fbpx

ZEISS Light 2 Facilitates Entry into Progressive and Digital Lenses

Zeiss light 2 lenses

The ZEISS Light 2 branded progressive and digital lenses are the latest addition to the ZEISS Progressive lens portfolio along with ZEISS SmartLife lenses. These new lenses are easy to adapt to, making them ideal for people who have just started to experience vision problems at close range, as well as for more experienced spectacle wearers who are accustomed to standard lenses. The ZEISS Light 2 portfolio provides eye care professionals with upselling opportunities as well as new strategies for acquiring and retaining customers in times of economic uncertainty.

  • New additions to portfolio against the backdrop of demographic changes, digitalization and economic uncertainty
  • Fast adaptation thanks to moderate-soft design
  • ZEISS EasyFocus technology for less blur in the periphery
  • New additions to ZEISS Progressive lens portfolio along with SmartLife lenses: Straightforward marketing and upselling opportunities

New additions to portfolio against the backdrop of demographic changes, digitalization and economic uncertainty

The world’s population is aging rapidly, presenting new opportunities for the ophthalmic industry. By 2050, the proportion of individuals aged 60 and older is expected to rise from 13% today to 21.5% (or 2.1 billion). The average age in Europe and North America will reach 42.5 years and 38.8 years, respectively.1 This demographic shift, coupled with increasing digital device usage, is driving demand for progressive and digital lenses tailored to evolving vision needs. The addition of ZEISS Light 2 lenses to ZEISS SmartLife portfolio will enable eye care professionals to target a wider range of customers, including price-sensitive individuals, by offering branded lenses optimized for their vision requirements.


1 Demographic change worldwide – Welthungerhilfe(Accessed in October 2023).

Fast adaptation thanks to moderate-soft design

ZEISS Light 2 progressive lenses are tailored for wearers recently diagnosed with presbyopia including first-time glasses users or those transitioning from single vision lenses – as well as experienced wearers of standard progressive lenses. The lenses feature a moderate-soft design that ensures a soft increase of blur across peripheral areas. This facilitates a comfortable transition between various viewing zones. It also allows wearers to adapt quickly and see clearly at all ranges. 68% of ZEISS Light 2 users said that they adapted to their new lenses in just a few hours. 94% found it easy to switch from their previous lens solution, while 96% agreed that with ZEISS Light 2 lenses their vision feels natural.2

Digital lenses are particularly useful for people between 30 and 40 years who experience tired eyes or blurred near vision at the end of the day. ZEISS Digital Light 2 lenses are specially designed for first-time glasses wearers or those not used to having different viewing zones in their lens.

Zeiss Progessive Light 2 lenses - Moderate-doft design image

The moderate-soft design combines the advantages of hard and soft designs, and therefore enables wide and clear distance zones, enlarged near zones, low peripheral distortion and easy access to the near zone.

ZEISS EasyFocus technology for less blur in the periphery

Made with ZEISS EasyFocus technology, ZEISS Light 2 considers the natural vertical movement of both eyes from distance to near, which targets at easy focusing, a smooth transition and comfortable access to the wide reading zone. The optical power profile of these lenses optimally matches the inclination of the eye, the distance of objects and the different zones. Calculations show that the ZEISS Light 2 lenses offer up to 69% larger binocular vision zones than ZEISS standard progressive lenses.3

The cutting-edge technology used in ZEISS Light 2 lenses also makes it easier for wearers to switch to ZEISS SmartLife lenses at a later date.

New additions to ZEISS Progressive lens portfolio along with SmartLife lenses: Straightforward marketing and upselling opportunities

Offering existing customers different solutions and effective customer retention strategies is crucial, especially in economically challenging times. The The new ZEISS Light 2 lenses will enable eye care professionals to offer branded lenses in the mid-price segment to consumers with varying disposable incomes, or to “upsell” solutions that are of a higher standard. They will also create opportunities for acquiring new customers who are attracted to the medium-soft lens design.

