With his many years of experience in the industry and his innovative approach, Johannes Zupfer will continue to drive forward the company's strategic direction and growth trajectory.

In his position, he will focus in particular on the development of the Hecht Group, the new positioning of Hecht Contactlinsen on the national and international market and the expansion and further development of the product range.

"After many successful years in a corporate environment, I made a conscious decision to move to a family-run, value-oriented company. The Hecht Group combines tradition, innovative strength and the highest quality standards - the best prerequisites for sustainable success in the dynamic contact lens market. Together with a dedicated team, I would like to further expand the strengths of our products and services, consolidate established partnerships and inspire new customers with our customized solutions. I look forward to shaping the future together - with heart, expertise and a clear focus on individual needs."

Johannes Zupfer brings extensive experience from his previous positions in the contact lens industry. He has worked for CooperVision since 2017, where he was most recently General Manager for Germany, Austria and Switzerland (D-A-CH). Prior to that, he also held the position of Head of Sales, D-A-CH at Cooper. For more than ten years, he held management positions at the Novartis Group, Alcon Pharma and CibaVision. Johannes Zupfer is a state-certified optician and master optician by profession and has many years of experience in the optical market, particularly in the sale of contact lenses.

Source: www.hecht-contactlinsen.de

This merger represents a significant milestone in the European optical industry as it unites two innovative market leaders to form a powerhouse in the contact lens industry.

The combined company will operate under the name Vision Group Holding AG across Europe (e.g. Switzerland, Belgium, Netherlands, Germany, Italy etc.) and serve millions of customers with a robust portfolio of brands such as Lensonline, Lensvision, Discountlens and others.

"This merger is a natural evolution of our shared vision to serve the entire customer journey of contact lens wearers both in retail and online," said Simon Virlis, CEO of Vision Group. "The two companies complement each other perfectly: LensOnline has built strong partnerships with opticians in its markets over the past 15 years, while Vision Group plays to its strengths in the online segment." Bert Boon, CEO of LensOnline, added: "Our combined expertise and customer-centric approach will enable us to offer even greater added value to our partners. Together we can offer suitable solutions for all customer groups in the market. This is a win-win for all contact lens wearers."

Hedzer Wester, Investment Director at Quadrum Capital, added: "We are proud to support the combination of Vision Group and LensOnline - two highly complementary businesses that together will redefine the future of the contact lens market in Europe. This partnership demonstrates our commitment to supporting ambitious entrepreneurs and building strong, sustainable businesses. By combining Vision Group's digital expertise with LensOnline's trusted local presence, we are creating a European champion that has the scale, innovation and customer focus to lead the industry in the years to come."

Complementary strengths of the merging companies:

• LensOnline brings a proven omnichannel model that delivers exceptional value to both end customers and the opticians in its network. This approach improves the customer journey by meeting the growing demand for trust and convenience and combining online efficiency with personal expertise.
• The Vision Group has solid experience in the pure e-commerce model and focuses on customers who value convenience and price. Its scalable digital infrastructure and operational excellence have made it a leader in the contact lens e-commerce market.

The most important advantages:

• More choice for customers: A broader portfolio of contact lenses and eye care products from several trusted brands.
• Seamless customer journey: Different platforms, one common goal - easy access to the right products and support, regardless of where customers shop.
• Stronger local presence: A growing network of affiliated opticians throughout Europe.
• Growth and innovation: A clearly focused strategy in the contact lens sector that bundles investments in a targeted manner and accelerates innovation throughout the industry.

Quadrum Capital is leading the investment round in partnership with existing shareholders of both companies, underscoring their shared commitment to the company's growth and strategic vision. The company will continue to operate the existing brands while integrating operations and technology to provide a seamless experience.

Source: www.visiongroup.io

Against the current

That was five years ago. With the idea of starting their own sunglasses brand, the two founders of Glacier Optics began looking for suitable producers. Like most in the industry, they initially turned their attention to Asia. During a stay in China to judge a Freeski World Cup, Arnaud took the opportunity to visit several factories in Danyang - the "eyewear city" - two hours from Shanghai. An instructive trip, at the end of which a crucial question arose: Does the world of optics really need yet another brand offering standardized eyewear manufactured thousands of kilometers away from the actual point of sale? The unanimous answer: no.

