Turks and Germans aim to carve out market share in region’s €2.4 billion optical industry
Dubai, United Arab Emirates: The Middle East optical industry is predicted to grow beyond its €2.4 billion margin due to an influx of international brands aiming to carve out their share of the market, according to research experts GfK.
Zeki Yılmaz, founder and owner of Turkish frame designer 40 MILLION Eyewear, believes branching out into other markets within the region is a solid strategy for international recognition.
He said: “As Dubai has increasingly become a global hub for the eyewear industry, coupled with Turkish brands seeing a rapid rise in import capacity, we’ve recorded an influx of companies flocking to the Emirate to generate business on a regional and global scale.”
Displaying their latest luxury designs, 40 MILLION Eyewear will be one of many international exhibitors present at the 17th edition of Vision-X, which returns to the Dubai World Trade Centre from 25-27 October 2016.
International presence at the three-day trade show has been steady in recent years and Vision-X organisers are reporting an increase globally this year. German-based display case designer, concept-s is also taking part, aiming to capitalise on the networking opportunities provided by the show.
Lukas Schroll, Managing Director of concept-s said: “About 65% of the products from concept-s are sold abroad. The MENA region is an important business territory for us due to the fact that there is a big market potential regarding the optical business. Taking part at a local trade show means showing presence and offers opportunities for meeting existing clients personally as well as get to know new clients and business partners.”
Celebrating excellence in the eyewear and optical care industry, the Vision-X Vision Plus Awards returns for the third year at the Dubai World Trade Centre on 25 October, and will provide a platform for leading brands to celebrate the best in business.
The shortlisted nominees have been tallied and the UAE have taken an undeniable lead, representing 60 nominated products across 17 categories.
Pammi Jamalpuria, General Manager of Corporate Marketing at Vision RX Lab believes that winning any of their four nominations will have a positive impact on their business in the UAE.
She said: “Receiving accolades in recognition of the quality and innovation that come with our products will definitely help to strengthen our brand further in the region and also boost customer confidence in us.
“Vision X showcases the leading brands in the optical industry across the globe. It is an event which brings together the best in eyewear and eye care technology from across the Middle East, North Africa and other parts of the world and we are glad to be a part of it.”
In cooperation with the IACLE and the European Academy of Optometry and Optics EAOO this year’s Vision-X Opticare Conference will offer delegates a valuable opportunity to earn CPD points for their practices as well as provide insightful workshops highlighting the latest techniques for fitting lenses and diagnosing patients.
Visitors can also expect to see the very latest in cutting-edge design, technology and innovation at Vision-X. Returning to the show this year are a host of recognised industry names including Vision RX Labs, Alcon, GKB Hi Tech, and Anesthesia USA, as well as leading fashion brands such as Future Optic, Ata Optic and Dzmitry Samal.
Attracting more than 4,000 buyers from over 70 countries, Vision-X will showcase more than 250 brands, with dedicated areas such as the Future in Focus and Retail Theatre for business owners and managers to improve their operations. For more information, visit www.vision-x.ae.