Blog - Page 44 of 868

February 5, 2026February 5, 2026

HOYA Vision Care Launches LensPreview Virtual Try-on for Specialty Lenses

HOYA Vision Care has announced the launch of HOYA LensPreview™, a new virtual try-on tool designed to help eye care professionals (ECPs) and patients visualize specialty lenses before purchase. The solution is now available in the United States and Canada and is integrated into the company’s HOYA Hub™ digital platform.

According to HOYA, LensPreview allows users to preview a range of lens options, including photochromic, polarized, and mirror lenses, in a true-to-colour, interactive environment. Supported product families include the Sensity® range, HOYA’s Mirror Collection, Lumacore™, and polarized lenses. The company says the tool is intended to reduce reliance on physical lens samples while helping patients better understand how different lens options will appear in real-world use.

“This tool enhances the patient experience and helps practices boost second pair and sun lens sales while eliminating the need for physical samples,” said Samy Lauriette, Vice President of Strategic Marketing, North America at HOYA Vision Care, in a company statement.

HOYA notes that LensPreview addresses several operational and clinical challenges faced by practices, including managing patient expectations, simplifying in-office workflows, and supporting conversations around premium lens options. By offering a digital alternative to demo lenses, practices may also reduce costs associated with shipping, storage, and inventory management.

The virtual try-on technology is powered by Fittingbox, a provider of digital eyewear visualization solutions. According to Fittingbox, the integration delivers an immersive lens simulation experience directly within the HOYA Hub ecosystem.

HOYA LensPreview is currently available at no additional cost to HOYA customers who have access to the HOYA Hub via single sign-on. The HOYA Hub platform also provides tools for job tracking, invoicing, payments, shipping label printing, and access to marketing and social media resources. Eye care professionals who are not currently using the HOYA Hub are encouraged to contact their local HOYA business consultant for access.

View a video demonstration of HOYA LensPreview in action here.

Source: HOYA Vision Care press release

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February 5, 2026February 5, 2026

Canadian Ophthalmological Society Highlights Advances in AMD Care During Awareness Month

The Canadian Ophthalmological Society (COS) is marking Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) Awareness Month by drawing attention to recent advances in care, the varied ways the disease affects patients, and the broader personal and societal impact of vision loss across Canada.

AMD is a progressive eye disease that affects the macula, leading to blurred or distorted central vision. The condition presents in two primary forms. Dry AMD typically progresses slowly and is associated with the accumulation of deposits in the macula, while wet AMD can cause rapid and severe vision loss due to abnormal blood vessel growth and leakage. Age over 50, smoking, high blood pressure, and family history remain among the key risk factors.

According to COS, many individuals with AMD may not notice symptoms in the early stages of the disease. Regular eye examinations are therefore recommended for adults aged 50 and over, particularly those with known risk factors. Changes such as blurred vision, distortion of straight lines, or difficulty seeing in low-light conditions are identified as warning signs that warrant prompt assessment by an eye care professional.

The society emphasizes that AMD management is highly individualized. Depending on disease type and severity, care may include lifestyle modifications, nutritional supplementation, close monitoring, or medical treatment aimed at slowing progression. Early diagnosis and consistent follow-up remain central to preserving vision.

“AMD looks different from one patient to the next,” said Varun Chaudhary, Professor and Head of Ophthalmology at McMaster University and Chief of Ophthalmology at St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton and Hamilton Health Sciences. “Today, we have more tools and treatment options than ever before. When the disease is caught early, care can often be tailored to help patients maintain their vision and independence.”

COS also highlighted the role of emerging therapies and technologies in improving outcomes. Newer treatments for wet AMD are allowing for sustained disease control with fewer interventions, while novel therapies for dry AMD have been approved in the United States and are currently under review in Canada. Advances in imaging technologies are further supporting earlier detection, more precise monitoring, and timely treatment decisions.

