Mainline’s Guide to 100% Optical 2026

30 Jan 2026

100% Optical has long been a fixture in the optometry calendar, but its relevance continues to grow as practices face increasing clinical, operational and patient-care pressures. Earlier detection, clearer communication and efficient use of clinic time are no longer optional; they are central to delivering high-quality care. With that in mind, the value of the show lies not simply in new technology, but in understanding how it fits into day-to-day practice. With a CPD programme developed in partnership with the Association of Optometrists (AOP), hands-on workshops, and sessions focused on both clinical and business development, 100% Optical provides a rare opportunity to step back and assess how practice is evolving.

A show built around learning, skills and connection

Alongside the exhibition floor, 100% Optical offers a wide-ranging programme designed to support professional development across the sector. Delegates can expect CPD-rich education covering clinical care, practice management and professional growth, as well as opportunities to engage with peers and specialists from across eyecare. With more than 250 exhibitors and over 11,000 professionals expected to attend, the event provides space not only to learn, but to connect, compare approaches and build relationships across the profession.

Mainline’s focus: practical insight you can use

Across the weekend, visitors to Stand J20 will find a programme of workshops, demonstrations and CPD-accredited lectures designed to reflect real clinical workflows and everyday decision making. Rather than presenting technology in isolation, sessions focus on how diagnostic tools are used in practice, how they support confidence in assessment, and how they improve conversations with patients. Delegates are encouraged to ask practical questions about integration, efficiency and clinical value, informed by the experience of clinicians who use this equipment routinely.

Saturday: advanced retinal imaging in practice

Saturday’s programme centres on retinal imaging, with a particular focus on the clinical value of ultra-widefield and confocal technology. 11am – Chetan Gudka from Brian D Suttie (Chesham) Ltd will lead a hands-on workshop on the iCare EIDON at the Mainline stand. Drawing on his experience in both multiple and independent practice, Chetan will share why EIDON was one of the first major technology investments in his own clinic, and how advanced imaging supports both diagnosis and patient education. 2–3pm – Mohamed Kasmani of Feltham Eyecare Centre will deliver a CPD-accredited lecture alongside Joe Scott, Retinal Products Specialist at Mainline, on the Main Stage. They will explore how peripheral retinal changes can be identified earlier, why confocality improves image quality even in challenging cases, and how ultra-widefield imaging supports clearer referrals and better retinal outcomes. With confocal imaging already embedded within the UK Diabetic Eye Screening Programme, the session offers insight into its role in everyday retinal care.

Sunday: anterior eye assessment and dry eye pathways

Sunday’s sessions shift focus to the anterior eye, reflecting the growing demand for structured diagnostic pathways in areas such as corneal assessment and dry eye management. 11am – Brian Tompkins and Keyur Patel will present “Tomography – A New Dimension in Optometry”, exploring how corneal tomography supports more informed clinical assessment and decision making. 2pm – “Tear Film to Treatment”, builds on this by examining the modern dry eye patient journey. The workshop will cover investigation techniques for analysing tears, lids and related structures, alongside discussion of why a structured approach is essential for both dry eye management and contact lens care. With reference to DEWS II guidance and real-world practice experience, the session is designed to be immediately applicable in clinic. Technology you can explore on the stand Throughout the show, Stand J20 will offer hands-on access to a carefully selected range of diagnostic technology, demonstrated in a practical clinical context. Devices available to explore include:
  • iCare EIDON and iCare IC200
  • OCULUS Pentacam® HR and OCULUS Keratograph 5M
  • TowardPi Yalkaid
  • Optomed Lumo
Demonstrations are designed to show how each system supports confidence in assessment, efficiency in workflow and clearer patient communication, rather than presenting features in isolation. We encourage visitors to compare technologies side by side and discuss how they might fit within their own practice. If you would like to arrange a time to discuss a particular product with one of our specialists, please click here.

Learning from clinicians, not just manufacturers

A defining feature of our programme at Mainline is the emphasis on peer-led education. Workshops and lectures are delivered by practising clinicians who understand the realities of busy clinics and evolving patient expectations. This ensures discussions focus on application rather than theory, covering areas such as clinical judgement, workflow integration and patient communication, offering a clearer understanding of how technology performs beyond the showroom floor.

Making the most of your visit

With a full programme of workshops, live demonstrations, and CPD education running across the show, a little planning will help you get the most value from your time at 100% Optical. To make the most of your visit:
  • Review the session schedule in advance
  • Plan to attend at least one workshop or lecture
  • Allow time to visit Stand J20 between sessions
Between sessions, make time to speak directly with the Mainline team. Whether you want to discuss specific clinical challenges, understand how a device fits into your workflow, or compare different approaches side by side, we’re on hand to answer any questions you may have. Please click here if you would like to arrange a meeting with our team.

Join us at Stand J20

If you are attending this year, plan a visit to the Mainline stand to take part in workshops, attend expert talks, and see how today’s technology is supporting better outcomes in optometry and ophthalmology. We look forward to welcoming you at the show. For more information about the event, please click here. 

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