opti 2026 brings new momentum to the Munich optical trade fair
Half-time to opti 2026 and the energy is already building. From 16 to 18 January 2026, the Munich optical trade fair will once again transform the city into the heartbeat of international ophthalmic optics.
This is where trends take shape, technology inspires new possibilities, and the independent eyewear scene comes alive.
In an exclusive preview, opti Director Cathleen Kabashi reveals what makes this edition so dynamic, what her team is preparing, and why opti 2026 remains one of the most anticipated events on the global eyewear calendar.
A trade fair that mirrors the industry’s creativity
What makes opti 2026 so unique? According to Kabashi, it is the passion and authenticity of its participants.
“opti is the first major gathering of the year, an accelerator for fresh ideas and real business. We are in close dialogue with the market and aim to reflect that energy back through every part of the event. The Munich optical trade fair is both a mirror and a networking hub. For 2026, we are building again on a concept that showcases the latest trends, groundbreaking innovations, tailor-made services, and global opportunities.”
NEXT GENERATION HUB drives future vision
One of the headline topics this year is young talent. The NEXT GENERATION HUB has already proven its impact, offering a platform where emerging professionals connect, collaborate, and shape the future of the industry.
Kabashi recently participated in the 5th edition of OptoMEETry, organized by the VDCO Young, where she experienced the NEXT GENERATION HUB spirit first-hand.
“We want these young voices to help define the NEXT GENERATION HUB for 2026. Their creativity and openness are exactly what our industry needs.”
Shaping tomorrow’s optical landscape
Behind the scenes, Kabashi’s team is pursuing a dialogue-first approach to building opti 2026.
“We are engaging with every corner of the industry,” she explains. From contact lens manufacturers collaborating on the next TOMORROW VISION concept, to start-ups in both the frame and non-frame segments for the VISIONARY area, and even conversations with hearing system manufacturers, the goal is to create a show that truly represents the full spectrum of today’s and tomorrow’s optical world.
“My team and I are like truffle hunters. We constantly seek out fresh ideas that will make opti 2026 even more inspiring. The fantastic feedback from over 21,000 visitors and 330+ exhibitors at the last Munich optical trade fair drives us to refine and elevate the experience each year.”
What to expect in Munich this January
Visitors can look forward to an experience that is rich, multi-sensory, and packed with inspiration.
“opti 2026 will bring smart formats, engaging topics, and surprises that extend well beyond eyewear. Above all, opti 2026 will be a celebration of creativity and connection. It offers the perfect launchpad for the year’s business, sparking new ideas and collaborations across the industry.”
Upcoming opti dates for your calendar
opti 2026: 16 – 18 January 2026
opti 2027: 29 – 31 January 2027
opti 2028: 14 – 16 January 2028
About opti Munich
opti Munich 2027
29-31 January, 2027
Fairground Munich, Germany
opti is the international trade show for optics & design which takes place annually as the industry kick-off in January in Munich, Germany.
OPTI Munich: International trade show for optics & design
The show offers trade visitors the complete spectrum of ophthalmic products, from spectacle frames and lenses, contact lenses, refraction, diagnosis and low vision to shopfitting and technical equipment. opti is the order platform and the location for product premières by international market leaders and start-ups alike. The event was first held in 1998, and since 2008 has been organised by GHM Gesellschaft für Handwerksmessen mbH.
OPTI Munich statistics:
Halls
Exhibitors
Visitors
"opti thrives on exchange and togetherness. In 2026, we once again felt how strong our community is and how important personal encounters, inspiration and practical, hands-on content are for the industry.
The atmosphere was noticeably positive, optimistic and relaxed, and that is exactly what we are looking forward to as we turn our attention to opti 2027. Particularly evident was the eagerness for the future – also driven by the massive participation, commitment and identification of the next generation with 'their' opti."
As the annual kick-off for the optical industry, opti stands for knowledge exchange and innovation. But above all, it is the atmosphere at opti, the personal encounters and exchanges that make the trade fair something special - for international trade visitors and exhibitors alike. With the further development of the WE ARE opti campaign 2024/2025, we want to express the unique atmosphere and further strengthen the sense of community within the optical industry - also outside the exhibition halls.
OPTI 2027 – Event Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Event | OPTI Munich: International trade show for optics & design |
| Dates | January 29–31, 2027 |
| Location | Munich, Germany |
| Venue | Fairground Messe München |
| Organizer | GHM Gesellschaft für Handwerksmessen |
| Event Type | Optical Trade Fair |
| Access | Trade Only |
| Focus | Eyewear, sunglasses, optical equipment, instruments, accessories |
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