Customer satisfaction survey enters second round

On December 4, 2023, CooperVision launched its second customer satisfaction survey (NPS) this year. This survey is an important tool for CooperVision to deepen its understanding of the needs and expectations of its customers.

The aim of the company is to continuously improve through the knowledge gained. For Johannes Zupfer, General Manager D-A-CH at CooperVision, the key to sustainable customer loyalty lies in a deep understanding of the customer perspective: "Every survey is an opportunity for us to develop measures from the specific areas that have been identified as needing improvement. These form the basis for future innovations and services." In addition, the responses of all customers are taken very seriously and the feedback is used to work on customer satisfaction. "We encourage all customers to actively participate and share their thoughts with us," says Zupfer. This is the only way to achieve even more sustainable positive customer satisfaction together.

The survey will be active from December 4 to 20, 2023 and can be accessed at www.coopervision.de/kontaktlinsenspezialist.

It glitters and sparkles in winter

The all-time favorites M9 in gold and silver from Lunor. Not only festive decorations in elegant gold tones dispel the gloomy mood of the dark season, but also the gentle winter sun that makes snow and ice crystals shine in shades of white and silver. A magical time. The colors gold and silver are also classics in fashion and accessories, adding a sophisticated touch to any look.

With the M9 line made of titanium, the Black Forest eyewear manufacturer Lunor picks up on these two classics and gives the frames an elegant timelessness with a minimalist look.

M9 03 col. GP

A reduction to the essentials characterizes the M9 line and is firmly anchored in the DNA of the Lunor manufactory. The finely curved lines of the panto shape give the feather-light titanium frame a harmonious yet graceful look. The radiant light gold tone of the glasses is a subtle eye-catcher on the face, creating a warm glow on the skin. Timeless luxury for every day.

M9 04 col. PP

The M9 04 col. PP in the anatomic shape makes a subtle statement with its striking yet delicate form framing the face. The titanium frame appears to be drawn from a single, sweeping line. With its radiant silver tone, it goes perfectly with light skin tones with a cool undertone. The typically elegant Lunor details, such as reinforced temple tips and comfortable titanium pads, round off the purist overall look. With the M9 04 in sparkling silver, you can create a look full of sophistication and understatement.

Finishing by hand

The eyewear manufacturer Lunor stands for outstanding craftsmanship and the cultivation of traditional manufacturing techniques. The titanium frames are given their radiant gold or shiny silver tone by hand in an elaborate process: The secret behind this is electroplating, which produces the finest shades of color. The M9 03 col. GP is electroplated with real yellow gold, while the M9 04 col. PP is refined with pure palladium in a two-stage process. After electroplating, the frames undergo a multi-stage polishing process, which is completed with a hand polish. This gives the color-finished titanium frames their outstanding shine. As Lunor pays attention to even the smallest detail, both the titanium and the electroplating are nickel-free and therefore suitable for nickel allergy sufferers. As always, the M9 collection meets the highest quality standards and offers incomparable wearing comfort.

Oldest optician in Zurich inaugurates a new invention to mark its anniversary

Optician Zwicker, the oldest optician in Zurich, is celebrating its 175th anniversary. Enlarged and completely renovated at the listed Poststrasse 1, and with an invention that allows customers to find their perfect glasses: the Glass Experience Wall

In 1848, spectacle frames had just reached the ear for the first time and were no longer stuck on the nose or between the temples. At this time, optician and engraver Mathias Jäggli founded the optician's specialty store on Limmatquai. After 30 years, he moved to the current location in the listed Zentralhof at Poststrasse 1. Today, Kurt Halder and his son Daniel Halder are responsible for the oldest optician's store in Zurich.

175-year success story

In the Halders' private archive, relics from past eras provide an insight into the development of optical and physical instruments. The archive contains interesting historical spectacles, including a pair of sunglasses with textile protection that are around 280 years old. There are also coachman's spectacles, later known as railwaymen's spectacles, as well as temple glasses and old pince-nez glasses made of various materials. The collection also includes telescopes by Italian optician Leonardo Semitecolo from the 18th century, providing an insight not only into the history of spectacles, but also into the technological development of optics over the centuries. Kurt Halder explains: "I have long had an interest in the optical products of the past and have collected them with passion."