At Jean - craftsmanship with a new perspective

They then set themselves a new challenge: to manufacture sunglasses near the Alps - in high quality and at an affordable price. Even though the Italian Dolomites are considered a central region for eyewear manufacturing, the French Jura is in no way inferior. This search led them to Jean Calamand, a third-generation eyewear maker and owner of Lucal, a family business specializing in metal frames (stainless steel, titanium, etc.) and 3D printing - just an hour away from Glacier Optics' headquarters.

"Putting people back at the center - and at the same time turning away from the classic industrial model."

At Jeans Atelier in Oyonnax, know-how is passed on between apprentices, designers and experienced craftspeople. This sharing is at the heart of the collaboration: the exchange is lively, the production is flexible - together they take an alternative path between industrial mass production and artisanal manufacturing.

They rely on stainless steel and titanium - Lucal's specialty. The partnership with Jean enables them to produce in small quantities, with a high degree of customization - be it in terms of colors or sizes. When it comes to lenses, Glacier Optics has worked closely with Zeiss since the beginning and offers their category 3 and 4 sunglasses.

Faces behind every frame

Local production not only helps to optimize the manufacturing process - the circular idea also inspires them. Brand founder Arnaud explains: "When a customer in Switzerland buys a pair of glasses from an optician, over 90 % of the purchase price stays in the region - thus strengthening the local economy."

Producing where the product is used makes sense to them. Arnaud adds: "It gives me great satisfaction to know the people who make our glasses. I know that Tim is behind this design - and Marianne is behind this weld."

His business partner Benoît sees it the same way: "In a world that is increasingly digital and in which most marketing budgets flow to the GAFAM groups, we want to put people back at the center - with real relationships instead of faceless B2B forms. We want to show real faces that look like us - not synthetic figures generated by artificial intelligence."

The collaboration with Jean - in the heart of one of the most traditional eyewear regions in Europe - strengthens their vision: to promote a living Alpine heritage through sustainable, human and future-oriented production. For Arnaud and Benoît, this is the true meaning of "Made in the Alps".

Source: www.glacieroptics.com 

The agreement also includes the eyewear collections of both brand divisions: Adidas Sport and Adidas Originals.

Since 2020, Marcolin has been responsible for the design, production and global distribution of Adidas eyewear collections with great success. The renewed partnership combines Marcolin's many years of expertise in the development of high-quality eyewear with Adidas' innovative strength in terms of performance and lifestyle.

Both brand lines follow their own approach:

Adidas Sport Eyewear - Born from Sport, worn for Sport - stands for performance-oriented eyewear solutions with the latest technical components and materials, specially developed for athletes and an active sporting lifestyle.

Adidas Originals Eyewear represents a lifestyle-related background and combines streetwear aesthetics with sporty cultural influences. The collection combines trend-conscious design with urban flair and a sporty character for fashion-conscious consumers.

Marcolin and Adidas share common values such as a spirit of innovation, sustainability and the highest product quality - central pillars that will also be the focus of the next phase of their partnership.

The Adidas eyewear collections are available worldwide in monobrand stores and from selected sports and optical retailers.

Source: www.marcolin.com

Lookkino Tri-x is a product of the experience of Look, the Italian brand with more than 45 years of history specializing in the design and manufacture of 100 % Made-in-Italy eyewear. The collection is the tangible, playful evolution of eyewear that can be worn by young children in their dynamic daily activities - with safety, comfort and light weight.

The secret of Lookkino Tri-x lies in the 3D printing technology of the Nile material, an absolute novelty in the children's segment. Already a star in the adult collections, Nile is used here in an even more sustainable version that is light and pleasant to the touch thanks to the production development made possible by three-dimensional printing. Completely non-toxic and hypoallergenic, it is the ideal material for the children's collection.

Every detail of the Lookkino Tri-x frames is designed to offer maximum stability and comfort. The flexible temples are designed to adapt perfectly to the anatomy of the face and ensure a secure and comfortable fit. The innovative block-in system makes conventional hinges and their weak points superfluous and ensures longer durability in daily use.

The temple tips are another strong point - thanks to their "curved" shape, which can be shortened in 2.5 mm sections, the length of the temples can be precisely adjusted according to the child's age and facial morphology.

Available in two models (3931, 3933), the Lookkino Tri-x frames are also known for their vibrant color palette, with combinations suitable for boys and girls. This collection combines technical design and playful colors to turn any pair of glasses into a truly "cool" accessory.

