Europe's optical manufacturing leaders gathered last week to address the challenges faced by globalisation, increased south-east Asian production, the growing challenge from counterfeiting, and the impact of internet sales on the sector in the current economic climate.
During the meeting of Eurom 1 members, hosted by the FMO, chairman Antoni Olivella and CEO of Indo, told delegates that they had a responsibility for 'the betterment of our industry'.
They heard that changes had been made to Medical Device legislation through closer liaison and successful lobbying by Eurom 1. The appointment of Anne-Marie Wolters of Signis, to facilitate closer liaisons within the European legislative body, following an FMO recommendation, was widely welcomed by members.
Olivella reported on Eurom 1's progress, particularly with technical issues that included the new FDA 'drop ball test', mounted spectacle lens quality standards and greater data exchange between European partners. He added that Eurom 1 intends to draw in other member countries to secure a unified voice for the industry.
Olivella also highlighted the need for closer co-operation and the need to fight 'the trivialisation of our products, and the commoditisation of a large part of the market with private brands, discounts and gifts and the strong emergence of online sales'.