For the first time in Switzerland: Swiss Expo Days 2025
After three successful years in Germany, the Expo Days by Optiswiss, Oculus and other industry partners are celebrating their premiere in Switzerland: On October 27, 2025, the Swiss Expo Days will take place for the first time in the football stadium in Basel - with fresh impulses and in a special atmosphere.
Editorial office
- Aug 21, 2025
On October 27, 2025, the Swiss Expo Days will take place for the first time in the football stadium in Basel. (Image: www.optiswiss.com)
Under the motto "Hopp Schwiiz!", Optiswiss and its partners - Appenzeller Kontaktlinsen, Von Hoff, Oculus, React Swiss Eyewear and epitop - are inviting opticians and industry experts to a revolutionary event in Basel. In the spirit of "Swissness", participants can expect specialist presentations on the latest technologies, optometry and myopia management as well as a varied exhibition and the opportunity to exchange ideas with colleagues and partners. And this much can already be revealed: In addition to a tour of FC Basel's "Joggeli" stadium with exclusive insights behind the scenes, guest speaker Chris Kauffmann, former managing director of FC Basel, will provide some real goosebump moments.
The free event will take place on October 27, 2025 at St. Jakob-Park in Basel.
Myopia Action Weeks 2025 - practical knowledge about myopia management
Short-sightedness in children is no longer an exception - it is becoming a global challenge. Studies show: By 2050, every second person worldwide is expected to be short-sighted. For opticians, this means that those who are informed about effective solutions at an early stage position themselves as responsible healthcare providers - with real added value for young customers.
Editorial office
- Aug 20, 2025
Those who understand myopia management today are actively shaping the vision of tomorrow. (Image: www.essilorluxottica.com)
With the Myopia Action Weeks from September 4 to 19, 2025, Essilor and CooperVision are offering a digital training series for all opticians who want to take a forward-looking approach to myopia management. Participation is free of charge and is worthwhile for beginners and advanced users alike.
A head start through knowledge - the right seminar for every level of experience
The online seminars provide in-depth insights into the origin and development of myopia, show scientifically proven product solutions such as Essilor Stellest or MiSight 1 day and provide practical tips on fitting, communicating with parents and screening children at risk. The topic of "pre-myopia" will also be clearly explained.
The speakers include, among others:
Marc von der BurgDirector Medical & Professional Affairs, Essilor DACH
Gudrun WestenbergerMaster optician and Medical Affairs Manager, Essilor
Michael Bärtschi, specialist in myopia management with contact lenses
Marcus Bernhard, Education Manager Vision Care, Leonardo DACH
As well as practitioners from the fields of ophthalmology and ophthalmic optics
Seminars at a glance - flexible & practical
The lectures take place in the mornings or evenings - from the comfort of your own screen. Topics include
What is progressive myopia - and why is early intervention so important?
Stellest lenses: mechanism of action, long-term data & everyday experience
How do we address parents and children correctly?
Recognizing pre-myopia - but how?
Contact lenses for children: MiSight 1 day & fitting practice
Collaboration with ophthalmologists: how it works
Even more knowledge on the Leonardo digital learning platform
If you want to delve deeper, EssilorLuxottica's Leonardo online learning platform offers a comprehensive range of training courses on myopia management and Essilor Stellest lenses - available at any time and free of charge for registered users.
Registration for all live sessions takes place via the Leonardo learning platform. Interested parties simply click on the "Leonardo" area on the MyEssilorLuxottica page. The log-in is identical to the personal MyEssilorLuxottica access. If you do not yet have access to Leonardo, please contact your EssilorLuxottica representative.
Patrick Petzold will answer any questions, Trainer in the Leonardo team; simply send an e-mail to petzoldp@essilor.de.
Those who understand myopia management today are actively shaping the vision of tomorrow. The Myopia Action Weeks offer the perfect opportunity for practical training - with just one hour invested per appointment.
Successful premiere: Graduation ceremony for opticians in the canton of Solothurn
A special milestone was celebrated in the canton of Solothurn: For the first time, the graduation ceremony for the qualification procedures (QV) in optometry took place independently at cantonal level - and with great success.
Nikica Filipic
- Aug 20, 2025
(Image: Nikica Filipic)
Around 70 guests, including graduates, their families, vocational school teachers and representatives of the industry, attended the dignified ceremony.
Despite an unexpected challenge - the originally planned catering cancelled at short notice - the organization team managed to put together an atmospheric celebration with a lot of commitment and improvisation talent. We would like to take this opportunity to thank the KfA team once again!
