From 31 January to 2 February 2026, the global optical industry will once again gather at Fieramilano Rho, for what promises to be a focused, content-rich and internationally balanced edition.

Early forecasts point to around 1,200 exhibitors from 50 countries, including 140 new entries, alongside many familiar names making their return. The numbers mirror last year’s edition, but the underlying message is stronger. Despite economic pressure and market shifts, the independent eyewear industry continues to move, adapt and expand.

Reworked halls, familiar anchors and new energy

MIDO 2026 builds further on a hall structure that balances stability with renewal. Fashion Square, the beating heart of Hall 1, will be fully redesigned, reinforcing its role as a central meeting point between brands, buyers and media. In Hall 4, visitors will encounter a dedicated installation linked to DaTE, while Hall 6 will host a new edition of the exhibition The Lens of Time.

The Design area, spread across Halls 2 and 4, returns as a key zone for experimentation and creative expression. This is where several brands are making a strategic shift, moving from the Academy into Design, signalling both growth and confidence in their positioning.

The Academy, confirmed in Hall 6, stays true to its role as an incubator for young labels. More than 90 companies will be present, including around 20 startups introducing fresh concepts, materials and business models to the international audience.

The Lens of Time arrives in Milan

After its Venice stop, The Lens of Time exhibition lands at MIDO with a new setup designed specifically for an international trade audience. Conceived by ANFAO, the exhibition traces the evolution of eyewear from its origins to today, placing craftsmanship, culture and design at the centre of the narrative.

Following MIDO 2026, the exhibition will continue its journey in autumn 2026 at Palazzo Piacentini in Rome, headquarters of the Italian Ministry of Enterprise and Made in Italy, with international destinations already being considered for the future.

The Vision Stage, context beyond product

MIDO’s Vision Stage once again positions the fair as more than a commercial platform. With around 20 scheduled talks, panels and workshops, the programme brings together journalists, market analysts, sustainability experts, athletes and representatives from the medical and optical fields.

Key themes include social responsibility, market behaviour, global purchasing trends and the outlook of the US market. The full Vision Stage calendar will be published in January, but expectations are high for a programme that connects eyewear to wider social and economic realities.

MIDO Awards, excellence under the spotlight

Applications remain open for the MIDO Awards, celebrating excellence across retail, manufacturing and sustainability. Optical stores can apply for the Best Store Award, divided into Design and Innovation categories, with submissions open until 31 December.

Manufacturers committed to responsible practices can still enter the CSE Award – Certified Sustainable Eyewear, as well as the new CSE Corporate Award, which recognises ESG excellence at company level rather than product level. Applications for both CSE awards close on 14 December 2025, with the ceremony scheduled during MIDO 2026.

Milan in motion, planning made easier

MIDO 2026 takes place just days before the opening of the Milano–Cortina Winter Olympic Games, placing the city in a moment of heightened international attention. To support visitors, MIDO introduces a range of practical tools, including an integrated booking platform developed with MiCodmc, dedicated travel services for Italian opticians and free train options available from January.

Pass holders will also have access to curated city maps and a discounted YesMilano City Pass, offering reduced public transport rates and access to cultural landmarks such as the Duomo and major museums.

MIDO 2026 at a glance

Dates: 31 January – 2 February 2026
Location: Fieramilano Rho, Milan
Exhibitor list: Now online and continuously updated

With the exhibitor list live, MIDO 2026 moves from anticipation into preparation. For opticians, designers and industry professionals, this is the moment to map routes, mark priorities and look ahead to three days where the future of eyewear takes shape, hall by hall, frame by frame.