NNew standards in glass consulting

Optician Zwicker continues to write its 175-year success story: in the enlarged and completely renovated store. In addition to around 1500 models of spectacles and sunglasses, the focus is also on the lenses. Optician Zwicker's customers can try out their future lenses on the interactive Glass Experience Wall. For example, they can experience the significantly improved contrast in low light conditions thanks to biometric lenses, which increase safety when driving. Or the contrast advantage that a yellow sports lens provides when skiing. Computer lenses can also be tried out on the Glass Experience Wall: The near-comfort lenses adapt individually to the screen distance and support an ergonomic head and body posture.

Daniel Halder, owner of Optiker Zwicker: "We never tire and remain curious about everything the future will bring. Rooted in tradition, but always innovative and open to new horizons."

MOVITRA Milano presents new acetate collection

The brand new 6-piece acetate collection includes three Re-Founders Limited Edition designs and three frames from the main line. The new, streamlined models are the result of intensive research and development to create an extremely functional and lightweight product that is even more streamlined and technically complex in its architecture than all previous acetate models. Whereby a new advanced feature is highlighted: a new titanium bridge.

"In our pursuit of excellence through innovation, we have gone even further this time and have actually revolutionized the acetate collection and created a completely new product architecture," says Giuseppe Pizzuto, creative director and co-founder of MOVITRA.

Limited edition models: AM 01 G, AM 02 F and AM 03 D

The AM 01 G (round), AM 02 F (square) and AM 03 D (classic) models have been designed as limited edition models with metal temples. Based on three classic frames from the MOVITRA collection (the Founders Collection), the new designs have been reworked to showcase the best product innovations of recent years, celebrating a new era of design innovation and technical achievement for the brand.

The features are highly technical and have been achieved through a careful process of advanced development by MOVITRA's experienced Italian production team. In addition to the introduction of the new titanium temple behind the lenses, the three-dimensional design of the temples widens the fit at the back of the frame, making the glasses extremely comfortable even for larger faces. This feature also gives the metal a structure similar to the ribs on the hood of a car. The hinge is equipped with an anti-loosening system consisting of a screw and a bolt that pull the hinge together, preventing it from coming loose.

The highest quality materials have been combined with performance in mind to achieve an optimal weight ratio between the front and temples. The temple is made of titanium, while the temples are made of stainless steel. Each of the three Limited Edition models will be produced in an edition of only 555 pieces. The unique serial number of each frame is printed on the inside of the temple.

New Releases: AC01, AC02, AC03

The three other models in the main line, AC01, AC02 and AC03, are constructed with complex technical features and offer seamless, lightweight acetate designs with exceptional functional properties, a state-of-the-art rotation system with a lightweight titanium bridge and a variety of tailored features for an excellent fit. The AC01 model, offered in black or army, is a rectangular shape whose bold, masculine aesthetic is enhanced by the flat top of the front. Model AC02 has a luxurious sophistication with a geometric shape and is available in understated black or whiskey, while AC03 is a statement pilot design with a touch of true uniqueness in black or brown.

All 3 models in this series feature custom-made bridge inserts and bolts, CNC-milled end pieces and a spring hinge box built into the temple. The typical MOVITRA hardware such as Torx screws, spring hinges and leather-covered plates at the top of the stirrup have also been integrated into the new designs.

MOVITRA eyewear is available from selected specialist retailers worldwide.

"Italy is not just the country of fashion and design. It is the land of ideas. Since the beginning of time. We have our own. We believe in it and build on it."
Filippo Pagliacci, President and co-founder of MOVITRA

Four French Riviera cities have inspired Silhouette's new "Infinitiy Sun Collection"

The Côte d'Azur is an international hotspot for urban jetsetters who want to enjoy an exclusive lifestyle. Here, four unique cities have inspired Silhouette to create the designs for the new Infinity Sun collection: Cap d'Ail, Antibes, Menton and Mougins. The four unisex models with four tone-on-tone color options enchant every face with light and airy sophistication.

The Cap d'Ail With their seductive cat-eye shapes, these glasses add yet another landmark to the charming coastal town. The feminine Jackie-O-Sun style combines an oversized frame with soft inner contours, capturing the Hollywood glamor of the 60s.

The Antibes is aviator-style and inspired by the rock'n'roll flair of the vibrant resort. A striking mono bridge gives the Antibes strength and expression. It is designed for both men and women.