The fact that none of the festive atmosphere was lost was demonstrated by the consistently positive response from all those present.
(Image: Nikica Filipic)
After a warm welcome and a speech by the chief expert of the examination board, the young professionals were ceremoniously presented with their EFZ certificates. The pride in the eyes of the newly qualified opticians was palpable - a moment that made them forget the hardships of the training period.
Afterwards, representatives from the industry also addressed the graduates. Rodenstock and Hoya, two well-known companies in the ophthalmic optics industry, were present at the event. Mr. Burkhardt was also present as a representative of the VBAO (Verband der Betriebsinhaber in der Augenoptik). He also took the opportunity to personally congratulate the successful graduates and gave a short but appreciative speech.
The premiere of the Solothurn graduation ceremony in optometry can be considered a complete success. It not only demonstrated organizational talent and the art of improvisation, but also how much passion is behind the training in this specialist area.
Farewell, departure, moments: graduation ceremony at the gibb vocational school in Bern
We did it! Around 60 apprenticeship graduates from Bern and Valais gathered at the Schlossgut in Münsingen, together with their vocational trainers, parents and other accompanying persons, to receive their long-awaited certificate of competence on this evening.
Talitha Laubscher - OPT_2021_A
- Aug 18, 2025
OPT_2021_A. (Image: gibb Berufsfachschule Bern)
This year's graduation ceremony was particularly special, as graduates of both the four-year and three-year courses were invited on stage.
All of them passed the test with flying colors. We can be very proud of this result.
Poetry slam artist Samuel Richner got the evening off to a refreshing start. He talked about what it feels like to finish an apprenticeship and be stuck in your "mid-twenties" - a phase that we are about to enter. His most important message: keep having fun and stay brave.
The awarding of the famous red booklet was the highlight of the evening. It began with the graduates of the four-year apprenticeship. The graduates then received their certificate of proficiency in accordance with the new training regulations, which require three years of training. Called up individually, they all received their Federal Certificate of Competence and a glass with a letter. The letter was written on the first day of the apprenticeship. It was exciting to read what we wrote down at the start of our training - and how creatively we designed the glass back then.
OPT_2022_A. (Image: gibb Berufsfachschule Bern)
Now we were all holding our certificates in our hands. The time when we see each other as a class once a week has come to an end.
On this occasion, we wanted to show once again - to ourselves, our vocational trainers, parents and other accompanying persons - how much we have grown together over these years. Diego and Lenny came up with a personal "roast" for each person in the four-year apprenticeship - a funny anecdote that has emerged over the four years. Jashmini performed the song "Beggin" by Maneskin - supported in the background by her colleagues from the three-year course. The performances gave an idea of how much talent and joie de vivre the new opticians have and how they will enrich their professional and private lives.
OPT_2022_B. (Image: gibb Berufsfachschule Bern)
A big thank you also goes to the glass supplier Hoya, who awarded our best graduates with the highest overall grades. With a Japanese knife and a travel voucher, they are well equipped for their new chapter in life.
The subsequent aperitif provided time for important discussions.
Perfect fit knows no boundaries
Fits. Period. For the Austrian sports eyewear manufacturer Evil eye, a perfect fit is far more than just a technical detail - it is a central brand promise. From this month, this promise will be kept even more comprehensively: the proven performance models Roadsense, Trailsense and Trailsense II will also be available in size XS in future. This closes a fit gap that particularly affects young athletes and sportspeople with narrow faces - two target groups with high demands.
Editorial office
- Aug 14, 2025
The decision for the new size is based on numerous discussions with athletes, optics partners and customers. (Image: www.evileye.com)
XS - the size many have been waiting for
If you have a narrow head, you know the problem: many sports glasses don't fit properly, slip or pinch - especially during longer activities. With the new XS size, such compromises are a thing of the past. At last, the popular Evil eye models Roadsense, Trailsense and Trailsense II are also available for narrow faces - without compromising on style, comfort or function. XS offers the perfect fit, especially for young people who are starting out in sport or for athletes for whom other sports glasses are too big: lightweight, individually adjustable and ready for any adventure. Parents who don't want to compromise on their children's sports equipment will now also find a real solution - for clear vision, a strong look and a secure fit for all activities.
Demand recognized. Solution developed
The decision for the new size was based on numerous discussions with athletes, optics partners and customers. One message ran through all the feedback: The fit is crucial. Whether on a trail run, on a racing bike or in everyday life - sports eyewear can only fulfill its purpose in terms of function, comfort and style if it fits perfectly. With the previous sizes L and S, Evil eye already optimally covered large and medium-sized head shapes. However, the perfect solution for narrow faces, such as those involved in endurance sports or young people, has been lacking until now, although demand is growing. The new XS size fills precisely this gap.
