The International Vision Expo & Conference East was held from 28th to 30th March, 2014 at the Javits Center, New York
The show wrapped up after five days of continuing education and exhibits showcasing the latest trends in eye-wear and eyecare business practices, technology and fashion with the a largest number of attendees. Attendance increased by more than six percent over 2013, breaking the last record set in 2012, and represented the most diverse range of eyecare and industry professionals than any eyecare trade event in the world.
According to Tom Loughran – Group Vice President – Reed Exhibitions, the conference’s success points to recognition of Vision Expo as the complete eyecare event by eyecare professionals and industry leaders globally.
“2014 once again proved that eyecare professionals appreciate the wide-ranging and integrated opportunities available only at Vision Expo,” explained Loughran. “They see the value of arriving early to take advantage of timely continuing education content and then apply that knowledge through hands-on experiences and demonstrations within the exhibit hall. The energy this year was outstanding and we eagerly anticipate continued growth and success,” he added.
“This is an industry on the verge of breaking through in innovation on every level,” added Graeme MacKenzie – Director of Industry Affairs – Adlens LTD. “Whether its frames, lenses or communicating with customers, there’s real excitement in the industry,” he said.Fashion-forward and functional trends emerged while technological innovations took center stage. One such trend, wearable technology, garnered interest among all visitors as the most exciting development for the industry. “Just like smart phones and wearable watches, now we have wearable technology in eye-wear,” said David Yeh – EVP Sales – Evana Medical.
Speaking about the fashion showcased at this year’s event, Jenn Falik – Style & Beauty Expert, stated, “I’ve been very impressed by seeing really new innovations, as far as the way frames fit your face and fun details and embellishments. I think it is fun to see not only the ‘fashion’ side of eye-wear, but also that the functionality of eye-wear is getting more and more innovative.”
Plans are underway for improvements to enhance the visitors’ experience for 2015 and beyond.
“We met with state optometric associations and representatives from optician organizations and our affiliate partners to better understand their members’ education needs,” said Loughran. “In doing so, we are better enabled to create enhanced continuing education opportunities that are easy to adopt and not available anywhere else.”
International Vision Expo & Conference conducts a detailed, third-party audit of attendance at International Vision Expo East. International Vision Expo & Conference East will return to the Javits Center, featuring a new subway stop and IT improvements, in New York City Thursday, March 29 through Sunday, March 22, 2015.
Watch what transpired at the event:
