As part of its dedication to helping improve the way people see each day, CooperVision is extending its support of World Sight Day, with the 2024 event marking more than a decade of commitment to the cause.
The company is a Global Patron of the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness (IAPB)—the organizers of World Sight Day—and is the largest all-time donor to the Optometry Giving Sight (OGS) World Sight Day Challenge. CooperVision’s strategic partnerships with both non-profits have helped to make a significant impact to their shared missions of eradicating preventable blindness and vision impairment.
This year, CooperVision is encouraging tens of thousands of employees, customers, and partners to participate in IAPB’s Pledge to Love Your Child’s Eyes, which highlights the critical importance of prioritizing child eye health, starting with pediatric eye exams.
Additional work with IAPB has helped to elevate awareness of the significance of refractive error screening and testing to ensure clear vision for everyone. The company has also partnered with IAPB to advocate for government support that allows for the early detection of myopia to reduce the burden of the disease and ensure every child fulfills their potential. IAPB plans to host a Global Eye Summit in 2026.
In close collaboration with OGS, CooperVision builds upon its legacy of raising money and awareness by running its annual World Sight Day Challenge for employees across the globe. All employee-generated donations, many of which come from unique activities hosted at company facilities, will be given to OGS along with a company matching component. CooperVision also enables donations from its contact lens wearers by providing an option for patient rebates to be designated to OGS. The company is an OGS Global Platinum Partner and Dan McBride, CooperCompanies Chief Operating Officer, serves on its Board of Directors.
“We can never underestimate the power and potential of sight in children and adults alike. We need to cherish and celebrate its ability to change people’s lives through furthering education, enabling work, and even elevating families and communities out of poverty. Partnering with IAPB helps bring additional global attention to this critical issue, and supporting OGS aids its efforts to expand optometric care around the world. With our global leadership in myopia management and our MiSight® 1 day contact lens, we are pleased to see children’s vision at the forefront of World Sight Day this year.”
Simon Seshadri, Senior Vice President, Global Marketing and Life Cycle Management, CooperVision
For more information or to join the cause, visit www.iapb.org or donate to the OGS World Sight Day Challenge at www.givingsight.org.
World Sight Day, 10 October 2024, highlights the importance of prioritizing child eye health and giving children everywhere the opportunity to love their eyes. Today, the World Council of Optometry (WCO) joins our partners at the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness (IAPB) and thousands worldwide for World Sight Day 2024.
“World Sight Day 2024 is focused on children’s vision. What a great opportunity to highlight and increase awareness of the importance of screening, diagnosing, and treating vision issues early in a child’s life to reduce the number of people with preventable visual impairments. Good vision is important for our children to learn and grow.”
Dr. Sandra Block, WCO President
This year, World Sight Day is a call to action. We are asking parents, caregivers, and schools to prioritize child eye health by making a pledge to Love Your Child’s Eyes, reinforcing your child’s eye health as a top priority and raising awareness of the 450 million children globally who have a sight condition that needs treatment.
WCO Managing Director Alyssa Callaghan is making the pledge to love her daughter’s eyes. “As an employee of WCO and someone who received early intervention from an optometrist at the age of two, I understand the importance of having my child’s eyes tested,” she shared, “Keeping her eyes healthy will set her up for success in her development and her future.”
WCO is pleased to highlight our Pediatric Eye Care Resource, available to the public, which includes clinical information, assessment tools and references for clinicians to use to help children and their families in accessing the best eye care possible.
Additionally, a new optometry publication summarizing a 2023 global survey conducted by the World Council of Optometry (WCO) was recently published online. This study investigated the optometric demographics within WCO member countries and information related to the scope of practice and legislation. It showed that 20% of the countries surveyed limit the use of diagnostic drugs, which can impact early detection efforts of refractive errors in children.
“Many refractive errors in children, such as hyperopia, remain undetected unless diagnostic agents, such as cycloplegics, are used. Optometrists are well-positioned to address many eye conditions in children, however, several countries limit the use of diagnostic drugs as per the latest WCO Global Survey on scope of practice,” said Dr. Yazan Gammoh, Chair of the WCO Education Committee and lead author of the study. “Limiting the use of diagnostic drugs by optometrists hinders the efforts for early detection and timely management of refractive errors in children which may lead to amblyopia (lazy eye), poor performance in school, and may affect their future career choices.”