Beyond clinical considerations, the society noted that AMD carries significant social and economic implications. Vision loss can increase the risk of falls, reduce social engagement, and affect mental well-being. Disparities related to income, geography, and access to eye care services may also influence diagnosis and treatment, underscoring the importance of equitable access to care.

COS encourages Canadians to discuss their individual risk for AMD, screening frequency, and treatment options with their eye care professional. Additional patient-focused information is available through COS’s public education resources.

Source: Canadian Ophthalmological Society

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February 4, 2026February 4, 2026

Pearle Vision Marks 65 Years with Continued Network Growth and Investment in Clinical Technology

Pearle Vision is marking its 65th anniversary in 2026, reflecting on more than six decades since its founding by Dr. Stanley Pearle and pointing to a year of continued expansion, operational updates, and technology investments across its North American network.

Founded in 1961 as a single practice in Savannah, Georgia, Pearle Vision has grown into a franchise system operating eye care centres throughout the United States and Canada. According to the company, recent growth has included the opening of new locations in Dallas, Texas; Sandy Springs, Georgia; and Edmonton, Alberta.

Over the past year, Pearle Vision has also introduced an updated store design concept across select locations. The redesigned centres feature revised layouts, lighting, and zoning intended to improve patient flow and clinical efficiency. The company reports that participating locations have seen increased consumer engagement and double-digit sales growth, although individual performance may vary by market.

On the organizational side, Pearle Vision has refined its franchise development strategy under the leadership of Gage Hagedorn, Director of Business Development and Growth. The company has also continued to promote a doctor-investor model, designed to allow optometrists and ophthalmologists to focus primarily on clinical care while business partners manage operational responsibilities.

Pearle Vision’s franchise system has again received external recognition, earning the top ranking in Entrepreneur magazine’s Miscellaneous Health Services category for the sixth consecutive year, along with placement among the publication’s Top 50 franchise investments.

Looking ahead, Pearle Vision says it plans to continue investing in clinical and diagnostic technologies across its network. These include ultra-widefield retinal imaging, AI-supported refraction systems, and advanced dry eye therapy solutions.

“Our investments in medical technology and clinical capabilities are aimed at raising the standard of care and meeting evolving patient expectations,” said Dr. Solomon Gould, Senior Director of Eye Care at Pearle Vision, in a company statement.

The company indicated that additional store openings are planned in parts of the central United States and select Canadian markets, as it continues to expand its footprint.

More information on Pearle Vision’s franchise opportunities for doctors and investors is available through the company.

Source: Company press release (PR Newswire)

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February 4, 2026January 22, 2026

The Statement Aviator: Sunday Somewhere’s New Sun Collection

Optik VOILA January-February 2026 WestGroupe Sunday Somewhere SS2060055612C

Olive (SS2060) sets the tone for Sunday Somewhere’s sun debut with a bold, oversized flat-top aviator crafted in premium acetate. Most striking in Burgundy Blue, its warm-tinted lenses and vibrant two-tone colourplay create a statementmaking look.

The palette extends to Teal and Black, each finished with the brand’s signature palm-tree logo on the end cap, 5-barrel rivet hinge, and temple tips for elevated craftsmanship.

Distributed by: www.westgroupe.com

About WestGroupe:

Established in 1961, WestGroupe is family operated with over 60 years of industry insight. Our mission has always been to provide unique and superior quality eyewear for the fashion-focused consumer. We are driven by our customer commitment to excellent service and exceptional product. WestGroupe is dedicated to defining future standards in the optical business by developing, creating, and supporting innovative products and services that allows our customers to succeed. WestGroupe offers a premium selection of globally recognized proprietary eyewear brands including KLiiK denmark, FYSH, EVATIK, Superflex® and OTP.

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February 4, 2026February 4, 2026

MIDO 2026 Closes with Stable Attendance, Strong International Reach and Focus on Innovation

The 54^th 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.

MIDO 2026 Lorraine Berton — Lorraine Berton

Mido 2026 Mia Ceran and Lorraine Berton — Lorraine Berton

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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