When a classic car in Menton comes to a halt, there is nothing better than admiring it with a Square Wayfarer. With its strong top line and edgy look, it's an excellent choice for stylish connoisseurs. This unisex model reflects earthy colors and the refreshingly cool attitude of the Côte d'Azur.

The cultural pearl Mougins was the muse for the Panto unisex glasses. Perfectly round lenses are connected by a striking double bridge, providing an extra dose of coolness on warm, sunny days.

Silhouette frames are made from the patented high-tech material SPX+, which ensures exceptional lightness and outstanding comfort while offering the best protection. Thanks to the 100% Silhouette technology, all frames from the full-service provider can be fitted with optical correction lenses in just one step.

Curtain up for opti 2024!

Three powerful days in four full halls: Curtain up for opti 2024 - the industry's international stage from January 12 to 14, 2024 Expand your own competitiveness, experience trends, enable good vision: The big players and numerous newcomers answer the urgent questions of the optical industry.

"400 exhibitors on 44,000 square meters of exhibition space - that's an excellent forecast for the upcoming opti 2024," says opti Exhibition Director Cathleen Kabashi. "Key players such as Zeiss, Hoya, CooperVision, Silhouette, Marcolin and many more are committed to the event and are actively shaping the trade fair program in line with our motto #weareopti." New highlights: "Trendradar by opti" and the "opti Sustainability Award".

After the enforced corona break, the protagonists are delighted to be back on board, here are a few voices of the big players Christoph Hinnenberg from Sales Management Zeiss, for example, is convinced by the international trade fair for ophthalmic optics and design: "We at ZEISS are delighted to be back live at opti 2024. Virtual formats play a major role and have established themselves. But face-to-face meetings and direct exchanges with opticians are important and welcome right now." Tom Smits, Managing Director of Silhouette, continues: "opti has always been THE industry event in Germany, it plays a very important role for us from a sales perspective and we have high expectations for 2024." And Johannes Zupfer, Managing Director of CooperVision: "We are highly motivated and look forward to meeting people in person in Munich."

New areas, hubs and awards at opti 2024

In four equally exciting halls, opti offers plenty of space for innovative products, start-ups and industry topics such as defining future trends, sustainability and promoting young talent. With these three topics, among others, opti has its finger on the pulse of the times. This is also reflected in the Myopia Hub, Sustainability Hub and Trend Hub areas at opti, where the "Trend Radar by opti" showcases forward-looking trends in the industry.

Several awards recognize outstanding projects and ideas with attractive prizes: For the first time, the opti Sustainability Award honors opticians with leading examples of sustainability in practice in the optical industry. In the fields of social, economic and ecological issues, the award is based on relevant company initiatives such as the design of business premises, approaches to avoiding microplastics, alternative energies, climate-neutral behavior, diversity and much more. The jury of renowned experts from IG Nachhaltigkeit will decide on the winners. Applicants can submit their projects to opti until November 15, 2023.

The 3rd opti BOX AWARD is the proven springboard for newcomers to the industry. Here, new, young frame labels can apply for one of the coveted opti boxes. In addition to the attractive prizes, the added value is the increased attention from visitors through the live award ceremony at the trade fair and through communication on all opti channels, before, during and after the trade fair, online and offline. Value of the trophy: a 2,000 euro credit for stand rental plus a four-figure PR booster.

Social networking touchpoints: Runway Bar, Campus and opti Party

The opti Party is back and continues a popular tradition, this time with an extra youngster area for the next generation of opticians. The next generation of the industry will also benefit from the broad opti Campus program. The opti Runway Bar is another touchpoint for ideal networking and exchange. Informative events, round-table discussions and forward-looking presentations round off the portfolio.

opti Connect - transparency for exhibitors and visitors

Beyond the function of the exhibitor catalog, opti CONNECT, the new, digital form of exchange and meeting for exhibitors and trade fair visitors, enables more planning security in terms of a successful trade fair visit. Visitors can put together their own personal program in advance and receive recommendations based on their interests. Exhibitors can advertise their offers to specific target groups, network with interested parties and send trade fair tickets to customers. The platform with its relevant topics runs before, during and after the trade fair.

