Spring weather welcomed visitors to Milan for Mido 2023. Hosted in February, in the lead up to fashion week, this annual eyewear show attracted 35,000 visitors from around the world; 80% of them from Europe and 20% from beyond. This was a 60% increase over 2022 visitor numbers, when the pandemic held people back.
With more than 1,000 exhibitors representing the entire supply chain, Mido showcased everything from machinery and lenses through to the industry’s top frame brands and the youngest independent designers – 72% international and 28% Italian companies. Among the overseas exhibitors, 51% were from Europe, 42% from Asia, and 7% from the rest of the world.
Jacque Katiseris from ProOptics was onsite and said the atmosphere was exhilarating.
“With puffers wrapped around our waists, we were excited to enter the fair for the first time since 2020, having been forced to cancel other trips due to COVID,” she told mivision.
“The buzz was phenomenal inside the first hall, and we had our skates on visiting international friends we hadn’t set eyes on for years!
“The Lab Academy was the most vibrant place to be, providing a
fantastic opportunity to view up-and-coming designers as well as the more established, yet still innovative brands in a relaxed, personalised environment,” Ms Katiseris added.
Consistent with consumer demand, she said both new and established brands had a noticeable number of frames made from eco acetate and recycled materials, as well as accredited Certified Sustainable Eyewear collections – eyewear produced in compliance with the principles of sustainability.
And for the second year running, the Stand Up for Green award recognised the most sustainably built stand.
“We spent a fantastic three days wandering six halls, where exhibitors and visitors alike were sharing their love of optics and contributing to the energy and experience of Mido,” Ms Katiseris said.
“See you at Mido in 2024.”
