The 2024 SILMO Paris trade fair is getting ready to welcome all of the players from the optics sector with more than 900 exhibitors participating in the event and 1,500 brands from 144 countries throughout the world on hand to showcase their offers.
This key event will take place at a 75,000 m² venue (Halls 6 & 7), offering a top-tier platform for 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.
The success of SILMO Paris resides in the extent and depth of its offer, which covers all components of the sector: eyewear, lenses, machines, point of sale layouts and stands, retail chains and central purchasing groups, training, etc. As an international crossroads for business, the trade fair also owes its success to the many tools for review and analysis as well as the unique spaces for exchanging ideas to better envision the future of the optics-eyewear industry, grouped together under the banner of SILMO NEXT. This concept explains the trade fair’s intention to be at the cutting edge of the aesthetic and technological challenges of a sector firmly focused on the future.
“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, thus reducing the impact on the environment. 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.
In this constantly developing landscape, it is vital for opticians to get a firm grasp on these changes so they can remain relevant and successful. In fact, Meta announced that connected glasses will replace smartphones in several years, transforming the optician’s traditional role. To remain essential players, professionals must reinvent the shop experience, re-centring the offer on customer service and innovation, while reworking the economic model in order to stay competitive in the coming decade.”
2024 SILMO PARIS continues to highlight its intention to remain at the fore of the aesthetic and technological challenges of an industry looking ahead into the future. From 20 to 23 September, the fair’s different dedicated spaces will offer the chance to discover the optics-eyewear industry of the future, reflecting this ambition to continually stay one step ahead.
FUTUROLOGY: OPTICS IN 2035
Set up on different complementary areas, the FUTUROLOGY space invites visitors to take an immersive dive into the future of optics with exciting prospects for 2025 through 2035. Technological innovations and interactive experiences show the sector’s different future paths that visitors can discover as a range of test benches.
- THE SHOP/WORKSHOP OF TOMORROW
The physical and virtual worlds now join together to explore new approaches in the design of points of sale with the aim of making the customer path more streamlined and intuitive.
Digital Experience: this space is for learning about how mobile technologies and AI are transforming traditional visual tests.
Vision Test & Personalised Measurements: virtual reality headsets simulate different lens solutions, while 3D scanners offer accurate measurements for optimal eyewear personalisation.
Virtual Fitting & Local Production: custom eyewear creation is possible using AI. A personalised avatar makes it easier to virtually fit frames and then the 3D print produces the eyewear in real time, complemented by on-site lens edging and mounting for 100% local, zero-kilometre production!
- CENTRAL AREA: THE LATEST INNOVATIONS
At the core of Futurology, a space for learning and sharing showcases the latest innovations.
Pitches/Workshop: a circular stage with two foot bridges set up for dynamic presentations, pitches from start-ups and interactive workshops.
Connected Products: 5 displays exhibit connected products while a special display unveils a connected eyewear concept, the result of the work of the Committee of Experts. These displays offer a glimpse into future trends and technologies that will transform daily life.
- AR/VR/XR EXPERIMENTAL AREA
The real and virtual worlds are not just overlapping, but existing together to offer unique and surprising immersive experiences.
Virtual Experiences: a section devoted to RX experiences and raising awareness about vision impairment, created in cooperation with Arts et Métiers, to understand the challenges of low vision through immersive simulations.
Smart Product Demonstrations: Two pieces of smart eyewear, Meta and Pulse Audition, are put forward so visitors can experience these smart eyeglasses that integrate advanced features, combining comfort, design and technology.
TRENDS BY SILMO FORUM EXHIBITION
The FUTUROLOGY space that explores near and distant futures reflects the TRENDS EXHIBITION, which offers a look at the images, shapes, colours and materials of different eyewear, a comprehensive overview that sheds light on the best eyeglasses and sunglasses from the exhibitors at the trade fair. A stage design completed by an edition of TRENDS by SILMO constructed as a real trend book. The four identified trends to follow:
FREE COLORAMA
Single colour, two-colour, three-colour and multicoloured, the glasses present colour palettes that are not afraid to show bold colour combinations to chase away dark thoughts.
VIRTUOUS SIMPLICITY
Quiet design makes an impression through minimalist style without embellishment, the height of clear design. Metal is out ahead, but acetate knows how to get in shape to make a place for itself in this quest for a streamlined design.
