The UK’s optical show takes place this weekend (1st to 3rd March 2025) – eyewear companies from Europe and the US will be exhibiting – in total 250 exhibitors have been confirmed for the trade event
Returning to London’s Excel Centre this week, 100% Optical organisers are promising an action-packed show, the 11th edition of the UK’s largest event for the optical industry. The programme for the weekend will include an education programme, in partnership with the Association of Optometrist (AOP), as well as optical fashion, design and cutting-edge equipment and technology, the return of 100% Ophthalmology, a co-located event which is the first in the world to bring together optometry and ophthalmology under one roof, plus a host of ‘happy hour’ networking opportunities.
For visitors who wish to find eyewear design inspiration, this year’s event will see the return of the 100% Studio (sponsored by Nikon Lenswear UK). The event organisers say this area will be “bigger, and bolder” featuring an enhanced dedicated area featuring new brands, 12 new stands, a line of up independently handcrafted eyewear. The organisers say this area is committed to championing the industry’s leading independent eyewear brands that honour craftsmanship, creativity and innovation.
As the show approaches, Eyestylist is pleased to share some brand new eyewear collections from international independent eyewear brands, showing at the London event for the first time. Above: the Italian company Blackfin will exhibit at 100% Optical – they have multiple releases, including new models in the Spring/Summer 2025 Blackfin One collection: this line embodies a bold, sophisticated vision, where modern shapes merge with a timeless aesthetic. The desire to experiment with new geometries converges with a constantly updated colour palette, www.blackfin.eu
Erker’s from the US return to 100% Optical each year. This collection is full of artisan details, heritage references, and fresh colours and patterns. Highlights include the Bay Window Collection with 27 chic eyewear frames, blending the story of the brand’s German heritage with modern style. Inspired by the charm of St. Louis and the warmth of home, the Bay Window Collection includes 20 optical frames, 4 sunglasses, and 3 additions to the limited-production ‘Special Reserve’ series. This collection also adds 18 new colourways, including unique frame shapes made of metal, acetate, or in combination, and a subdued, modern colour palette that provides flattering choices for all specs wearers. www.erkers1879.com
ROLF frames continue to be popular in the UK and with some of the leading optical retailers thanks to their quality and material innovation, in natural wood, horn, stone and 3D printed material made from castor beans. 100% Optical will be an opportunity to see their new designs in the award-winning Evolved, Substance and Fusion collections for Spring/Summer 2025. www.rolf-spectacles.com
Rich colours and artistic flourishes with playful geometric design details define the new FACE A FACE collection – on show at the Design Eyewear Group stand this weekend at 100% Optical. Avant-garde concepts, bold, hexagonal, oval and square eyewear shapes and visually exciting details all feature here, in sunglasses and opticals that are full of unique expression. www.faceaface-paris.com
Dita-Lancier has just launched a new collection designed for performance and everyday wear, where eyewear functionality meets “superior style and comfort”. The frames in the collection offer ergonomic design, lightweight silhouettes, and durable yet elegant structures that benefit from particular features for comfort such as flex-fitting temples and adjustable anti-slip notepads. www.dita.com
MYKITA will exhibit at 100% Optical this year. Among their popular collection is the Mykita Lite range, defined by modern silhouettes and pure constructions. This concept has been developed to offer super lightweight frames that also offer a refined and sophisticated aesthetic that is a pleasure to wear. www.mykita.com
100% Optical is a trade-only event for optical retailers taking place from 1st-3rd March 2025. To find out more visit www.100percentoptical.com