Nancy Gries.
PARIS—20/20 Europe has announced that Nancy Gries, the co-founder of COTI Vision, a multi-award-winning eyewear accessories brand recognized for its innovation, sustainability and design, will be the keynote speaker for its first-ever special event celebrating its Most Influential Women in Optical (MIWO) 2026 – European Edition. Honorees will be celebrated on September 25 during Silmo Paris 2026, with a luncheon event to pay tribute to their achievements and share their inspiring stories. Gries has built a career in the optical industry spanning more than three decades, with experience across international sales, business development, marketing and entrepreneurship.
A passionate advocate for supporting women in the optical industry, Gries serves on the board of the Optical Women’s Association (OWA) and chairs the International Expansion Committee, leading the organization’s growth beyond North America. Through this role, she is focused on building a global community that promotes leadership, mentorship, networking and professional development, helping to create greater opportunities and lasting connections for women across the international optical industry.
20/20 Europe invites the optical community to be part of this milestone moment and celebrate an extraordinary community of women whose passion, vision and dedication are shaping the future of optical in Europe. The event will take place at Les Portiques, Silmo, on Friday, September 25, 2026, from 12:00 – 2:00 p.m. Tickets covering the program and lunch are available here.
Launched by 20/20 Europe in collaboration with Jobson Optical Group and Vision Monday, the MIWO initiative recognizes exceptional women across the European optical industry who are driving change and shaping the future of the sector. As part of its summer publication, 20/20 Europe announced the honorees in the first European Edition of its Most Influential Women in Optical feature. Marking the expansion of a long-standing U.S. initiative, this first European Edition of MIWO highlights the impact of female optical leadership across five distinct categories: Business Leaders, Mentors, Rising Stars, Founders and Innovators.
