The Rise of Independent Eyewear Shows: A New Vision for North America
As Vision Expo relocates from its iconic New York City venue, a wave of existing and new eyewear trade shows is stepping up to fill the void. In New York, the well-established LOFT Eyewear Show remains a key player, while two new additions—Eyecon and Frame Affair—are making their mark. But this shift isn’t just limited to New York. Across North America, independent eyewear trade shows are emerging, providing fresh opportunities for brands and optical professionals to connect.
In the Northern U.S., NEOS is expanding its presence with events in Washington and Worcester, offering a new platform for independent eyewear. Meanwhile, the 10K Frame Show in Minneapolis is bringing a much-needed Midwest eyewear event, connecting independent brands with optical retailers in the heart of the country. In the South, SIOS in Dallas is catering to a growing network of optical retailers and designers, while on the West Coast, The Eye Ball in Palm Springs introduces an experience-driven approach to eyewear networking.
This shift marks a renaissance in the North American eyewear industry, as these emerging trade shows redefine how independent eyewear brands and professionals engage in an evolving market.
Let’s take a closer look at these shows outside of New York and how they are shaping the future of independent eyewear.
The Eye Ball
A Festival of Independent Eyewear in Palm Springs
More than just a trade show, The Eyeball is a celebration of independent eyewear, creativity, and community. Designed to break away from the conventional expo format, this event blends a boutique eyewear showcase, continuing education, and an unforgettable social experience in one of the most stylish destinations in the world, Palm Springs, California.
Founded by Brett Cates, a passionate advocate for independent eyewear and the creative force behind the Eyewear Afterparty, The Eye Ball was launched in January 2025 at the Ace Hotel & Swim Club to bring together opticians, eyewear designers, and independent retailers in a fresh, dynamic, and immersive environment. With more than 100 independent brands, including Hoffman Horn, Dita, L’ Ecurie Paris, Press, Mykita, Matsuda and Anna Karin Karlsson, the show attracts some of the most creative forces in the eyewear industry.
“EYEBALL is a thoughtfully curated artistic experience that reflects the craftsmanship, creativity, and authenticity of independent luxury eyewear. Inspired by the artistry of artisan eyewear, I designed EYEBALL to be a dynamic hub for independent brands, free from corporate influence, where innovation and individuality take center stage. With a blend of pop art energy and mid-century modern aesthetics, EYEBALL is a celebration of the independent spirit in both eyewear and design.”
But The Eye Ball isn’t just about frames—it’s about education and inspiration. Attendees can earn ABO and COPE-approved CE credits, making the event valuable for both business growth and professional development. Unlike traditional shows, where learning and networking are often separate, The Eye Ball fosters a laid-back, festival-like atmosphere, allowing attendees to engage with brands, take courses, and connect with peers—all in one immersive experience.
Capping off the event is a legendary silent disco under the desert stars, where opticians, designers, and eyewear aficionados can celebrate their shared passion for independent eyewear in an unforgettable setting. This mix of high-end eyewear, cutting-edge education, and vibrant social experiences has made The Eye Ball one of the most exciting additions to the independent optical scene.
The next edition of The Eye Ball returns to Palm Springs in January 2026, promising an even bigger and bolder experience. If you’re looking for a trade show that feels more like a creative retreat than a business meeting, The Eye Ball is the place to be.
SIOS
Southern Independent Optical Show
More than just a trade show—SIOS a movement toward a more diverse, creative, and independent future in the optical industry.
Founded by Alexandra Peng and Bradie Husser (TC Charton) and Leo Zupan (Laibach & York), three passionate independent eyewear leaders who saw a need for a dedicated Southern hub for independent opticians and eyewear retailers—SIOS launched in 2024 in Dallas, Texas to fill this crucial gap.
“With over three decades in the industry and countless trade shows attended, I set out to create an event that truly serves exhibitors—offering everything they need and none of the distractions they don’t. “
“SIOS is a seamless blend of a trade show and a trunk show, providing independent brands with a professional yet comfortable space to showcase their collections, no matter their size. Food and drinks all day, free parking, no attendee-diverting CE classes, and even a fashion show featuring two styles per exhibitor at no extra cost. Just bring your collection, and you’re ready to roll.”
This pioneering trade show is redefining industry standards by offering a curated selection of top independent brands, including Johann Von Goisern, Anna-Karin Karlsson, Gold and Wood, and Orgreen. Attendees can explore unique collections outside the mainstream market, empowering them to stand out in the competitive eyewear landscape.
But SIOS isn’t just about discovering incredible eyewear—it’s also about learning, networking, and inspiration. The event features CE / COPE-approved educational courses, an exclusive lab partnership with Laramy-K Optical offering 40% off lenses for six months, and a Catwalk Fashion Show, where exhibitors showcase designer-curated selections in an exciting, fashion-forward setting.