Source: www.lookocchiali.it

Ms. Kabashi, what makes Opti 2026 so special?

All the protagonists and their passion for their profession! Opti is the first big industry get-together of the year - it brings energy, inspiration and real business power! Why? Because we are very close to all the players: Opti is a mirror and networker of the industry. For 2026, we are once again focusing on a strong concept with the latest trends, innovative technology, customized services and international contacts.

Which topics will you be returning to or expanding on in the next edition of Opti?

Clearly, one of the topics is young talent! This is a burning issue for employers in our industry. But the next generation is also looking for exchange, inspiration and personal contacts. This was clearly demonstrated by the success of the Opti Next Generation Hub and was also reflected to me at Brandenburg University of Applied Sciences at the end of May. I attended the 5th edition of OptoMEETry, the VDCO Young event for young talent, to encourage students to get involved in shaping the next Opti Next Generation Hub. The energy of these young talents there was tangible and downright infectious, with their creative drive, fresh approaches and openness to new perspectives - exactly what our industry is looking for and needs.

What is the recipe for success of your trade fair?

Close contact and exchange with the market! Just as we don't just talk to the next generation of opticians and hearing care professionals, but work together with them, we also engage in discussions and cooperation with all stakeholders in the industry. Just one example: we are currently working with contact lens manufacturers on the concept for the continuation of Tomorrow Vision and are considering how we can surprise and inform with the topic of contact lenses at Opti 2026.

We also meet with hearing system manufacturers, talk to start-ups in the field of frames and potential exhibitors for Opti Visionary, the area for start-ups in the non-framing segment. In short, my team and I are 'always on the move', like truffle hunters, to make Opti 2026 even more successful than the 2025 edition already was!

Last but not least, the feedback from over 21,000 visitors and more than 330 exhibitors at the last Opti is of course another major driver. We stay close to the industry and optimize in a targeted manner - with small but effective adjustments.

And what can visitors look forward to in particular?

Of course, on the creativity and innovative power of our exhibitors and the trends,
they set with their products, on smart formats, exciting topics and every
Lots of new impulses - not only for ophthalmic optics. Small spoiler alert: Listen(!)
look closely! The Opti is an industry festival: it brings people together, creates
enthusiasm and is the perfect start to a successful business year!

 

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

Esprit and Charmant Group are pleased to announce the extension of their license agreement. This covers the design, manufacture and distribution of Esprit eyewear in Europe. The successful partnership has been in place since 1994 and is based on mutual trust and shared values such as quality, innovation and a deep understanding of consumer needs.

With its reputation for precision, excellent service and innovation, the Charmant Group brings its extensive expertise to the development of fashionable, high-quality prescription eyewear and sunglasses that reflect the Esprit spirit. The Esprit brand was founded in 1968 by Doug and Susie Tompkins and stands for a lively, relaxed Californian lifestyle. Diversity, authenticity and self-confidence - these values characterize every Esprit eyewear collection.

The extension of this agreement not only underlines the success of the long-standing cooperation, but also marks the beginning of a new chapter - with fresh perspectives and an exciting step forward for the Esprit brand in Europe.

Source: www.charmant.com

Ms. Zapsky has been passing on her knowledge in training courses, webinars and conferences for more than 25 years. In June 2017, she played a key role in the launch of MiSight 1 day disposable contact lenses in the DACH region. The aim is to train eye care professionals in the safe use of MiSight 1 day and to show them that children with myopia deserve evidence-based treatment for a life with better vision. In conversation with Ms. Zapsky, we also received further information on myopia management with contact lenses.

Basics and relevance

Ms. Zapsky, why is the topic of myopia management - especially for children and adolescents - currently gaining so much importance?

Studies show: Children are becoming short-sighted earlier and earlier, with short-sightedness now affecting almost one in three children worldwide. The reasons for this are mainly due to changes in living conditions. Children today generally spend far too little time outdoors and much more time in front of screens, cell phones and the like. It is therefore important for parents to pay attention to their children's eye health at an early age, as undetected short-sightedness develops quickly, especially at a young age, which can lead to significant impairments in the child's life. In the worst case, there is a risk of serious eye diseases later in life. Therefore, as called for by the World Council of Optometry in 2021, myopia management should be the standard of care.

What role do contact lenses play compared to other methods?

