Organized in partnership with the Association of Optometrists (AOP), the annual show provides a platform for professionals to
- find out about the latest eyewear, contact lenses, technologies and solutions for their business.
- collect valuable training points as part of the world's leading training program.
- network with industry colleagues at personal meetings and parties.

The 10th 100% Optical will take place from February 24 to 26 at ExCeL in London. Don't miss the special 10th anniversary exhibition!

Photographed by Mattia Guolo, the spring/summer 24 campaign featuring Philip Plein himself and actress Madalina Ghenea captivates with its captivating and provocative shots, which show the two protagonists in a sensual game and express a lifestyle of opulence, positivity and pleasure.

In the foreground of the images - alongside Philipp Plein and Madalina Ghenea - are the models from the brand's new eyewear collection. Eyewear with a maximalist aesthetic, extraordinarily iconic, designed for eccentric men and women who love luxury and do not want to go unnoticed. Stylistic innovation, the sophistication of the materials, attention to detail and craftsmanship give rise to a collection that epitomizes Philipp Plein's "Made in Italy" style.

The eyewear collection for spring/summer '24 consists of 21 models, 12 sunglasses and 9 optical frames. The official launch will take place from the end of February via the De Rigo distribution network, which includes the world's most prestigious optical stores and department stores as well as Philipp Plein boutiques.

About the Philipp Plein Group

The German designer Philipp Plein founded his eponymous luxury fashion brand 25 years ago and has since developed it into one of the largest and most renowned independent fashion and luxury brands in the world. The PHILIPP PLEIN Group, based in Lugano, Switzerland, employs over 700 people and also owns, operates and develops the Billionaire and Plein Sports brands. Characterized by an unconventional and non-conformist style combined with impeccable craftsmanship, PHILIPP PLEIN Group products are available in prestigious boutiques and department stores around the world and in over 110 mono-brand stores worldwide, including flagships in Milan, Paris, Barcelona, Berlin, Dubai, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Shanghai and Singapore. Distribution is handled by De Rigo, a world leader in the design, production and distribution of high quality frames and sunglasses.

Expanding professional expertise, exploiting business opportunities: Johnson & Johnson Vision supports contact lens specialists with a comprehensive continuing education program. An indispensable pillar of these activities are the free online seminars, which are very popular with opticians. Interactive with live streaming and discussions, they convey new findings from research and practice that participants can implement directly in their business in order to inspire their customers with individual advice and competent fitting and retain them in the long term.

Wide range of further training courses

In the first half of 2024, Johnson & Johnson Institute is launching a wide-ranging program covering important current topics and issues: In February, experts will bring participants up to date on the latest findings on blue filter technology for contact lenses. In March, the live seminars will offer an authentic insight into the successful fitting of multifocal lenses. "The topic of multifocal lenses is becoming increasingly important for opticians because they can provide their customers with very good care and because they can secure the future of their business with satisfied and loyal contact lens wearers who come to them regularly," emphasizes Daniel Ulrich, Professional Education & Development Manager Switzerland at Johnson & Johnson Vision.

Interactive live seminars with discussion in April show how specialist retailers can boost their contact lens business sustainably with good communication and at the same time enforce fitting fees. In May, the assessment of the anterior segment of the eye will once again be on the agenda due to high demand, before the first half of the year ends with a look into the future of contact lens fitting in 2050.

The one-hour online events run easily via the Zoom video conferencing system. A chat function enables discussions, and individual questions are also answered. Participants particularly appreciate the expertise of the renowned speakers, the professional exchange and the practical relevance and interactivity of the seminars.

The complete online seminar program with all information on registration and participation can be found here:

https://www.jnjvisioncare.ch/online-seminare

As of March 1, 2024, Blackfin will end its partnership with Villa Eyewear and begin direct sales through its new subsidiary, Blackfin Eyewear Inc. based in Houston, Texas. This team will be dedicated to the structured support of the entire national territory and guarantees proximity to the customer and excellent execution. In this way, the eyewear manufacturer aims to meet the high standards of service and quality for which Blackfin is renowned.

Maintaining customer relationships

The strategic decision marks a significant milestone for Blackfin in the U.S. market and symbolizes a step forward in improving customer relationships and operational efficiency. The formation of Blackfin Eyewear Inc. not only represents a geographic expansion for Blackfin, but also reinforces its commitment to bringing exceptional service and a comprehensive eyewear collection directly to the U.S. market.