You can access the current list of exhibitors via: www.opti.de/messe/opti-connect

A sweet appearance: the new titanium frames LEACH, LEMY and LONIE from Götti

Fruity, like a delicious peach, fresh, like a summer meadow, or sweet, like pink candy floss: pastel colors not only look good enough to eat, they also simply brighten the mood. LEACH, LEMY and LONIE are in a good mood - and are hiding a little secret.

An elaborate dyeing process enables an innovation in the color world of titanium eyewear. With numerous intermediate steps, each pair of glasses is dyed traditionally by hand and with great sensitivity to create a delicate color gradient - unique, sophisticated and elegant. This craftsmanship is carried out in our own titanium eyewear factory in Japan. Craftsmanship at the highest level.

The playful pastel shades add a fresh touch to any skin tone and show just how much fun glasses can be. A sweet glow with a shimmering play of colors in the light - in the metallic colors peach-silver, coffee-gold, sky-pink or fern-green.

Collection: Götti Switzerland
Material: Titanium
Models: LEACH/LEMY/LONIE
Colors: peach-silver, coffee-gold, violet-blue-bronze, sky-pink, fern-green.
Recommended retail price: CHF 538.

ACUVUE OASYS MAX 1-Day - the "must-have" for the contact lens business

Online and offline, from early in the morning until late at night: many people have an active lifestyle and spend a lot of their time on digital devices - some up to 13 hours a day. This puts a lot of strain on the eyes. In view of the increasing influences on our eyes, contact lens wearers now expect more than ever from their lenses in terms of wearing comfort and visual quality.

ACUVUE OASYS MAX 1-Day from Johnson & Johnson Vision was developed to meet precisely these requirements: with exceptional wearing comfort until the end of the day and visual quality in all light conditions. In addition to the spherical version, the ACUVUE OASYS MAX 1-Day MULTIFOCAL is also available as a multifocal lens. Do the daily disposable lenses meet these requirements? Bernhard Schaub and Judith Seidel (pictured), owners of Peter & Bosshard Optik in Zurich, report on their experiences.

Customer summary: "Incomparable - simply the best"

"An excellent contact lens with high optical added value: ACUVUE OASYS MAX 1-Day is a real milestone and is our first choice for contact lens fitting." Bernhard Schaub draws this conclusion from his first experiences with the new premium lenses from Johnson & Johnson Vision. "90 percent of our customers who tried the spherical or multifocal version were so impressed that they ultimately opted for the 'MAX'."

"We are trying to switch customers who wear other ACUVUE OASYS lenses to ACUVUE OASYS MAX 1-Day. We have been extremely successful with this," says Schaub. Even customers who have been wearing contact lenses for many years and are very satisfied have noticed a significant improvement with the new daily disposable lenses. One regular customer of the traditional Zurich optician's store, who has been a convinced contact lens wearer for 35 years, summed up his enthusiasm: "Incomparable - simply the best!"

Plus points: Spontaneous compatibility and end-of-day comfort

What convinced Bernhard Schaub's customers the most? The high level of spontaneous tolerance, the 20 percent reduction in stray light thanks to the OptiBlue Light filter and the end-of-day comfort. Even long-term wearers who wore ACUVUE OASYS MAX 1-Day for 15 hours or longer found them just as pleasant and comfortable in the evening as in the morning. Many had the feeling of not wearing lenses at all - even late in the evening. "This is probably made possible by the fact that the eyelid glides over the lens even more relaxed and effortlessly than with other contact lenses and there is less friction. This is what makes the ACUVUE OASYS MAX 1-Day such a special comfort experience - and a real premium lens," says Bernhard Schaub. "This is where the TearStable technology and the outstanding silicone hydrogel material really come into their own." The new technology ensures optimized distribution of the wetting agent and therefore longer-lasting stability of the tear film. In addition, the innovative daily disposable lenses are easy to adjust, even in the multifocal version.

ACUVUE OASYS MAX 1-Day opens up new business opportunities

"ACUVUE OASYS MAX 1-Day is a must-have for us: because of the clear product benefits and because it opens up many new business opportunities for us," emphasizes Judith Seidel. "It is ideal for open-end wearers and for people who work a lot in front of a screen and frequently use digital devices. We can optimally supply customers with pronounced dry eye symptoms. And we were even able to convince potential drop-out customers to continue wearing contact lenses."

