Blog - Page 65 of 914

June 3, 2025June 3, 2025

AKN Group (Formerly Akoni Group) Acquires Götti and Eyetech Lenses to Create Largest High-End Eyewear Hub in Switzerland

AKN Group, member of Alsara Investment Group, builds on its success and continued growth since its establishment in 2019 with its first acquisition through acquiring Götti. Known for its design, craftsmanship, innovation, and quality, Götti has been one of the world’s most respected independent eyewear brands for more than 25 years. Included in the acquisition is premium lens company Eyetech.

Other than being an important portfolio expansion, the acquisition represents a transformative alignment of shared culture, values, and expertise—bringing together cutting-edge technology, design vision, and a mutual commitment to excellence. Strategically, the acquisition marks a significant milestone in the upward trajectory of AKN Group and further advances the company as an innovative force in the global premium and luxury eyewear sector. AKN Group eyes this acquisition as a transformative moment by uniting two talented and complimentary teams, the collective synergy will allow them to continue pushing the boundaries of design, craftsmanship, innovation, performance, and technology.

“Swiss. Precision. Performance— these pillars define us,” says AKN Group CEO/Founder Rosario Toscano.

He continues, “After five years of sustained growth, the time has come to take the next step—broadening our portfolio, enhancing our distribution channels, and strengthening our team. By combining the people, assets and expertise of both companies, we are creating a high-performance eyewear powerhouse focused on quality at every level. The acquisition of Götti embodies our vision for the future.”

“In this transaction I am convinced that I found partners who share a common and aligned vision for where the future of eyewear is headed. I am very excited to continue supporting the company in its next phase of development”, says Götti founder Sven Götti. Toscano added “Sven will join the board of AKN group and will continue his involvement in Gotti especially on the creative front where together we are committed to preserving the integrity and identities of the Akoni and Götti brands. Real progress is not about changing who we are but about expanding what we can become”.

Source: AKN Group

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June 3, 2025June 3, 2025

Contact Lens ‘X’ Posts Show Regional Similarities and Differences

A new infographic from Contact Lens Institute^™ (CLI) illustrates that while contact lenses are used by millions of people worldwide, aspects of how they are evaluated, purchased, and worn may differ by country and continent. This synopsis precedes the publication of CLI’s forthcoming See Tomorrow initiative report surrounding consumer digital search behaviors, which is expected to be issued in mid-June.

“Later this week, the BCLA Clinical Conference will draw contact lens experts from around the world to Birmingham, England. There was no better time to share this data, which may spark conversations about how consumers view different components of wear, and why those might vary based on geography,” said Stan Rogaski, CLI’s executive director.

Built on 12 months of contact lens posts on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), the infographic looks at topics including interest in advanced and basic technologies, cosmetic lenses, access, sustainability, cost, and modality. The illustration, along with other preliminary data from the digital search series, is available at https://www.contactlensinstitute.org/resources/digital-search/.

A comprehensive, 30-page report packed with new consumer research, data tables and graphics, and columns from CLI Visionary optometrists and opticians is slated for distribution ahead of Optometry’s Meeting and the 5^th World Congress of Optometry.

Contact Lens Institute advances the latest innovations in safe and effective contact lens and lens care products and services that provide unique benefits to patients while satisfying the evolving needs of eye care professionals. CLI undertakes activities that properly assess, enhance, promote and balance contact lens and lens care industry welfare and growth, including the safe use of products in the marketplace. Its members include Alcon, Bausch + Lomb, CooperVision, and Johnson & Johnson Vision. For more information, visit contactlensinstitute.org.

Click HERE for the press release.

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June 2, 2025June 2, 2025

HOYA Vision Care Acquires Centennial Optical

HOYA Vision Care is proud to announce the acquisition of Centennial Optical, a Canadian distributor of ophthalmic frames, eyeglass lenses, sunglasses, lab supplies, and optical accessories.

The acquisition represents a significant opportunity to add to Centennial Optical’s solid foundation and leverage it with HOYA’s resources and technologies. The complementary capabilities of the two companies will elevate their ability to better serve the Canadian market.

“We continuously seek new opportunities to deliver greater value and drive innovation,” said Steven Haifawi, President of HOYA Vision Care Canada. “This strategic investment expands both our companies’ capabilities and enhances our competitive positions in the market while strengthening our partnerships with customers across Canada.”

“We carefully considered the future of our business, our customers, and our employees,” said Allen Nightingale, President of Centennial Optical. “What stood out about HOYA was more than just their industry leadership; it was their alignment with our culture, values, and mission. HOYA shares our commitment to innovation, integrity, and customer focused service, which made them the right partner for Centennial’s next chapter.”

HOYA is committed to maintaining the high level of service and support Centennial Optical is known for, while leveraging synergies to further improve customer experience in the long-term.

To learn more, visit HOYA Vision Care Canada online (English and French).

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June 2, 2025June 2, 2025

Registration Opens for Vision Expo West 2025 – The Ultimate Destination for Eyecare and Eyewear Innovation

Registration is officially open for Vision Expo West 2025, the premier event for the vision community in the United States. Set to take place September 17-20, 2025, at the Venetian Expo in Las Vegas, this dynamic event, co-owned by RX and The Vision Council, promises unmatched opportunities for learning, networking, discovery and celebration.