Communicate directly

A key benefit of this transition to direct sales is the facilitation of direct communication between Blackfin and its customers to ensure an authentic and consistent brand experience. This change will allow US customers to have full access to the full range of Blackfin premium titanium eyewear, including the latest and exclusive designs. In addition, Blackfin will ensure quick responses and personalized customer support with a dedicated team for the US market. The move also allows for more sophisticated and tailored marketing initiatives that closely align with Blackfin's ethos of innovation and customer focus.

Further develop business strategy

Nicola Del Din, CEO of Blackfin, expressed his excitement about this significant development: "We are delighted to take this step with Blackfin in the US market. The company is solid and has reached the maturity that makes us ready to further develop our business strategy. This move to direct sales is a testament to our growth and commitment to our customers. We are convinced that our customers will greatly appreciate the direct contact with our brand by experiencing the authenticity and quality that Blackfin stands for." He continues: "We are fully aware of the complexity of the US market and could not have imagined the development of our business in this country any other way. A direct connection with opticians is crucial to provide them with all the necessary tools to effectively support their work. Blackfin stands for more than just an excellent product; it embodies an authentic story and a dedicated team working passionately towards a common goal. Everyone who works with us understands and shares these values, which are an integral part of our product," continues Nicola Del Din.

Blackfin at Vision Expo East

Blackfin will be present at the upcoming Vision Expo East in New York from March 15 to 17 with its own booth A134 in "The Atelier" area to present the latest collections and discuss the new direct sales model.

Opticians and retailers interested in learning more about Blackfin Eyewear Inc. are invited to visit the dedicated US website at usa.blackfin.eu for contact information and further details.

The deliberate play with light not only enhances the depth of the colors, but also elegantly defines the silhouettes of the titanium and acetate collections. The personality of each pair of glasses is enhanced by the contrasts of light, while the looks of the models hint at the stories behind each design. This collection (which also includes the popular Quantum High and HAVN ranges) celebrates craftsmanship and minimalist design. It offers frames that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing - perfect for sophisticated and elegant contemporaries. Each pair of glasses is a style statement, an invitation to experience the quality of Ørgreen Optics in everyday life.

The partnership between Marcolin and GCDS began in 2019, when the brand was founded in 2015 from the vision of Giuliano and Giordano Calza. The two brothers decided to enter the world of eyewear and expand their range of accessories.

The collections designed by Marcolin reflect the unmistakable aesthetic character of GCDS, which is characterized by wit, experimentation and street style. The eyewear combines attention to detail and first-class quality with sporty shapes, innovative materials and a vibrant selection of colors.

Unique, trendy shapes complement the sport-inspired oversize shield design, which is completed by the brand logo in a maxi version. The new agreement extends the synergy and existing relationship between the two companies until December 31, 2028.

The new 'Ekahi collection combines advanced technology with a modern design approach, while remaining true to its origins, the love of Hawaii. Versatile shapes, bright colors and patterns reflect this skillfully.

"'Ekahi" means "one" in Hawaiian

Elements that are closely intertwined with the Maui Jim identity can be found again and again in the sporty models. The wavy pattern, for example, is reminiscent of the ebb and flow of the tide, but also represents the peaks and valleys of the island. The Hawaiian Native pattern is inspired by the intricate, geometric motifs of traditional Hawaiian textiles and can be found on the temples of some of the models. The slash motif, the dynamic lettering of the Maui Jim logo, is also a recurring element. To further honor Maui Jim's roots, each model in the 'Ekahi collection has a Hawaiian name.

Innovative PolarizedPlus2 technology

A special feature and unique selling point of all Maui Jim goggles is the PolarizedPlus2 lens technology developed in 2004. This innovative technology contains several lens coatings that reduce glare, offer UV and blue light (HEV) protection, provide colour enhancement, guarantee scratch resistance and are both water and oil repellent.

New collection with three main segments

The new collection comprises three main segments: MauiPure, MauiBrilliant and SuperThin Glass - based on the names of the company's own lens materials. Their specific properties are ideal for outdoor sports or other outdoor activities and also cater to different tastes and target groups.

Rebranding party with brand ambassador Evan Mock

At the beginning of February, Kering Eyewear CEO Roberto Vedovotto hosted a party with over 900 guests in Milan to celebrate the launch of the new Maui Jim collection 'Ekahi and the corresponding rebranding under Kering Eyewear. Special guest was the new brand ambassador Evan Mock, versatile actor, skater and face of the "Color You Can Feel" campaign.