Peter & Bosshard Optik generates around 40 percent of its sales with contact lenses, and the trend is rising. Daily disposable lenses account for 60 percent of contact lens sales. The proportion of multifocal contact lenses is currently lower, but is set to increase further. Among other things, the team recommends multifocal lenses to customers between the ages of 45 and 50 wherever possible. ACUVUE OASYS MAX 1-Day MULTIFOCAL could prove to be an effective door opener here with its convincing visual quality and pleasant comfort experience.

Convincing: spectacle fans become contact lens wearers

In order to expand the contact lens business and benefit more from dual sales, Bernhard Schaub and Judith Seidel generally offer contact lenses to all customers and encourage them to try them out. They put contact lenses on people who wear glasses and recommend additional contact lenses for sports or a special hobby. "In this way, we have already convinced quite a few customers who actually came to us to buy glasses to try contact lenses," says Bernhard Schaub.

The secret of her success: "We advise with joy and emotion," emphasizes Judith Seidel. "Because contact lenses are not sold by parameters, but by emotions. This is exactly what ACUVUE OASYS MAX 1-Day does very well. It is an innovative product that we offer our customers with enthusiasm. And it gives us many new approaches to appeal to potential customers with storytelling on both a rational and emotional level."

"The product speaks for itself," says Bernhard Schaub. "ACUVUE OASYS MAX 1-Day has enormous potential on the market. Not only new customers, but also existing contact lens wearers will choose ACUVUE OASYS MAX 1-Day thanks to its many advantages."

Combination of innovative technologies

ACUVUE OASYS MAX 1-Day offers an unprecedented combination of two new technologies4:

  • The TearStable technology ensures longer-lasting stability of the tear film and therefore exceptional wearing comfort.
  • The Optiblue Light Filter reduces stray light by 20 percent, improving visual quality and comfort.

ACUVUE OASYS MAX 1-Day MULTIFOCAL complements the interaction with pupil-oriented design. This optimizes 100 percent of the parameters for varying pupil sizes depending on age and refractive error. This means that presbyopic customers also benefit from sharp, clear vision at any distance and in all light conditions, as well as a high level of end-of-day comfort.

Judith Seidel and Beni Schaub, Managing Directors of Peter & Bosshardt Optik in Zurich

Experts from the German Ophthalmological Society (DOG) warn: contact lens cases are bacteria traps!

At least 3.4 million people in Germany wear contact lenses. However, comfortable wearing should not hide the fact that the visual aids remain a foreign body in the eye, increasing the risk of sometimes serious corneal infections. Experts from the German Ophthalmological Society (DOG) pointed this out at their annual congress in Berlin.

Professor Gerd Geerling, MD, explained how contact lens wearers can best protect themselves from increasingly common pathogens such as fungi and amoebae at an online press conference for the DOG 2023 on September 21. Infectious pathogens such as bacteria and viruses exist on every healthy eye surface. "However, an intact tear film and a dense superficial cell layer of the cornea prevent germs from entering the eye," explains DOG expert Professor Dr. Gerd Geerling. "Anyone who uses contact lenses to correct visual defects - whether myopia, hyperopia or astigmatism - or scars, places the round adhesive shells on precisely this protective layer of tear film and cornea."

The Director of the Department of Ophthalmology at Düsseldorf University Hospital emphasizes: "Contact lenses therefore always represent a risky foreign body in the eye." This is because the adhesive shell changes the oxygen supply and moistening of the eye surface with tear film and can initially cause microscopic damage to the cornea. "As a rule, these injuries heal without any problems," says Geerling, "but they can also cause pain and be the entry point for infectious pathogens."

Soft contact lenses susceptible to rare infectious agents

Rare infectious pathogens such as amoebae and fungi are found alongside regular bacteria, particularly in wearers of soft contact lenses. "These pathogens are becoming increasingly common today - possibly also due to climatic changes in our latitudes - and can sometimes cause very serious infections of the cornea and the inside of the eye that require months of treatment with eye drops and tablets," explains Geerling. In particularly severe cases, a corneal transplant or, in the worst case, even the removal of an eye may be necessary.