Dr. Sandra Block, pictured holding a World Sight Day 2024 campaign sign at an eye screening event held on October 8th in New York City.
As primary eye care providers, optometrists must be active participants in efforts to address preventable vision impairment worldwide. WCO celebrates the efforts of our members across the globe to emphasize the importance of prioritizing eye care in young people. Visit www.iapb.world/world-sight-day to learn how you can #LoveYourEyes for World Sight Day and encourage others to do the same.
Versace celebrates the iconic Medusa Biggie sunglasses with an innovative and unconventional campaign that shows how life is better in Biggies.
Biggies are an undoubted icon of Versace design and have been one of the most distinctive eyewear shapes in global luxury for over three decades. Their signature attitude and high-luxury design have always attracted individuals with independent spirit, most notably Notorious B.I.G. (Biggie Smalls), the world-leading rapper who rocketed the style to icon status within rap, music, entertainment and culture. The Biggies style is named in his honour.
The multifaceted and innovation focused campaign mixes physical and digital experiences for a full immersion into the iconic lifestyle felt when wearing Biggies. An augmented reality experience is accessible through QR codes on Life is Better in Biggies out-of-home billboards placed across global cities.
The interactive journey unveils a pair of golden Biggies floating above the House’s Medusa before the full selection of available Medusa Biggie styles is revealed. A Try-On filter available through Meta and Snapchat social channels lets users wear the Biggies in 3D and share selfies with friends. A fully immersive Virtual Reality headset experience available at select Luxottica stores gives users a new way to interact with the iconic Biggies. Upon entering the virtual world, users are placed into an opulent Biggies Celebration Room and can travel through portals to other areas until they are faced with Versace’s powerful Medusa, all in an immersive 360-world.
The new season expands the Medusa Biggie sunglasses collection with new designs and colours.
The Medusa Biggie eyewear designs are available for eyecare professionals at my.essilorluxottica.com.
SILMO Paris 2024 once again established itself as the key event for the optical industry, offering a rich panorama of emerging trends and immersive experiences. For four intense days, the show was the focal point for inspiring encounters, cutting-edge innovations and enriching exchanges, captivating industry professionals.
This year, 32,125 professionals (up 2.6% on 2023), 52% of them international and 48% French, came to discover the new products presented by more than 900 companies spread over 75,000 m² in Halls 6 and 7 at Paris Nord Villepinte. This dynamism fostered an environment conducive to discoveries and collaborations, paving the way for new prospects and projects for the market.
SILMO Paris 2024 thus continues to consolidate its role as an essential crossroads in the evolution of the industry, where innovative ideas and promising concepts come to life, shaping the future of the sector.
HIGHLIGHTS OF SILMO PARIS 2024
EXCELLENCE REWARDED & AWARDS PRESENTED
THE SILMO D’OR, 30 YEARS ON
The SILMO d’Or awards recognise technical excellence, creativity and innovation, essential qualities that drive the optical industry into the future. Each year, this event attracts the attention of professionals and the media from all over the world, underlining its importance and impact on the global market.
The 2024 edition will mark the 30th anniversary of the SILMO d’Or, a testament to its enduring influence and the importance of know-how in the ever-evolving optical industry. Discover the winners of the 2024 SILMO d’Or.
OPTICAL DESIGN CONTEST
SILMO Paris also encourages the talents of tomorrow through the Optical Design Contest, which aims to promote expertise, defend the industry and stimulate innovation. Open to design students from all over the world, the third edition of this competition focused on eyewear accessories that not only correct and protect vision, but also explore new functions and uses. Discover the 2024 winner: DISTROAL by Thomas DENEUFBOURG & Adrien GALLOIS – École de Design Nantes Atlantique
COMMITTED COMPANY PRIZE
Adopting a comprehensive CSR strategy is essential to meet stakeholder expectations while strengthening the resilience and competitiveness of companies in the optical sector. To encourage these sustainable and responsible practices, SILMO, in collaboration with the HYSSOP agency, has launched the Committed Company Prize. This award recognises companies that take a holistic approach to ethical, environmental and social issues and are actively committed to a more responsible future. Discover the 2024 winners: Vanni & Skans
INTERNATIONAL OPTICIAN OF THE YEAR AWARD
This award, presented by the IOA (International Opticians Association) in partnership with SILMO Paris, encourages and rewards an optician for his or her vision and commitment to promoting the values of the profession to both staff and customers. Discover the 2024 winner: Vitor Martins (Portugal)
INTER-SCHOOL CHALLENGE
Every Monday during SILMO Paris, Schools Day offers students and teachers a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the heart of the optical industry. This day also included the Inter-School Challenge, a fun competition organised in partnership with OPTIC 2000 and dedicated to 2nd year BTS students. This year, ESSO ANGERS won the competition, with the top 5 students winning a trip to a European optics exhibition.
