Organisers of the UK’s largest optical exhibition, 100% Optical, has announced that entries for its esteemed Love Eyewear Awards are now open and its lineup of judges revealed.
The only awards show of its kind in the UK, the Love Eyewear Awards champions eyewear from independent and major designers, manufacturers, and retailers, covering a diverse range of categories including New Designer 2026, Sustainable Frame of the Year, Kid’s Frame of the Year, and Eyewear Accessory of the Year.
The Love Eyewear Awards also champion optical practices worldwide with categories including Eyewear Retailer of the Year, Most Engaging Practice Window, and the Best Use of Social Media which was new to the 2025 show.
The much-anticipated judging panel, made up of journalists, optical enthusiasts and optician professionals include:
Tarrence Lackran, Founder of New York’s EYECON show
Beedie On Eyewear, eyewear content creator and Optometrist
Clodagh Norton, Director of Eyestylist
Stefano Ampollini, Editor In Chief of Eyebook
Kayla Heersink, ABO certified Optician, also known as Opticali Style on Instagram
Maarten Weidema, Founder of The Eyewear Forum
Alison Price, Dispenser at Leicestershire’s Respectacle Co
Daniel Feldman, Executive Editor at The Optical Journal
With entries closing at 5pm on 1st December, the chosen judges will have until mid January before the shortlisted nominees are announced and the winners are crowned on the 100% Catwalk on the first day of 100% Optical 2026 (28th February).
Tarrence Lackran, Founder of EYECON Show & EYECONS Agency, commented, “The Love Eyewear Awards celebrate the innovation, artistry, and vision that make our industry so dynamic and inspiring. I’m honored to join the panel of judges and help recognise the designers and brands who are shaping the future of eyewear.”
Ebiye Beedie, at Beedie On Eyewear, added, “100% Optical’s Love Eyewear Awards is a great way to reward creativity within optics!”
Kayla Heersink, ABO certified Optician, added: “I look forward to seeing this year’s entrants for the Love Eyewear Awards. It’s so fun to see the new trends and technologies emerging.”
Alison Price, Dispenser at Leicestershire’s Respectacle Co, said: “Winning Eyewear Retailer of the Year at a previous Love Eyewear Awards ceremony was an incredible honour that validated our passion and commitment to the industry. It’s a celebration of innovation and community, and I’m proud to be part of something that highlights the best in eyewear.”
Sarah Daniels, Senior Marketing Manager at CloserStill Media, organiser of 100% Optical, commented: “The Love Eyewear Awards were created to shine a spotlight on the creativity and passion that drives the industry forward. Each year, we’re proud to celebrate the designers, retailers, and practices, both established and emerging, who make eyewear such an exciting industry.
With this year’s diverse judging panel, we’re thrilled to showcase the very best of eyewear talent at the 2026 show.”
For more information on 100% Optical and to register to attend for free, visit, www.100percentoptical.com/.
