The entry deadline for the prestigious Love Eyewear Awards has been extended to January 26th, 2025, as organizers announce an expanded judging panel including practicing opticians for the first time.
The awards, part of the UK’s largest optical exhibition 100% Optical, will celebrate innovation across the eyewear industry at London’s ExCel from March 1-3. Winners will be announced during an evening ceremony on the show’s opening day.
New for 2025, the judging panel combines industry journalists, influencers, and practicing opticians. Notable judges include Daniel Feldman, Editor-in-Chief at The Optical Journal, Nicos Antoniades from The Optical Gallery, and Clodagh Norton, Co-Founder of The Eyewear Stylist.
“Including a valued optician in the judging panel is important as they play a pivotal role in selecting and introducing these designs into their practices,” said Selin Pera, Senior Marketing Executive at CloserStill Media.
The 2025 categories include:
- New Designer 2025
- Sustainable Frame of the Year
- Eyewear Retailer of the Year
- Eyewear Accessory of the Year
- Best Use of Social Media (new category)
Judge Maarten Weidema, bringing 25 years of eyewear design experience, expressed particular interest in the New Designer category: “These new designers not only push boundaries but also inspire and challenge us ‘oldies’ to stay sharp and innovative.”
Nicos Antoniades, representing independent opticians with over two decades of experience, highlighted his focus on innovation: “I’m particularly excited about the ‘New Designer 2025’ and the ‘Best Innovation’ categories.”
The awards ceremony will mark the opening of 100% Optical 2025, celebrating achievements across independent and major designers, manufacturers, and retailers in the optical industry.
