Industry News
ODMA Awards Spotlight Innovation and Excellence in Optical Industry
The Optical Distributors and Manufacturers Association (ODMA) has wrapped up its annual awards programme with a strong message: innovation, customer service, and creativity are thriving in the optical industry.
This year’s revitalised awards saw record engagement, drawing over 2,100 votes from across the sector—more than double expectations. The programme covered seven diverse categories, acknowledging achievements from independent practices to top-performing suppliers.
Independent Practice of the Year was awarded to Northam Optical in Western Australia, overcoming strong finalists Eyewear on Pako (Victoria) and Tracton Optometrist (New South Wales). The category highlighted the strength of regional practices in delivering high-quality eye care and community engagement.
On the supplier front, Hoya emerged as a dominant force, securing both Supplier of the Year and Top Supplier Customer Service Team. The company stood out among heavyweights like EssilorLuxottica, CR Surfacing, Rodenstock, and ZEISS, demonstrating its leadership in both product and service excellence.
In a rare tie, the Sales Representative of the Year award went to Vineet Chauhan (EssilorLuxottica NZ) and Kristy Gierisch (Eyes Right Optical Australia), both recognised for their outstanding client support and market impact. Other top contenders included Belinda Bishop, Katie Cran, and Roy Parker.
Innovation in diagnostic technology was celebrated with the Instrument of the Year award, which went to Designs For Vision’s iCare Tonometer. The device has played a pivotal role in elevating diagnostic capabilities and patient outcomes in clinical settings.
Style was also in the spotlight, with Face a Face’s Didot 1 frame, distributed by Eyes Right Optical, claiming Versatile Frame of the Year. Its broad appeal across demographics made it a standout in a highly competitive fashion-forward category.
In visual merchandising, two businesses shared the spotlight in the Window Dressing category: Base Curve Optical (Victoria) and Kenmore Plaza Optometrist (Queensland), recognised for their compelling and creative retail displays that enhance the patient experience.
