silmo report

New Home, Product: Silmo Wrap-Up

Amy Spiezio

Even though getting there wasn't the easiest endeavor for many attendees, Silmo 2010 rewarded their tenacious efforts with new programs and products. Living up to its “new generation” promise, the fair's new home, Paris-Nord Villepinte exhibition centre, got the general stamp of approval from participants with a tighter exhibit space for a more convenient visit experience.

There was a total of 33,065 visitors (up four percent) over the course of the four-day event, show organizers report. Transport difficulties were evident, with a strike on the opening day and weekend work on the RER rail line linking Paris to the exhibition center. This seemed to take its toll on domestic attendees, with a six percent drop in domestic attendance. But international attendees spiked by 14 percent, a positive sign to those looking for hints of economic recovery.

Another positive sign of recovery was the sheer variety of product offerings on display at the event. New technological advancements such as faster equipment and more precise optics for lenses were accompanied by frame offerings that included more ecologically sensitive and fashion-forward options. There were also a considerable number of new frame companies exhibiting at Silmo for the first time with design and technological advancements such as simplified hinges to enable swapping out temples.

Next year's Silmo will be held Sept. 29 through Oct. 2 at Paris-Nord Villepinte.

INFO: silmo.fr EB