This new style of sunglasses combines sleek lines with precision and material innovation. The super-light, rimless frame features vegan leather inserts based on agricultural by-products. This material choice delivers exquisite properties in appearance and durability and is produced CO₂-neutral. The titanium frames offer a minimalist screwless hinge with full adjustability. The 90° folded temple reveals the beauty of the leather inlays at second glance and emphasizes the finesse and understatement of this design - clean and minimalistic. The addition of colored grooves on the lenses transforms the rimless look into a delicate full rim look and emphasizes the aviator shape.

These exquisite sunglasses combine craftsmanship with the latest 3D titanium printing technology. The matt titanium rings contrast with the 23 ct gold-plated temples, bridge and decorative trims. The innovative design is based on the idea of a "floating" glass. A rimless base is combined with accent rings that are printed in 3D. The parts can only be produced using this technique. The finishing process to get this smooth surface on the 3D printed metal parts takes time and experience. The result is a super light and stable frame. To achieve better sun protection, the rings on the side are enlarged. By adding recesses, the surface remains slightly rougher and shows the 3D-printed original surface. A minimalist, screwless and maintenance-free hinge as well as full adjustability characterize these sunglasses.

Source: www.silhouette.com

In this strategically important role, Andrea Marugg will drive forward the development and expansion of the Leica Eyecare brand in the Swiss specialist trade - with a clear focus on high-quality Leica Eyecare lenses.

Andrea is a trained master optician and can look back on a successful career in the optical industry. Her sound professional expertise, coupled with a keen sense for high-quality products, make her the ideal candidate for this responsible position. She knows the requirements and needs of the Swiss market inside out - and brings the necessary passion to anchor the Leica Eyecare brand with partners.

With Andrea Marugg, the team has not only gained a colleague with a wealth of expertise, but also a convincing personality who stands for quality, customer focus and innovation.

"Welcome on board, Andrea - we look forward to seeing you!" - The Leica Eyecare team is very much looking forward to working with Andrea and is convinced that she will make a decisive contribution to the further positioning of Leica Eyecare in Switzerland.

Source: www.prolens.ch

Alongside Marcus Desimoni (CEO & CFO ad interim), Roland Dimbath (COO), Dr. Dietmar Uttenweiler (EVP Innovation) and Catherine Stahl (EVP Marketing & Strategy), they complete the Executive Management Team of the Rodenstock Group and strengthen the clear market focus of the Sales division.

Laurent Saada has extensive leadership experience in global sales and business strategy in the medical device industry. In a career spanning more than two decades, Mr. Saada has held leadership positions at companies such as Sonova Group, Straumann Group and Johnson & Johnson. From May, he will assume sales responsibility for all European markets and Morocco.

Søren Østergaard has been with Rodenstock for four years. He has more than 35 years of professional experience in sales at international companies in the medical technology sector, including various senior sales positions at Sonova Holding AG, Origio A/S and GN Hearing. Most recently, he was Vice President and Head of International Sales at Rodenstock. From May, he will assume sales responsibility for all markets outside Europe as part of the Executive Management Team.

Marcus Desimoni, CEO of the Rodenstock Group, says: "We are delighted to welcome two outstanding industry experts to our Executive Management Team. With their in-depth expertise and forward-thinking mindset, they will, among other things, continue to drive the successful implementation of our B.I.G. Vision strategy. With these appointments, we are making our sales division more focused, agile and even more market-oriented in order to master the constantly growing challenges of the future."

Laurent Saada, Executive Vice President Sales Europe, adds: "I am delighted to be joining Rodenstock at a crucial time of growth, characterized by innovation, close customer relationships and a strong corporate culture. Europe is at the heart of Rodenstock's value creation strategy and with B.I.G. Exact Sensitive we are uniquely positioned to set a new standard for truly biometric lenses."

Søren Østergaard, Executive Vice President Sales International, adds: "I am very pleased to expand my responsibilities at Rodenstock and join the Executive Management Team. Given the dynamic changes and potential in the global markets, I look forward to continuing to lead the strong Sales International team as well as Thailand and Australia, in addition to fully managing the Latin American markets with our sales units in Chile, Brazil and Uruguay."