These new high levels of customer satisfaction as well as straightforward fitting and consultation for eye care professionals. 92% of wearers are happy with the value for money their ZEISS Light 2 lenses offer.4 In a nutshell, the ZEISS Light 2 lenses will encourage new and existing customers to use branded progressive or digital lenses, while paving the way for a seamless transition to the ZEISS SmartLife portfolio as their vision needs evolve.

Advantages of ZEISS Light 2 at a glance:

  • One lens for all everyday scenarios in the mid-price segment
  • Clear vision at all distances
  • Fast adaption
  • Easy reading on digital devices
  • Comfortable: thin and lightweight branded lenses

SmartLife is a registered trademark of Carl Zeiss Vision GmbH.

www.zeiss.com/newsroom www.zeiss.com/vision-news

3 Calculation & Analysis by Technology & Innovation, Carl Zeiss Vision International GmbH, DE 2023. ZEISS Progressive & Digital Light 2 3Dve lenses compared to synchrony Ultra HD, synchrony Easy HD, ZEISS Progressive GT2 semi-finished and ZEISS Progressive Choice lenses, (unpublished, data on file)

This is a sponsored post.

Click HERE for the press release.

Want to see more like this article? Click here to subscribe to our FREE print magazines and e-newsletters!   

EssilorLuxottica Creates Scientific Advisory Committee to Cccelerate Next Era of Innovation

EssilorLuxottica

EssilorLuxottica announced the creation of its Scientific Advisory Committee, bringing together some of the world’s most sought-after scientists and thought leaders from the converging fields of science, technology and healthcare. This initiative will reinforce the Group’s enduring scientific foundation and its mission to empower patients and consumers around the world.

The Scientific Advisory Committee will provide strategic guidance and forward-looking insights, helping to maximize EssilorLuxottica’s lead agenda. Acting as a catalyst for transformative thinking, the Advisory Committee will collaborate with a global network of leading scientific institutions and advise on new frontiers in the Group’s core areas of research, like ophthalmology and oculomics, physics and optics, audiology, AI and ethics.

The Scientific Advisory Committee unites five world-renowned experts, each recognized for their pioneering contributions and leadership in their respective domains:

  • Pr. Alain Aspect, PhD, 2022 Nobel laureate in Physics and 2010 Wolf Prize. Professor at Institut d’Optique Graduate School – Université Paris Saclay and École Polytechnique; Emeritus CNRS Senior Scientist.
  • Pr. Alessio Figalli, PhD, 2018 Fields medal laureate. Chaired Professor and Director of the Institute for Mathematics Research at ETH Zürich.
  • Pr. Sharon Kujawa, PhD, 2017 Callier prize winner. Professor of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery at Harvard Medical School; Principal Investigator at the Eaton-Peabody Laboratories, Mass Eye and Ear.
  • Pr. José-Alain Sahel, MD, 2024 Wolf prize winner. Distinguished Professor and Chair of the Department of Ophthalmology at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine; Emeritus at Sorbonne Université.
  • Pr. Effy Vayena, PhD. Professor of Bioethics at ETH Zürich; Visiting Lecturer at the Center for Bioethics, Harvard Medical School.

Building on EssilorLuxottica’s decades of pioneering research and technological breakthroughs, the creation of our first Scientific Advisory Committee marks a defining step in our innovation journey. Engaging with some of the most brilliant minds in science allows us to broaden our horizons, explore uncharted territories and translate knowledge into meaningful human impact. Their expert insights will guide our initiatives to advance ophthalmology, audiology, AI, neuroscience and beyond – amplifying the reach of our solutions across the life sciences. Together we’ll continue to shape the future of our industry, driving transformative progress and reaffirming our commitment to lead with purpose”, said Francesco Milleri, Chairman and CEO, and Paul du Saillant, Deputy CEO, of EssilorLuxottica.

Click HERE for the press release.

Want to see more like this article? Click here to subscribe to our FREE print magazines and e-newsletters!