Small but nice
The XS versions of Roadsense, Trailsense and Trailsense II are in no way inferior to the larger versions. The striking design, the individually adjustable fit and the uncompromising quality standards remain the same. There are also no restrictions for wearers with prescription: Evil eye's tried-and-tested clip-in lenses are fully compatible with the sports glasses in size XS and even offer a particularly generous field of vision thanks to the more compact fit. The lenses, which are cut to the required strength, are fixed directly behind the filters of the sports glasses using a clip-in.
The new Evil eye models in size XS have been available since August 1, 2025 and are available from all partner opticians, sports retailers and at evileye.com.
Rudy Project celebrates history with retro glasses
In 1986, the then newly founded Rudy Project brand presented a pair of sports glasses that was to become an icon: the "Super Performance", the brand's first Shield model.
Editorial office
- Aug 12, 2025
Moreno Argentin in the rainbow jersey of the world champion with the "Super Performance" glasses from Rudy Project. (Image: www.rudyproject.com)
This product quickly gained international recognition thanks to the outstanding success of Italian cyclist Moreno Argentin, who wore the glasses when he won the Road Cycling World Championships in Colorado Springs. This success marked Rudy Project's breakthrough and positioned the company as an innovative brand.
The Super Performance is still considered a prime example in the field of sports accessories because it was groundbreaking and revolutionary.
The legend, which has never been denied by those involved, says that Rudy Barbazza, the founder of Rudy Project, met Argentin at a pool table the night before the World Cup. There he is said to have reached a sponsorship agreement with him in the event of a victory. The enterprising entrepreneur from Veneto suggested to the title contender: "Wear these glasses tomorrow, win the World Cup and I will sponsor you!". The deal was allegedly sealed with a simple handshake.
Both kept their promise: Moreno Argentin won the world championship in the USA ahead of Mottet in a sprint to the finish line of over a kilometer, his gaze hidden behind those very glasses. Argentin became a Rudy Project testimonial, and his success turned the Super Performance into a cult product.
On the occasion of the company's 40th anniversary and 39 years after the triumph in Colorado Springs, which made the glasses famous worldwide, Rudy Project is now presenting an exclusive anniversary model in a strictly limited edition of only 100 numbered pieces: the "Performance 40".
"The past inspires innovation for the future: these glasses celebrate the iconic model that shaped an era, taking its soul and design and combining them with the most advanced materials and technologies," says Simone Barbazza, Marketing Director and Sustainability Manager at Rudy Project. "It is a tribute to our past and to the people - first and foremost my father - who paved the way for us today. The Performance 40 represents Rudy Project looking forward without forgetting where we come from: It celebrates the long history of a brand that always looks to the future."
The Performance 40 is a technological gem for collectors: its frame is made of titanium - a precious and hypoallergenic material - and is produced using a 3D printing process. Thanks to this special structure, the glasses are hollow and therefore extremely light: they weigh just 36 grams.
The model is available in a metallic grey color and has a toric lens that reproduces the curvature of the original model, as well as an adjustable nose bridge.
The Rudy Project logo, the signature of Rudy Barbazza and the consecutive numbering of the glasses from 1 to 100 are engraved directly onto the lens using laser technology and complete the high-quality finish.
Today, sustainability is often equated with sacrifice and seen as a compromise. Neubau challenges this view - and shows that responsibility and style are not mutually exclusive, but mutually reinforcing.
Editorial office
- Aug 06, 2025
(Image: www.silhouette.com)
With the new NPX/Steel collection, the Austrian eyewear label is setting a clear signal for the future: with sophisticated design, high-quality materials and a circular design approach.
Circularity as an attitude
At the heart of the collection is a clear conviction: Design must be durable, relevant and future-oriented. Neubau takes a holistic approach to sustainability - not as a marketing promise, but as a lived practice. The focus is on less waste, innovative materials and a progressive definition of conscious design.
At its heart is the targeted material composition: Natural PXevo, a biocircular polyamide made from existing organic raw materials such as forestry residues, provides lightness and flexibility. Recycled stainless steel ensures stability, precision and durability. Together, this results in a design language that is clear, modern and noticeably high-quality.
The collection includes two new models - Mailin and Caleb - available from this month as both optical glasses and sunglasses. Inspired by iconic eyewear shapes from the 70s and 80s, they have been interpreted in the clear design language of Neubau. The result is timeless companions that make a statement with any style - confident, but never obtrusive.