CLASSIC VARIATIONS
Long-standing staples, timeless and forever in fashion, classics possess an attractiveness that enables them to easily move through all periods and fads. And they can reinvent themselves without ever going around in circles!
FULL SUN
Sunglasses hold an increasingly important place in the eyewear sector (with or without sun!) They’ve become an accessory that is perfectly integrated into the collections of major luxury and fashion brands while long-standing or new creative eyewear manufacturers are making space for themselves in this sector with extensive offers.
2024 OPTICAL DESIGN CONTEST:
REWARDING BOLDNESS
Now part of the large programme for enhancing the sector, the 2024 OPTICAL AND EYEWEAR DESIGN CONTEST is open to students from design schools around the world, and this year it places emphasis on the changing role of accessory eyewear, exploring the possibilities for new features and the resulting innovative uses. 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
The ultimate awards for the talent of the sector’s players, the SILMO d’OR prizes are decided by a jury of professionals. The festive and prestigious ceremony will be held in an exceptional venue in Paris and will mark the 30th anniversary of the SILMO d’OR awards.
All the nominated and winning products will be exhibited in Hall 7, providing an exceptional display for the innovations and talent found in our sector.
SILMO ACADEMY:
SCIENCE BENEFITING OPTICS
SILMO ACADEMY is a top-tier scientific symposium that is vital in underscoring the progress, discussions and reflections occurring in the sector with a new format planned this year. A €10,000 grant will also be awarded to support a research project in vision and optical sciences.
2024 SILMO promises to be an important event for the entire optics sector, combining innovation, reflection and discussions to anticipate the challenges of tomorrow. Come to the SILMO Paris from 20 to 23 September 2024 at Paris Nord Villepinte!
About Silmo Paris
Silmo Paris 2025 – International Eyewear Trade Fair
September 26-29, 2025
Paris Nord, Villepinte
SILMO Paris 2025 is the most exciting international eyewear and optics trade fair, held at the Exhibition Center Paris Nord Villepinte. This Silmo Paris eyewear show welcomes professionals from across the optical sector, serving as both a marketplace and an incubator of ideas. Each year, the fair reveals innovations, technological challenges, and future perspectives that help define tomorrow’s eyewear industry.
Key Facts – Silmo Paris 2025 Dates and Location
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SILMO Paris 2025
THE PLACE TO BE, TO SEE, TO FORESEE!
Why Silmo Paris 2025 is the Place to Be:
From September 26 to 29, 2025, Paris Nord Villepinte will once again become the global stage of the eyewear industry. Welcoming thousands of professionals and leading brands, Silmo Paris international eyewear fair is where new collections are unveiled, business connections are made, and eyewear trends for 2025 and beyond are set.
This is not just an optical trade fair in France; it’s an industry-defining experience where daring creators, innovative manufacturers, and passionate opticians come together to share their vision of the future.
"As the place to see, the Silmo Paris eyewear show showcases the very best in optics, all under one roof. From visionary designs and breakthrough lens technologies to sustainable materials and smart glasses, this is where visitors get a front-row seat to the future of eyewear. Every corner of the exhibition buzzes with discoveries, offering visitors a chance to explore the products and innovations that will soon define their own shelves and practices."
SILMO Next – Innovation Hub for Eyewear
At the SILMO Next innovation hub, visitors step into a laboratory of the future. Here, emerging technologies, digital solutions, and cutting-edge design concepts are showcased. From sustainable materials and smart glasses to AI-driven retail solutions, SILMO Next sets the tone for the next generation of eyewear.
Eyewear Trends at Silmo Paris 2025
The Trends Forum offers a curated journey through the season’s most influential eyewear pieces. Attendees gain insights into color directions, material innovations, and shape evolutions before they hit the mainstream. This section has become a key resource for professionals looking to anticipate the eyewear trends Silmo Paris 2025 will bring to the market.
Knowledge Sharing – Silmo Talks and Academy
Learning is central to Silmo Paris optical trade fair. Through Silmo Talks and the Silmo Academy, visitors engage with world-renowned experts. Topics range from clinical breakthroughs to retail strategies, offering knowledge that helps shape the future of the optical profession.
Celebrating Excellence – Silmo d’Or Awards 2025
SILMO Paris is also a celebration of creativity and achievement. The prestigious Silmo d’Or awards 2025 honor outstanding eyewear design and technological innovation.
