The MIDO international eyewear show has once again underscored innovation, design, and sustainability as key pillars of the eyewear industry. One of the highlights was the prestigious MIDO Awards ceremony, honoring outstanding contributions from optical centers, exhibitors, and trade professionals dedicated to enhancing the industry's standards.
Hosted at OTTICLUB and presided over by President Giovanni Vitaloni alongside radio host Petra Loreggian, the awards ceremony celebrated remarkable achievements across various categories.
Anaïs Murith's LENETA - Concept Store Optique, a Swiss optical center, clinched the BeStore Award for Design. The accolade recognized LENETA's exceptional blend of beauty, retro charm, contemporary aesthetics, and responsible retail practices.
Vitor Martins' Ótica Maxivisão from Portugal secured the Innovation Award for its significant social impact through solidarity missions across five countries and its unwavering commitment to environmental conservation.
In a nod to sustainable practices, CSO Costruzione Strumenti Oftalmici, an Italian company, received the Stand Up For Green award for presenting the most sustainable booth at the show. The booth's design was entirely based on the utilization of circular materials, demonstrating a dedication to eco-conscious principles.
The ceremony culminated with the presentation of the CSE - Certified Sustainable Eyewear Award, a collaboration between MIDO, ANFAO, and Certottica aimed at assessing sustainability within the global eyewear sector. The winners across six categories were announced as follows:
- CSE Award Cases Rest of the World: AQUA by EXPLORIS ASIA LIMITED (China)
- CSE Award Cases Europe: BABE 24 by LLEXAN ITALIA (Italy)
- CSE Award Frames Rest of the World: NATURA by NEWAY MACAO (Macao)
- CSE Award Frames Europe: TOMMY HILFIGER by SAFILO (Italy)
- CSE Award Sunglasses Rest of the World: LONGCHAMP by MARCHON (USA)
- CSE Award Sunglasses Europe: ROLF (Austria)
The recipients of these prestigious awards exemplify the industry's ongoing commitment to excellence, innovation, and sustainability, setting a high standard for the global eyewear market.
In other news, the new Sergio Cereda Eyewear Design Award was unveiled at the show. This prestigious accolade pays homage to Sergio Cereda, a luminary whose illustrious career in eyewear design left an indelible mark on the industry. Although retired, Cereda's influence continues to resonate, shaping the landscape of eyewear design for decades. The Sergio Cereda Eyewear Design Award is more than a mere recognition; it embodies a commitment to nurturing emerging talents across the globe. Spearheaded by Harvey Ross, CEO of Optyx Retail Group and founder of HMR Holdings, in collaboration with the Cereda family and MIDO organizers, this initiative aims to empower and support the next generation of eyewear designers. At its core, the award represents a dedication to education and career development within the international optical industry. With a prize of US$5,000, it serves as a testament to Sergio Cereda's fervent belief in fostering creativity and innovation among aspiring designers. The judging panel for the award comprises an esteemed lineup of industry experts, including Harvey Ross, MIDO President Giovanni Vitaloni, Caterina Cereda, Stefania Cereda-Oppermann, and Bruno Palmegiani. Their collective expertise and discerning eye will ensure that the award honors excellence and creativity in eyewear design.
Harvey Ross stated, "The Sergio Cereda Eyewear Design Award is not just a competition; it's a beacon for future eyewear innovation, celebrating Mr. Cereda's enduring legacy. We invite young designers to embrace this opportunity and showcase their creativity."
MIDO President Giovanni Vitaloni added, "This award is a significant step in recognizing and inspiring new talent in our field, honoring the remarkable contributions of Sergio Cereda to eyewear design."
The Cereda family expressed their enthusiasm: "Sergio loved the idea of this design award. We wholeheartedly support this initiative and encourage young designers to pursue a career in this vibrant and rewarding field."