Upon arrival, guests were symbolically whisked away to world-famous Hawaiian beaches and their sunsets, as Maui Jim allowed key elements of its brand DNA to become part of the city for one night. Guests were offered the exclusive opportunity to discover the new 'Ekahi' collection. The first collection designed and produced by Kering Eyewear.

1:1 experience of PolarizedPlus2 technology

The event allowed participants to try on the dynamic new sunglasses and experience the exceptional PolarizedPlus2 lenses up close using special polarized video screens. With the help of an innovative surf simulator inspired by the arcades of the 80s, players were able to challenge each other and fully immerse themselves in the Maui Jim world. This type of "retailtainment" will also soon be available at selected authorized Maui Jim dealers worldwide.

Other notable personalities and friends of the house who attended the event included Giulia Calcaterra, Ignazio Moser, Bogdan Gnatovich, Maud Le Car, Kyllian Guerin and Yousef Alsudais.

The inspiration lies in the beauty of opposites, derived from the Zen philosophy of a-um. Today, the meaning is interpreted more freely as the best combination of two opposing elements. Volume play and material mixes bring this essence to life in striking frames made of titanium and acetate-titanium combinations. Panto, geometric and round models are each named after a Zen word, underlining their Japanese origins.

Another highlight is the sumi-nagashi pattern, which can be seen on some acetate models. Sumi-nagashi is one of the traditional techniques used in the production of washi paper to depict peaceful motifs such as flowing rivers. Connoisseurs of the brand will know that this special washi paper is also used for the cases, creating a successful combination.

As longevity is Minamoto's top priority, the nose pads of all collections are made of pure titanium and never need to be replaced. To give the models a luxurious touch and ensure that they blend in harmoniously with the face, the ros© and gold-colored frames of the third collection are equipped with gold-plated nose pads. The new collection also benefits from an optimized antique finish in gold and grey.

MN31033 Waganse (Unisex)

Smile and the whole world smiles with you. The Waganse panto model is guided by this Zen insight. The acetate front in marbled gray, brown or Havana creates a chic contrast to the slim titanium temples. Engravings adorn the temples and a sumi nagashi pattern adorns the acetate of the brown and gray model.

MN31024 Kojitsu (Unisex)

Every day is precious - live it with a generous heart: that is the heart of the Kojitsu model. This titanium frame has a wide panto profile and slim temples decorated with unique filigree patterns. Sophisticated rose and antique gold as well as soft gray complete the light look.

The SILMO Optical Design Contest 2024 offers space for individual or collective forms of expression. Participants can also collaborate with other students who meet the same age and level criteria to enrich the diversity of proposals. Projects must be submitted on the designated platform by June 15, 2024.

Evaluation and selection process

An international jury of designers, chaired by designer Olivier Jault, will evaluate the projects according to criteria such as innovation, creativity, functionality, social and environmental responsibility and feasibility of the project. The pre-selected projects will be announced in July 2024 and the winning projects will be developed in collaboration with SILMO's industrial partners.

Prices

In addition to the recognition that the success of the competition brings, the winner will receive prize money of 10,000 euros, which will be shared by the school and the student. The work can also be presented at SILMO Paris 2025.

This year's competition looks at the changing role of eyewear accessories and explores the potential for new functions and innovative applications. Under the direction of renowned designer Olivier Jault, the competition encourages students to rethink eyewear beyond its traditional function and integrate new features that meet the new needs of modern society.

Olivier Jault

Olivier Jault, a graduate of the ESAA Duperr© fashion school, is now an accessories designer, lecturer and exhibition curator and has worked for numerous fashion houses, including Jean-Paul Gaultier, Repetto and Saint Laurent.

The new trend color for 2024 is Peach Fuzz 13-1023, to be precise, the official name. According to the US Pantone Institute, it is a "velvety, soft peach shade whose all-encompassing aura is good for our hearts, minds and bodies". The soft apricot shade lies somewhere between pink and light orange and stands for togetherness, calm, safety, care and security. The trend color also symbolizes a new direction, inner peace and is said to have a positive effect on our well-being - a good outlook for 2024!

"Pantone has just announced the color of the year 2024: Peach Fuzz, a velvety-soft peach whose all-encompassing spirit enriches the heart, mind and body. Well, we can't help it: our Buttercup sunglasses are and do just that," announces Andy Wolf.

