The UK optical industry event took place from 28th February – 2nd March at ExCel London – highlights included the 100% Studio, sponsored by Nikon Optical UK and featuring a host of independent labels including Linda Farrow, Tavat, ORGREEN Optics and Blackfin – as well as the annual Love Eyewear Awards
According to the show organisers, the event was attended by over 11,000 visitors of which 55% came from independent practices. This year’s figures were similar to those of previous years. Over 5000 brands were showcased in total across eyewear, contact lenses, lenses and technology products, and the education programme was said to be extremely popular and well attended.
The Love Eyewear Awards ceremony took place on the first evening of the event. Independent brands featured in the awards included Talla, with their style Belvedere, in the Men’s Sunglasses category, Clayton Franklin 659 in the Men’s Frame Category and Tohu Bohu by LAFONT in the Children’s Eyewear Category. The Focal Rooms won the Eyewear Retailer of the Year. Above: the 100% catwalk continues to be a popular feature of the show
Independent brands from around Europe were represented across the event, via distributors and stands in the 100% Studio. The independent eyewear showcase included Lafont Paris, RES/REI, Tree Spectacles, Hoffmann Natural Eyewear, GOTTI Switzerland, ORGREEN Optics, MOREL, TAVAT Eyewear and many more. A new high-quality UK brand – Ransome and Jenkin – was launched at the event (www.ransomeandjenkin.com).
The brands presented collections for Spring/Summer 2026 and in some cases the new styles coming for Autumn/Winter 2026. Key trends for the summer, including oversized sunglasses, geometric frames, smaller shapes and designs with colourful tinted lenses were well represented while an eye-catching selection of beautifully crafted spectacles and sunglasses pointed to the consistent appreciation of fine eyewear design and luxury in the top independent practices in the UK.
In 2027, 100% Optical will take place from 27th February to 1st March. Organised in partnership with the Association of Optometrists (AOP), 100% Optical will continue to provide a platform to discover the latest in eyewear, contact lenses, technology, and business solutions. The event will also continue to offer opportunities to earn CPD points through a world-class programme curated by Dr Ian Beasley (AOP). Find out more at www.100percentoptical.com