Capitalising on changes

That, sadly, also signals the time to put my much-loved sunglasses back in their case as the weather starts to turn autumnal – although, the OT team has its fingers crossed for one or two more sunny days to come.

While on holiday in Barcelona last week, I spotted a number of independent optical practices that had eye-catching window displays.

Eager to see what brands were being stocked, I put my sangria down and found some well-known names, such as Design Eyewear Group’s Face a Face, as well as eyewear companies that I’m hoping to get familiar with when I travel to Paris for Silmo next month (28 September–1 October).

Director of Silmo Paris, Eric Lenoir, told OT that the 2018 show will be “much more than just a professional trade fair” providing a “complete and comprehensive exhibitor offering” as well as an “ecosystem of services” to eye care professionals.

De Rigo, TD Tom Davies, Modo, Marcolin and Dunelm Optical have all shared their plans for Silmo, and OT will be bringing you more news on launches and insights on the latest trends from the Paris trade show in due course.

If you’re planning to attend as a practitioner or an eyewear company, OT would like you to get in touch and share your plans. Please email [email protected]

OT is also getting ready for the 2019 instalment of 100% Optical (ExCeL London on 12–14 January 2019). Registration has opened and our second preview ofn the show's features is in our September issue, which will be landing in your postbox on Saturday (1 September).

Event director of 100% Optical, Nathan Garnett, explained that 100% Optical will allow optical professionals the opportunity to learn how to capitalise on changes to the industry.

“With an ageing population, the diversification of practices into additional care, such as audiology, and the role that they will play supporting the NHS in the future, optical professionals have a fantastic opportunity and should view the future with excitement,” he said.