VM and 20/20 Magazine Announce EyeVote Readers’ Choice Awards for 2019

NEW YORK—Vision Monday and 20/20 Magazine are pleased to announce the selections in the 11th annual EyeVote Readers’ Choice Awards, a special survey aimed at identifying readers’ favorite products and companies of the year. Optical retailers and ECP readers of the two Jobson Medical Information publications were asked to identify their “favorite” products in 16 distinct categories. 

What’s Trending in the Holiday Retail Landscape?

NEW YORK—There’s no doubt about it: holiday gift-buying season has fully descended upon us. For the well-organized among us, gift-buying may already be in the rear-view mirror, but many Americans are probably looking ahead at a long list of gifts, and a sea of wrapping paper, in the coming weeks. Finding the perfect present for everyone is nothing short of an art form; with countless things to choose from, figuring out what everyone on your list wants can be next to impossible. But every year there are a few gifts that seem to top everyone’s list, from the Cabbage Patch Kids craze of 80s to last year’s Hatchimals hysteria. 

The Vision Council Unveils a Reimagination of Vision Expo, New Curated 'Neighborhoods' to Debut at Vision Expo East

ALEXANDRIA, Va.—Citing the year 2020's optical symbolism for the eyecare industry, The Vision Council is revealing today "the reimagining of its signature event, Vision Expo. "Innovation has always been at the heart of the industry as well as the bi-annual Vision Expo, the definitive trade event for ophthalmic professionals," the organization said, adding, "Now, The Vision Council, together with co-owner of the Show, Reed Exhibitions, aims to mark a new era for Vision Expo with a laser-like focus on discovery, connection and experience." Noted Ashley Mills, The Vision Council CEO, "Incremental improvement isn't enough. We have worked with our partners to completely reimagine the show, with a new focus on discovery, connection and experience."

New Look Vision Group Enters U.S. Optical Retail With Acquisition of Edward Beiner Company in Florida

MONTREAL, Quebec--Marking its entry into the U.S., New Look Vision Group Inc. (TSX: BCI) Canada’s largest optical company, announced earlier this morning that it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire substantially all of the assets of Miami-based Coco Lunette Holding, LLC which carries on business principally under the Edward Beiner banner. Known for its unique and original designer eyewear, over the years under the direction of Edward Beiner and Guido Balocco, the Edward Beiner Company has built a strong presence in key premium markets across 12 locations in Florida, including Miami, Aventura, Boca Raton, Coconut Grove, Coral Gables, Naples, Orlando and Palm Beach. Its current annualized revenues are $15.5 million Cdn and it will continue to operate as a stand-alone unit within the New Look Vision Group, the announcement said. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed. 

Historic First: Seven of 10 Students Who Entered Optometry Schools This Fall Are Female

For what is believed to be the first time, the percentage of women who entered North American schools and colleges of optometry this fall increased to the 70 percent plateau, Women In Optometry reported this month. The publication cited data from the 25 optometry schools surveyed for its report, which also found an overall increase of 28 students in optometry schools this fall compared with a year ago.