Keeping a close eye on new products entering the market, European optical industry leaders, as EUROM 1 Optical Industries, have gathered in Pall Mall, London. They discussed new standards and the collective approach also brought insightful state-of-the-market reports from each country. Hosted by the OSA, at the RAC Club, the meeting united delegates from Italy, France, Germany, Spain, and the UK, along with a delegate from the European Council of Optometry and Optics (ECOO).
Representing 85% of the European optical supply chain, delegates had a busy programme of reviewing guidance relating to optical standards, medical device regulation, smart PPE, hydrophobic lens properties, sports eyewear protection, and the European General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR). Enacted in December 2024, this European law was flagged up with a warning of caution for all optical businesses which might not be aware of the harsh consequences of infringement.
Salvador Alsina, EUROM1 Optical Industries President, was delighted to chair the London meeting –
“I’d like to thank the OSA for its hospitality. Our European federation is today facing increasingly complex challenges. For this reason, we believe it is of fundamental importance to build together these opportunities where we can discuss economic and regulatory matters. But most of all, keep our focus on vision and eye health and prevention issues. Our industry must address these as a priority.”
James Conway, Vice-Chair OSA, agreed –
“We had great pleasure in hosting the EUROM 1 Optical Industries meeting in London. Fascinating conversations, as always, and many vital issues on regulation and standards were discussed. The importance of these relationships and discussions is pivotal and ensures the UK optical sector is well-aware of European legislative changes and vice versa.”
Dr Sylwia Kropacz-Sobkowiak, President Elect, European Council of Optometry and Optics, welcomed the opportunity to engage with the optical manufacturing community. She gave delegates an update on ECOO’s key areas of work, including progress on the updated Blue Book, which contains data on the profession in each country, the status and scope of practice of the profession, its role in public health, and the education and training provided. This is due to be published in autumn 2025.
“The EUROM 1 Optical Industries meeting was more than just technical updates; it was an eye-opening insight into how the optical industry collaborates, plans, and sets technical standards to drive innovation across the European market. As new technologies continue to arrive it is clear that patient and vision safety must remain at the heart of progress, reminding industry leaders of their responsibility in shaping a future where technology truly serves people,” said Sylwia.
Kevin Gutsell, President of the UK’s Association of British Dispensing Opticians, who attended, praised the meeting –
“This brought together national associations representing manufacturers and suppliers of lenses, frames, sunglasses, and other equipment used by opticians across Europe, including the UK’s OSA.
“EUROM 1 Optical Industries has many objectives, but two stand out as particularly relevant in the current climate: defending and promoting the interests of the optical industry and developing and encouraging quality through the establishment of industry standards. These aims are especially important now, given the ongoing delays and confusion surrounding medical device registration post-Brexit.
“While the significance of EUROM 1 Optical Industries and international standards may not be immediately apparent to those working in the UK, I firmly believe their role is essential. Continued engagement in this space is critical, and it’s encouraging to see steady progress being made.”
The meeting took place from 26-27 June 2025
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ECOO | European Council of Optometry and Optics
Association of British Dispensing Opticians – ABDO