ANIMATIONS
SILMO NEXT – FUTUROLOGY: THE FUTURE OF POSSIBILITIES
Immerse yourself in the future of optics and explore the fascinating prospects for the years 2025 to 2035. Professionals discovered a space, divided into several distinct zones, where technological innovations, personalised solutions, interactive experiences, augmented and virtual reality all come together.
The SILMO NEXT Experts Committee – Who are these specialists and professionals? What themes were discussed? And what conclusions were drawn? Discover the latest report from the Committee of Experts.
THE TRENDS FORUM
A freeze frame on the shapes, colours and materials of eyewear, a complete overview that shed light on the best optical and sunwear frames from exhibitors at the show. Here are the four trends highlighted at the show that will be tomorrow’s success stories.
MEETING THE KNOW-HOW
MEILLEURS OUVRIERS DE FRANCE
An exploration of the MOFs’ key workshops, where masters of the French craft revealed their exceptional craftsmanship and offered demonstrations: design of made-to-measure frames, hand shaping, welding, etc. And, as every year, visitors were able to discover the ‘Design Challenge’ exhibition, which brought together the creations of design students and trainees from the Ecole de Lunetterie de Morez, eclectic frames inspired by plant materials, offering a wonderful story of transmission and sharing.
THE EXPERTISE OF FRENCH EYEWEAR MANUFACTURERS
Plunge into the heart of the Jura mountains to discover the unique expertise of these companies and meet their craftsmen during captivating events. A showcase for the talent and tradition of artisan eyewear manufacturers who perpetuate a centuries-old know-how that is essential to the worldwide reputation of « Made in France ».
OYONNAX – MOREZ MUSEUM
A fascinating collection of historical objects and innovations that have shaped two centuries of eyewear history. This showcase of French eyewear heritage is an opportunity to explore the evolution of techniques and frame designs, while discovering the rich history and heritage of the two iconic towns of Oyonnax and Morez.
SILMO TALKS & THE SILMO ACADEMY CONFERENCES
An even more immersive and interactive experience, with a series of inspiring conferences offering insights and analysis from leading specialists. At the same time, the new SILMO Academy format enabled visitors to attend engaging talks from leading international researchers and experts. Find out more about the exhibition programme.
THE OPTYMPICS
A fun and engaging competition, the OPTympics celebrated the intersection between sportsmanship and the fascinating world of optics. Like athletes pushing their limits, opticians were given the opportunity to play the game and test their skills with passion, creativity and expertise. + Over 800 people took part! Click here to see the results.
In collaboration with Radioottica, Nico Caradonna & Behind My Glass
◊ THE SILMO TOUCH, a year-round commitment ◊
RSE: AT THE HEART OF OPTICS
SILMO is actively committed to supporting the optical industry in adopting sustainable and ethical practices. In partnership with the Hyssop agency, it is making available practical fact sheets that decipher key issues such as sourcing, packaging and transport, in order to guide companies in integrating social responsibility at the heart of their activities. The factsheets offer practical advice on how to reduce the ecological footprint, encourage diversity and improve the transparency of supply chains. By combining innovation and responsibility, the SILMO supports industry professionals in their transition to a more sustainable future.
« THE RIGHT OPTICS » PODCASTS BY SILMO
« The Right Optics » is designed to accompany professionals throughout the year, beyond the borders of the show. These lively conversations with experts and special guests, all orchestrated by Nick Coffer, explore in depth the captivating world of eyewear. The episodes reveal success stories, highlight exceptional expertise and share inspiring visions for the future of the sector.