With its intimate, boutique-style atmosphere, world-class brands, and a mission to uplift independent optical businesses, SIOS is quickly becoming a must-attend event for anyone serious about high-end, independent eyewear. Register now and be part of the movement shaping the future of the optical industry!
Be part of the movement that’s reshaping independent eyewear in the South! Join them on May 3rd, 2025, for the 2nd Annual Southern Independent Optical Show, where innovation, craftsmanship, and community come together to create an unforgettable industry experience.
NEOS
North East Optical Show
The North East Optical Show (NEOS) has quickly become a must-attend event for independent opticians and eyewear retailers across the Northeast.
Founded by Joanna Ruiz and Jessica Leach, two passionate optical professionals dedicated to fostering independence in the industry, NEOS offers a refreshing alternative to corporate trade shows, providing an intimate, community-driven environment where professionals can connect, learn, and grow.
“NEOS was founded by two independent eyewear reps who are also optical shop owners, with a deep understanding of what both reps and buyers truly need. We designed the show to be efficient, accessible, and highly focused on independent optical success.”
“NEOS is packed with incredible vendors and valuable industry insights, yet it maintains a streamlined, no-frills setup, making it easy for attendees to navigate and maximize their time. Unlike traditional trade shows, our educational courses are seamlessly integrated into the show floor, allowing attendees to gain knowledge without missing valuable exhibitor interactions. At NEOS, we’ve created an event that’s not just about discovering great eyewear—it’s about empowering the independent optical community.”
More than just a showcase for independent eyewear, NEOS is a hub of education and innovation. The event features CE courses, free info sessions, and hands-on training, empowering attendees with the tools they need to take control of their businesses. From learning the art of working with horn frames to engaging with independent vendors and optical experts, NEOS is designed to give professionals an edge in an increasingly competitive market.
Beyond business and education, NEOS is also about giving back. The event now includes the ICP – I Care Party, a fundraising initiative where 100% of proceeds support Vision in Focus, USA, a nonprofit founded by an optician in 2017 that provides reading glasses to communities affected by natural disasters. This Saturday night event blends networking with a meaningful cause, reinforcing the independent optical community’s spirit of support and collaboration.
The next edition of NEOS takes place on April 5-6, 2025, in Worcester, MA, marking the 6th edition of this fast-growing event. With its intimate open-floor format, carefully curated lineup of independent brands, and a strong commitment to education and philanthropy, NEOS is proving that regional trade shows can be just as impactful as major expos—if not more so!
10K Frame Show
Bringing Independent Eyewear to the Midwest
The 10K Frame Show is a new and exciting addition to the independent eyewear trade show circuit, designed to serve the growing demand for premium independent eyewear in the Midwest.
Held in Minneapolis, Minnesota, this event provides a much-needed regional hub for opticians, eyewear retailers, and independent brands who want to connect without the need for long-distance travel to coastal trade shows.
“At the 10K Frame Show, independent eyewear isn’t just a category—it’s a philosophy. To us, it means brands that are designed in-house, unique, crafted with the highest quality, and truly focused on the wearer.”
We believe independent eyewear deserves its own spotlight, which is why we exclude mass-market brands affiliated with big-box retailers, insurance companies, or multinational chains. This show is about celebrating eyewear that stands apart and gives opticians the opportunity to offer something truly special to their customers.”
Recognizing that the Midwest has long been underserved when it comes to independent eyewear events, the 10K Frame Show aims to change that. The show is designed to be efficient, intimate, and business-focused, making it easy for attendees to discover exclusive independent brands, connect with industry experts, and stay ahead of emerging eyewear trends. Featuring a curated selection of independent brands, the show ensures that attendees get access to unique, high-quality eyewear that sets them apart from chain retailers.
Beyond the frame collections, 10K Frame Show fosters a strong sense of community and education. Attendees can take part in insightful discussions, business strategy sessions, and networking opportunities, all in an accessible and welcoming environment. Whether you’re looking to expand your product offering, refine your business strategies, or simply meet like-minded professionals, this show is the Midwest’s new must-attend event for independent eyewear.
The next edition of the 10K Frame Show will take place in Minneapolis in 2025. If you’re an independent optical retailer looking to source exclusive eyewear and grow your business without traveling across the country, this is the event you don’t want to miss.
Why Independent Eyewear Trade Shows Matter
Independent trade shows like SIOS, NEOS, and The Eye Ball aren’t just industry events—they are game-changers for independent optical retailers. Much more than most corporate expos, these shows focus on unique, high-quality eyewear that helps you stand out from chain stores.
They offer exclusive collections, direct brand connections, and valuable business insights, giving you the tools to elevate your store and attract customers seeking individuality over mass-market eyewear.
Plus, they are more accessible, bringing top-tier brands and industry insights closer to you. If you want to set your business apart and grow in the independent optical space, these are the shows you can’t afford to miss.