Observe the rules of conduct

To avoid such infections, contact lens wearers should strictly adhere to the manufacturer's care instructions and follow a few rules of conduct. "Always wash your hands before coming into contact with the adhesive shells," advises Geerling. Dirt and germs collect on the contact lenses themselves over time. "That's why daily disinfection with the prescribed cleaning and storage liquid is extremely important," emphasizes the ophthalmologist. Geerling also advises manual cleaning: "To do this, place the contact lenses on the cleaned palm of your hand and gently rub a few drops of cleaning agent onto the lens with your fingertip, then rinse the lenses with saline solution." If a contact lens is damaged or dirty, dispose of it immediately.

Clean storage containers properly

However, bacteria can also multiply in the contact lens storage container. "They can form a biofilm there, a kind of mucus produced by the pathogen itself, a real bacterial trap," says Geerling. The important thing is: Never clean with tap water - neither containers nor contact lenses. "Tap water is not sterile, it contains microorganisms, metal particles, chlorine and other substances," explains Geerling. "If you use it to clean or store trays, you run the risk of germs sticking to the lens." It is best to rinse the container with the disinfectant solution and allow it to air dry. After three months, the container should be replaced with a new one.

Risk of infection even with daily disposable lenses

The risk of infection is even higher with daily disposable lenses that are thrown away and reinserted every day. "This is particularly true if they are worn for longer than recommended, for example continuously through the night," says Geerling. The expert advises against swimming with contact lenses in natural waters: "This reduces the risk of infection with acanthamoebae, which can cause serious corneal inflammation."

See an ophthalmologist if you have complaints

If allergic reactions, complaints such as reduced vision, secretion, redness or pain occur, an ophthalmologist should be consulted. "They will also decide whether the lenses can continue to be worn or whether contact lens withdrawal should be observed, for example in the case of drip treatment," says the DOG expert.

Who is Alessandro Barbero?

As a professor of medieval history at the Università del Piemonte Orientale, Alessandro Barbero has not only impressed Italy with his in-depth historical research, but also with his unmistakable charisma. In addition to being awarded the prestigious Premio Strega in 1996, he became a viral phenomenon by making history lectures accessible to a wide audience.

He also became known for his performances at the Festival della Mente in Sarzana and his online lessons. In the digital world, Barbero shines through his authenticity. His captivating way of telling stories reminds us that true curiosity and passion for knowledge are timeless.

Alessandro Barbero, born in Turin in 1959, is Professor of Medieval History at the University of Eastern Piedmont in Vercelli. He has published various books on medieval history, including the "Dictionary of the Middle Ages" (1998). He writes regularly for the feature section of La Stampa and for other magazines. Barbero has written three novels, including the bestseller "The beautiful life of the nobleman Robert Pyle and the wars of others", which was awarded the Strega Prize in 1996 and translated into seven languages.

Charlemagne - Father of Europe

Alessandro Barbero's book "Charlemagne" has been published in German, translated from Italian by Annette Kopetzky. Charlemagne (748 to 814) is one of the most important figures in medieval history who laid the foundations of Europe. The Charlemagne myth continues to this day. The author impressively links the depiction of political life with the social developments in Europe at that time, which took place not only at the courts, but also in the monasteries and abbeys, counties and dioceses and in the world of ordinary free and unfree men and women. In his vividly written account, Alessandro Barbero draws on an intensive study of the sources. He describes the warlike conflicts of the Franks and reports on the diplomatic entanglements with Byzantium. The court academy, educational reform and art are impressive testimonies to the program of cultural and economic renewal promoted by Charles.

Barbero wears a "St. John" from Blackfin

The Italian eyewear label announces: "In a world where beauty and quality meet, Blackfin always focuses on elegance down to the smallest detail. We are delighted to announce that one of Italy's most famous historians, Alessandro Barbero, has been spotted wearing our best-selling Blackfin St. John eyewear. In the digital world, Barbero shines through his authenticity. His captivating storytelling reminds us that true curiosity and passion for knowledge are timeless. Just like our passion for handmade titanium eyewear from Italy. Just as Barbero illuminates history, our St. John eyewear enlightens those who wear it. At Blackfin, we believe in perfection through art and history. We are honored that Alessandro Barbero has chosen to see the world through our eyewear."