MIDO 2024 promises to be full of new features, as can be seen from a new, more accessible website that puts the user experience at the center. And on a special free tool on the app for exhibitors to improve the ability to create leads, better trade ROI (return on investment), personalize and better target the experience for visitors to your stand, but also analyze stand performance. It is expected to be launched shortly before the event - with a special communication to all MIDO 2024 exhibitors.

MIDO 2024 has unveiled the exhibition spaces that will host the major international players, small and medium-sized enterprises and start-ups in this edition of the fair: 42,000 square meters of exhibition space, 20% more than last year! Seven pavilions with innovative, detailed, creative and trendy designs that will take the fair back to the pre-pandemic era. Eight exhibition areas in which the companies and their products are the absolute protagonists.

Halls 1,2,4 and 6: Fashion District and OTTICLUB for the world's largest eyewear manufacturers

The Fashion District, located between Halls 1, 2, 4 and 6, traditionally welcomes the world's largest eyewear manufacturers, the best-known brands and all companies inspired by fashion and luxury. This year, the MIDO events will take place in Hall 1, in the OTTICLUB area. This is one of the focal points of the fair, where international experts will share experiences, visions, inspirations, knowledge and ideas about market trends, the role of consumers, new technologies, digitalization and much more. Another focus that is particularly close to MIDO's heart is sustainability and integration by analyzing the social impact of production activities that affect the entire supply chain.

The latest innovations in ophthalmic lenses in Hall 3

The Lenses area in Hall 3 is reserved for the fascinating world of ophthalmic lenses, where all the major manufacturers in the industry worldwide will be presenting the latest technological innovations to improve vision. The Design area is once again dedicated to creativity and experimentation. A real laboratory that encompasses the Design Tech area. This is where design meets technological innovation and completely new models are created in exclusive and revolutionary colors, materials and styles.

The Academy area, which is constantly growing and will welcome 85 exhibitors this year, is an exclusive incubator reserved for companies that value and focus on designers and their creativity. In the immediate vicinity of the Academy, but with its own identity, is the Start-Up area, where 16 up-and-coming companies will be represented. An international showcase dedicated to young people who can present their trendy collections to the world. With an eco-responsible set-up, made from recycled and recyclable materials, in line with the event's environmental responsibility program.

Halls 5 and 7: FAiR East showcases the past and future of the Asian business world

This year, pavilions 5 and 7 are reserved for the FAiR East area, where large and small companies from the Asian business world are represented, where you can experience tradition and innovation, memories of the past that are constantly evolving and focused on the future.

Hall 6 is reserved for technology and equipment

And last but not least, MIDO Tech in Hall 6, which is the largest international exhibition area for machines, raw materials and components. Here you will find the most modern, technological and sophisticated equipment for processing ophthalmic lenses, manufacturing frames and finishing products.

• The list of exhibitors, which is constantly being expanded, is available online on the official MIDO website: https://www.mido.com/en/exhibitor-list

• You can register for the industry's most international trade fair by completing this form: https://www.mido.com/en/entry-pass

• To stay up to date, please visit the new website www.mido.com and the official social channels Instagram (@mido_exhibition), Facebook (@MIDOExhibition), Twitter (@MIDOExhibition) and Linkedin

The strikingly unique pair closes a gap in Götti Dimension - and there is no question that one model cannot do without the other. Rounded edges make the tough lightweights appear visually softer. They are available in 15 colors as optical glasses or sunglasses. One thing is clear: the two are inseparable and compete against the rest of the world together - just like Bonnie and Clyde.

With CONNIE and CLYDE, Götti Switzerland has clearly been inspired by the famous criminal duo. Straightforward, expressive and reinterpreted. Additively manufactured eyewear for an authentic retro look. The narrow frames are back!

Collection: Götti Dimension

Material: 3D-printed polyamide

Models: CONNIE/CLYDE

Colors: 15 different colors

Recommended resale price: Optical CHF 472.- / Sun CHF 368.-

In the exclusive Art Couture line, model 9125 continues the basic concept of moving and twisted surfaces that first found its way into the Flair collection with model 9116. Hand-dyed color surfaces that turn from the inside out, playing with light and shadow, intersections that bring lightness to life and round off the interplay of shapes in this elegant model - that is the new ladies' model 9125.

The Art Couture model 9127 also continues the moving interplay of shapes. Like two twisting ribbons, two twisted temple segments embrace the hand-applied decorative elements with set zirconia. Movement and dynamism as well as the interplay between the inside and outside are the special features of this model.

