CloserStill Media purchase of 100% Optical welcomed by AOP

The Association of Optometrists (AOP) has welcomed news that 100% Optical, the UK’s annual optical trade show, has been acquired by specialist events business, CloserStill Media. The purchase has been agreed with events company Media 10, who set up 100% Optical in 2014.

The AOP is the trade show's official UK partner, having supported the event since its launch. The AOP’s journal, Optometry Today, is the official media partner for the event.

Adam Sampson, AOP Chief Executive, said: “Over the last decade, there is no doubt that 100% Optical has grown to become an extra special date in the calendar for the entire profession. From day one we are proud to have been the official partner with Media 10 to deliver a must-attend show for our members and the wider sector. With an unrivalled education programme designed and delivered by the AOP team, the continued growth of 100% Optical – which is now supported by the industry’s leading contact lens, equipment and eye wear manufacturers – is a testament to the commitment and strength of our partnership with Media 10.

“We now look forward in earnest to working with CloserStill Media to build on this success to make 100% Optical even bigger and better for attendees and exhibitors alike. CloserStill Media has a track record delivering successful healthcare events including for professionals in pharmacy and dentistry, enabling practitioners to share knowledge, learn and connect with peers, and promote innovation and excellence in healthcare. 100% Optical’s future could not look brighter.”

Matthew Butler, Group Managing Director for CloserStill Media said: “For several years, we have been aware of the success of 100% Optical. As the official UK partner, the AOP’s fantastic education content is central to the event’s success, which attracts many people working within this dynamic sector. We look forward to working together with the AOP in the future, exploring ways to enhance the event as the optical profession continues to develop and innovate.”

Ends

For more information, please contact Serena Box, Head of Media, PR and External Affairs, at the Association of Optometrists, [email protected] or telephone 020 7549 2040.

Notes to Editors

Association of Optometrists

The Association of Optometrists (AOP) are the leading representative membership organisation for optometrists in the UK. We support 80% of practising optometrists to fulfil their professional roles to protect the nation’s eye health. For more information, visit www.aop.org.uk

100% Optical

100% Optical takes place on 1-3 March 2025. 100% Optical is delivered in partnership with the AOP and our journal Optometry Today. 100% Optical is the industry’s flagship annual, international event welcoming optometrists, dispensing opticians, contact lens practitioners, ophthalmologists and undergraduates from across the world. To register: https://100percentoptical-2025.reg.buzz/ot-website