Contact lenses can generally be an attractive alternative to glasses, and not just for children. Contact lenses are practical, do not restrict children's freedom of movement and do not change their appearance. This is not only practical in everyday life, but also in leisure and sporting activities. Studies also show that children feel more socially integrated when wearing contact lenses. A huge advantage of contact lenses is that, unlike glasses, they are not simply taken off by the child and put to one side, because once they are on, they stay where they belong until the evening, invisible on the eye.

Contact lenses in myopia management

What types of contact lenses are used specifically to manage the progression of myopia (e.g. Ortho-K, multifocal lenses)?

We manage myopia by trying to inhibit its progression as much as possible. Many products are used for myopia management, not only in contact optics. However, it is important to distinguish whether these are specifically approved for this purpose (on-label) or are used without approval (off-label).

The MiSight 1 day is a product that has even been approved by the FDA for this purpose. Thanks to their ActiveControl technology, they create a so-called peripheral myopic defocus, which can inhibit the length growth of the eye. Studies show that they can reduce the progression of myopia by an average of up to 60 % over three years.

Orthokeratology contact lenses (Ortho-K) are dimensionally stable contact lenses that are worn overnight and shape the cornea in such a way that no visual aid is required during the day. Special designs in the Ortho-K range also create a peripheral myopic defocus, which can slow down the progression of myopia.

Some multifocal contact lenses also show a reduction in myopia progression of 25-72 % in studies. However, as these are contact lenses for presbyopes, their use is not officially approved for myopia management, so their use is off-label.

What is the physiological effect of these lenses on the eye and myopia development?

The physiological effect of contact lenses in myopia management - in particular MiSight 1 day disposable contact lenses and Ortho-K lenses - is based on targeted influencing of the focus on the retina in order to slow down the axial length growth of the eye.

The active principle of MiSight 1 day disposable contact lenses is peripheral myopic defocus, which is effective for as long as the contact lenses are worn.

The operating principle of Ortho-K lenses (dimensionally stable night lenses) is based on a peripheral defocus caused by a temporary reshaping of the cornea.

Why does the principle of myopic defocus work?

It is assumed that the retina reacts to blurred peripheral images with a growth stimulus. This stimulus is suppressed by deliberately shifting the peripheral focus in front of the retina. The eye "learns" that it no longer needs to grow, which slows down the progression of myopia.

Are there differences in effectiveness between the different types of contact lenses?

All three methods are effective, but MiSight 1 day disposable contact lenses are particularly suitable for children who prefer a simple, hygienic solution with soft disposable lenses. MiSight 1 day is also the only CE and FDA-approved contact lens for myopia management in children and adolescents. Ortho-K is ideal for children who do not wish to wear a visual aid during the day and is particularly effective for low and moderate myopia. Multifocal contact lenses are a flexible option, but not all are officially approved for myopia management.

Practical implementation

How does a typical fitting of such contact lenses work?

Fitting the MiSight 1 day is no different from fitting any other disposable contact lens. First, a current, needs-based refraction is carried out and the BSG is calculated and measured from this. Of course, an exact slit lamp microscopy and keratometry or topometry are carried out before the fitting. The appropriate MiSight 1 day is selected and fitted on the basis of the values determined. In the second step, after a familiarization phase (tolerance test), the fitting is checked, any necessary changes are made and in the third step, handling is practiced with the child. Parental involvement may be helpful here, especially at the beginning. When the MiSight 1 day is dispensed, the optician will explain not only how to use the contact lens but also the hygiene of the contact lens and what needs to be taken into account when wearing it. Ideally, the child should be able to carry out the procedures (at least removing the contact lenses) as independently as possible. It should not be forgotten that the MiSight 1 day must be worn for at least 10 hours on at least 6 days to ensure effectiveness. A follow-up appointment is also arranged. This should usually take place 14 days after the fitting.

At what age can you start using it?

It is important to start fitting as early as possible after myopia has been diagnosed. Children from the age of eight are able to put on contact lenses. We have a little rule of thumb: If a child can tie their shoes, then they can also handle contact lenses.

What requirements do children or teenagers need to meet to be suitable for these lenses?

Of course, it largely depends on the maturity of the children, their sense of responsibility and how adept they are at handling contact lenses. However, most of them like contact lenses and learn how to use them very quickly.

How much effort is required for control, hygiene and aftercare?

