RICHMOND, U.K. — RX and The Vision Council (TVC) announced that, starting in 2026, Vision Expo East and West will unify into a single, annual event.
According to Beth Casson, Senior Vice President at RX, this was a customer-centric decision.
“We started an extensive evaluation over the past year based on the evolving needs of the optical industry alongside broader shifts in the marketplace,” Casson explained. “In close collaboration with our partners at TVC, advisory boards, industry experts and external consultants, the decision became clear. Across the board, we heard the need for a unifying, streamlined [and] more impactful experience. The new format directly addresses that demand by unifying into one powerful moment each year … We’re enhancing the value of the show for all stakeholders while setting the stage for long-term growth.”
Scheduling for Success
The unified Vision Expo will take place in Orlando next year and rotate through major U.S. cities afterwards with the following schedule:
- Vision Expo 2026: March 12–14, Orlando — Orange County Convention Center
- Vision Expo 2027: March 11–13, Las Vegas — The Venetian Expo
- Vision Expo 2028: March 30–April 1, New York City — Javits Center
“The unified format brings new possibilities for scale, creativity and cohesion,” Casson said. “We’re investing in strategic enhancements that the industry is asking for: exclusive hands-on programming, a relentless focus on all that’s new and innovative, and curated networking events. The first-quarter March timing positions Vision Expo at the ideal moment to launch new products and technology, and to connect with buyers planning their year. The dates also align with the continuing education cycle for many states, allowing doctors, opticians and allied health professionals attending Vision Expo to bank hours towards their goals.
“We’re working closely with program partners to ensure that key events traditionally held at both Expo East and West are thoughtfully integrated into the timeline of the single annual show. The goal is to maintain the value and impact of these programs while creating a cohesive, efficient experience that brings the full community together in one place each year.”
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An Enhanced Event
According to RX, this move will create:
- A more robust experience with enhanced technology showcases, immersive activations, focused education and networking
- Streamlined event planning for companies and attendees
- A rotating host city model in leading business travel destinations with regional access, new experiences and global appeal
- Space to grow into new areas while retaining the show’s leading position in its market
“This move allows us to concentrate resources and talent into one world-class production,” Casson added. “We’re investing in more dynamic and exclusive educational programming, including over 200 hours of accredited continuing education for optometrists, opticians and a variety of other allied optical professionals, and offering more robust networking and interactive learning opportunities. It also simplifies logistics and budgeting for both exhibitors and attendees, helping them maximize their investment and focus their energy on one high-value event per year.”
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