Extensive measures in favor of biodiversity

Silhouette strengthens biodiversity: a near-natural garden has been created on the premises of the globally successful Silhouette Group in Linz. In the densely built-up mixed-use area on Ellbognerstraße, the 20,000 square meter garden looks like a green oasis. The lawns have developed into a rich habitat and retreat for insects, small mammals and birds. Native and site-appropriate plant species activate soil life and improve the microclimate.

The garden is irrigated with three service water wells. This saves the Silhouette Group around 1.5 million liters of drinking water per year. The well water used for irrigation is returned to the groundwater through the untreated soil, resulting in a closed cycle. With this garden, the Silhouette Group is sending out a clear signal that economy and biodiversity can go hand in hand.

Biodiversity on the move: 200,000 honey bees

To further strengthen biodiversity, the family-owned company has hired 200,000 new employees: Honey bees. Since May 2023, ten bee colonies have been housed in ten beehives in the near-natural garden. The bees swarm out and collect pollen within a radius of up to 500 meters. In doing so, they pollinate plants and ensure that 80 % of all wild and crop plants reproduce. In this way, bees make a valuable contribution to biodiversity. You can even taste this diversity. The honey is a mixture of pollen from a wide variety of plants on the farm and the surrounding area.

Back to old greatness - personal exchange is more important than ever

The congress of the German Ophthalmological Society (DOG) has returned to its pre-pandemic size: From September 28 to October 1, 2,966 professional participants attended DOG 2023, with a total of 4,628 visitors flocking to the Estrel in Berlin. "The great response confirms that personal exchange is more important than ever," summarizes DOG President Professor Dr. med. dr. h.c. Nikolaos Bechrakis. In addition to the keynote lectures, the "Highlights in Translational Science" format was one of the highlights of the annual conference.

Bechrakis had set a special focus with the topic "Leadership in ophthalmology through humanity and competence". "A role model is more convincing than a thousand instructions," explained the DOG President in his opening speech. Being a role model includes "working to ensure that others get further than you do." In order to achieve this goal, the DOG has founded an academy for managers, to which doctors up to the age of 45 can apply. Over the next 12 months, the 16 participants will be taught skills for the leadership of tomorrow in 6 modules.

The Albrecht von Graefe Lecture by Professor Dr. Norbert Pfeiffer on the topic of "University ophthalmology in the 21st century: Quo vadis?". Further keynote lectures were given by Professor Dr. Tero Kivelä and Dr. David Yorston. Tero Kivelä, a researcher from Helsinki, spoke about ways to reduce metastasis in uveal melanoma; the British scientist Yornston addressed the question of how vision can be further improved after retinal detachment. All sessions in the "Highlights in Translational Science" series were very well attended. "This success shows the great potential that lies in the exchange between clinical and basic science," says Bechrakis.

The "DOG Updates - State of the Art" training format has proven to be a firm fixture, which once again met with strong interest, as did the case conferences - above all the popular Consilium diagnosticum. However, many other symposia, lecture sessions and company symposia also recorded pleasing attendance rates. In total, ophthalmologists were able to attend the presidential address and three keynotes, ten DOG Updates, eight International Expert Talks, 61 symposia, 39 courses and 12 workshops, 22 free lecture sessions, 68 working sessions and one patient symposium. In the industry exhibition, 98 exhibitors presented innovative products and services, and 24 company events also took place.

The supporting program also featured a special highlight this year: On Friday, the DOG in Concert took place for the 20th time. To mark this anniversary, works by Georg Friedrich Händel, Johann Sebastian Bach, Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach and Ulrich Roever/Michael Korb were performed in the Passionskirche in Berlin-Kreuzberg. The benefit concert in aid of the Auge Foundation took place under the direction of Juan Pag¨s. In addition to the musical performances, the sporting achievements were also impressive. The Eye Foundation's charity "Eye Run" on Friday, for which over 130 participants had registered, was a five-kilometer run at 7.00 am. Finally, on Sunday, the challenge cup of the "EyeCycle" charity bike race was presented to the team from Bonn University Eye Hospital that cycled the most kilometers.

In addition, members of the Executive Committee were elected in Berlin as scheduled.

LINDBERG launches new advertising campaign

In a world driven by innovation, LINDBERG is a pioneer that is constantly evolving the eyewear industry. The Danish visionary has now embarked on a transformative visual journey that appeals to a fresh, youthful audience while staying true to its three cornerstones: Design, Innovation and Personalization. At the heart of this transformation is the new slogan "Visionary By Design".

