Much like the rest of the world, the Mido Eyewear Show had to endure a two-year hiatus, eventually taking place on 30 April-2 May 2022, belatedly celebrating Mido’s 50th anniversary.
It was so exciting to meet people face to face at an optical trade show again, to touch and try on glasses. It had been so long, as I entered the show I wondered if I’d remember how to do my job! The opening event started with the world premiere of ‘Infinite Visioni’, a composition by the late Ennio Morricone. This was followed by presentations on the growth of the optical market during the pandemic and a journey through 50 years of Mido. Italian singer Dargen D’Amico took to the stage to wrap up this scaled-down but memorable event appetiser.
‘Fair East’, which usually occupies two halls, was conspicuous by its absence, but understandable with some countries’ travel restrictions still hampering things. Still, everything else I expected to see was there. The traditionally quiet Saturday – due to most opticians still trading – was surprisingly busy, which spoke volumes about people’s eagerness. Amid the palpable buzz, reps on stands were keen to tell me that while the pandemic has been difficult, the optical sector remained robust and the outlook positive. After a lap or two of the show, three key trends quickly emerged, which I’ve termed ‘all angles’, ‘leaner acetate’ and ‘eco hero’.
All angles