MIDO 2026 Exhibitor List Now Live as “The Lens of Time” Exhibition Debuts

MIDO logo

MIDO has released the official exhibitor list for its 2026 edition, taking place January 31 to February 2, 2026, at Fieramilano Rho. The 54th edition of the world’s largest international eyewear trade show is preparing for another strong year, with around 1,200 exhibitors from 50 countries expected, including 140 new entries, as well as visitorsfrom more than 160 nations.

General views of MIDO 2025 Eyewear Show at Rho Fieramilano on February 08, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Tullio M. Puglia/Getty Images for Mido)
Photo by Tullio M. Puglia/Getty Images for Mido

Expanded Areas and New Installations

Several key sections of the fair will feature new layouts and thematic programming:

  • Fashion Square (Hall 1) will be completely redesigned.
  • Hall 4 will feature an installation dedicated to DaTE, the independent eyewear show held in Naples.
  • Hall 6 will host the premiere of the updated exhibition “The Lens of Time.”

The Design areas in Halls 2 and 4 return as creative hubs for experimentation, welcoming a growing number of exhibitors—including brands transitioning from the Academy section. The Academy in Hall 6 will continue to support emerging labels, hosting more than 90 young companies. About 20 new businesses will participate in the Start Up section, presenting innovative projects and forward-looking solutions.

“The Lens of Time” Exhibition

After its debut in Venice, the ANFAO-curated exhibition tracing the evolution of eyewear—from its origins to contemporary design—will be showcased at MIDO with a new layout designed for an international audience. The exhibit highlights the cultural and artisanal heritage of eyewear. Following its Milan run, it will travel to Rome in autumn 2026, with plans for future international stops.

The Vision Stage: Training and Industry Insights

MIDO’s program will feature approximately 20 sessions led by journalists, sustainability experts, athletes, market analysts, and medical and optical professionals. Key topics will include market trends, consumer behaviour, social responsibility, and developments in the U.S. optical market. The full program will be published in January.

MIDO Awards: Applications Now Open

MIDO invites opticians, retailers, and manufacturers to apply for its three industry awards:

  • Best Store Award (Design and Innovation categories) — applications open until December 31
  • CSE Award – Certified Sustainable Eyewear — for products demonstrating sustainable materials and reduced environmental impact
  • CSE Corporate Award — honouring the exhibitor with the strongest ESG performance

Applications for the CSE awards are open until December 14, 2025, with all details available under the “Awards” section at mido.com. Winners will be announced during MIDO 2026.

Planning Your Stay in Milan

With the show taking place just ahead of the Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, the city is expected to be especially busy. MIDO has introduced several tools to simplify travel planning:

  • An online booking system developed with MiCodmc
  • Bookable free train services for Italian opticians (available starting January)
  • City maps highlighting culture, dining, and shopping
  • An exclusive 10% discount on the YesMilano City Pass for all MIDO pass holders

Press Conference

The official MIDO 2026 press conference will be held Wednesday, January 28 at 11:30 a.m., at the Feltrinelli Foundation in Milan.

For ongoing updates, visit mido.com or follow MIDO_Exhibition | Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, LinkedIn, X, YouTube | Linktree

Click HERE for the press release.

Want to see more like this article? Click here to subscribe to our FREE print magazines and e-newsletters!

WCO Announces 2025 Election Results and New Global Leadership

World Council of Optometry

The World Council of Optometry (WCO) has announced the results of its November 2025 Geographic Representative Elections, along with new leadership appointments that will guide the organization through its next term of global collaboration and advocacy.

Geographic Representative Elections

The following individuals have been elected or re-elected to the WCO Board of Directors:

Dr. Man Pan (Bruce) Chin, newly elected WCO Geographic Representative for Asia Pacific

Asia Pacific – Dr. Man Pan (Bruce) Chin, Hong Kong

Dr. Chin is President of the Hong Kong Society of Professional Optometrists and the Eye Foundation.

An educator and clinician at Hong Kong Polytechnic University and Shantou University Medical College, he previously served on the WCO Legislation, Registration & Standards Committee.