You can look forward to fresh new colors in our full rim models 209 and 210. The interplay of colors between the inside and outside and the unusual eye rim closure create sophisticated accents at second glance with the latest color trends.

With the S-temples, the Pure Color System has been extended to include a completely new, slim temple variant. The two ladies' models 1501 and 1502 and the two men's models 1500 and 1503 are available in the 8 harmonious colors from the PURE-COLOUR range. And of course, as always, they can be combined with all lens shapes.

New Flair 1600 and 1601 models

Flair rounds off the new products in the spring/summer 2024 collection with maximum minimalism. The two new models Flair 1600 and 1601 are a further development of the minimalist classic. With a temple just 0.9 mm thin and made from anti-allergenic surgical steel, a screwless Flair hinge with integrated auto-stop and a transparent temple end that follows the design, they offer maximum flexibility, minimum weight (3 g) and the highest quality. This maximum minimalism not only convinces purists.

Whether minimalist to the max, sophisticatedly decorative or straightforward - with high-quality hand coloring, finishes or acetates - there is once again the highest quality Made in Germany to discover!

Inspired by the mesmerizing Nordic light, this collection embodies a subtle "halo effect" where the colors gracefully blend into each other at the edges. The acetate frames are meticulously handcrafted using special lamination techniques and offer exclusive color combinations with seamless transitions from one captivating hue to the next. The results are sensual masterpieces.

With characteristically sharp faceting and the robust acetate thickness of the renowned Volumetrica capsule collection, the "Halo Nordic Lights" enhances the depth of each shade, making each piece an artful accessory for those who appreciate high-quality design.

The rimless Lunor Classic Round is one of the company's icons. The model was made famous by Steve Jobs, among others, who wore the white gold model for 14 years and made it his trademark. In 2024, Lunor revisits the concept of the classic and launches the Classic 18 ct. gold in fine yellow and white gold at the start of the year. The rimless frame combines lightness with luxury, with wearing comfort always a top priority thanks to the W bridge and temples with fine acetate coating.

The theme of "real gold eyewear" is deeply rooted in the brand DNA of the Black Forest eyewear manufacturer: the company name "Lunor" is based on the French term for "gold eyewear" - "Lunettes d'O" - and testifies to the importance of the precious metal. This is why the family-run company relies on an expert goldsmith to produce this luxurious collection: all models are made by hand in a small Swiss manufactory from 18-carat gold. As a whole, the Lunor Classic 18 ct. gold is a pair of glasses that embodies true values - an investment in lasting value and perfect for all eyewear lovers looking for exclusive understatement.

M16: Modern elegance at its finest

The new, handcrafted M16 line is a must-have for spectacle wearers who love contemporary, elegant frames. With its clear lines and minimalist design, the collection embodies modern elegance, while the oval shapes in panto or panatomic style create a striking accent. The filigree stainless steel frame in particular not only looks impressive, but also proves its worth with its ultra-lightweight feel. Movable nose pads made of pure and particularly skin-friendly titanium round off the optimum comfort of the frame. The M16 impresses with its high-quality color nuances in a trendy matt look. The color is applied in a complex process with special pre-treatment, guaranteeing durability. The M16 is available in satin gold, satin blackberry, satin blue and satin black.

The 1970s are regarded as the golden age of the industry. With famously above-average margins. For customers, however, it wasn't really fun. Beautiful glasses were available - especially in Germany - for private customers, while health insurance patients had the ugly "Kassenbrille" (health insurance glasses) pressed onto their noses. Fielmann was satisfied with smaller profit margins and discovered its opportunity to offer attractive glasses at low prices to the less well-off, pensioners, students and welfare recipients.

For more than 45 years, Fielmann has built its company into the leading optical chain in Germany. There is now a Fielmann store in almost every pedestrian zone. At the end of March 2023, the chain had 977 branches, more than 22,000 employees and 27 million customers. The most recent annual turnover (2022) was almost 1.8 billion euros.

In 2019, Günther Fielmann retired from the company's Management Board at the age of 80 and his son Marc took over as Chairman. His father, until then the oldest CEO of a listed public limited company in Germany, had already largely withdrawn from the operational business. Fielmann will be remembered by his family and employees "with his customer-oriented philosophy, his creative power and his visionary spirit as a pioneer in the optical industry", the company announced after the founder's death.