opti 2026 is preparing to open its doors with a refreshed format, strategically curated experience zones, and a content-first approach that places innovation, design, and professional growth at the forefront. This year’s event focuses on five core pillars—design, healthcare, hearing acoustics, emerging talent, and networking—positioning the international trade show as a key influence on the future of the optical sector.

Hearing Acoustics Takes Centre Stage: The Debut of opti SPHEARE

A major highlight of this year’s show will be the world premiere of opti SPHEARE, a new hub dedicated to hearing acoustics in Halls C3 and C4. Spanning more than 200 square metres, the space brings together leading companies including actric, Bellman & Symfon, Meditrend, Nuance Audio, Optimus Hearing, oton & friends, PROABO, and Sinfonia.

Designed as an interactive environment, opti SPHEARE showcases technologies, business models, and practical insights to help optical retailers enter or expand within the hearing category, an area increasingly recognized for its growth potential.

“Hearing acoustics and ophthalmic optics complement each other perfectly. With opti SPHEARE, we are broadening the scope of our trade show and highlighting a field with tremendous future potential,” says Cathleen Kabashi, Director of opti.

TOMORROW VISION Returns with Expanded Collaboration

The second edition of TOMORROW VISION will once again unite major contact lens manufacturers under a joint platform in Hall C4. Under the theme “Play smart. Move free.” partners ALCON, Bausch + Lomb, CooperVision, HECHT Contactlinsen, Mark’ennovy, Menicon, MPG&E and the SEED Group will spotlight the freedom and lifestyle benefits of contact lenses—whether for sport or everyday comfort.

Kabashi notes that TOMORROW VISION “creates a shared space that pools expert knowledge while clearly demonstrating the economic importance of the contact lens sector.”

Future Technologies and Young Talent Take the Stage

The opti FUTURE VISION HUB (Hall C4) will highlight emerging technologies shaping patient care and practice management. Themes include healthcare advancements, myopia management, smart glasses, artificial intelligence, telemedicine, and diagnostic innovations.

New companies working in software, AI, and clinical tools will be featured in the opti VISIONARY start-up area in Hall C3.

Next-generation professionals also have a dedicated space this year. The opti NEXT GENERATION HUB (Hall C3) offers content tailored to early-career development—entrepreneurship resources, speed-networking for job seekers and employers, and the opti CAMPUS zone with education and training partners.

Design Meets Craftsmanship in Halls C1 and C2

Design takes centre stage with more than 500 brands showcased in the YES AREA. The opti DESIGN STAGE will feature the finalists for the opti FRAME STAR audience award, trend insights, and panel conversations with renowned experts Francesca Valan and Angela Mrositzki, who explore eyewear as both a fashion element and cultural expression.

Trend specialist Selin Olmsted will unveil her 2027 trend report and lead curated TREND WALKS through the halls.

New and emerging labels will also be in focus through the opti BOXES and the opti BOX AWARD, celebrating innovation in frame design.

A Hub for Networking and Industry Connection

As the first major global optics event of the year, opti 2026 offers extensive networking opportunities across the opti RUNWAY BAR, opti BOX BAR, and YES LOUNGE. The show’s opening day traditionally concludes with the opti PARTY, an energetic event known for sparking new collaborations and partnerships.

With its expanded thematic structure and forward-looking programming, opti 2026 aims to deliver a dynamic environment where the industry’s visionaries, innovators, and emerging leaders come together to shape what’s next.

Opti Munich is held January 16 to 18, 2026.

Source: opti 2026: Innovation, inspiration, interaction

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