Source: www.rodenstock.com

With the new three-year basic training program, the number of apprentices has risen sharply. The course centers for ophthalmic optics have been expanded accordingly and also brought up to date in terms of infrastructure and optics. Following the opening of the new French-speaking CCO in Yverdon-les-Bains last autumn, the existing school in Starrkirch near Olten was also modernized.

On March 3, 2025, all those interested in vocational training in optometry were invited to take a look at the current status of this important place of learning in basic vocational training. For some of the numerous guests, it was their first time - for many, it was also a happy reunion with a place from years of apprenticeships long past.

After a brief welcome by VBAO President Roger Willhalm and an entertaining and informative introduction by KFA Director Nick Burkhardt, the extended classrooms were open to visitors. Instructors on site provided information about the way teaching is practiced today.

A third course center was opened in Trevano for Italian-speaking opticians in training. The open day took place on April 9, 2025. Report to follow!

Following the great success of the Opti Faces for the last two Optis, the We Are Opti 2025/2026 campaign is entering a third, newly designed round: Curtain up for the new brand ambassadors! Three women and three men from the optical industry are lending their charismatic and (as yet) unknown faces to Opti 2026. These six brand personalities are embedded in a lively, dynamic design with a bright, opti-mistic appeal.

This makes the Opti 2026 campaign an even clearer commitment to shaping Opti together, to the meeting place of the optical industry and its related sectors, to passion, with the clear statement: We can only be Opti together!

Cathleen Kabashi, Director Opti: "I am delighted with this impressive mix of strong personalities. Their passion for Opti and ophthalmic optics is infectious! No wonder: all six are inspiring representatives of our Opti community. As great ambassadors, they will accompany us on our way to Opti 2026, supported by the new, brighter, positive look and feel. This strengthens the sense of community in the industry - both in the run-up to and then, of course, at Opti!"

And these are the new, strong Opti personalities:

Reya Kons - Lecturer at TH Brandenburg and Berlin University of Applied Sciences:

"Opti is a highlight for me every year - meeting colleagues, great discussions, new impulses and ideas and lots of fun. It's the perfect mix of exchange, inspiration and enjoyment of our industry."

 Christian Metzler - Photographer and passionate collector of glasses, Pforzheim:

"Opti is a unique event for me - although I know what to expect, I am always surprised and happy at Opti. It's the innovations, the design and the annual reunion with people who share my enthusiasm for eyewear and who I see as friends. The best thing about it: there are more and more of them every year."

Fola Osu - Sales representative, Böblingen:

"Opti is a unique event of reconnection - this is where new collabs are created, fresh ideas flow and inspiration is shared. Away from business, it is a celebration of creativity, encounters and the true art of the eyewear and design world."

Tom Luis Platten - Student B.Sc. Ophthalmic Optics/Optometry, Munich University of Applied Sciences; Platten Optik & Akustik, Kastellaun:

"Opti combines trends in fashion and technology with fresh ideas for the future. For me, it is the ideal place to maintain contacts and find out about specific developments in the industry."

Daniela Steinkämper - Management Purchasing & Sales, Viehoff Group, Münster:

"Opti offers an incomparable platform for discovering the latest innovations and trends in the optics industry, as well as for exchanging ideas with industry colleagues and suppliers. For me, this makes it the most important event of the year - an unmissable event for professionals and opti(k) enthusiasts!"

Camilla Stramare. CEO Strato Eyewear, Quero Vas (BL), Italy:  

"The Opti is characterized by its ideal size and its inviting atmosphere. Both create the perfect setting for good contacts. As a representative of the industry, Opti allows me to put the spotlight on incredible craftsmen and women who rarely receive the recognition they deserve."

The upcoming Opti dates for your diary

Opti 2026: January 16-18, 2026

Opti 2027: January 29-31, 2027

Opti 2028: January 14-16, 2028

Source: www.opti.de

For Spring 2025, Blackfin Atlantic presents two new edgy frames: Knightsbridge with a straight and distinctive upper profile and Mayfair, which interprets a classic design with new elegance. The colors have a Silk Feel surface with a unique feel that gives these frames an exclusive touch. Both models are also available in the elegant Black Edition version and in the Sun Glasses version with colored lenses.