The effort involved is no greater than for any other contact lens. The optician will provide information on hygiene and aftercare. We provide detailed handling instructions that also inform parents and children about correct handling. As with other contact lenses, follow-up checks should take place every 1/2 year.

Experience and patient perspective

What feedback do you receive from parents and young patients?

Our customers tell us that parents are often skeptical beforehand when it comes to contact lenses for their children. However, when they see how enthusiastic their children are after the fitting, their enthusiasm usually spreads to them. They are often downright overwhelmed by how well their children cope with the contact lenses.

Challenges and risks

What typical difficulties or risks arise in practice?

Typical difficulties could be, for example, a feeling of dryness or a foreign body sensation, which may occur initially. However, these usually disappear after a short time. As they are disposable contact lenses, they are generally easy to handle, but younger children may be unsure when putting them on and taking them off or may make hygiene mistakes if they have not washed their hands thoroughly. A lens that is not optimally centered can also impair the effect of myopic defocusing. This can be a particular challenge for children with large pupils or restless gaze. It is also important to know that astigmatism is not corrected by the lens. The 20 % rule should be applied here. Our MiSight 1 day is considered safe and well tolerated.

How do you deal with complications or discontinuation of treatment?

If myopia management is initially rejected as a form of treatment, we as specialists should proceed with good information and point out regular myopia checks, at least every 1/2 year, because what plays into our hands is time. Because even if the psychological strain may not have been there at the beginning, it will soon be there after a few months when parents notice at the check-up appointment that their child's short-sightedness has continued to decrease, i.e. their vision has become worse. If myopia management with the MiSight 1 day is not as successful as desired, compliance should be checked first. Is the child really wearing the contact lenses as required or are the wearing times shorter? This should then be readjusted. Sometimes it may also be necessary to increase or change the form of therapy.

Future prospects

What developments or innovations do you expect in the field of myopia management over the next few years?

We anticipate that myopia management will become increasingly well-known among the general population and that more and more parents will demand this form of therapy. We are ready with a comprehensive portfolio of market-leading products and brands that enable eye care professionals to counteract childhood myopia. These include approved products such as disposable contact lenses, Ortho-K contact lenses and special lenses. We are also hoping for a rethink on the part of ophthalmologists and closer cooperation between the medical profession and the optical industry. That would make a difference.

Do you think that contact lenses will become the standard solution?

We are firmly convinced that this will happen. Contact lenses will play a central role in myopia management - especially for children with progressive myopia and high motivation. Whether they will prevail as the sole standard is questionable. More likely is an individualized approach in which contact lenses are one of several equally valid options.

Is there anything in particular that you would like to pass on to parents, young people or professional colleagues with regard to contact lenses in myopia management?

For most parents and children, the topic of myopia and its possible consequences is unknown and sometimes even frightening. It is therefore our responsibility and task as eye specialists to actively and sensitively provide information and explain the effects of myopia on the current quality of life. The advantages of myopia management instead of just myopia correction must be clearly demonstrated, but without pointing out the possible loss of vision later on with a "raised index finger". In addition, active myopia management helps to build up and expand the customer base, because children who are fitted with myopia management contact lenses today are the happy contact lens wearers of tomorrow. So take the plunge!

 

Interview partner: 

Petra Zapsky - Head of Professional Affairs & Myopia Management CooperVision DACH. 

In summer 2025, a development project will be completed that will result in a comprehensive and standardized test procedure for the fair assessment of intelligence and developmental functions for learners with visual impairments. Until now, intelligence and development tests for this target group have been based on procedures used for sighted children and young people. This led to incorrect assessments and disadvantageous results. The IDS-2-BS is now due to be published by Hogrefe Verlag in 2026.

Adapted test materials ensure fairness

The IDS-2-BS is characterized by specially adapted test materials and standard values tailored to the target group. These take into account central principles of test fairness and accessibility such as clear presentation, high brightness and colour contrast, optimized colour selection, different font sizes and sizes, adapted processing times and the possibility of using optical and electronic visual aids when carrying out the test. This makes it possible to diagnose cognitive and general developmental functions largely independently of visual abilities.

