NORWALK, Conn.—International Vision Expo will launch Virtual Vision Expo, an online extension of Vision Expo's physical trade shows held in New York City and Las Vegas, according to an announcement from Show organizers. This new online platform, set to launch in early November, will allow eyecare professionals to experience the networking and business-building aspects of physical trade shows throughout the year, show organizers said.

Virtual Vision Expo will include an online auditorium for continuing education and training sessions; a networking lounge for one-to-one chats and peer-to-peer networking; and an exhibit hall to visit booths, view product presentations and demonstrations, ask questions and place orders. Attendees will also have access to a resource center where they will be able to save presentations, white papers and e-brochures to a virtual brief case.

"We're seeing an emerging trend in the trade show industry of virtual trade shows," said Tom Loughran, vice president for Reed Exhibitions. "Advances in technology have greatly changed the way we do business. Now with just a computer and an internet browser, Virtual Vision Expo will offer eyecare professionals the experience of a trade show without the travel costs and time away from the office."

Final details regarding Virtual Vision Expo will be available in the coming months; registration is set to open shortly after International Vision Expo West.

For more information about International Vision Expo, please visit www.visionexpo.com.