Paris Set to Become Global Hub for Eyewear Industry as SILMO Returns This September
Eyecare professionals from around the world will descend on Paris Nord Villepinte from 25 to 28 September for SILMO Paris 2026, with organisers promising the largest edition yet of the event that styles itself as the meeting point for the international optical and eyewear trade.
Organiser Comexposium says the four-day fair is expected to draw close to 34,000 visitors and 950 exhibitors, representing more than 1,500 brands from 150 countries. For an industry navigating fast-moving shifts in technology, retail models and patient care, SILMO is positioning itself once again as the place where those conversations happen face-to-face.
Four spaces, dozens of sessions
This year's program is built around four dedicated conference spaces - SILMO Talks, SILMO Next, the CSR-focused Spot RSE, and the Contact Lens Workshops - hosting more than 60 sessions across the four days. The topics on offer span artificial intelligence and smart glasses through to preventive eye health, retail transformation and the evolving role of independent opticians.
Friday 25 September opens with a session on understanding and acting on the rise of smart glasses, alongside startup pitches at Spot RSE and a workshop on orthokeratology for practitioners wanting a refresher on the fitting fundamentals.
Saturday 26 September turns to the eye as a diagnostic window into broader health, with a session on predictive and preventive healthcare through imaging and AI. Smart glasses maker Even Realities is also slated to present its vision for the future of eyewear at the SILMO Next space, before the conversation shifts to what independent opticians need to remain relevant.
Sunday 27 September is heavy on retail strategy, with a session on why bricks-and-mortar optical retailers need to reinvent themselves, a responsible retail panel at Spot RSE, and a look at contact lenses as a growth lever for practices.
Monday 28 September closes out the program with sessions on preparing the next generation of opticians to work alongside smart glasses and AI, traceability requirements under the new GS1 Master UDI-DI standards for optical devices, and myopia management across the care continuum, from prevention through to personalised treatment.
Beyond the conference program
Alongside the talks schedule, SILMO Paris will host several signature features. The SILMO Next space and its Tech Village will let visitors trial emerging technology including smart glasses and AI-driven tools firsthand. The SILMO d'Or awards will spotlight standout design and innovation from across the sector, while the Trends Forum will offer a look at the shapes, materials and colours expected to define upcoming collections. A 160 square metre CSR area will house a materials library, start-up showcases and workshops aimed at the industry's sustainability challenges.
Full conference programs and registration details are available at SILMOParis.com.