New procedure closes a long-standing gap

Prof. Dr. Fabian Winter, Professor of Education with Visual Impairment at the Intercantonal University for Special Needs Education (HfH), explains the significance of the new procedure: "The IDS-2-BS closes a long-standing gap in diagnostics. Conventional intelligence tests are unsuitable for children and young people with visual impairments, as they are strongly visually oriented. Until now, there has been a lack of standardized, scientifically based alternatives for this target group. The IDS-2-BS offers differentiated adaptations for both blindness and visual impairment - based on current intelligence theory. Filling this gap by adapting a comprehensive test procedure meets a great need in the field of vision.

Enabling individualized educational opportunities

The IDS-2-BS provide a differentiated profile of the areas of intelligence, executive functions, psychomotor skills, social-emotional skills, academic skills and work attitude. This profile serves as the basis for the planning and implementation of individualized educational programs. The HfH places particular emphasis on pedagogy in the case of visual impairments. The specialization in vision in the Master of Special Education is unique in Switzerland. The next start of the Master's in Special Education with a focus on vision is possible in the spring semester of 2026. The application window is open from September 1 to 30, 2025.

More about the project

The project is headed by Prof. em. Dr. Ursula Hofer and Prof. Dr. Fabian Winter. The first project phase was carried out in cooperation with the Heidelberg University of Education. Further information and cooperation partners can be found on the Project page listed.

Source: www.hfh.ch

Götti Switzerland was founded in 1998 and is a high-quality Swiss eyewear brand known for its harmonious combination of traditional craftsmanship and technical innovation. The Götti Switzerland product line and the premium lens manufacturer Eyetech differentiate from and complement the AKN Group's existing portfolio of high-quality brands. Looking to the future, the Akoni Group changes its name to AKN Group.

AKN Group, a member of Alsara Investment Group, builds on its success and continued growth since its inception in 2019 and makes its first acquisition with the takeover of Götti. For more than 25 years, Götti has been known for its design, craftsmanship, innovation and quality and is one of the world's most respected independent eyewear brands. The acquisition also includes the premium eyeglass lens manufacturer Eyetech. The acquisition is not only an important addition to the portfolio, but also a transformative alignment of shared culture, values and expertise. It brings together cutting-edge technology, design vision and a shared pursuit of excellence. Strategically, the acquisition represents a significant milestone in AKN Group's success story and solidifies the company's position as an innovative force in the global premium and luxury eyewear market. AKN Group views this acquisition as transformative as it brings together two talented and complementary teams. The collective synergy will enable them to continue to push the boundaries of design, craftsmanship, innovation, performance and technology.

"Switzerland. Precision. Performance. - These pillars define us," explains Rosario Toscano, CEO and founder of the AKN Group. He continues: "After five years of sustained growth, it is time to take the next step - to expand our portfolio, develop our distribution channels and strengthen our team. By combining the people, assets and expertise of both companies, we are creating a high-performance eyewear company focused on quality at all levels. The acquisition of Götti embodies our vision for the future." "I am convinced that with this transaction I have found partners with a shared and aligned vision for the future of the eyewear industry. I am very much looking forward to continuing to support the company in its next phase of development," said Götti founder Sven Götti. Toscano added: "Sven will join the AKN Group board and continue his involvement with Götti, particularly on the creative front, where together we are committed to preserving the integrity and identity of the Akoni and Götti brands. Real progress is not about changing who we are, but about expanding what we can become.

Source: www.gotti.ch

The surface? Silky smooth. The cleaning? A piece of cake. The result? A noticeably more pleasant everyday life thanks to CLEEN. The newly developed premium finish meets the requirements of modern, technically advanced surface finishes to the highest degree. Like an invisible protective shield, perfectly balanced parameters ensure noticeably smoother and visibly cleaner lenses. The reliable superhydrophobic, oleophobic and antistatic properties impress with maximum cleaning efficiency, reduced wear during cleaning and outstanding aesthetics - from day one. For maximum satisfaction and more comfort in everyday life.

CLEEN is now available in combination with the high-quality Optiplas Dual+UV and Optiplas O+ coatings - for a new level of cleanliness and ease of care and, of course, 100 % Made in Switzerland.

Source: www.optiswiss.com

Only four months to go until the opening of DaTE 2025, the highly anticipated event dedicated to innovative eyewear that will take place from Saturday, September 13 to Monday, September 15 at Cocoricò in Riccione. The list of exhibitors is now available on the official website, clear proof of the enthusiasm and confidence that companies have invested in this new edition.

