MIDO 2026 Closes with Stable Attendance, Strong International Reach and Focus on Innovation
Wednesday, February 4 2026 | 09 h 59 min | News
The 54th edition of MIDO | Milano Eyewear Show concluded on February 4 in Milan, confirming its role as a central meeting point for the global eyewear industry. Despite ongoing economic and geopolitical pressures, and the proximity of the Milan–Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, organizers reported attendance and exhibitor figures in line with the previous edition.
According to MIDO, the 2026 show welcomed approximately 42,000 visitors from more than 160 countries, alongside 1,200 exhibitors across 7 halls and 8 exhibition areas. International participation remained strong, with notable attendance from Europe, Africa, the Middle East and Asia. Participation from North America was reported as stable, while Italian attendance declined slightly, reflecting broader domestic economic conditions.
“MIDO once again demonstrated the vitality of our industry,” said Lorraine Berton, President of MIDO and ANFAO, in a post-show statement. She highlighted the show’s dual role as both a business-focused trade event and a cultural and educational platform addressing broader global themes impacting the eyewear sector.
Innovation and technology remained central themes at MIDO 2026. Exhibitors presented lightweight and high-performance frames, sustainable materials, and increased integration of artificial intelligence in design, customization and vision comfort. From a stylistic perspective, collections balanced minimalism and experimentation, with renewed interpretations of classic shapes alongside contemporary colour palettes and textures.
The Vision Stage programme continued to draw strong engagement, with 40 sessions streamed in English and Italian, covering topics ranging from geopolitics and economics to sustainability, inclusion and eye health. The event also expanded its digital footprint, reaching more than 3.5 million users across platforms during the three-day show.
MIDO 2026 also underscored its institutional relevance, with participation from Italian government and industry leaders, and the launch of the “Casa del Made in Italy,” an initiative aimed at supporting internationalization and development across Italy’s industrial supply chains.
Organizers confirmed that planning is already underway for the next edition. MIDO 2027 is scheduled to take place February 6–8, 2027, at Fiera Milano Rho.
Click to see the full list or MIDO award winners.
Click HERE for the press release.
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