Know Before You Go: What’s Coming to Vision Expo East 2025

Norwalk, CT (February 13, 2025) – Vision Expo East 2025 is set to transform the eyewear and eyecare experience as it makes its highly anticipated debut in Orlando, Florida, from February 19-22 at the Orange County Convention Center. This year’s show will feature an improved floor layout, enhanced education and events programming, and over 300 leading eyecare and eyewear brands from industry giants to independent designers.

"Our move to Orlando marks an exciting evolution for Vision Expo East, opening new doors for networking and innovation," said Ashley Mills, CEO of The Vision Council. "Based on member feedback, we've enhanced the show experience to better serve the vision community, fostering creativity, collaboration and discovery. We can’t wait to welcome attendees to our new, sun-filled location and experience firsthand what Orlando has to offer."

What to Expect

Education & Learning

Starting February 19, Vision Expo East will deliver more than 270 hours of accredited continuing education, covering essential clinical, technical and business topics. Sessions are tailored for all types of industry professionals, including ophthalmologists, optometrists, opticians, orthoptists and allied professionals. 

Full Education Schedule

Exhibiting Brands & Industry Discovery

The exhibition floor opens on February 20, featuring a new layout that distinctly showcases key industry segments—including eyewear, eyecare, technology and innovation, and independent design.

Vision Expo East will be introducing a dedicated space for Independent Labs as well as a continued partnership with the Italian Trade Commission (ICE) and the Italian Optical Manufacturers Association (ANFAO) featuring 16 “made in Italy” eyewear designers in the Italian Pavilion. The NOW Trend Showcase, an attendee favorite, will return in a new, prominent location at the show floor entrance. 

Exhibitor List

Key Destinations to Visit

The redesigned exhibition layout aims to create a more seamless, easy-to-navigate experience for attendees, featuring dynamic exhibits, new activations, and food and beverage offerings throughout the venue.

Resource Center (NEW): Centrally located down the center aisle in the exhibit hall, this area serves as a knowledge hub for career growth and community connections. Featuring The Vision Council, United Opticians Association’s OptiCon Hub, and other industry organizations, this space offers networking opportunities, complimentary headshots and access to the latest industry insights on the Main Stage.

Indie Lab Speakeasy (NEW): A gathering space within the Resource Center for members of the independent lab community to share information about their respective labs, educate the broader vision industry and conduct meetings, sponsored by Artisan Lab Network.

Main Stage: Hosting daily panel discussions and interviews on topics such as AI in eyecare, industry evolution and sustainability. It will also feature two Flaunt the Frame fashion shows, a trends presentation by DONEGER|TOBE, and a keynote interview with tennis legend Venus Williams, in conversation with sports broadcaster Kelly Tilghman.

Launch Pad (NEW): A showcase in the Resource Center featuring eight companies presenting the latest optical innovations.

Platinum Club (NEW): An upgraded VIP area for hosted buyers, members of the media and social media influencers on the show floor in a private space ideal for networking, conducting small meetings and interviews, and to re-energize throughout the day with daily complimentary amenities.

OTC Showcase (NEW): The OTC, or Over-The-Counter Showcase in the Resource Center will offer some of the industry’s best direct-to-consumer brands the opportunity to display their brand and products and allow attendees to engage with this growing profit center.

Networking & Dining Spaces

Conferee Café (NEW): A French-inspired lounge with daily refreshments and a barista, sponsored by HOYA Vision Care.

Independent Design Lounge: This is a destination within the Independent Design zone where buyers and frame makers can connect and relax.

Pearle Vision Zone (NEW): An exciting stop on the show floor with a food truck, arcade games, and more!

V Bar: An enhanced location for networking near the Main Stage session viewing with daily happy hours.

Zeiss German Beer Garden (NEW): Attendees can pick up a branded stein from the Zeiss booth and enjoy complimentary German beer (while supplies last), with pretzels and popcorn available for purchase.

Events & Connection

The event's networking opportunities extend beyond show hours with several signature events, including: 

Schedule of Events

Navigation & Planning 

The exhibit hall will be in the West Building of the Orange County Convention Center (OCCC), conveniently located at 9800 International Drive.

Attendees can take advantage of: 

  • 50% Brightline ticket discount (a high-speed train for regional Florida travelers)
  • Complimentary hotel shuttles to/from the nearby hotels and the OCCC
  • Visit Orlando Concierge Desk onsite for dining and local planning
  • Attendee resources for show hours and other planning resources
  • Get maps, event schedules and session details by downloading the official mobile app. Find it on device's app store, Google Play Store for Android or the App Store for iOS, by searching “Vision Expo East.”

Industry professionals can register and explore the full schedule of exhibitors, events and courses at east.visionexpo.com.