Author: Samantha Budd

Canadian eyewear brand Shwood has introduced its latest collection featuring acetate frames combined with wood and stone elements. The Portland-based company, which maintains strong ties to Canada through its distribution network, continues to push the boundaries of sustainable eyewear design with this new release.

The collection showcases Shwood’s signature approach to frame construction, pairing traditional acetate with carefully selected natural materials. Each piece incorporates either wood or stone inlays that serve both aesthetic and structural purposes within the frame design.

According to the brand, the new frames represent an evolution of their craftsmanship techniques, building on years of experience working with unconventional materials in eyewear manufacturing. The combination of acetate with natural elements creates distinctive pieces that stand out in today’s competitive eyewear market.

The wood components used in the collection include materials such as mahogany, walnut, and zebrawood, each selected for its unique grain patterns and durability. The stone inlays feature materials like titanium and stone composites that add visual interest while maintaining the structural integrity required for everyday wear.

Shwood’s manufacturing process involves precision cutting and hand-finishing techniques to ensure seamless integration of the different materials. The acetate portions of the frames are produced using cellulose acetate, a plant-based material that aligns with the brand’s commitment to sustainability.

The collection includes both optical and sun styles, offering options for different customer preferences and needs. Frame shapes range from classic wayfarers to more contemporary angular designs, ensuring broad appeal across various face shapes and style preferences.

Pricing for the new acetate and natural material collection varies depending on the specific materials and construction details of each frame. The pieces are positioned in the premium eyewear segment, reflecting the specialized craftsmanship and quality materials involved in their production.

Distribution of the collection throughout Canada continues through Shwood’s established network of independent optical retailers and specialty boutiques. The brand has built relationships with retailers who appreciate unique, artisan-crafted eyewear and can properly present the story behind each piece to their customers.

Shwood was founded in 2009 with a focus on creating eyewear that combines style with sustainable practices. The company gained recognition for being among the first to successfully incorporate wood into modern eyewear designs, and has since expanded its expertise to include other natural materials while maintaining its commitment to quality craftsmanship and environmental responsibility.

Get the latest Optical News delivered to you. Click here to subscribe to our FREE print magazine and weekly newsletter.

Essilor Canada has announced the winners of its 2024 Essilor Vision Foundation Bursary Program. The initiative provides financial support to students who are pursuing careers in eyecare across the country.

This year, the company awarded 19 bursaries totaling 47,500 dollars to students enrolled in optometry, opticianry, and vision science programs at Canadian educational institutions. The recipients were selected based on their academic excellence, community involvement, and commitment to advancing eye health and vision care.

The 2024 bursary winners include optometry students from the University of Waterloo School of Optometry and Vision Science, opticianry students from various colleges across Canada, and vision science students. Each recipient demonstrated outstanding dedication to their studies and a strong passion for making a difference in the field of eyecare.

“We are proud to support the next generation of eyecare professionals through the Essilor Vision Foundation Bursary Program,” said Alain Brière, President and CEO of Essilor Canada. “These talented students represent the future of our industry, and their commitment to improving vision care aligns perfectly with our mission to help people see better and live better.”

The Essilor Vision Foundation Bursary Program is part of Essilor Canada’s broader commitment to supporting education and professional development in the eyecare sector. The program has been helping students pursue their dreams of working in eyecare for many years, removing financial barriers and encouraging excellence in the field.

The bursary recipients will use their awards to help cover tuition fees, textbooks, equipment, and other educational expenses as they continue their studies. By investing in these future eyecare professionals, Essilor Canada aims to strengthen the eyecare workforce and ensure that Canadians have access to high-quality vision care services.

In addition to financial support, bursary recipients become part of the Essilor Canada community, gaining access to networking opportunities and industry connections that can help launch their careers. This support extends beyond monetary assistance, providing students with valuable resources as they transition from education to professional practice.

The Essilor Vision Foundation is the charitable arm of Essilor of America and works to eliminate poor vision and its life-limiting consequences. The foundation supports programs that provide vision care to underserved populations and promotes awareness about the importance of regular eye examinations.

Applications for the 2025 Essilor Vision Foundation Bursary Program will open later this year. Students who are enrolled in or planning to enroll in optometry, opticianry, or vision science programs at Canadian institutions are encouraged to apply when the application period begins.

Essilor Canada congratulates all the 2024 bursary winners and wishes them continued success in their academic and professional journeys. The company remains committed to supporting education and advancing the eyecare profession across Canada.

Get the latest Optical News delivered to you. Click here to subscribe to our FREE print magazine and weekly newsletter.

Simple Eyewear Celebrates 10 Years of Essential French Design With Expanded Global Presence

Simple Eyewear, the French eyewear brand known for its understated aesthetic and commitment to essential design, is marking a decade in the industry with a renewed focus on global growth and an expanded international presence.

Founded on the principle that great eyewear does not need to be complicated, Simple Eyewear has spent ten years building a reputation for clean lines, quality materials, and accessible French style. The milestone anniversary comes as the brand looks to broaden its reach into new markets and strengthen its relationships with optical retailers around the world.

The brand’s philosophy has remained consistent since its inception: strip away the unnecessary and focus on what matters. This approach to design has resonated with consumers and eyecare professionals alike, earning Simple Eyewear a loyal following in France and beyond over the course of its first decade.

As part of its anniversary celebrations, Simple Eyewear is using the occasion to highlight its growth trajectory and outline its ambitions for the years ahead. The brand’s expansion efforts reflect a broader trend of European eyewear labels seeking to establish stronger footholds in international markets, including North America, where demand for European-designed frames continues to grow.

Optical professionals interested in learning more about Simple Eyewear and its tenth anniversary collections can reach out directly to explore the brand’s offerings and distribution opportunities.

Get the latest Optical News delivered to you. Click here to subscribe to our FREE print magazine and weekly newsletter.

Alva Optical has introduced a new collection of eyewear that draws inspiration from the architectural beauty and creative spirit of Barcelona. The brand’s latest offering showcases frames that blend contemporary design with functional elements, reflecting the innovative character of the Catalan capital.

The Barcelona-inspired collection features frames that incorporate distinctive design elements reminiscent of the city’s famous architecture and artistic heritage. Each piece in the line has been crafted to embody the balance between aesthetic appeal and practical wearability, characteristics that define Barcelona’s approach to design.

According to the company, the collection represents an exploration of how architectural concepts can translate into eyewear design. The frames feature clean lines, geometric patterns, and thoughtful construction that echo the structural elegance found throughout Barcelona’s streetscapes and landmarks.

The new collection includes a variety of frame styles suitable for different face shapes and personal preferences. Materials have been selected to ensure durability while maintaining a lightweight feel for comfortable all-day wear. The color palette draws from Barcelona’s visual landscape, incorporating both bold and subtle tones that reflect the city’s vibrant atmosphere and Mediterranean setting.

Alva Optical has designed this collection to appeal to individuals who appreciate both form and function in their eyewear choices. The frames are intended to serve as accessories that complement personal style while providing reliable vision correction.

The Barcelona collection is now available through Alva Optical’s distribution channels. Eye care professionals and retailers interested in carrying the new line can contact the company for more information about product specifications, pricing, and ordering details.

This launch continues Alva Optical’s commitment to creating eyewear that combines artistic inspiration with practical design solutions. The company maintains that drawing from cultural and architectural sources enriches the creative process and results in distinctive products that stand out in the marketplace.

Get the latest Optical News delivered to you. Click here to subscribe to our FREE print magazine and weekly newsletter.

Simple Eyewear Celebrates 10 Years of Essential French Design With Expanded Global Presence