Joaquin Gomicia: work, optimism and exciting new ideas

This will be the Spanish group's 17th time at Mido Work, optimism and exciting new ideas. These are the key-words for the eyewear sector 2012, which begins with Mido, for Joaquin Gomicia, president of Optim, the Spanish group that boasts over thirty years' experience.   "We have seen no signs of a recovery in Spain in 2011" – Gomicia explained – "and it doesn't look likely in 2012 either. We believe that the global financial crisis is affecting consumption and that in our sector the results are even more intense. We probably need to work to promote the idea of eyewear and eyesight as basic necessities and are now paying the price for not having done a better job in this area. Added to this is the fact that overly-aggressive pricing policies have put eye health products on the same level as supermarket products, with the same low-cost culture and lack of consumer confidence that goes with it.".   - Mido is now a tradition. What are your expectations for this edition of the event? "Optim has had a presence at seventeen editions of MIDO now and it is, for us, the sector's most important industry fair. We have always done good business at MIDO because it is a window to the world. But this time round we will be focusing on consolidating our client network in more than 50 countries; working with each country to develop specific commercial and communications policies; boosting our work with chains at a design level; and presenting the Gaudí experience".   - What will your key proposals be at the trade fair 2012? "Agatha Ruiz de la Prada and Gaudí Concept will be our key proposals this year. New this time round will be pre-assembled Agatha Ruiz de la Prada eyeglasses and the launch of the new Gaudí Concept collection.".   - Are you focusing your expectations on a specific model? "Our model isn't unique. Our approach is to take fashion and design as our base and to offer high-quality, multi-style products for everyone, from toddlers to adults".   - Your fashion nuance for this year. "Our fashion style follows two main trends: the consolidation of retro models with an injection of color and the strengthening of acetate within the collections. That said, at Gaudí Concept, we aren't afraid to experiment with designs that are inexplicable, different, daring...".