In all models, the temple and hinges merge to form a monobloc that has been skillfully machined to facilitate adjustment of the inclination angle. The combination of bridge supports and nose pads with an elegant shape and high functionality allows adjustment in all directions for a made-to-measure fitting, so that the fit of the glasses can be harmoniously adapted to any face shape.

Blackfin Atlantic stands for the company's commitment to creating authentic and high-quality eyewear, the value of which lies not only in the use of the highest quality materials and advanced technologies, but also in the commitment to production that takes place entirely in Italy at the sustainable Black Shelter headquarters.

Source: www.blackfin.eu

Nowadays, the desire for precise vision with frequent changes of gaze is particularly great. Adapted to modern visual habits, the latest progressive lens from Optiswiss provides the answer: BIOMETRICS HORIZON combines first-class technologies in a high-end progressive lens and is perfectly tailored to the individual visual needs of each person. Inspired by the horizon and its boundlessness, spectacle wearers experience natural vision, brilliance and distance.

Top-class technologies

Thanks to decades of expertise in the high-end area of individual progressive lenses and in close collaboration with research partners, we have succeeded in developing a new ground-breaking calculation methodology. The SWISSVARIO® TECHNOLOGY combines exclusive features and improved digital optimization to provide the best possible solutions for all customer groups and visual requirements. These are characterized by excellent spontaneous comfort and optimal visual performance in all visual situations. OPTOMETRIC TECHNOLOGY ensures that individual visual requirements are perfectly met. The special feature: This patented, intelligent technology dynamically adapts the lens design to the individual's visual defect and age. Spectacle wearers benefit from the largest possible, user-relevant visual areas - in every perspective. The integration of precisely measured biometric parameters also results in a lens that is matched to the biometry of the eye with absolute precision thanks to BIOMETRICS TECHNOLOGY. BIOMETRICS HORIZON meets the unique requirements of every human eye by measuring the parameters of the eye's length, eye pivot point and pupil diameter with the Myopia Master® or the Pentacam® AXL Wave from premium partner OCULUS.

Seeing in a new dimension

Where conventional progressive lenses are based on standard values, vision with BIOMETRICS HORIZON gains in width and brilliant clarity. The new progressive lenses provide excellent spontaneous comfort, optimum visual performance in all visual situations and a new level of compatibility. A visual experience that spectacle wearers will feel, even under dynamic conditions. And it's not just the visual experience with BIOMETRICS HORIZON that is impressive, but also the overall biometric concept:

"The first impressions with the latest generation of BIOMETRICS HORIZON biometric lenses are extremely good. [...] Our customers have a great feeling with their glasses. For us, BIOMETRICS means exclusivity. We position ourselves with an honest and tangible measurement and analysis and a unique product whose benefits we integrate into the screening, consultation and sales process right from the start. It's simply fun to fit such advanced lenses," says Jean-Pierre Schwalb from Optik Schwalb in Nidda, Germany.

With BIOMETRICS HORIZON, spectacle wearers experience a completely new perspective and the harmony of precision, quality and innovation - 100 % Made in Switzerland.

www.optiswiss.com

Each piece is a masterful symbiosis of sophisticated aesthetics, sustainable innovation and ethical craftsmanship - reflecting the values of a conscious, future-oriented world. The collection brings together three visionary sub-collections that redefine technological boundaries while masterfully preserving the symbiosis of ethical luxury and timeless design.

Minimalist and innovative, the Aura Collection new standards in technical innovation. With a 23 carat gold coating and avant-garde 3D accents, the Titan Minimal Art of this series celebrates its debut with the exclusive "Golden Plate Edition", which gives a new meaning to luxurious lightness.

The Radiance collection The new "Color-Groove" eyewear line inspires with a sophisticated look: soft, vegan leather is combined with 23-carat gold-plated titanium and black "Color-Groove" lenses. The design line combines traditional textures with innovative materials. The pilot glasses in this series impress with their striking style and are guaranteed to radiate positive energy. 250 of the strictly limited edition sunglasses - inspired by Himalayan expeditions - were produced. The exclusive 3D-printed titanium frame is coated with 23 carat gold and combines exceptional strength with lightness. The angular temples provide further sun protection and epic glamor.

The Lumiere collection combines the highest level of craftsmanship with radiant elegance. They set standards with perfectly lab-grown diamonds and solid, recycled 18-carat gold. Like the optical collection, the solid gold and titanium sunglasses effortlessly achieve an even 10+ on the "wow" scale.

Sustainable materials: the game changer of the future

The Silhouette Gold impresses with its unmistakable 23 carat gold alloy. Made from recycled gold and refined with a touch of ruthenium, a brighter and nobler shade is achieved. Leather has been prized for thousands of years. While the look and feel of leather is compelling, it still comes from animals. Advances in material science make it possible for Silhouette to use a plant-based, cruelty-free and carbon neutral leather made from 100 % corn and produced in Italy.

Inspired by the wonders of nature, the sourced diamonds are grown responsibly in the laboratory. Perfect color and clarity are guaranteed. Ethical diamonds are CO₂-neutral, produce no waste and are indistinguishable from natural diamonds. Grown from a "seed", they are nourished with carbon vapor. Silhouette carefully selects these diamonds and places them by hand on each bail.

Using the latest technology, exclusive designs are 3D printed in limited quantities from titanium, surpassing traditional milling techniques. A revolutionary process fuses titanium dust using lasers and builds the frame layer by layer, without any waste. The result is outstanding industrial strength and exceptional durability.

Source: www.silhouette.com

This year's conference offered a varied program with top-class presentations in French, English and German on lenses, screening methods and the latest research findings. The practical case studies from experts in the fields of contact lens fitting and binocular vision were particularly valuable. An industry panel rounded off the event with a perspective on the future.

Will eye operations be performed by robots in the future?

The criteria for the optimal timing of cataract surgery are not clearly defined. In his presentation, Martin Kündig emphasized that patients accept the effects of treatment better if the operation is not performed too early.

The well-being of the patient is more important than the doctor's ego when it comes to interventions. In her presentation on glaucoma treatment, Dr. Ségolèene Roemer expressed her conviction that successful treatment is based on good interdisciplinary cooperation. She particularly emphasized the cooperation between ophthalmologists and optometrists.

Prof. Dr. Matthias Becker, founder of Ophthorobotics AG, has researched the possibilities of how robots could help with eye operations together with ETH Zurich. Today, the surgeons themselves still have full control over the operations. Only telerobotics is already being used, for example in Lasik. For operations on the front of the eye, manual surgical methods are so well developed that they are still preferred to robotics. One of the reasons for this is that today's robots are still too rough for the delicate eye. The only interesting exception here would be injection robotics. Automated injection systems could make it possible to treat several patients at the same time. A significant advantage of robots is their absolute stability of movement. As even the most experienced surgeons have natural hand tremors, special auxiliary instruments have already been developed to compensate for these tremors and ensure complete immobility. During the operation, the surgeon controls the robotic arm - the right hand for the right side, the left hand for the left side, while the forceps are operated by foot control. This innovative technique enables doctors to treat areas of the eye that are difficult to access and to change their own position while the surgical tool remains precise and stable in the eye.

When asked about their dreams for the future, the OSO industry partners present expressed their ideas on stage. At the forefront were digital AI-controlled spectacle lenses and contact lenses as well as a spectacle cleaning and pad changing machine. Present from right to left were Stephan Kettler from Zeiss, Patrica Dallinger from Alcon, Enrico Giarrusso from Optiswiss AG, Mischa Wolf from CooperVision, Yves Bargetzi from Rodenstock, Samuel Schaub from Hoya and Marc von der Burg from Essilor. The panel was chaired by SBAO President Manuel Kovats, far right.

Scleral lens

The Monday morning of the conference was devoted entirely to the scleral lens. In the first lecture, Alex Ziörjen dealt with possible troubleshooting when fitting these large lenses. According to the speaker, a lot depends on the care product. In the case of reddened eyes or intolerances, he would certainly change the storage medium first. If there are problems with the fit, the practitioner will then also change to a freeform lens, which solves many of the fit problems. However, it is important to always bear in mind that visual acuity 1.0 does not always mean that the customer really has 1.0 vision. It is often possible to guess an aperture with a visual acuity in blurred vision.

