Vision Expo East attendance increases by 2.6%

Attendance at Vision Expo East increased by 2.6% with a 5% rise in registration from optical buyers this weekend (21–24 March) at the Javits Center in New York, US.

Over 14,800 eye care professionals attended the event which featured education sessions, exhibitors showcasing new eyewear collections and the latest technological innovations were demonstrated.

Organisers of the show, the Vision Council, shared that the event generated 31 million impressions on social media using the hashtag #VisionExpo, which is an increase of 15% from 2018.

Vice president of trade shows and meetings at the Vision Council, Mitch Barkley, said: “We were excited to see the creativity and passion each exhibitor brought to Vision Expo this year, as well as the drive we saw from attendees in the classroom and on the show floor.”

“Vision Expo is thrilled that this year’s show was a success and that we were able to share it with the many individuals who have the same enthusiasm for the optical industry as we do,” he added.

New to the show this year was Vision Expo’s Eye2Eye series at the Bridge, which featured events such as interviews and panel discussions. 

The first ever National Federation of Opticianry Schools Hoya College Bowl took place during OptiCon @ Vision Expo with Zachary McDaniel from Roane State Community College was declared the winner of the optical competition.

Miami-based optical practice Edward Beiner won the OPTImum Retail Award, which was shortlisted down to five finalists from 53 applicants with the overall winner selected by the Boutique Buyer Panel.

Edward Beiner has 11 practices in Florida and specialises in fashion and high performance eyewear, including 3D printed frames.

Exhibitors also took home accolades in the Best Booth Awards. The Most Creative Booth Design award was presented to Article One while Essilor of America took home the Best Brand Activation award.

First place in the Vision Choice Award went to Miraflex, with Faniel Eyewear placing second and Lunette USA finishing third.

The Vision Council’s next event, Vision Expo West, takes place from 18–21 September in Las Vegas, with Vision Expo East returning to New York on 26–29 March 2020.