Record numbers attend 100% Optical

Dame Prue Leith

100% Optical 2023 recorded a total of 10,657 attendees over the three-day show – a 10 per cent increase on its previous record attendance.

The show featured a vast array of exhibitor launches, more independent and international eyewear designers than ever, a comprehensive CPD programme, catwalk shows, awards, panel discussions – and a celebrity guest appearance from Dame Prue Leith.

Backed by the industry’s leading organisations, 100% Optical had its strongest exhibitor line-up to date; an expanded focus on contact lenses; its annual Love Eyewear Awards ceremony; and more networking opportunities alongside exclusive show offers, workshops and debates curated by show partners.

Nathan Garnett, event director, commented: “This year’s show has been a phenomenal success, from a massive uplift in visitor numbers to the greatest range of top brands in attendance, we couldn’t be happier with the results. The testimonials and rebooks for 2024 give us the motivation to keep growing this show for the benefit of everyone in optics.”

Daryl chats with visitors

ABDO president, Daryl Newsome, said of the event: “The show seemed bigger and busier than last year. The exhibitors seemed very buoyant and those I spoke to all seemed happy with the footfall and the level of business gained. Of course, the highlight was predictably the people. It was so nice to talk to so many members and potential new members. There were many enquiries about the FBDO programme with staff members busy talking to full and student members.

“I found myself talking to people who had been members for decades and just want to be involved in the Association’s activities and everyone was very supportive and optimistic about the future. Of particular interest to me was the AI presence and the variety of opinions regarding its use and delegated functions, which must be part of our future – and the future of our profession. My thanks goes to the AOP for hosting the event, the exhibitors for supporting it and the delegates for making it worthwhile. As they say, a good time was had by all,” concluded Daryl.

Alistair Bridge, ABDO CEO, commented: “It was fantastic to meet so many members over the course of the weekend and to speak with employers and suppliers about their plans and how ABDO can work with them. Seeing the remarkable range of spectacles, lenses and technological solutions on offer was fascinating too. I would like to thank everyone from ABDO and ABDO College who participated and to highlight the successful launch of our campaign to highlight the valuable and diverse roles which DOs and CLOs play in optical practices.”

Marcolin said: “For us, it’s important to be seen here. 100% Optical is a great opportunity to present the world of Marcolin, show customers who might know us for our two or three key brands that we have a huge portfolio. We’ve been coming for years but we want to widen our network; meetings and conversations that would take us three months in terms of travel, we can do in three days.

Specsavers said: “This show allows us to reach the whole sector and show them what we are doing, engage with colleagues through our fab CPD sessions, see friends and make friends.”

Essilor said: “We’ve had some great meaningful conversations. We’ve been exhibiting here since day one and we feel like it’s the best 100% Optical yet.”

ABDO’s Antonia Chitty (centre) discusses sustainability

Gotti said: “Media10 has got it spot on. We really like the show, it’s well structured and even though there are loads of exhibitors the whole experience still feels really tailored and so personal and unique to each brand here.”

William Morris said: “After attending 100% Optical for many years, the atmosphere is always great. We always look forward to the show’s fashion elements and that’s why we love it here – it’s not just your average trade show.”

Next year’s 10th anniversary 100% Optical dates have been confirmed for 24 to 26 February, while the Association of Optometrists and Media 10 have announced that their partnership to deliver 100% Optical has been extended until 2025. Next year will see a new 100% Ophthalmology section and education programme, working with key partners, suppliers and the NHS to deliver more content for ophthalmologists attending the show.

Love Eyewear Award winner