The new slogan sums up the essence of LINDBERG: visionary, innovative thinking in symbiosis with distinctive design mastery. The new, ambitious campaign aims to communicate in a sophisticated, contemporary and differentiated way, leaving a lasting brand statement. Personalization is at the heart of this campaign, with careful consideration given to pose, imagery, art direction and casting to speak authentically to the audience. The focus is on portraying genuine human emotion through intimate photography, highlighting different personalities that transcend eyewear and reflect individuality.

Design

The design draws attention to the details of the product and the craftsmanship expressed through the distinctive hinge representation. The iconic screwless hinges are a hallmark of LINDBERG's visual identity, and through an artistic macro cut-out of these recognizable hinges, LINDBERG highlights a design detail that always speaks louder than any logo. The campaign elegantly highlights the product presentation and emphasizes the subtle luxury and distinctive design features.

Innovation

Innovation is at the heart of LINDBERG's approach to standing out in the industry through distinctive campaigns. The layout and content of this advertising campaign is characterized by captivating black and white. The black and white images are characterized by artistic macro shots, emphasizing LINDBERG's mastery and individuality and inviting consumers to experience eyewear as an expression of innovation and personal style.

Personalization

This project invites people to join LINDBERG on a journey where eyewear embodies innovation and individuality. They get an idea of what eyewear can be. LINDBERG envisions a future where every frame tells a story and every lens reflects a unique perspective and invites everyone to be "Visionary By Design", to see their own story in a clearer, sharper and exquisitely designed world.

Good News from PlasticBank

In the face of plastic pollution and poverty, a story of hope and change unfolds. Imagine if more than 100 million kilograms of discarded plastic - the equivalent of no less than 5 billion 500 ml bottles - would no longer pollute our precious environment... This is not just a dream, but a remarkable milestone that PlasticBank has achieved together with numerous partners and supporters!

PlasticBank writes: "Our heartfelt thanks go to our over 40,000 collection members in more than 580 recycling communities who have collected every piece of plastic by hand and thus paved their way out of poverty. But praise also goes to our partners and supporters. We are on an incredible journey that has only just begun! Before we continue this adventure, take a moment to watch the video below and discover four of the 100,000,000 reasons to celebrate the purpose, wisdom and passion of our community members."

Create moments

Nia Sari, a PlasticBank collector in Indonesia, was dragging an old, unreliable motorcycle with her load of collected plastic. And with it came financial worries. That all changed last September when PlasticBank officials surprised her at her home in Bali. Take a look at the Video and experience a really touching story!

Marcolin announces partnership with MCM

Marcolin, a global leader in the eyewear industry, and MCM, the German luxury fashion house founded in Munich in 1976, have announced an exclusive licensing agreement until December 31, 2028.

MCM was founded in the midst of the creative and rebellious spirit of the 1970s and has developed into an alternative to conventional luxury. The brand began by designing high-quality accessories and quickly gained worldwide recognition. Today, MCM represents a new age of elegance, merging travel and inclusivity. Beloved by industry leaders, creatives and athletes, the brand is represented in more than 650 stores including Munich, Paris, New York and Tokyo.

Marcolin will develop MCM's eyewear collections in line with the brand's core values, which have always combined craftsmanship, design and sustainability in its creations. The first MCM sunglasses and optical collection produced by Marcolin will be available in selected stores from January 2024.

Legendary Porsche style for the anniversary in elegant gray-blue

Porsche Design presents a limited-edition eyewear collection to mark the 60th anniversary of the legendary Porsche 911. Inspired by the silhouette of the 911, the popular Flowing Titanium eyewear collection from Porsche Design combines elegant design with truly outstanding performance.

To mark the 60th anniversary of the Porsche 911, Porsche Design is presenting a special edition of just 911 units, available in the same colors as the anniversary edition of the legendary Porsche 911: Black and Shoreblue, an exclusive gray-blue shade. The collection includes the P'8369 frame and the P'8966 sunglasses, whose lenses are equipped with the innovative VISION DRIVE™ technology.

High-quality details such as the three-dimensional temples and the use of 100% beta titanium optimize the function of the models and reduce the shape to the essentials. The result is soft lines and a striking contrast between light and shadow, creating a strong and unmistakable look.

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