In addition to the Italian brands, manufacturers from France, Germany, Belgium, Denmark, Switzerland and the United States - to name but a few - will also be exhibiting. More than 90 brands have confirmed their participation and will also be creating excitement in the iconic Riccione Pyramid on the evening of September 13, when exhibitors and visitors can enjoy the DaTE Disco Party (full details will be available soon on the official website).

Registration for trade visitors began on February 8, the day DaTE made its debut at MIDO 2025 with an impressive pyramid installation showcasing all the key concepts of the new format - vision, innovation, creativity, technology and more.

"We are very pleased with these initial - and by no means certain - results," said DaTE President Davide Degl'Incerti Tocci. "The fact that we were able to confirm all available stand space in just a few months is a major milestone that we are very proud of. The response from exhibitors and partners shows that we are working in the right direction and motivates us to work towards the next edition with even greater energy."

As previously announced, DaTE 2025 will feature a completely redesigned format to reflect the new challenges and developments in a constantly evolving industry. It will be a traveling event that can be experienced together in many different Italian cities, such as Bologna, Napoli, Rome and Milan. Admission to DaTE is free and open only to eyewear industry professionals, opticians, buyers and journalists.

Source: dateyewear.com

The collaboration heralds a new chapter in smart design eyewear as it brings together Kering Eyewear's undisputed high-end eyewear expertise and Google's revolutionary technological innovations in the field of augmented reality.

Designed to integrate seamlessly into everyday life, the smart glasses have intuitive, personalized AI-driven features that allow users to engage with their surroundings in new and meaningful ways. From intelligent interaction to contextual awareness, every detail is designed to deliver a forward-thinking experience while enhancing beauty, style and comfort.

Roberto Vedovotto, Founder, President and CEO of Kering Eyewear, said: "We are honored to share with Google the values of innovation and forward thinking, and we are proud to collaborate with them to explore new horizons for the future development of our company. Together we are creating a product that people want to wear: masterfully designed, high-quality and stylish eyewear that unleashes the potential of artificial intelligence and redefines the way we interact with the real and virtual world."

"We've always believed in combining cutting-edge technology with great user experiences," said Shahram Izadi, GM and VP of XR at Google. "The integration of our immersive XR platform with Kering Eyewear eyewear will give consumers the fashion and function to get the most out of Android XR."

Source: www.keringeyewear.com

June 16, 2025, an immersive day in the heart of the optical industry

Every year, French lens and eyewear manufacturers open the doors of their companies to opticians to give them a behind-the-scenes look at the design and manufacture of eyewear. A unique opportunity to exchange ideas with the manufacturers, to better understand the products and to enhance French know-how.

At the two previous events, this large open day had attracted opticians from all over France, but also from Switzerland and Belgium, as most of the locations were geographically close to each other.

32 companies to discover throughout France, 20 of which are less than 2 hours from the Swiss border

This year, 32 companies will invite opticians to an immersive, enriching and inspiring experience. An invitation to rediscover the industrial and artisanal heritage of the sector.

A tailor-made tour: On this day, opticians can take part in one or more guided tours to discover every step of the eyewear manufacturing process. Processing of raw materials and manufacture of components, design offices, production sites, prescription laboratories, logistics, after-sales service: the French optical industry mobilizes around its union LEOO to discover the richness and diversity of its expertise.

Opticians can book their visits online from the expertise offered (design and drafting, production of acetate frames, production of metal frames, production of wooden frames).

20 companies you can visit, less than 2 hours from the Swiss border:

In Morez: Gouverneur Audigier, OxibisGroup, Mandrillon - Manufacture Andy Wolf, Manufacture Thierry, Morel, TSM (Traitement de Surface Morézien), Vuillet Vega, L'école des Meilleurs Ouvriers de France Lunetiers (School of the Best Craftsmen of France).

In Oyonnax: Décoracet, Eugenio Cisneros, Gem Optics, Grasset, Lucal, Maurice Piccoli, Optisun, Paragraphe, Roussilhe.

In the Vosges: In'Bô.

In Alsace: Clément Lunetier

In Lyon: Opal

In addition to the company visits, activities are offered to deepen the discoveries and promote the exchange between experts:

Discover the heritage of the eyewear industry with the Morez and Oyonnax museums: As a complement to the factory tours, the Morez and Oyonnax museums offer visitors the opportunity to retrace the history and explore the heritage of the French eyewear industry. The Grande Vapeur, an emblematic building of the industry in Oyonnax, is exceptionally open from 12:00 to 14:00, with a guided tour at 12:15. The Musée de la Lunette in Morez will also be offering free guided tours for opticians from 14:00 to 18:00, with a free guided tour at 17:00.

