Organizers of Mido 2026 have published the list of exhibitors for the 54th edition of the international eyewear trade show, set to take place Jan. 31 to Feb. 2, 2026, at Fieramilano Rho in Milan, Italy. Approximately 1,200 exhibitors from 50 countries are expected, in line with last year’s participation. The event will feature returning companies as well as 140 new exhibitors, reflecting ongoing activity within the industry.
Several show areas will feature new designs or expanded programming. The Design area, located in Halls 2 and 4, will return as a space focused on creativity and experimentation, with increased exhibitor participation. Some brands that previously exhibited in the Academy area will transition to this section. The Academy itself will remain in Hall 6 and continue supporting emerging labels, hosting more than 90 companies. The Start Up section will feature about 20 new participants showcasing innovation-oriented projects.
Hall 6 will feature a new edition of “The Lens of Time,” an exhibition by the Italian Optical Manufacturers Association about the history of eyewear, which had a successful showing in Venice. After Mido, the exhibition is scheduled to move to Rome’s Palazzo Piacentini in autumn 2026, with plans for additional international venues.
The Vision Stage will offer around 20 sessions featuring journalists, athletes, sustainability specialists, market analysts, and representatives from the medical and optical fields. Topics will include social responsibility, consumer behavior, global market trends, and developments in the U.S. optical sector. A full schedule will be available online in January.
Applications remain open for several industry awards presented during the event. Categories include the Best Store Award—recognizing optical centers in Design and Innovation—open through Dec. 31. The award for Certified Sustainable Eyewear (CSE) and the new CSE Corporate Award, recognizing exhibitors that display excellence in environmental, social, and governance excellence, are both open until Dec. 14.
With Mido occurring shortly before the start of the Milano–Cortina Winter Olympic Games, organizers have developed tools to help attendees plan their stay. These include an online booking platform operated by MiCodmc, complimentary trains for Italian opticians (available for reservation beginning in January), city maps, and access to the YesMilano City Pass at a discounted rate for Mido badge holders. A press conference previewing Mido 2026 will be held Jan. 28, 2026, at 11:30 a.m. at the Feltrinelli Foundation in Milan.
More information is available on Mido’s official website.