A One-of-a-Kind Industry Experience

Built by the industry for the industry, Vision Expo West brings together the full spectrum of vision care professionals, brands and innovators. With over 270 hours of accredited continuing education launching on September 17, and a vibrant exhibit hall opening September 18, attendees will engage with the latest in:

Eyewear and Frames
Lenses and Lens Technology
Medical and Diagnostic Equipment
Practice Management Tools
Design Trends
Digital Health and Retail Technology

More than 300 top-tier exhibitors will showcase their cutting-edge products and services, redefining what’s possible in vision care.

Exciting New Features for 2025

Following a highly anticipated debut in Orlando, Vision Expo West is coming to Vegas with bold new branding, a streamlined layout, and curated zones for Eyewear, Eyecare, Tech & Innovation, Independent Design and more.

Vision Expo West 2025 promises to be a future-focused event, shining a spotlight on innovation across fashion, design and technology. As an expansion of Vision Expo East’s NOW Trends Showcase, the Las Vegas show will introduce the first-ever NOW Design Competition, developed in partnership with The Vision Council and the Accessories Council, and intended to push the boundaries of what eyewear can be. In addition, for the first time ever, Vision Expo will host the VSP Vision Innovation Challenge, a global competition designed to source, spur and support solutions to enhance the eyecare experience.

Also new this year, the Platinum Club lounge will provide an exclusive space for elite practices, media professionals and influencers to connect. The OptiCon Hub, presented by the United Opticians Association (UOA), will serve as a dedicated space for opticians to gather and learn.

Vision Expo West’s Main Stage will return with a daily lineup of programming including:

Industry expert panels
Live fashion shows
Startup pitch competitions
Fresh content designed to inspire and engage

For those seeking deeper connections, a new on-floor networking zone will support meaningful face-to-face meetings and community building opportunities.

Beyond the Show Floor

When education sessions wrap and the show floor empties, the excitement continues with after-hour events, networking receptions and can’t-miss parties that deliver the signature Vision Expo energy in unforgettable Las Vegas style. A full schedule of events and list of accredited education sessions is available on the Vision Expo West website .

“Vision Expo is where the vision community gathers to move the industry forward,” said Ashley Mills, CEO of The Vision Council. “By bringing together groundbreaking innovations, education that empowers, and a vibrant community of professionals, Vision Expo West reflects our industry’s shared commitment to growth, collaboration, and shaping the future of eyecare.”

Plan Your Trip

Secure your accommodations through the official Vision Expo hotel block at The Venetian and surrounding properties, available exclusively through Connections Housing. Book here by August 14 to access the best rates and benefits. Early booking is strongly encouraged.

Be Part of the Vision – Register Today

Attendee Registration

Source: Reed Exhibitions

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June 2, 2025June 2, 2025

VSP Vision Celebrates $1 Million in Debt Relief for Optometry Students Through Loan Repayment Program

Today, VSP Vision^™ announced it has provided more than $1 million in debt relief through the VSP Vision Student Loan Repayment Program, helping to alleviate the significant financial pressures faced by many doctors and optometry students.

“Supporting the long-term success of the profession of optometry, and especially private practice, has been a cornerstone of our purpose for 70 years,” said VSP Vision President and CEO Michael Guyette. “VSP’s Student Loan Repayment Program is another example of how our unique business model enables us to reinvest profits in support of our stakeholders, rather than shareholders, while also addressing access challenges in communities nationwide.”

Earlier this year, VSP Vision announced it is extending the Student Loan Repayment Program and investing an additional $4 million, bringing the company’s total commitment to $10 million. In addition to providing debt relief, this program aims to address critical access gaps by encouraging doctors to serve in healthcare deserts and underserved communities where eye care access is limited.

Since the program’s inception in 2023, VSP Vision has provided relief to 30 optometry students, recent graduates, and practicing optometrists, and the company plans to fund 20 new recipients this year alone.

Third and fourth-year optometry students, recent graduates, and practicing optometrists with student debt are invited to apply for the program. All applicants must be willing to relocate for up to four years to practice in an underserved or high-need community. The list of eligible communities across the country has expanded and offers the unique ability for applicants to select their preferred modality—including an independent practice.

“I wouldn’t be where I am today without the Student Loan Repayment Program from VSP,” said loan recipient, Dr. Mariam Siddiqi. “I am working in a great private practice location and can focus on my patients without the stress of student debt.”

Recipients of this program are selected for their dedication to optometry, patient care, and serving communities in need.

Learn more about the Student Loan Repayment Program here: https://www.vspproviderhub.com/loan-repayment.html

Source : VSP Vision

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AKN Group (Formerly Akoni Group) Acquires Götti and Eyetech Lenses to Create Largest High-End Eyewear Hub in Switzerland

HOYA Vision Care Acquires Centennial Optical

Registration Opens for Vision Expo West 2025 – The Ultimate Destination for Eyecare and Eyewear Innovation

A One-of-a-Kind Industry Experience

Exciting New Features for 2025

Beyond the Show Floor

Plan Your Trip

Be Part of the Vision – Register Today

VSP Vision Celebrates $1 Million in Debt Relief for Optometry Students Through Loan Repayment Program

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