ALEXANDRIA, Va.—The Vision Council has announced that it is expanding its membership structure. The move, made to reflect the evolving optical industry and further the success of its more than 500 member organizations, will extend The Vision Council’s membership base to include health care, technology, and contact lens companies. “With guidance from our board of directors to ensure that The Vision Council is both reflective of our evolving industry and is equipped to lead it toward a future of growth and innovation, we are proud to announce a modernization of The Vision Council’s existing membership structure,” said Ashley Mills, CEO of The Vision Council.

“Vision touches every part of life. By embracing health care and technology companies, we broaden our collective strength, ensuring a more impactful voice and sustained success for all members. Together, we can shape a vibrant future, enriching lives through eyewear and eyecare.”
 
A nonprofit trade association and advocate for the optical industry, The Vision Council is continuing its work to ensure the economic growth of the industry and the success of its members, they noted. The Council represents companies, brands, and corporations whose business involves the manufacturing, distribution, or sale of optical products and services, and noted that it welcomes members from diverse segments of the industry. The organization’s new structure includes the following divisions, of which members can choose one or more to engage with:

● Contact lens
● Eyewear and accessories
● Health care
● Lens, lab, and lens-processing technology
● Over the counter (sunglasses and readers)
● Retail
● Technology
● Value of membership
 
The Vision Council offers a variety of tools and resources, expert guidance and analysis, and access to industry events and leadership opportunities. Members of The Vision Council have access to services and tools such as the inSights Research Program, government relations and regulatory affairs, technical standards, Vision Expo, and community building. 

New members select the industry segment division that most reflects their company function, where they can network with members of the industry in similar fields, attend meetings and help set priorities for The Vision Council’s future initiatives and programming. Members can participate in meetings and access resources from any division relevant to the scope of their operations and can further engage by joining a committee or task force, eventually progressing to volunteer leadership positions.

Any person or company who provides services to the optical industry can apply to become a member of The Vision Council. To learn more about membership opportunities, visit https://thevisioncouncil.org/member-benefits. To learn more about the work of The Vision Council and its members, visit thevisioncouncil.org.