A few years ago, scleral lens specialist Brian Tompkins rode onto the stage on a Harley Davidson as a speaker at a specialist conference. As a tribute to his follow-up speaker, Philippe Seira took to the stage at the current conference on a scooter. In his presentation, he compared various recipes for lenses and demonstrated the different options for contact lens fitting. His presentation focused on the fight against drop-outs. Verbal and written information is essential in order to provide customers with good information and support. To this end, they have many information leaflets available in their practice. Most of them are developed by them and include explanatory photos and drawings. Optometrists are able to convey the joy of lens wear to people. According to the Vaud native, follow-up check-ups should be in the middle of the village again, just like the church. A follow-up check should cost money, but it should also be used to show professionalism, provide information about new products and ensure good customer loyalty.

Brian Tompkins from the UK calls himself an optometrist entertainer and lives it to the full. For him, all fitters are superheroes and should reflect on their superpowers. Because optometrists and lens fitters can't sense people or read minds, they have to become super detectives. It is important to listen carefully and read between the lines. He also recommends questionnaires and, above all, paying attention to customers' unspoken fears. In their practice, Brian and his Super Optometrist team have introduced a subscription system. He called it the "Netflix system". They run subscriptions for different lenses and needs and they all have everything included. Customers don't have to pay for anything extra. His statement was: embrace your superpower, fly to your clinic and be sparkled. And do it with Sparkle and be happy. Have fun.

Red or blue light for myopia control

Prof. Dr. Dr. Frank Schaeffel, a biophysicist from the University Hospital Tübingen and IOP Basel, has presented important findings on myopia control. His research focuses on the effect of different colored light sources on the development of myopia. It has long been established that being active outdoors can inhibit the development of myopia more than genetic factors. Studies have compared the effects of daylight lamps and natural outdoor light. The best results were achieved with a light intensity of 20,000 lux, whereby it made no difference whether the light was artificial or natural. 20,000 lux corresponds to daylight without direct sunlight. Interestingly, UV therapies, which are successful in some animals, are not effective in humans, as UV light does not reach the retina at all. An experiment with chickens was particularly revealing: despite spending time outside, they developed short-sightedness when given dopamine blockers. This clearly shows that it is not image sharpness alone that is decisive, but that the interaction between dopamine and melanin plays a central role. Research suggests that different colors of light elicit different responses and that a combination of different colors may be necessary to trigger a predictable response in the eye.

The symposium offered a successful mix of science, practical relevance and inspiration - and once again underlined the importance of interdisciplinary exchange in modern ophthalmic optics.

The next OSO meetings are the newly launched congresses in French-speaking Switzerland on May 18 in Alpha Palmiers, Lausanne and in Ticino in Bellinzona on October 12. The OPTX will take place in Baden again this year, on September 21, and for the next spring conference it's "Bye and see you next year."

Regulated succession

Christian Krüsi, the former long-standing Managing Director of Galifa Contactlinsen AG, who has sold his majority stake in the long-established Eastern Swiss company to Medical Vision AG - a company with an equally rich tradition in Eastern Switzerland - is delighted: "I am delighted to have found a partner in Medical Vision AG with whom Galifa Contactlinsen AG - my life's work - is in good hands. The Medical Vision Group has all the resources to make Galifa even more fit for the future."

Galifa Contactlinsen AG will continue to operate at its existing location as an independent company within the Medical Vision Group. The high level of expertise, product quality and outstanding contact lens production of Galifa Contactlinsen AG expands the existing portfolio of companies within the Medical Vision Group and opens up new opportunities for optimal customer care and new services.

Added value in customer service and market presence

A particular advantage of this cooperation lies in the area of customer care. The subsidiaries of Medical Vision AG, in particular Mediconsult AG and Pharma Medica AG, already serve customers in the same segment as Galifa Contactlinsen AG. The cooperation within the Medical Vision Group will make the market presence more efficient and provide customers with an even broader and integrated range of high-quality products and services.

New possibilities by combining diagnostics and production

The combination of Galifa Contactlinsen AG's strengths in manufacturing and Medical Vision AG's expertise in diagnostics opens up new possibilities. The collaboration enables the optimization of important process steps such as ordering, fitting and individual production of contact lenses.

The companies are very confident about their joint future and look forward to ensuring sustainable corporate growth through the merger.

Source: www.galifa.swiss

The result is an aesthetically pleasing, highly functional pair of Shield sports goggles with personalized prescription that always offers optimum vision and protection in all light and weather conditions.