Opticians will have the opportunity to go behind the scenes of their favorite brands by meeting the designers who bring them to life and participating in unique experiences. For example, they can pre-design a pair of Parasite glasses or discover the full potential of 3D printing in eyewear manufacturing.

In Oyonnax and Morez, participants are offered a convivial buffet in large tents set up in the town center for the occasion.

With 450 participants in 2023 and 600 participants in 2024, the Manufacture Tour attracts more opticians every year. Their main motivation is to meet the people who make the products, understand every step of the manufacturing process and discover the latest innovations to increase their expertise and better answer the questions of eyewear wearers. With consumers increasingly interested in where their glasses come from and what materials are used, these immersion days are designed to give opticians vital knowledge about manufacturing and increase transparency around the industry.

They are also an excellent opportunity for a team seminar. The various visits provide a comprehensive insight into the manufacturing process and bring employees together through a shared experience.

For further information: www.manufacture.tours

Innovation is more than just a buzzword - it is the key to solving the challenges of our time. The German Innovation Award honors products, technologies and services that break new, innovative ground and offer solutions that stand out due to their added value for users. The initiator of the award is the German Design Council, which was founded by the German Bundestag in 1953 and is now regarded as the world's leading competence center for communication and knowledge transfer in the fields of design, brand and innovation.

The top-class jury is made up of independent, interdisciplinary experts from technology, digitalization, science and institutions and presents the "Winner" awards in each category for innovations that advance the respective industry through their originality, implementation and effectiveness. They evaluate the submissions according to the criteria of level of innovation, user benefit and cost-effectiveness.

Rodenstock has received an award for the latest generation of its biometric ophthalmic lens, which takes into account both the biometry of the eye and the personal perception of visual impressions of the individual spectacle wearer. With B.I.G. Exact Sensitive, spectacle wearers benefit from smoother, more dynamic vision, improved reading flow and better orientation.

"We are delighted to have received the German Innovation Award, which recognizes our innovative strength. It enables us and our partner opticians to raise awareness of the topic of biometric vision among spectacle wearers," says Sara Sydow, Director Marketing DACH at Rodenstock.

"With this award, we are making our latest innovation and the pioneering technology with which B.I.G. Exact Sensitive offers spectacle wearers an even more natural visual experience much more visible. For us, this is a further step towards our vision - to provide everyone with the best vision," explains Dr. Dietmar Uttenweiler, Executive Vice President Innovation at Rodenstock.

Source: www.rodenstock.com

Developed using proprietary software and generative AI, the innovative lenses offer natural color perception with up to three times the color saturation of conventional lenses.

They enable a vivid visual experience with maximum color accuracy and improved clarity - an outstanding added value in the areas of sport, lifestyle and health, among others. Colorboost lenses are available in numerous colors, different materials and formats (including goggles & shields) as non-prescription, single-vision and progressive lenses.

The revolutionary, patented technology is based on years of development work by the still young US company and combines color vision, material science and artificial intelligence.

• In the sports sector, Colorboost lenses enhance the colors for optimized visual perception, target recognition, target tracking and reaction time - perfect for, among other things: Bike/MTB, (trail)running, mountain sports, winter sports, golf, tennis/paddle, water sports/fishing, shooting and motor sports.
• Other areas of application: Travel & leisure, road traffic, gaming, medicine.
• The Color Resolution Factor (CRF) is an important value for all Colorboost lenses. It measures how many different colors the lenses can distinguish and transmit to the eye. A higher CRF means that the lens makes a wider range of color tones visible, allowing colors to be perceived more vividly, more finely graded and with more nuances.
• At the same time, the technology offers a Color Accuracy Factor (CAF) of 99 %. This factor measures the ability of the lenses to display colors exactly as they appear in reality. A high CAF means that the colors match their natural appearance almost perfectly.
• All colors in the wide range - suitable for different areas of application - block the broadest spectrum of harmful UV light.
• The product portfolio includes polarized and photochromic lenses as well as a variety of premium coatings such as different mirrors, anti-reflective, oleo, hydro or water repellent.

Source: www.colorboost.com