LAS VEGAS—The ophthalmic community will gather here from Sept. 5 to 8 to discover some of the hottest trends in eyewear, advances in eyecare technology and best-practices in business at this year’s International Vision Expo West. Over the course of four-days, nearly 20,000 like-minded professionals from optical are expected to travel to the show from countries across the globe to network, conduct business and learn about the latest in eyecare, fashion, technology and equipment.

In response, Vision Expo has expanded its show floor to 179,500 square feet, an increase of 10,000 square feet from last year. Nearly 475 exhibitors—including 75 first-time exhibitors—will showcase 5,000 brands, offer more than 575 show specials, unveil new products and host dozens of industry gatherings.

A new Korean Pavilion, organized by the Korean Optical Industry Support Association (KOISC), will make its debut at Vision Expo West, showcasing the latest Korean designs in eyewear, lens processing and accessories from eight leading companies. The Korean Pavilion will be housed on Level 2 of the Sands along with the Eyewear & Accessories, Lenses & Processing Technology, Medical & Scientific and Low Vision Pavilions, as well as The Galleria. The exhibit hall will be open to attendees 9:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Thursday and Friday, and 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Saturday. The Suites, located on the 34th and 35th floors of the Venetian, will be open during regular exhibit hours, by appointment only.

In addition to offering the latest in fashion and medical technology, the Vision Expo Conference Advisory Board has put together a comprehensive program, boasting 350 hours of continuing education (CE). The CE program, which features sought-after speakers from a variety of fields, has been divided into six areas of interest—Clinical/Medical, Business Solutions, Optical Technology, Contact Lenses, Staff Training and Cross Training, and Allied Health—to make it easier for conferees to create personalized education strategies and practice to the fullest extent of their license. In addition, several new programs have been developed for optometrists and students, including an Optometrist Referral Program and Optometry Student Mentor Program.

Show organizers have also left plenty of time for networking during the after-hours of Vision Expo West. On Thursday, Sept. 6, attendees and exhibitors are invited to kick-off the show with an opening night party at TAO Nightclub. Attendees should bring their show badge and ID to receive complimentary admission and one-hour of open bar from 10:30 to 11:30 p.m.

With all of the activities surrounding the event, Vision Expo has developed a number of mobile tools, including the “My Show Planner” application and Vision Expo’s award-winning Vision Mobile Directory technology, to provide a seamless show experience. Explore hundreds of show specials, search for designer brands, and keep track of appointments with exhibitors, all via your mobile device. An interactive map will even allow attendees to map their way from one booth to another, making show floor navigation a breeze. Download the newest version of the app at visionexpowest.com/Vision-Mobile.

To register, and to learn more about the education and exhibits at International Vision Expo West, visit visionexpowest.com. Follow Vision Expo on Twitter ( twitter.com/visionexpo) and Facebook ( facebook.com/visionexpo) leading up to the show to stay informed of show specials, contests and parties. ■