Each model is available in four urban-inspired shades - from neutral nuances to cool industrial shades. A color palette that underlines the architectural and strong character of the glasses.
The visual language: a quiet proclamation
The "Celebrating Circularity" campaign stages a quiet form of celebration. The models are on the move - the scenes play with light and structure, between inside and outside, between moment and possibility. The result is a visual world that appears cinematic and yet remains approachable.
It is not a place that is celebrated, but an attitude: the will to change, lived values, design with meaning. The styling is striking and yet reduced - just like Neubau itself, where good design is not loud, but relevant.
CooperVision: New campaign for prevention of pediatric myopia
Adults have the knowledge and the ability to protect their eyes in good time - a head start that should be used to protect children from avoidable damage. This is the message of a new digital campaign that CooperVision has developed for the media platforms of its stationary partners.
Editorial office
- 04 Aug 2025
CooperVision launches emotional digital campaign for prevention and early treatment of childhood myopia. (Image: CooperVision)
The campaign is designed to raise awareness of myopia in children and sensitize parents to this important issue.
A soft toy, a much-loved companion, even if one eye is already missing: using deliberately emotional imagery, the campaign visualizes the fragility and vulnerability of adolescents and appeals to parents' responsibility and care to counteract the development of myopia at an early stage. Early risk assessment through screening and effective myopia management when myopia is diagnosed are crucial for the further development and successful inhibition of myopia.
The fact is: short-sightedness in children and young people is increasing rapidly worldwide, one reason for this is the intensive use of digital media in front of screens and displays that are too close. If short-sightedness is not recognized in time, its progression continues unhindered, and quality of life can be impaired.1 and participation of the affected adolescents and can lead to serious eye diseases.2 as a late consequence.
For CooperVision, it is therefore particularly important to raise awareness of the importance of prevention. Timely myopia management as a modern and effective treatment method not only corrects the refractive error, but also slows down its progression. CooperVision has developed the highly acclaimed MiSight 1 day contact lens specifically for myopia management in children and adolescents, which has been proven to significantly slow down the progression of myopia.4,5 The latest studies now also show that the treatment successes achieved with MiSight 1 day contact lenses last after the end of the measures, and the eye length growth after treatment corresponds to that of the normal-sighted, untreated age group.6
Outstanding results from which affected children and young people benefit greatly. By using the video clips and posts from the "Take care of your eyes!" campaign, stationary partner companies can now proactively draw attention to the consequences of childhood short-sightedness and the latest care options with MiSight 1 day and make specific recommendations for action in conversation.
References:
1 Tideman JW et al. Association of axial length with risk of uncorrectable visual impairment for Europeans with myopia. JAMA Ophthalmol. 2016; 134(12): 1355-1363.
2 Lamoureux EL et al. Myopia and Quality of Life: The Singapore Malay Eye Study (SiMES). Invest. Ophthalmol. Vis. Sci. 2008; 49(13): 4469. 3. Chua SYL et al. The Economic and Societal Impact of Myopia and High Myopia. Springer. 2020; 53-63
3 Chamberlain P et al A 3-year Randomized Clinical Trial of MiSight Lenses for Myopia Control. OVS 2019;96:556-572.
4 Chamberlain P, et al. Long-term Effect of Dual-focus Contact Lenses on Myopia Progression in Children: A 6-year Multicenter Clinical Trial. Optom Vis Sci. 2022 Mar 1;99(3):204-212.
5 Chamberlain, P, et al. Eye growth and myopia progression following cessation of myopia control therapy with a dual-focus soft contact lens. Optom and Vis Sci. 2025 Mar 25; ():10.1097/OPX.0000000000002244.
Around two million people in Switzerland are interested in contact lenses. However, only a small proportion of them manage to successfully make the transition to permanent use. A recent study by Johnson & Johnson sheds light on the reasons for this and shows how contact lens specialists can provide targeted support.
Editorial office
- 30 Jul 2025
Although interest is high in a European comparison, only 3.4 percent of potential users end up becoming permanent contact lens wearers. (Image: Johnson & Johnson)
Great interest - but the market potential is not yet fully exploited
Around 1,400 Swiss people between the ages of 18 and 65 were surveyed for the study: people interested in contact lenses as well as existing and former contact lens wearers. One key finding: although interest is high compared to other European countries, only 3.4 percent of potential users end up becoming permanent contact lens wearers.1 Although this puts Switzerland in second place behind the Netherlands in a European comparison, the high market potential is not yet being fully exploited.
