CloserStill reports on 100% Optical & Ophthalmology 2025

100% Optical sees surge in senior talent, with major increases in optometrists, buyers, and ophthalmologists

Last week, over 250 exhibitors and 5,000 brands headed to the UK’s largest optical event at the Excel Centre in London (1-3 March), with organisers of 100% Optical confirming over 11,000 in attendance across the three days. 

100% Optical welcomed an increase of senior job functions through the doors, including a 9% rise of optometrists and dispensing opticians, 20% increase of buyers, and 66% increase of senior-level ophthalmologists and consultants for the co-located 100% Ophthalmology event. 

This year was the first edition organised by CloserStill Media, since its acquisition in October 2024. The addition of 100% Optical strengthens its healthcare portfolio including award-winning events such as Clinical Pharmacy Congress, Diabetes Professional Care, and Dentistry Show, as well as the Jewellery Show – the UK’s premier jewellery trade event of the year. 

Celsa Vazquez, Commercial Director, at CloserStill Media, said: “Firstly, a massive congratulations to our 2025 Love Eyewear Award winners. Each year the competition gets fiercer, judging gets tougher and the ceremony gets more exciting.”

“We’d like to extend a special thank you to our valued exhibitors, sponsors, and all of the visitors who made 100% Optical the must-attend event for the industry again. This exhibition is a true celebration of innovation, expertise, and collaboration and this year was no different. We showcased a new layout and reimagined floor plan, encouraged the industry to clock hundreds of hours in CPD and witnessed so many exciting launches including Eyewear by David Beckham and a collection of glasses and sunglasses featuring the beloved Paddington bear.” 

“We had the pleasure of witnessing the second edition of 100% Ophthalmology, our esteemed co-located event designed for ophthalmologists and their multidisciplinary teams. This exceptional three-day educational programme offered a dynamic platform for ophthalmologists to expand their knowledge, engage in meaningful networking, and collaborate with optometrists, fostering a spirit of professional growth.”

Next year’s 100% Optical dates have been confirmed for 28 February – 2 March 2026 at Excel London.