The combination that makes the difference

In the past, if spectacle wearers wanted to use an evil eye Shield model with self-tinting Vario filter technology, this was only possible using a clip-in system, which was practical but visually less discreet. The new Vario Shield adapter overcomes these limitations: It seamlessly integrates the optical glazing and ensures a consistent, elegant appearance. This solution therefore offers an attractive alternative for anyone looking for aesthetically pleasing yet high-performance Shield sports eyewear.

More than just a visual aid - the advantages of the Varion Shield adapter

• Unlimited field of vision: The Vario Shield adapter ensures that the field of vision always remains wide and unrestricted.
• Perfect for sport: The photochromatic Vario filters adapt automatically and continuously to changing light and weather conditions.
• Constantly sharp vision: The combination of shield design with optical glazing ensures maximum protection and comfort.
• Outstanding aesthetics: The perfect coordination of materials and design ensures that the optical glazing is barely noticeable.

High-tech materials for top performance

The design of the Vario Shield adapter is based on two different, perfectly coordinated materials. Polyamide provides the necessary stability and flexibility of the adapter, while polycarbonate makes the optical filters light and scratch-resistant. This combination not only guarantees excellent performance, but also a high-quality appearance that meets the demands of athletes.

Sustainability and efficiency combined

Another advantage of the Vario Shield adapter is its sustainable design. The ability to replace only the optical filters when changing prescription reduces waste and resource consumption and ensures that the model can be worn for longer without having to replace the entire pair of glasses. This feature underlines evil eye's commitment to environmentally friendly and sustainable production.

The solution for every moment

The Vario Shield Adapter combines innovative technology, sustainable production and a clear vision: to offer athletes unrestricted vision and maximum flexibility. Whether on the running track or on the mountain - with the Vario Shield adapter from evil eye, the focus always remains where it should be: on the target.

The new Vario Shield Adapter is available from our partner opticians for the traileye pro, traileye ng pro, vistair-x and vistair-d models in the following Vario versions:

• Vario clear
• LST Vario purple M
• LST Vario blue-green M
• LST blue light Vario M

Source: www.evileye.com

The service is free of charge and is aimed at visually impaired people and their relatives. An initial assessment has already been made.

So far, 30 people seeking advice have received information and initial consultations about a visual impairment. During the discussions, the specialists explained the options for improving their visual and reading ability or provided information on social insurance benefits. It was established that there is a great need for information on the use and handling of aids and support options. Some people just wanted to get a replacement part for their cane or a new reading device. The majority of those seeking advice were female and over 70 years old. They were made aware of or referred to the mobile advice service by ophthalmologists, retirement homes, opticians, print and social media. For in-depth and further individual clarifications and social consultations, the mobile advice service staff referred the people to specialized professionals at advice centres.

The mobile counseling specialists provided those seeking advice with an initial overview of the following topics:

• Low vision (assessment of visual potential, advice and training in the use of optical and electronic aids)
• Orientation & mobility (teaching techniques for safe locomotion, such as the use of a long cane or orientation aids)
• Practical life skills (assessments, advice and support in teaching techniques for coping with everyday tasks such as cooking, personal hygiene, housekeeping and communication)
• Aids to improve reading and visual acuity
• Offers and services of the SBV (course offers)
• Social counseling (advice on social insurance issues, information on companions and Spitex services, information on aids, support with administrative issues).

Mobile contact and advice service

In an interview with Urs von Gunten, the project manager of this pilot project, we found out about the idea behind this project, how it all started and whether it will soon be possible to obtain this type of advice in other cantons in Switzerland.

Mr. von Gunten, how did you get started with the "Mobile Advice" service?

Good, I'm satisfied. So far, we've received two to three inquiries a week. That's a good start, especially as we haven't advertised the service heavily yet. Demand is sure to increase, as ophthalmologists and retirement homes will refer clients to us.

What issues can I contact the mobile advice service about?

Basically with all issues relating to living with a visual impairment. Many people turn to us with questions about social insurance benefits, such as supplementary benefits, helplessness allowance and the assistance contribution. It is important that people with visual impairments know what they are entitled to. They often live on a modest pension of CHF 2,000 to 2,400 per month. We can provide an initial overview. For more in-depth, individual social counseling, we can refer you to an appropriate counseling center.

What are other concerns?