A critical point in the customer journey is the consideration phase - the phase in which consumers actively engage with the topic of contact lenses and obtain initial information. Of the approximately two million people in Switzerland who are open to contact lenses, almost 1.8 million - almost 90 percent - drop out at this point without having had a consultation or tried out a product.1 The most common reasons for opting out are general satisfaction with their glasses, uncertainty about handling contact lenses, doubts about their suitability and concerns about comfort, side effects or hygiene.1
Even after visiting an optician and trying them out, many potential wearers give up. In the end, only 4.3 percent of those originally interested decide to wear contact lenses. Even in this group, 22 percent do not stick with them permanently, mainly because they experience limited comfort.1
These study results highlight the crucial role of opticians in preventing drop-outs. Their recommendations and satisfaction guarantees, such as those offered by Johnson & Johnson, can motivate people to wear contact lenses. With sound advice, handling and hygiene training as well as intensive support during the test phase, opticians can reduce barriers to entry and successfully help new wearers get started. At the same time, you will retain their loyalty to your business in the long term.
Support from Johnson & Johnson
In this crucial phase, Johnson & Johnson is a reliable partner for contact lens specialists - with high-quality, innovative Acuvue contact lenses inspired by the natural function of the eye.2 and comprehensive further training.
The training program for contact lens specialists includes online and classroom seminars on practical topics such as customer advice, contact lens fitting and handling as well as special requirements such as presbyopia and astigmatism. Johnson & Johnson provides end consumers with comprehensive information on the websites https://www.acuvue.com/de-ch and https://www.acuvue.com/fr-ch/ and in brochures. In addition, the satisfaction guarantee enables a risk-free purchase of Acuvue contact lenses.
For existing contact lens wearers, comfort is the most important factor. Discomfort such as a feeling of dryness is the most common reason why people stop wearing them.1 Opticians can actively counteract this by asking specifically about satisfaction and, if necessary, pointing out premium solutions such as Acuvue Oasys Max 1-Day.
The Swiss market offers attractive opportunities
A look at the Swiss contact lens market underlines the existing potential. According to estimates, around 25 percent of people with defective vision in Switzerland use contact lenses - either exclusively or in combination with glasses.3 This is significantly more than in other European countries. Particularly striking is the strong demand for daily disposable lenses, which are preferred over monthly and weekly disposable lenses. This preference shows that Swiss consumers place particular value on ease of use, hygiene and comfort.
References:
JJV Data on File 2024: Consumer Path to Purchase Research, Switzerland (n=1402)
JJV Data on file 2024: ACUVUE® Brand - EYE-INSPIRED™ INNOVATIONS
Ageless Vision: Varilux redefines the future of vision
As part of this year's EssilorLuxottica Days in Milan, the focus was on a top-class panel discussion under the motto "Ageless Vision - Redefining the future with state-of-the-art technology". The event was hosted by Varilux, the world's leading brand for progressive lenses*. The aim of the discussion was to shed light on the future of ophthalmic optics in the context of social and technological changes.
Editorial office
- 24 Jul 2025
On the podium in Milan: well-known TV presenter and beauty expert Bobbie Thomas. (Image: www.essilorluxottica.com)
Prominent voices, forward-looking perspectives
The discussion was moderated by Heather Feldman (Head of Content and Storytelling, Creative Hub). The panel included US TV presenter and beauty expert Bobbie Thomas, Sébastien Fricker (Vision and Perception Modeling Team Manager EssilorLuxottica), Agnès Dewidehem (Global Head of Marketing Lens Brands EssilorLuxottica) and Nina Esteves (Trends and Foresight Manager EssilorLuxottica).
Presbyopia as a global challenge - and opportunity
Over 2.1 billion people worldwide already live with presbyopia - this figure is expected to rise to around 4 billion by 20501,2. This development not only represents a major challenge, but also opens up new opportunities for individualized ophthalmic optics.
Technology meets lifestyle
The way we deal with health is changing fundamentally. Today, 65 % of 30 to 55-year-olds who wear glasses already use wearables3 - a clear signal of the desire for personalized and forward-looking care. The need for meaningful eye health is also growing: 73 % of Generation X spectacle wearers want groups that share their values and interests4.
Varilux: masterminds for the next generation of progressive lenses
With Varilux XR series, EssilorLuxottica has developed a progressive lens that combines AI, big data and individualization in a unique way. Over one million pieces of data from lens orders, real wearing tests and user behavior form the basis for the development of a "digital twin". This behavioral model predicts how presbyopic eyes look at objects, enabling lens design that adapts to individual visual behavior in an eye-reactive way5.