Mr. Ameer Abou Adela, newly re-elected WCO Geographic Representative for the Eastern Mediterranean

Eastern Mediterranean – Mr. Ameer Abou Adela, Lebanon

Re-elected for a second term, Mr. Abou Adela is the former President of the Vision Care Association in Lebanon and currently serves as a Board Director at VOSH International.

He also chairs the Public Health Committee of the Eastern Mediterranean Council of Optometry.

Dr. Niall Farnon, newly elected WCO Geographic Representative for Latin America
Dr. Niall Farnon

Latin America – Dr. Niall Farnon, Trinidad and Tobago

Dr. Farnon is past president of both the Trinidad and Tobago Optometrist Association and the Caribbean Optometrist Association.

Since 2017, he has served as Secretary of the Trinidad and Tobago Opticians Regional Council and was previously a member of the WCO Education Committee.

Three incumbent representatives were acclaimed after running unopposed:

Africa – Mr. Patrick Mawila, South Africa
A private practice optometrist, Mr. Mawila previously served as President of the South African Optometric Association and the African Council of Optometry.

Europe – Mr. Peter Gumpelmayer, Austria
Mr. Gumpelmayer has more than 22 years of clinical experience as an optometrist and hearing aid practitioner. He is Treasurer of the European Council of Optometry and Optics and President of the Austrian Optometric Association.

North America – Dr. Michael Nelson, Canada
Dr. Nelson is a private practice optometrist in Winnipeg and past President of both the Manitoba Association of Optometrists and the Canadian Association of Optometrists. He also educates the public on his YouTube channel, Good Optometry Morning.

New Officers and Committee Leadership

During the WCO Virtual General Assembly on September 30, Dr. Cindy Tromans (United Kingdom) was installed as WCO President, transitioning from her role as President-Elect. The membership also elected Dr. Rajeev Prasad (India) as President-Elect for the 2025–2027 term. Dr. Sandra Block (United States) will continue as Immediate Past President for the next two years.

WCO also announced new and continuing appointments:

  • Ms. Ntombikayise Zitha (South Africa) – Chair, WCO Public Health Committee
  • Dr. Karoline Munson (United States) – In-Kind Association Representative
  • Mr. Armin Duddek (Switzerland) – President, World Optometry Foundation
Ms. Ntombikayise Zitha, newly elected Chair of the WCO Public Health Committee
Ms. Ntombikayise Zitha

Looking Ahead

With its new Board and leadership team in place, WCO reaffirms its mission to advance optometry and global eye health through education, advocacy, and international collaboration. The organization extends thanks to outgoing and continuing Board members for their service and leadership.

Click HERE for the press release.

Want to see more like this article? Click here to subscribe to our FREE print magazines and e-newsletters!

WEI 2025: Education, Innovation, and Connection

University Waterloo School of Optometry

The Waterloo Eye Institute (WEI) Conference returned this fall with an impressive lineup of speakers, education sessions, and networking opportunities for Canada’s optometric community.

The three-day event offered over 20 hours of COPE-accredited continuing education, a bustling trade show with more than 30 exhibitors, and the opportunity to connect with peers and industry leaders under one roof.

Spotlight: The Woodruff Distinguished Lecture

Modernization Requires Reflection — Focus on Corneal Health
Dr. Barbara Caffery | COPE ID: 101046-TD (1 hr)
Location: Conference Centre, 2nd Floor

In this year’s Woodruff Distinguished Lecture, Dr. Barbara Caffery explores how modernization in optometry must begin with a renewed understanding of corneal health, particularly within the evolving landscape of dry eye disease.

About the Annual Woodruff Lecture:
Established in 1994, this lecture honours Dr. Emerson Woodruff, a pioneering Canadian optometrist, educator, and scientist. Dr. Woodruff’s legacy includes his leadership roles at the University of Waterloo School of Optometry, his research contributions in the epidemiology of visual anomalies, and his instrumental role in establishing Canada’s graduate programs in vision science. His commitment to excellence continues to inspire new generations of optometrists.