SILMO TV & SILMO NEWS, the broadcast
Throughout the four days of the show, SILMO TV journalists were on hand to report live on all the latest developments in the sector and to ensure that visitors did not miss any of the key moments of the event. Thanks to expert analysis, personal accounts and reports, professionals were able to keep abreast of the latest developments at SILMO Paris and will be able to follow the SILMO news broadcasts throughout the year to keep abreast of the latest trends and innovations in the optical sector. All SILMO Paris 2024 programmes and interviews are available here.
SILMO JOB
SILMO Paris, a key partner of the optics industry, supports professionals in meeting the key challenges of the sector, in particular talent recruitment. Throughout the year, recruiters and candidates benefit from a dynamic space beyond the exhibition walls, offering exclusive opportunities to build the teams of tomorrow.
See you next year, from September 26 to 29 at Paris Nord Villepinte.
ARHUS, a new concept from Morel, offers the combination of two premium materials: natural wood and stainless steel. The dark green colour of the front blends perfectly with the walnut essence of its slim adjustable temples.
A colourless varnish protects the noble material, while allowing it to develop a patina and forge a unique character over time.
Family-owned, independent and responsible, the company strives to transmit the authenticity of its expertise while developing a strong international distribution network. Today, we are present in over 90 countries!
Today, more than ever, MOREL is proud of our past and resolutely turned towards our future. Our sincere desire for improvement lies close to our hearts and has led us to embrace an environmentally and socially responsible initiative. MOREL strives to become a company that is committed to addressing the major global issues of our time.
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K-774’s retro-inspired look features patterned base acetate and custom lamination on the temple, creating a striking look where colours blend seamlessly.
Delve into the world of night vision technology. From thermal imaging to infrared systems, explore how these innovations improve our ability to see in the dark.
Vision Expo East, organized by co-owners RX and The Vision Council, announces that submissions are now open for the highly anticipated NOW Trend Showcase and Awards at Vision Expo East 2025, taking place in Orlando, FL.
The Association des optométristes du Québec (AOQ) will take the relevant legal measures to challenge the validity of the government’s ministerial order preventing optometrists in the province from exercising a right to which they are entitled: to opt out of the public health plan.
K-774’s retro-inspired look features patterned base acetate and custom lamination on the temple, creating a striking look where colours blend seamlessly.
Delve into the world of night vision technology. From thermal imaging to infrared systems, explore how these innovations improve our ability to see in the dark.
Vision Expo East, organized by co-owners RX and The Vision Council, announces that submissions are now open for the highly anticipated NOW Trend Showcase and Awards at Vision Expo East 2025, taking place in Orlando, FL.
The Association des optométristes du Québec (AOQ) will take the relevant legal measures to challenge the validity of the government’s ministerial order preventing optometrists in the province from exercising a right to which they are entitled: to opt out of the public health plan.
K-774’s retro-inspired look features patterned base acetate and custom lamination on the temple, creating a striking look where colours blend seamlessly.
Delve into the world of night vision technology. From thermal imaging to infrared systems, explore how these innovations improve our ability to see in the dark.
Vision Expo East, organized by co-owners RX and The Vision Council, announces that submissions are now open for the highly anticipated NOW Trend Showcase and Awards at Vision Expo East 2025, taking place in Orlando, FL.
The Association des optométristes du Québec (AOQ) will take the relevant legal measures to challenge the validity of the government’s ministerial order preventing optometrists in the province from exercising a right to which they are entitled: to opt out of the public health plan.
K-774’s retro-inspired look features patterned base acetate and custom lamination on the temple, creating a striking look where colours blend seamlessly.
Delve into the world of night vision technology. From thermal imaging to infrared systems, explore how these innovations improve our ability to see in the dark.
Vision Expo East, organized by co-owners RX and The Vision Council, announces that submissions are now open for the highly anticipated NOW Trend Showcase and Awards at Vision Expo East 2025, taking place in Orlando, FL.
The Association des optométristes du Québec (AOQ) will take the relevant legal measures to challenge the validity of the government’s ministerial order preventing optometrists in the province from exercising a right to which they are entitled: to opt out of the public health plan.
