The countdown is on

From 28 February–2 March, optometrists, dispensing opticians, contact lens opticians, and practice team members, will have the opportunity to meet with new eyewear brands, contact lens manufacturers, and innovating equipment suppliers.

All registered delegates will be given access to the exclusive show app to start planning itineraries and networking with fellow delegates.

Sarah Daniels, senior marketing manager at CloserStill Media, the organisers behind 100% Optical, explained: “You can create your own personalised schedule, arrange meetings with exhibitors, and connect with others – all before the show even begins.”

The printed show guide will also include the programme of continuing professional development (CPD).

Each year, 100% Optical provides an opportunity for the profession to come together, forming new connections and strengthening existing partnerships.

With this in mind, Daniels shared: “Our Central Bar, in the middle of the show floor, is the best spot to unwind and connect with peers. Kick off the weekend in style by joining the opening night party at the end of day one, Saturday 28 February, and celebrate the optical industry together.”

“We’ve got some other exciting networking opportunities to be announced,” she added.

Education capacity

The full programme of CPD is available online – from Main Stage lectures on the latest developments in research, to key practice tools explored in discussion workshops, and thought-provoking case studies presented in peer reviews.

Dr Ian Beasley, head of education at the AOP and OT clinical editor, said: “The start of second year of the CPD cycle is a prime opportunity to review your progress against the GOC’s requirements. Whether you’re missing a particular domain, still need to complete a peer review, or want to consolidate knowledge on a particular topic, 100% Optical has all bases covered.”

OT has been learning more about the key themes covered in the programme – find the series on our website.

Further education sessions will be added to the programme over the coming weeks. Additional booking capacity will be released across the programme on 9 February.

The education programme is highly popular, and seats are reserved across the sessions for walk-ins to enable delegates without bookings the opportunity to join on a first-come, first-served basis.

For walk-in spaces, delegates are encouraged to arrive at their chosen sessions five to 10 minutes early.

Celebrate creativity

Always a key feature of the show, the 100% Catwalk will return in 2026 with three runway shows each day.

Daniels shared that each show will be a “celebration of colour, creativity, and cutting-edge eyewear, all from the exciting brands exhibiting on the show floor. Expect high-energy walks, signature dance breaks, and a curated edit of this season’s most exciting designs.”

The catwalk will also host the annual Love Eyewear Awards on 28 February at 5pm.

With a record-breaking number of entries this year, Daniels encouraged delegates to attend the awards, which “champion the very best in eyewear among independent and major designers.”

In the exhibition, the 100% Studio will be another highlight, Daniels shared. The curated space, sponsored by Nikon Lenswear UK, will feature brands including Albert I’mStein, Blackfin, Götti Switzerland, Linda Farrow, and Mykita.

“If your practice is boutique, luxury-led, or simply searching for something truly different, 100% Studio is where you’ll find your next must-have collection,” she said.