Mido 2026 Eyewear Fair Opens in Milan, Showcasing Global Industry Trends and Innovation

Global Eyewear Industry Converges in Milan

Milan, Italy – The highly anticipated Mido 2026 Eyewear Fair officially opened its doors today, January 31, at Fiera Milano Rho. The world's leading eyewear exhibition is set to run until February 2, 2026, bringing together the global eyewear supply chain for three days of business, innovation, and trend-setting.

This 54th edition of Mido is expected to host approximately 1,200 exhibitors from 50 countries, including 140 new entries, showcasing a comprehensive range of products from frames and lenses to machinery and raw materials. Organizers anticipate more than 40,000 visitors from over 160 nations, solidifying Milan's role as a central hub for the international eyewear community.

Key Highlights and Exhibition Areas

The fair is structured across seven pavilions and eight exhibition areas, each dedicated to different facets of the industry. Notable zones include the renovated Fashion Square in Hall 1, the Design Area in Halls 2 and 4, and the Academy in Hall 6, which serves as an incubator for emerging brands. A new addition this year is 'The Lens of Time' exhibition in Hall 6, which traces the evolution of eyewear from its origins to the present day, emphasizing its cultural and stylistic significance.

The opening ceremony, held at 10:30 AM in the Fashion Square of Pavilion one, featured prominent figures such as Lorraine Berton, President of MIDO and the Italian Optical Manufacturers Association (ANFAO). She was joined by Adolfo Urso, Minister of Enterprises and Made in Italy; Emanuele Orsini, President of Confindustria; Elena Buscemi, President of the Milan City Council; and Giovanni Bozzetti, President of Fondazione Fiera Milano. Attilio Fontana, President of the Lombardy region, and Matteo Zoppas, President of the Italian Trade Agency, were also expected to participate.

Trends, Sustainability, and Industry Dialogue

Mido 2026 is set to explore key themes such as business, innovation, trends, sustainability, and inclusion. The Vision Stage in Hall 1 will host numerous talks and workshops covering topics like leadership, geopolitics, eco-design, marketing, and medical advancements in the optical sector.

Eyewear trends for 2026 are highlighted by a focus on identity and heritage, with collections drawing inspiration from diverse landscapes and cultural references. Themes like 'Water Lights,' emphasizing transparency and ethereal designs, and 'Magma Matter,' exploring organic and primordial forms, are expected to be prominent.

The fair will also recognize excellence through the Mido Awards, which include the Best Store Award (for design and innovation), the CSE (Certified Sustainable Eyewear) Award for producers committed to sustainable practices, and the newly introduced CSE Corporate Award for exemplary exhibiting companies in the ESG field.