The result: Natural vision in every situation
Varilux XR series ensures immediate sharpness - even in motion6. This makes it the first spectacle lens of its kind to take into account natural gaze behavior and make everyday life much easier for people with varifocal vision.
Great potential for opticians
Despite the increasing number of people affected, the market for progressive lenses is far from exhausted: only around 40 % of people in Germany over 45 with a need for vision correction currently use progressive lenses7. There is enormous potential here for opticians to reach new target groups and retain existing customers with innovative solutions.
Varilux is actively shaping the future of ophthalmic optics - intelligently, individually and with a deep understanding of the needs of an ageing but active society.
References:
[*] Euromonitor, Eyewear 2023 edition; Essilor International company; global retail sales at RSP.
[1] Essilor SAS 2019, Market Scope, Global Presbyopia-Correcting Surgery Market Report, April 2012.
[2] United Nations, internal analysis.
[3] EL Cross-Gen Tracker Wave 2, 2025.
[4] EL Cross-Gen Tracker Wave 2, 2025.
[5] Essilor: Development of eye-oriented progressive lenses based on visual acuity and visual behavior.
[6] Essilor International - Varilux® XR series™ glass - Consumer study, Eurosyn, 2022.
[7] Estimated on the basis of the Allensbach Eyewear Study 2024/25: Change in the visual behavior of Germans.
Kappa, the traditional Turin-based brand of the BasicNet Group, is returning to the global eyewear and sunwear market with a new identity, a distinctive design and a clear, ambitious commercial strategy. Intensive planning and creative development has taken place over the past ten months in close collaboration with the Visibilia product and design team.
Editorial office
- 23 Jul 2025
The first international presentation will take place at Silmo 2025 in Paris. (Image: www.visibilia.com)
The collection is divided into three main segments, Casual, Streetwear and Sportive, which embody the brand's core values and dynamic vision. Each segment reflects Kappa's versatility and continuous growth, supported by careful image and brand management.
The stylistic focus is on acetate frames in classic Havana and black tones, as well as modern pastel shades and translucent versions. The design is based on modern retro shapes, complemented by a wide selection of metal models, including sporty versions with bold color accents. The result is a contemporary and authentic aesthetic with high marketability and great variety.
Thanks to Kappa's strong international presence in the sports and lifestyle sectors, the collection conveys a consistent and compelling message that underlines the brand's positioning. With over 40 optical models and more than 40 sunglasses, the range immediately stands out for its breadth, boldness and depth of variation.
All sunglasses are fitted with polarized lenses - a guarantee of quality - and also include models specially developed for the junior market.
The official market launch is planned for August 1, while the first international presentation will take place at Silmo 2025 in Paris.
Ralf Kmoch, Managing Director of Visibilia: "With an exciting brand philosophy, creative and market-oriented design consistently implemented by Visibilia, Kappa Eyewear will create new space and a high level of attention. Our selective distribution strategy, reliability and service will contribute to this with our great team. We are highly motivated and looking forward to the challenge."
Evil eye sets new standards for performance and material awareness with ECO PPX
What remains is top performance. What gets better is everything else: With the introduction of ECO PPX, a revolutionary biocircular material, evil eye is redefining the balance between functionality, performance and environmental awareness.
Editorial office
- 18 Jul 2025
Thanks to the new ECO PPX material, evil eye marks a further step towards responsible production. (Image: Nina Danninger Photography/www.evileye.com)
From August 1, 2025, Evil eye will be using an innovative performance material in the production of its highly functional sports eyewear that is not only extremely robust and flexible, but also significantly reduces the carbon footprint.
ECO PPX - new biocircular raw material, equally strong performance
Anyone who is out and about on a bike, in the mountains or on a run places high demands on their equipment. The new performance plastic ECO PPX is made precisely for this: it is lightweight, flexible, durable and hypoallergenic - and completely replaces the previous high-tech material PPX, which was made from fossil raw materials.
What makes it special: ECO PPX is made from 100% biocircular raw materials - for example from existing organic residues from agriculture and forestry, such as tree bark or straw. An innovative process is used to produce a high-performance polymer that does not require any fossil oil. The result: a drastic reduction in CO₂ emissions compared to conventional plastics based on fossil raw materials.
