EYECARE The Optical Industry Prepares to Experience the Future of Eyecare and Eyewear at Vision Expo West in Las Vegas By Staff Thursday, August 22, 2024 12:21 AM NORWALK, Conn.—Vision Expo West, a premier trade-only conference and exhibition for eyecare and eyewear professionals, presented by co-owners RX and The Vision Council, will take place from September 18-21, 2024, at The Venetian Expo in Las Vegas, according to an announcement from show organizers. This leading event for eyecare professionals, ophthalmic experts and industry innovators will feature product sourcing, trends, innovations, events, networking opportunities, show floor demonstrations, activations and an acclaimed education program designed to enlighten, inspire and elevate the industry, the announcement said. The comprehensive educational program, VisionEd, including OptiCon @ Vision Expo, will open on Wednesday, September 18, the day before the exhibit hall opens. “Vision Expo West is more than just an event—it's a gathering that propels our industry forward by fostering innovation, collaboration and professional growth,” said Fran Pennella, vice president of Vision Expo at RX. “We invite all ophthalmic professionals to experience an unparalleled event tailored for the entire community. We have curated relevant and important new content in our accredited education program, providing numerous opportunities to learn about the latest advancements in eyecare. Additionally, we have added exciting ways to discover the latest products, network with peers on the show floor and enjoy a bit of fun at evening events,” she said. The exhibit hall will feature over 350 exhibiting companies, brands and designers from around the globe showcasing groundbreaking innovations in frame design, lens advancements, diagnostic instruments and practice management solutions. Click here to view the exhibitor list. Vision Expo West’s expansive show floor will include several key locations for attendees to explore, including the following: The Focus: This neighborhood provides the most comprehensive view of innovations in lens processing, medical and diagnostic technology, disease management solutions, contact lens innovations and eyecare practice optimization. The Park: An eyewear showcase featuring the broadest selection of fashion, sports and prestige eyewear. Step into large-scale, immersive exhibits where brands define eyewear's future. The Atelier: Celebrate the exquisite fusion of fashion, art, culture and craftsmanship from independent designers around the globe. This neighborhood is the home for independent, design-led ateliers. Tech & Innovation: This neighborhood is dedicated to the technology unfolding at warp speed across every facet of life, with the vision industry riding this wave of acceleration. Sun and Sport: This new area will feature active lifestyle eyewear brands, curated trend showcases and a live Pickleball Court. Career Resource Center: The center is a hub for students and professionals to connect with companies and explore career building activities and complimentary resources. Lounges & Cafes: Multiple lounges and cafes will be scattered throughout the show floor, including the new V Bar, the Atelier, OPTImum, Press, Vision Café and the OptiCon Hub. Take advantage of a dynamic mix of day and evening events designed to foster networking and relationship building. With a growing list of opportunities, both on and off the exhibit floor, there’s something for everyone at the Expo, show organizers said. Here is a sampling of some of the events planned for Vision Expo West: Swing Fore Sight Golf Outing: The 19th Annual Prevent Blindness Golf Outing at Bali Hai Golf Club in Las Vegas will take place on September 18, 2024. Industry leaders and vision advocates are invited to enjoy a day of golf, networking and philanthropy while supporting the mission to promote healthy vision. Registration is open here. Vision Expo West Opening Night Party: Featuring Bad Habits, “The EyeDocs of Rock,” on Thursday, September 19, at 9 p.m. at Brooklyn Bowl in The Linq Promenade. All Vision Expo attendees are invited. Attendee badges are required for entry. ODs on Facebook Celebration of Optometry: Meet and mingle with the ODs on Facebook community, Friday, September 20, 7:30-9:30 p.m., located atop the Cromwell, Drai’s Beachclub and Nightclub. Enjoy a DJ and open bar while connecting with colleagues. Cocktails & Connections: Visit the new V Bar Thursday or Friday from 4:00-6:00 p.m., located right in the Focus, to unwind and network with a drink, courtesy of Vision Expo. Flaunt the Frame: Eyewear Trends Fashion Shows: Join for the premiere of the “Flaunt The Frame” fashion show series with two live shows presented in collaboration with Eyecare Business. Bausch + Lomb Presents The Patient’s Language of Dry: Expert discussion on The State of Dry Eye on Thursday, September 19 at 6:30–9:30 p.m., featuring food, cocktails and noteworthy speakers. Click here for a full schedule of events. This year’s Vision Expo West education program promises to deliver the industry’s leading continuing education and accreditation programs, led by world-renowned experts in 150+ hours. View the full list of courses here. Attendees can view education package details and register here. VisionEd: Attendees can select from an extensive catalog of accredited optometric, opticianry and business education spanning subjects ranging from disease management and practice expansion to lens innovation and business management. OptiCon @ Vision Expo: This dedicated show floor destination will host pop-up talks, networking, social events, and access to representatives and resources from ABO & NCLE, United Opticians Association (UOA), CLSA and vendor partners. View package details and register here. "Vision Expo West is a unique convergence of innovation, education and networking, creating an environment where professionals can discover the latest trends and technologies in eyecare and eyewear,” said Mitch Barkley, vice president of trade shows at The Vision Council. “This event is designed to not only meet the current needs of the industry but to drive it forward, ensuring that we stay at the forefront of advancements that benefit both practitioners and patients," he said. The hotel block is open, with a limited number of reduced-rate hotel rooms available. The reservation deadline has been extended to August 22. Click here to learn more about travel bookings. To reserve exhibit booth space or learn about sponsorship opportunities, contact Kristin Cammarata, sales director at kristin.cammarata@rxglobal.com. To make the most of planning for Vision Expo West, attendees can explore exhibitors, events, course lists and more by visiting west.visionexpo.com.