ABDO returns to 100% Optical as it celebrates 100 years

The Association of British Dispensing Opticians (ABDO) is delighted to announce its return to 100% Optical, the UK’s leading event for the optical profession.

The event will take place at ExceL London from 28 February to 2 March 2026, bringing together thousands of professionals from across the industry.

ABDO’s stand will be strategically located next to the Dispensing Workshop area, providing an ideal opportunity for attendees to meet ABDO staff and regional leads, and to connect with current and future members. Visitors can learn more about ABDO’s work to influence healthcare policy and raise public awareness of the need for expert eyecare, reinforcing the value of dispensing opticians in the wider healthcare landscape. They can also discover ABDO membership benefits and professional development opportunities.

Looking ahead to 2026, ABDO will celebrate a significant milestone – celebrating 100 years of the dispensing optics profession and the founding of its predecessor organisation. Plans are already underway to mark this centenary at 100% Optical with special activities.

In addition to networking opportunities, ABDO’s professional development department will deliver a series of CPD-accredited workshops, offering valuable learning experiences for dispensing opticians and other optical professionals.

Priority booking for all dispensing workshops will open for ABDO members at 10am on Monday 26 January.

ABDO invites all attendees to visit the stand, engage with its team members, and discover how the Association continues to support and advance the profession.

ABDO president Kevin Gutsell says, “I am very much looking forward to speaking with members at 100% Optical as well as sector partners and sponsors. This is the show to visit for a variety of reasons such as keeping up-to-date with new products and technology, gaining CPD points, purchasing equipment, catching up with friends and not forgetting that opportunity to speak with ABDO for advice and information on courses and membership benefits. I look forward to seeing many of you at 100% Optical 2026.”

For more information and to register for the event, visit Opchat News 100% Preview Pages