Made in Austria - out of conviction
Whether on fast descents or sweaty trail running tours - evil eye sports glasses with ECO PPX offer the same reliable stability, lightness and durability as before. All evil eye sports glasses are manufactured in Linz, Austria - with the highest precision and using electricity from 100 percent renewable energy sources such as solar power. Short internal routes and resource-efficient processes ensure maximum product control and minimum environmental impact. The decision to manufacture in Austria is a clear commitment to quality and responsibility for evil eye.
Resource-saving packaging
Thanks to the new ECO PPX material, evil eye is taking a further step towards responsible production. But nothing remains the same when it comes to the packaging of the sports glasses either: The new folding cartons are made from at least 70 percent recycled material and FSC-certified fibers. The FSC seal stands for transparent forestry, the protection of ecosystems and fair working conditions. The new microfiber bag is now also made from 95% recycled PET - with improved cleaning properties and continued optimum protection for sports glasses.
A conscious decision
The switch to the performance plastic ECO PPX is a conscious decision in evil eye's brand strategy. The sports eyewear specialist from Austria is focusing on specific measures that both improve the performance of its products and use resources more consciously.
Everything stays better
With ECO PPX, evil eye sets new standards for sustainable sports performance - and proves that responsibility and high performance are not a contradiction in terms. Anyone who builds sports eyewear for tomorrow must be able to do more than just look good. They have to think ahead. Think ahead. And think ahead.
Ray-Ban Meta glasses now also understand and speak German. Smart technology for sales success in specialist stores.
Editorial office
- 16 Jul 2025
The smart AI glasses - Ray Ban Meta. (Image: www.ray-ban.com)
This makes smart AI glasses even more attractive for customers in German-speaking countries - and a real sales driver for opticians.
With the new voice option, Meta AI can now be used entirely in German for the first time. Users can now easily activate their Ray-Ban Meta glasses with the voice command "Hey Meta" to take photos hands-free, call up information in real time, send messages or answer calls - all in their native language.
Interactive functions such as recognizing landmarks or plants are now also possible in German - opening up a new level of smart everyday support. The language settings can be easily adjusted via the Meta View app.
For opticians, smart glasses offer a lucrative additional business with many points of contact at the POS. Now is the perfect time to position yourself as a tech-savvy trendsetter and actively sell the next generation of connected glasses.
The IVBS Congress 2025 on MKH and binocular vision
This year's congress of the International Association for Binocular Vision (IVBS) was particularly geared towards students, who also contributed to the congress program with their final theses. With 15 speakers, a varied range of lectures was organized. A new feature was the World Café discussion format, which generated and recorded many new ideas.
Editorial office
- 10 Jul 2025
Saturday Seminar Bernhard Peuckert: Functional tests. (Image: www.ivbs.org)
This time, participants traveled from Germany, Switzerland and Austria, as well as a delegation from China for the first time.
The first day of the congress offered the usual wide range of seminars and new speakers were brought in again this year. One of these was Dr. Robert Hörantner, an ophthalmologist from Austria and specialist in eye muscle surgery, who carried out practical exercises to simulate eye movements on a PC. Participants who had brought a laptop were able to take part in these exercises themselves.
The seminars covered exciting and practical topics such as "The basics of functional testing" and "Prismatic side effects - correct spectacles according to DIN?". The seminar "MKH? Eye muscle surgery? Ask this ophthalmologist" by Dr. Wolfgang Raab was met with great interest. There was a lively exchange among all seminar attendees, as two other ophthalmologists were among the interested participants. Christian Kochniss spoke from his experience on the subject of "MCH in schoolchildren", while the Vice President of the IVBS, Michael Hornig, explained MCH to his seminar attendees in a basic seminar.
This time, the entire congress was free of charge for students thanks to the newly created "Student Support" program sponsored by the companies Zeiss and OptoVision.
The "Table Talks" introduced in 2022 were held for the first time this afternoon as a World Café. Three groups each had 20 minutes to work on the following three topics: 1. binocular topics for theses and presentations, 2. students talking to the IVBS, 3. new: online forum? "MKH beginners and professionals". The ideas and keywords of the changing participants were noted down on cards for the different topics given for each table. This allowed for better follow-up and even those who did not speak were able to submit their keywords and feedback as notes. Another new feature was the offer of internships for the students in some of the companies run by IVBS members.
The selected industry partners enriched the breaks with exhibitions, offers and practical news. During the breaks, there was a lively exchange between the MKH users, who also used these times for further networking with each other.
