Registration opens for 100% Optical 2022

Visitor registration has opened for the eighth edition of 100% Optical, taking place from 22 – 24 January 2022 at ExCeL London. 

The three-day event is set to be the first major optical event since the start of the pandemic, connecting optical professionals for opportunities to network, see the latest in eyewear, and gain valuable education.

The Exhibition

More than 85% of exhibitor slots have already been claimed for the show, with 200 exhibitors set to showcase their products and developments.

New names joining the show include La Marca, Düsseldorf Eyewear, Hublot, Bonavista, Nine Eyewear, Bellinger and Centrostyle.

Key features including the Future Practice Hub, the Design Arcade, and the Dispensing Workshop will remain core to the experience, while event organisers confirmed that visitors can also expect a few new features, as well as an increased focus on sustainability.

Nathan Garnett, 100% Optical show director, explained: “We are in the midst of launching a one-stop, handy show guide in the form of an app as we pledge to be more sustainable in the current climate, not only going as paper-free as possible, but avoiding any unnecessary contact to bolster what the industry is already doing to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.”

The Education

As the official event partner and education provider, the AOP will deliver a programme of educational content at the show.

The 2022 event will follow the launch of the General Optical Council’s new CPD scheme, with OT’s clinical editor and head of education for the AOP, Dr Ian Beasley, confirming that the show programme will provide “a soft landing for practitioners as we all adapt to this new era of CPD.”

The AOP team will also be available to “support delegates on meeting the requirements and allow them to get a head-start on fulfilling their obligations under the new scheme,” he added.

Plans include The Optical Academy, featuring a schedule of seminars with accredited education for the wider practice team.

The Eyewear

Highlighting the bold and beautiful in eyewear, the live catwalk shows will return, displaying key trends and brands, while visitors can also enjoy the second edition of the Love Eyewear Awards on 22 January, with 12 categories ranging from New Designer 2022, to Most Engaging Practice Window. Entries open from 18 October. 

The Love Eyewear Week campaign will run from 7 – 23 January, with an aim of increasing public awareness around eyewear trends and designs and supporting sales for practices. 

The event for the sector

Commenting on the plans for the show, Garnett shared: “As the first major gathering of people in optics in the UK since the start of the pandemic, 100% Optical 2022 is a time for the whole industry to once again get together to network and celebrate the optical sector after an incredibly turbulent time.”

Described as the UK’s only show for the sector, 100% Optical is supported by optical organisations including the AOP, Association of British Dispensing Opticians, Optical Suppliers Association and Association for Independent Optometrists and Dispensing Opticians.

Event organisers have recently launched a new website for 100% Optical ahead of registration opening, with a new look and further information on exhibitors and features at the show.

Those interested in attending the event can register for free on the 100% Optical website.