Get to know and try out aids. We always have a selection with us so that you can get a feel for it. Some people just want a spare part for their cane or information about SBC's services. The requests are many and varied.

What can mobile consulting cover?

We carry out detailed consultations and then refer clients to specialists for a specific assessment/training. Due to demand, we are currently clarifying whether we can offer extended advice in the area of low vision.

Who is the mobile advice service aimed at?

To all people with a visual impairment in the canton of Berne. So far, it has mainly been women aged 70 and over. They have either contacted us directly, been referred by relatives or by opticians. The service is free of charge and is also aimed at relatives. All those seeking advice are welcome on our advice bus.

Are there also plans to expand the service in other cantons?

Mobile counseling is a pilot project. We incorporate our findings and feedback into the design of the service on an ongoing basis and adapt the service to the needs of clients as far as possible. The test phase will run from August 2024 to August 2026, after which the project will be evaluated and a decision made on whether to expand it.

Is the advisory bus used for other purposes?

We also use the bus for awareness-raising events for specialists and companies. It is also ideal for trade fair appearances, such as recently at the Neuland trade fair in Thun, where we were present together with the Bernese Oberland section.

For further information and advice, please contact "Mobile Beratung" on 031 390 88 90 or mobile-beratung@sbv-fsa.ch. 

At the Opening Ceremony of the Special Olympics World Winter Games in Turin, Italy, on March 8, 2025, the two organizations celebrated the renewal of their long-standing partnership through 2027. This commitment underscores a shared commitment to inclusive health and vision care for athletes with intellectual disabilities worldwide that has lasted - and continues - for more than 22 years. In that time, Special Olympics athletes from around the world have received eyeglass frames and sunglasses from Safilo as part of the Special Olympics Lions Clubs International Foundation Opening Eyes program. Safilo employees have also volunteered at Opening Eyes events, where athletes have received important eye exams, prescription eyewear and referrals for follow-up care.

"At Safilo, we believe that clear vision is a fundamental right, not a privilege. For more than 20 years, our partnership with Special Olympics has enabled us to provide not just eyewear, but dignity, confidence and opportunity to thousands of athletes around the world," said Angelo Trocchia, CEO of Safilo Group. "With this renewed commitment, we reaffirm our dedication to inclusion, accessibility and eye health, ensuring that every athlete has the vision care they need to excel both in competition and in everyday life. We are proud to continue on this path and support Special Olympics in their mission of empowerment. This commitment is part of Safilo's purpose-driven strategy, which is based on three pillars of sustainability: Planet, Product and People."

Mary Davis, CEO of Special Olympics, added: "The renewal of our partnership with Safilo is more than just an extension of our collaboration, it is a demonstration of our shared commitment to health equity for people with intellectual disabilities. Vision care is an often overlooked but essential component of an athlete's success, and Safilo's contribution has changed people's lives by providing them with access to screenings, corrective frames and expert care. As we celebrate this milestone at the Special Olympics World Winter Games Turin 2025, we look forward to expanding our impact and ensuring that every athlete sees a clearer, brighter future ahead of them."

Source: www.safilogroup.com

Based on the latest development findings and with a foundation of technological expertise, quality and precision, Optiswiss perfects its Biometrics concept and presents the latest progressive lens innovation Biometrics Horizon. Thanks to decades of expertise in the high-end area of individual progressive lenses and in close cooperation with research partners, a new calculation method has been created with Swissvario Technology that is unparalleled in its precision and clarity.

Optometric Technology takes individual visual needs into account. The special feature: The adaptive, unique lens design dynamically adjusts to individual visual defects and age and ensures the largest possible, user-relevant visual ranges. The integration of precisely measured biometric parameters also results in a lens that is matched to the biometry of the eye with absolute precision thanks to Biometrics Technology. Biometrics Horizon meets the unique requirements of every human eye by measuring the parameters of the eye's length, eye pivot point and pupil diameter with the Myopia Master or the Pentacam AXL Wave from premium partner Oculus.

The technological highlights of Biometrics Horizon ensure excellent spontaneous comfort, optimum visual performance in all visual situations and a new level of compatibility.