At the end of the day, the annual general meeting for members of the IVBS took place with elections and discussions on current topics. The President and the entire team were confirmed in office. Beate Göpel, Michael Hornig, Matthias Dahl and Bernhard Peuckert continue to form the Presidium and Stephan Bitterli and Bernhard Lengacher, both from Switzerland, form the Extended Board. The members of the previous Scientific Advisory Board were also re-elected. New additions to the active IVBS team - as regional partners - are Martin Gebker as contact person for D-West, Steffen Pfeiffer for D-South and Ulrich Göhler for D-East.
After the General Meeting, the dinner for all participants at the hotel provided a further opportunity for personal and professional exchange.
On Sunday, President Beate Göpel opened the congress day with an overview of the importance of MKH corrections and the aims of the IVBS as well as the current plans of the professional association.
This was followed by the opening lecture by Wolfgang Cagnolati: "MKH development and scientific work on binocular vision". Mr. Cagnolati then went on to discuss ideas for Master's and Bachelor's theses.
Seven further lectures made up a varied program of presentations, including four final theses by students who presented their Bachelor's and Master's theses:
Loreen Roth spoke on the topic of "Deep mechanisms vs. the totality of deep mechanisms".
In their presentation, Corinne Gusmagg and Claudio Monstein from Switzerland discussed the differences between the horizontal distance phoria measurements according to MKH and Mallet.
Teresa Hübner and Johanna Sacha's Master's thesis was entitled "Influence of astigmatism on stereopsis".
Ines Macha and Sarah Brückner dealt with the question "Zero position on the cross test - can digital shifting replace the prismatic measuring glass?" in their bachelor thesis.
Plenary hall Sunday lectures. (Image: www.ivbs.org)
Dr. Robert Hörantner then presented various models for strabismus simulation on the computer in his lecture.
Michael Hornig, Christian Kochniss and Bernhard Peuckert provided information on the importance and practice of visual performance parameters. This offers interesting opportunities to better demonstrate the benefits of prismatic corrections in the future. At the end of the presentation, the participants were asked to cooperate in the further procedure and several members who will actively measure standardized parameters in their business immediately came forward.
At the end of the successful event, the President bid farewell to the participants with a reference to the next congress, which will take place on May 30 and 31, 2026 in southern Germany (Pforzheim). There are new approaches to offer participants even more benefits ...
More than a simple shop window - it is a digital space in which KOO Eyewear presents itself and talks about itself and the sports world surrounding the collections. The brand new online experience emphasizes the high performance and style of KOO eyewear. The new website is now fully integrated into the KASK platform, offering a more fluid, intuitive buying process and a bold new look that reflects the true essence of the design-led brand.
Editorial office
- 08 Jul 2025
KOO Eyewear presents its new website - a digital shop window. (Image: www.kooworld.cc)
KOO Eyewear presents its new website, a digital showcase that offers a new immersive experience for bikers, runners and all dynamic people and fans of sports eyewear in general. Fully integrated into the KASK platform, the new website offers a more fluid and intuitive purchasing process and features a bold new look that reflects KOO's design-driven character.
The web platform is specifically designed with the end user in mind: Navigation is quick and intuitive, with shopping cart-style displays and a clean, appealing layout that makes it easy to discover the collections. For the first time, athletes around the world can purchase both KOO and KASK in one place and get tips on coordinating products to create the perfect goggle and helmet kit.
Aside from the buying experience, the website serves as an information hub for all things KOO: visitors can browse the latest product news, learn about lens technology and frame geometry, explore the design stories behind each model - from road cycling and gravel to trail running and everyday use for office and school.
The new KOO Eyewear website has been designed as a guide, source of information and inspiration for anyone looking for a high quality accessory or for those who have recently taken up the sport.
The smart choice for summer: frames with a sun clip
Esprit stands for accessible design, high wearing comfort and a positive, fashionable look. The frames are trendy, lightweight and combine style with functionality. The new Season Special collection also fits perfectly with this brand philosophy.
Editorial office
- 07 Jul 2025
The four stylish models with sun clip from Esprit. (Image: www.charmant.com)
The collection comprises four fashionable models for men and women, each available in three contemporary colors. The special feature: All models are equipped with a matching sun clip, which is fitted with polarized lenses. A clever two-in-one solution that will delight your customers.
An ideal addition to your range:
Four stylish models with sun clip - immediately ready for use when the sun shines.
Three color variants per model - from pink and Havana to classic black.
Polarized lenses for additional protection and visual comfort.
Available: from mid-July.
Special offer: If you order eight frames, you will receive one additional frame free of charge; if you order twelve frames, you will receive two additional frames free of charge (the promotion is valid until 31.08.2025).
Source and further information via the order form: www.charmant.com