Other Awards and Recognitions
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Optical Design Contest – spotlighting young creative talent
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Responsible Company Award – rewarding sustainability and ethical practices
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International Optician of the Year Award – presented in collab with the IOA
Honoring Craftsmanship and Heritage
Visitors can explore the artistry of French eyewear making. From the skills of the Meilleurs Ouvriers de France to exhibitions from the museums of Oyonnax and Morez, SILMO Paris celebrates the heritage and craftsmanship that continue to inspire the industry.
Staying Connected Beyond the Fair
The conversation doesn’t end when the doors close. With SILMO News updates and “The Right Optics by SILMO” podcast, the event keeps professionals engaged throughout the year, offering stories, interviews, and insights that extend the impact of the show Silmo Paris Paris Nord Villepinte.
More news on SILMO Paris 2025
Vuarnet // TEFtalk with Vuarnet Brand Director Giulia Zanzi
At SILMO Paris 2025, TEF Magazine sat down for a #TEFtalk with Giulia Zanzi, Brand Director at Vuarnet, to explore how this iconic performance eyewear brand continues to evolve under Thélios. Zanzi reflects on Vuarnet’s legacy of French craftsmanship, technological precision, and timeless style built for life’s every adventure.
SILMO Academy Bali // Vision Meets Paradise
For the first time, SILMO Academy heads to Bali for a three-day international congress from April 6–8, 2026, dedicated to visual health, research, and innovation. Hosted by SILMO Paris, this new edition brings together world-leading experts to explore themes such as Healthy Ageing, Light Management, and Future Advances in Optometry, all set against the tranquil and inspiring backdrop of Hotel Paradisus, Bali.
Optical Women’s Association // Empowering Global Voices at SILMO Paris
OWA Global Connection Event Celebrating Women in Optical Innovation The Optical Women’s Association (OWA) marked another milestone for global collaboration with its Global Connection Event at SILMO Paris, titled “Seeing Beyond: The Power of Women in Optical...
Design Eyewear Group // Lars Flyvholm on Creative Synergy and Trade Shows
At SILMO Paris 2025, TEF Magazine sat down with Lars Flyvholm, CEO of Design Eyewear Group, for an exclusive #TEFtalk interview on design collaboration, the Menrad acquisition, and the future of optical tradeshows. This Design Eyewear Group Lars Flyvholm interview reveals how creative teamwork and strategic vision shape one of Europe’s most dynamic independent eyewear groups.
SILMO Paris 2025 Report // Where Tomorrow Takes Shape
The official SILMO Paris 2025 report captures a landmark edition filled with innovation, artistry, and sustainability. Over 33,000 professionals and 900 exhibiting companies converged in Paris to shape the future of eyewear through AI-driven technology, avant-garde design, and the prestigious SILMO d’Or Awards.
SILMO d’Or 2025 // Official Nominees Revealed
The stage is set for the SILMO d’Or 2025, as the official nominees are announced across 12 categories, from children’s eyewear to smart glasses. A celebration of creativity, craftsmanship, and innovation, the winners will be revealed on September 27 at Pavillon Gabriel during SILMO Paris 2025.
SILMO Paris 2025 // SILMO Tech Village unveils the future of optics
The SILMO Tech Village debuts at SILMO Paris 2025, spotlighting smart eyewear and AI with 20 pioneering exhibitors, exclusive demos, and inspiring talks by leaders like Snapchat, Meta, and Google. More than an exhibition, it is a laboratory of ideas where technology, research, and design converge to shape the future of optics.
SILMO Paris // OWA Global event Paris
The Optical Women’s Association (OWA) is set to expand its international presence with a Global Connection Event at SILMO Paris 2025. The panel discussion, “Seeing Beyond: The Power of Women in Optical Innovation”, will feature leading voices from EssilorLuxottica, Bausch & Lomb, and Silhouette, moderated by OWA’s Nancy Gries. Supported by SILMO, the event will highlight how women are shaping the future of technology, AI, sustainability, and vision health in the optical industr
SILMO Paris // Optical Design Contest 2025 Finalists Redefine Vision
SILMO Paris // International Optician of the Year Finalists 2025
SILMO Paris has revealed the finalists for the International Optician of the Year 2025. Dive into this celebration of optical excellence and discover who’s shaping the future of eye care.