Enthusiastic customers confirm outstanding visual experience

Sabine Siegmund, Siegmund Augenoptik und Hörakustik from Pattensen, Germany, from Biometrics Horizon reports convincingly: "The new Biometrics Horizon progressive lenses are simply great. From the first time I put them on, I've been impressed by the depth of field and spatial perception. The positive reactions from our customers confirm and underline the high level of spontaneous compatibility. It is a great pleasure for my team and me to adapt Biometrics Horizon lenses with the latest technologies out of conviction and to be at the cutting edge. Biometrics Horizon means seeing with pure emotion, from the very first second."

With Biometrics Horizon, spectacle wearers experience precision for every perspective. The use of state-of-the-art technologies, extensive quality controls and high-precision manufacturing processes enable the production of this revolutionary high-end product - 100 % Made in Switzerland.

Source: www.optiswiss.com

The aim of the planned realignment is to strengthen Optovision in the long term with a clear focus on sales, marketing and product management. The measures will also include the relocation of production in the coming months. Optovision's ophthalmic lens production will mainly be relocated to Klattau/Czech Republic, one of the Rodenstock Group's production sites. This will ensure uniform processes and high quality standards within the Rodenstock Group's production network. Optovision customers will therefore continue to benefit from the highest precision, reliability and delivery reliability.

Against the backdrop of the Group's current volume decline, this will enable balanced capacity utilization at the global production centers. The existing work areas will be reorganized as part of Optovision's focus on brand, sales and service expertise.

These changes are part of the Rodenstock Group's long-term strategy to strengthen its innovative strength and service quality against the backdrop of changing market conditions. In view of increasing competition, rising production costs and declining volumes, the Rodenstock Group is now taking further measures to secure its long-term competitiveness.

Once the reorganization is complete, Optovision will still have around 130 employees. The focus will be on safeguarding the existing customer and brand expertise. As part of the reorganization and the changes in business operations, Optovision is planning a comprehensive package of measures for the employees affected, with offers of active support and advice.

In the course of the planned relocation, Optovision will enter into discussions with the works council. Implementation will be subject to the co-determination of the Works Council.

Roland Dimbath, COO Rodenstock Group says: "By relocating our production volumes, we are taking an important step towards securing the long-term and global competitiveness of the Rodenstock Group. It also strengthens Optovision's clear customer focus."

Christian Bannert, Managing Director of Optovision, adds: "The upcoming realignment of Optovision offers great opportunities to position ourselves for the future in the global ophthalmic optics market and to sustainably improve the quality of service for our customers and partners."

Source: www.optovision.com

Among the available options for myopia management, daily disposable lenses have proven to be an effective and practical solution for young wearers. They offer comfort, convenience and results: myopia progression is slowed AND the current refractive error is corrected.

Menicon Bloom daily disposable lenses for myopia management have been shown to slow down the progression of short-sightedness in children and adolescents. From the three-year "PROTECT" study¹ promising interim results are available after two years². These confirm the effectiveness and safety of Menicon Bloom Day daily disposable lenses for myopia management.

PROTECT study: results after one year³

This enables contact lens specialists to play an active role in myopia control. This benefits young wearers and their long-term eye health, as well as image and business development.

How does the Menicon Bloom Day work?

With its Neurofocus Optics® technology, Menicon Bloom Day has targeted features for effective myopia control: The design includes a smooth transition of relative plus power (up to +8.00 dpt at 6mm diameter) from the center to the periphery, which creates a wide spread of myopic defocus.

This design results in an extended depth of field that reduces accommodative strain and allows for a wider range of clear vision. All of this contributes to the effectiveness of the product.

Download product information and fitting guide

https://www.menicon-news.de/hilfsmittel-fuer-anpassung-und-verkauf-209-de

You can find more information in the new Menicon Bloom Day E-Learning :

https://elearning.easygenerator.com/7ae9ddf5-21bf-4615-a609-8c9990337330/#/login

Contact person in Switzerland:

Roberto Giarrizzo (Country Head Austria/Switzerland)

Phone : 076 699 3775 mail : giarrizzo@menicon.de

Sources: :

1. PROgressive myopia Treatment Evaluation for NaturalVue Multifocal Contact Lens Trial
2. VTI Press Release
3. A Randomized Controlled Trial for Myopia Progression Control Using Catenary Power Profile Contact Lenses: 12-month Effectiveness and Safety | IOVS | ARVO Journals