International Vision Expo East 2017 has officially been labeled a success with reports of increased buying activity and media buzz.

The 2017 event was held at the Javits Center in New York (Education: Mar. 30-Apr. 2; Exhibition: Mar. 31-Apr. 2). And as preliminary numbers roll in, validated attendance numbers will be released this May following the show’s official audit.

“We’re thrilled with the feedback that has come in, both during the show and from attendees and exhibitors who have reached out since,” said Melissa Ashley, Senior Vice President of Reed Exhibitions. “Some exhibitors have noted their strongest sales activity in years, and attendees have indicated strong buying activity as well as positive feedback on the eyewear and lens technology offerings available.”

This year’s show brought together exhibitors, attendees and media for more events than ever before. The first Vision Expo Press Preview gathered more than 30 consumer editors and fashion bloggers with 28 exhibitors to give a sneak-peak of the latest trends, garnering 12.7 million impressions for exhibitors before the show floor even opened.

“My staff and I attend this show every year,” said Dr. Eric Bass of the Dr. Bass Vision Center in Westminster, California. “Vision Expo is the best place to see the most comprehensive collection of frames, lenses, lab and exam equipment in a comfortable setting.”

Media were also given a front row seat for a new series of roaming fashion shows, presenting the latest eyewear and sunwear options found right on the show floor from 36 different exhibitors. With a growing number of consumer publications in attendance and media buzz before, during and after the show higher than ever, the latest eyewear and tech products showcased have already begun to hit the pages of leading magazines and social media influencers.

Vision Expo has long been the destination for eyewear visionaries. An annual showcase that draws strong interest from buyers and the media even before you enter the show, the Vision Expo Product Gallery is home to the latest product lines and technologies. Each year, the Vision Choice Awards distinguish the best of the best of these products, as voted upon by show attendees. The winners of the 2017 Vision Choice Awards are:

“The Product Gallery and Vision Choice Awards perfectly illustrate the strong platform that International Vision Expo provides for brands introducing their design and technological innovations to the industry,” explains Ashley Mills, CEO of The Vision Council. “The exposure that this show lends to eyecare and eyewear companies is unmatched, and underscores the high-value marketing and buying opportunities that happen here in New York.”

“Vision Expo has been really good to us,” said Specs of Wood Owner Ian Rubinstein. “This year is even better than previous years because we’re experiencing more of a global reach than ever. We’re meeting buyers from Canada, Mexico, Puerto Rico—I even made a sale to somebody in Guadalupe.”

To learn more about Vision Expo visit visionexpoeast.com. Save the date for Vision Expo West, taking place September 13-16, 2017 at the Sands Expo in Las Vegas, NV.

To see more photos from the event, CLICK HERE

About the International Vision Expo & Conference
International Vision Expos, the worldwide conference and exhibition for eyecare and eyewear, are trade-only events that draw more than 30,000 eyecare professionals each year.

Co-owned by Reed Exhibitions and The Vision Council, International Vision Expo gives back to the entire ophthalmic community.

Proceeds from International Vision Expo are used by The Vision Council to educate consumers about the importance of vision care and the options in eyewear and other related products. In 2015, The Vision Council reached millions of consumers with its messages through marketing materials, public relations outreach and strategic partnerships. International Vision Expo & Conference is a proud supporter of Think About Your Eyes, a national public awareness campaign, presented by The Vision Council and the American Optometric Association, designed to educate the public on the benefits of vision health and promote the importance of getting an annual comprehensive eye exam.

Keep this vital campaign going! Sign up at enroll.thinkaboutyoureyes.com.