The Clair Bobier Distinguished Lecture in Vision

The Long Arm of Vision Science
Dr. Elizabeth Irving | COPE ID: 101022-FV (1 hr)
Location: Conference Centre, 2nd Floor

Dr. Elizabeth Irving’s lecture examines the far-reaching influence of vision science — from basic research and lifespan changes in visual function to clinical applications across conditions such as myopia, paediatric eye care, Parkinson’s disease, and aviation vision.

Named in honour of Dr. Clair Bobier, this distinguished lecture recognizes his vision, leadership, and lifelong dedication to optometric education in Canada. Dr. Bobier’s pioneering efforts helped establish a scientifically grounded, research-oriented foundation for Canadian optometry, influencing generations of clinicians and academics.

Highlights from the Continuing Education Program

Clinical Pearls in the Recognition and Management of Corneal Diseases Prior to Refractive Surgery
Dr. Rebecca Stein | COPE ID: 96009-TD (1 hr)
This session will guide practitioners through key corneal and ocular surface conditions that must be addressed before refractive surgery — including epithelial basement membrane disease, Salzmann nodular degeneration, and pterygia. Attendees will explore both medical and surgical management strategies and review illustrative clinical cases.

The Business of Myopia: Setting Up Your Patients and Practice for Success
Dr. Harbir Sian | COPE ID: 101250-PM (1 hr)
Myopia management is the standard of care, yet many practices struggle to make it profitable. Dr. Sian’s session takes a practical look at implementation strategies, including staff training, treatment protocols, and key performance indicators to ensure clinical and business success.

A Tradition of Excellence

From its roots in honouring visionary educators like Dr. Emerson Woodruff and Dr. Clair Bobier, the WEI Conference continues to embody the best of Canadian optometry — combining academic depth, clinical insight, and collegial spirit.

For more information and registration details, visit the official WEI Conference website or follow updates on OptikNOW.ca.

Want to see more like this article? Click here to subscribe to our FREE print magazines and e-newsletters!

Featured Posts

EssilorLuxottica

EssilorLuxottica Creates Scientific Advisory Committee to Cccelerate Next Era of Innovation

EssilorLuxottica forms a new Scientific Advisory Committee of global experts to guide innovation in ophthalmology, AI, audiology, and life sciences.

Learn More
MIDO logo

MIDO 2026 Exhibitor List Now Live as “The Lens of Time” Exhibition Debuts

MIDO 2026 unveils its exhibitor list and debuts “The Lens of Time,” with 1,200 exhibitors, new installations, and expanded event programming.

Read more
World Council of Optometry

WCO Announces 2025 Election Results and New Global Leadership

The World Council of Optometry announces its 2025 election results and new leadership appointments, shaping the next phase of global optometric advocacy.

Read more
University Waterloo School of Optometry

WEI 2025: Education, Innovation, and Connection

The WEI Conference returns November 7–9, 2025 at the Hilton Toronto/Markham Suites with over 20 hours of COPE-accredited CE, the Woodruff and Bobier Distinguished Lectures, a strong speaker lineup, and a trade show featuring 30+ exhibitors — including VuePoint IDS at Booth #311.

Read more
Eye On the Industry podcast EOTI

Eye on the Industry Podcast Episode 6: Practice Growth Made Simple with Dr. Kiran Ramesh

Dr. Kiran Ramesh joins Eye on the Industry to share how systems, teams, and CEO mindset drive practice growth. Practical insights for independent eye care professionals.

Read more
EssilorLuxottica

EssilorLuxottica Creates Scientific Advisory Committee to Cccelerate Next Era of Innovation

EssilorLuxottica forms a new Scientific Advisory Committee of global experts to guide innovation in ophthalmology, AI, audiology, and life sciences.

Learn More
MIDO logo

MIDO 2026 Exhibitor List Now Live as “The Lens of Time” Exhibition Debuts

MIDO 2026 unveils its exhibitor list and debuts “The Lens of Time,” with 1,200 exhibitors, new installations, and expanded event programming.

