Silmo D’Or nominated and winning products will be exhibited in Hall 7, offering an exceptional display of the industry’s innovation and talent

The 2024 Silmo optical fair, in Paris from 20-23 September, is getting ready to welcome the world’s optics sector with more than 900 exhibitors participating in the event and 1,500 brands from 144 countries looking forward to showcasing their offers.

Silmo Paris remains committed to staying at the forefront of all aesthetic and technological challenges facing the industry, said organisers. Looking to the future, the fair offers visitors an in-depth look at the latest technological developments, product innovations and trends that are shaping the future of the optics industry on a global scale, they said.

One such transformative trend is the impact of artificial intelligence (AI), said Eric Lenoir, director of the Silmo trade fairs. “From smart, AI-equipped eyeglass design to revolutionary tools for opticians, the possibilities are wide reaching. Imagine eyewear that can instantly translate a language through an integrated camera or mechanisms that pre-emptively detect serious health issues such as heart attacks or Parkinson's disease. This rapid development requires the rapid adaptation of professionals because without adequate training, AI could potentially replace traditional opticians.”

At the same time, the emergence of technologies such as in-shop 3D printing are redefining eyewear fabrication with increased automation reducing the impact on the environment, he said. “This transformation will enable opticians to focus on high added-value services, becoming genuine consultants for visual comfort and preventive healthcare, even integrating functions such as audio technology and fall prevention.”

To remain essential players, professionals must reinvent the shop experience, re-centring the offer on customer service and innovation, while reworking the economic model to stay competitive in the coming decade, he said.

Optical design contest – rewarding boldness

Silmo 2024’s Optical and Eyewear Design Contest is open to students from design schools around the world. This year it places emphasis on the changing role of accessory eyewear, exploring the possibilities for new features and the resulting innovations. Overseen by renowned designer Olivier Jault, the competition encourages students to rethink eyeglasses beyond their traditional function, integrating unique characteristics that respond to the emerging needs of our modern society.

Silmo d’Or – rewarding excellence

Decided by a jury of professionals, the Silmo d’Or (Gold award) prizes highlight the talent of the sector's key players. This year, the prestigious ceremony will be held in an exceptional venue in Paris and will mark the 30^th anniversary of the Silmo d’Or awards.

Silmo Academy – science benefiting optics

The Silmo Academy is a scientific symposium sharing the progress, discussions and reflections occurring in the sector with a new format planned for this year. A €10,000 grant will also be awarded to support a research project in vision and optical sciences.