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John Cremer

A record number of exhibitors from 19 countries and regions will attend the fair

THE OPTICAL INDUSTRY knows all about how to focus. 'That's why we expect every company in the sector to focus on  the Hong Kong Optical Fair for the rest of this week,' said Anne Chick, senior exhibitions manager for the Hong Kong Trade Development Council.

This year's three-day event, which opens today at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, has attracted more than 520 exhibitors.

'That is an increase of more than 23 per cent [from last year]. And we also expect a marked improvement on last year's total of 7,600 visitors,' Ms Chick said.

Hong Kong is the world's second-largest exporter of eyewear behind Italy and continued growth to key markets is expected. Between January and August, the export trade in spectacles, lenses and frames was valued at US$695 million.

This success has been built on the use of new technologies in the design and manufacturing process, and innovative marketing strategies.

Equally important has been the chance to draw exhibitors and buyers from around the world to Hong Kong.

'The Optical Fair has developed into an essential annual showcase for the industry. This is the 12th edition, and it is now a very important trading platform for the industry.'

There will be exhibitors from a record 19 countries and regions, with the number from the mainland alone up 37 per cent from last year.

Efforts have been made to promote a 'visionary' theme and introduce new attractions, including seminars which cover a broad spectrum of topics relating to the optical industry.

New sections  include the Visionaries of Style area, which will focus on designers and well-known brand names  from about 10 companies.

The idea is to reflect the contemporary view of eyewear as a fashion accessory, and will give visitors a chance to see the latest styles, colours and materials being used.

A special zone is designated for retail shop design, equipment and technology.

The objective is to provide inspiration and assistance for companies setting up retail outlets or consignment counters. Information will be available on specialist areas such as design, window displays and lighting. The exhibits will range from furniture and fittings to illumination and electronic point-of-sale technology.

'The majority of visitors to the fair have some link to the retail side of the business, so we expect this section to be very popular. Our aim is to offer new ideas for people in all parts of the industry,' Ms Chick said.

This accounts for the return of the special zone devoted to optometric instruments, equipment and machinery, which was a big hit when launched last year. This area will provide the 'vision of the future', giving manufacturers the chance to study the latest in technological development and computer-controlled processes.

'The fair is a great place to collect market information, get a first look at developing trends and attend seminars,' Ms Chick said.

Among the seminars being arranged is the 2nd Hong Kong Optometric Conference, which will feature six international experts in the field of optometry. They  will cover a variety of technical issues and matters pertaining to the governance of the profession.

Other seminars will deal with eyewear trends, product certification, retail technology and intellectual property rights.

The Optical Fair provides an opportunity for people in the industry to exchange information.

Iris Lim,  senior vice-president of Singapore exhibitor Lenspec Technology,  said: 'This is a great place to meet our friends in the business and get to know what's new in technology and the latest market information.'

Michael Cotler,  managing director of British buyer Namiric,  said: 'By attending the fair, I can get an idea of what is going on in the market and find out where I can source products for a better price. Hong Kong is the only fair I attend outside of the UK and I find it very efficient and professional.'



Visions of future in the frame