Read More
World Council of Optometry

WCO Announces 2025 Election Results and New Global Leadership

The World Council of Optometry announces its 2025 election results and new leadership appointments, shaping the next phase of global optometric advocacy.

Read More
University Waterloo School of Optometry

WEI 2025: Education, Innovation, and Connection

The WEI Conference returns November 7–9, 2025 at the Hilton Toronto/Markham Suites with over 20 hours of COPE-accredited CE, the Woodruff and Bobier Distinguished Lectures, a strong speaker lineup, and a trade show featuring 30+ exhibitors — including VuePoint IDS at Booth #311.

Read More
Eye On the Industry podcast EOTI

Eye on the Industry Podcast Episode 6: Practice Growth Made Simple with Dr. Kiran Ramesh

Dr. Kiran Ramesh joins Eye on the Industry to share how systems, teams, and CEO mindset drive practice growth. Practical insights for independent eye care professionals.

Read More
EssilorLuxottica

EssilorLuxottica Creates Scientific Advisory Committee to Cccelerate Next Era of Innovation

EssilorLuxottica forms a new Scientific Advisory Committee of global experts to guide innovation in ophthalmology, AI, audiology, and life sciences.

Learn More
MIDO logo

MIDO 2026 Exhibitor List Now Live as “The Lens of Time” Exhibition Debuts

MIDO 2026 unveils its exhibitor list and debuts “The Lens of Time,” with 1,200 exhibitors, new installations, and expanded event programming.

Read more
World Council of Optometry

WCO Announces 2025 Election Results and New Global Leadership

The World Council of Optometry announces its 2025 election results and new leadership appointments, shaping the next phase of global optometric advocacy.

Read more
University Waterloo School of Optometry

WEI 2025: Education, Innovation, and Connection

The WEI Conference returns November 7–9, 2025 at the Hilton Toronto/Markham Suites with over 20 hours of COPE-accredited CE, the Woodruff and Bobier Distinguished Lectures, a strong speaker lineup, and a trade show featuring 30+ exhibitors — including VuePoint IDS at Booth #311.

Read more
Eye On the Industry podcast EOTI

Eye on the Industry Podcast Episode 6: Practice Growth Made Simple with Dr. Kiran Ramesh

Dr. Kiran Ramesh joins Eye on the Industry to share how systems, teams, and CEO mindset drive practice growth. Practical insights for independent eye care professionals.

Read more
EssilorLuxottica

EssilorLuxottica Creates Scientific Advisory Committee to Cccelerate Next Era of Innovation

EssilorLuxottica forms a new Scientific Advisory Committee of global experts to guide innovation in ophthalmology, AI, audiology, and life sciences.

Learn More
MIDO logo

MIDO 2026 Exhibitor List Now Live as “The Lens of Time” Exhibition Debuts

MIDO 2026 unveils its exhibitor list and debuts “The Lens of Time,” with 1,200 exhibitors, new installations, and expanded event programming.

Read more
World Council of Optometry

WCO Announces 2025 Election Results and New Global Leadership

The World Council of Optometry announces its 2025 election results and new leadership appointments, shaping the next phase of global optometric advocacy.

Read more
University Waterloo School of Optometry

WEI 2025: Education, Innovation, and Connection

The WEI Conference returns November 7–9, 2025 at the Hilton Toronto/Markham Suites with over 20 hours of COPE-accredited CE, the Woodruff and Bobier Distinguished Lectures, a strong speaker lineup, and a trade show featuring 30+ exhibitors — including VuePoint IDS at Booth #311.

Read more
Eye On the Industry podcast EOTI

Eye on the Industry Podcast Episode 6: Practice Growth Made Simple with Dr. Kiran Ramesh

Dr. Kiran Ramesh joins Eye on the Industry to share how systems, teams, and CEO mindset drive practice growth. Practical insights for independent eye care professionals.

Read more