Up until recently, "transition" glasses (also known as photochromic lenses) have not sold strongly in the Middle East, held back by an unfashionable image and technical problems with early versions, which were slow to clear. Customers have typically opted to carry both glasses and sunglasses instead.
However, technological advances - in addition to celebrity endorsement by figures like Angelina Jolie - have sparked interest in photochromic lenses around the world, with importers in the region looking to capture a significant share of the market.
"Photochromic lenses globally are a growth sector, and we're anticipating rising demand in the Middle East over the coming years," said Claire Hayden, CEO of Kefan Optics, which has offices across the Middle East.
The company, which specialises in Nikon Ophthalmic lenses, will have a range of Nikon lenses on display, including new models with photochromic lenses.
Photochromic lenses now account for more than 15 percent of all prescription lens pairs sold globally at the end of 2005, according to the Vision Council of America, a rise from 2.7 percent on 1993.
Technological improvements are encouraging wearers to try photochromic lenses. Early versions of the technology could darken in the sun but were slow to clear up inside, leaving them grey for minutes. Today, new colours of shades have appeared on the market, including greens and caramels, which clear more quickly.
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Innovative eyewear looks to make impact in the Middle East
- United Arab Emirates: Sunday, February 12 - 2006 at 12:24
- PRESS RELEASE
Participating companies at the upcoming Vision-X Dubai 2006, an exhibition organised by Dubai World Trade Centre, are looking to increase awareness of "transition" glasses that darken in bright sunlight, hoping that the Middle East will provide an ideal market for them.
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Vision-X Dubai, the 7th Optical and Ophthalmic Exhibition and Conference, runs in Dubai from 12 to 14 February 2006. Conference will be on 13 and 14 February 2006. Day 1 will be from 10 am to 5pm; Day 2 from 10 am to 12 noon.About Vision-X Dubai 2006
Vision-X Dubai 2006, formerly known as Optical Middle East, is the 7th Optical & Ophthalmic Exhibition and Conference. It is the largest regional exhibition for the latest in eyewear, optical aids and accessories in an exciting and dynamic market.
The trade and specialists exhibition is a cost-effective way to maintain and expand your market share and the ideal platform to launch new products and services.
An inaugural conference will be held alongside Vision-X Dubai 2006. This is your chance to hear from key speakers, be involved in discussions and network with industry experts.
About Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC)
As the organiser of Vision-X Dubai, Dubai World Trade Centre offers over 25 years' experience of delivering world-class events in the Middle East, providing local, regional and international exhibitors with unmatched expertise and in-depth market knowledge. Our team organises 12 of the largest and most successful international and regional shows in Middle East, providing an ideal platform for business development in the region.
Our commitment to ongoing innovation within the exhibition industry has supported the rapid growth and development of a wide range of business-to-business and business-to-consumer shows, and delivered consistent satisfaction to exhibitors and visitors. DWTC works the leading trade bodies and industry associations to ensure that all exhibitions deliver full value and are built upon the real needs of their specific sector.
Websites:
www.dwtc.com
Lara Lynn Golden, News EditorSunday, February 12 - 2006 at 12:24 UAE local time (GMT+4)
Replication or redistribution in whole or in part is expressly prohibited without the prior written consent of AME Info FZ LLC / Emap Limited.
This article was updated on Sun Oct 22 2006.
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