Star-studded line-up of optical industry’s biggest names to roll out niche eyewear lines in fashion-focused Style Atelier showcase at Vision-X
Dubai, United Arab Emirates:
The very latest international designer sunglasses and eyewear brands are set to be unveiled in Dubai at the region’s biggest optical health, eyecare and eyewear business event at Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) from 6-8 December.
Vision-X 2015 will feature an expanded Style Atelier showcase this year, which has attracted leading niche fashion names such as Aston Martin, Bentley Eyewear, Cutler and Gross, Fakoshima, Gold & Wood, Histoire de Voir, Hoet, Linda Farrow, Ted Baker, Vanessa & Mehdi, and Viktor & Rolf Vision.
Last year’s show attracted more Middle East and Africa region buyers than any other leading optical event, with more than 250 brands from over 26 countries and 4,268 unique visitors descending on DWTC for the three-day show.
Anwar Marafi, Head of Middle East at Cutler and Gross, said: “We will be showcasing the latest addition to our brand, the Cocktail Collection, which is an excursion back to the 1980’s hip London scene, inspired by a fusion of cocktails, social hangouts and artistic inspirations. This ‘Made in Italy’ collection will thrill those who appreciate hand-made quality and classic, yet distinctive styling.
“It is so important for designers to showcase their collection in style at Vision-X to garner excellent exposure to the region and to interact with customers, peers and industry professionals. Vision-X is the leading optical show in the region and the perfect platform for Cutler and Gross as we continue to venture purposefully in the Gulf and Middle East.”
A new Retail Theatre at this year’s show will deliver regional businesses with an exclusive forum to help business owners and managers improve their operations by presenting the latest in retail technology, and experts GFK and consultants Hakim Group offer advice on social media best practice, regional industry trends and retail intelligence. This year’s event will also feature essential presentations on the latest best practice from around the world and real initiatives to build profits and the opportunity for one to one consultations with international optical business experts.
“Dubai has positioned itself as one of the leading fashion capitals of the world and so it is only fitting that we have placed a renewed focus on the Style Atelier and brought together a host of sought after brands from around the world,” said Trixie LohMirmand, Senior Vice President, Exhibitions & Events Management, DWTC.
“Buyers visiting Vision-X 2015 will have a range of brands and price points to view and select. The boundaries of fashion in eyewear have been pushed in recent years and customers in the Middle East are choosing glasses which get them noticed. The Style Atelier is the ideal platform to see eyewear designers’ latest creations.”
The eyewear market in the UAE is valued at $480 million and in the previous four years alone around 800 optician outlets opened across the Emirates and Saudi Arabia.
Matteo de Stefani, General Manager at Hassans Optical, which represents brands including Linda Farrow, IC! Berlin, DITA and Aston Martin in the Middle East, added: “There is a real appetite for these niche brands in the region and the Style Atelier was a new concept to present them to buyers looking for key trends. We are delighted to be back launching iconic British Luxury brand Aston Martin in 2015”
Vision-X 2015 will offer a range of new features to generate additional buzz. Drawing an international line-up of speakers and supported by Eyezone Institute of Opticianry & Private Training, the three-day Vision-X Opticare Conference is a must attend for industry professionals, who will get a close-up view and analysis of the latest healthcare topics and techniques, and improve their professional knowledge and skills.
The Vision-X VP Awards, sponsored by fashion brand distributor Vision & Fashion will celebrate the best products in the business. A joint initiative between Vision-X and Vision Plus magazine, the awards will see winners judged by retailers and practitioners announced at an opening night gala party – a glittering evening of celebration, recognition and networking.