NORWALK, Conn.—International Vision Expo & Conference will debut The French Loft, a new area showcasing the latest in French design at this year’s New York event to be held March 22-25, 2012 (Education: March 22-25, Exhibition: March 23-25). The French Loft will be located on level four of the Javits Center, overlooking the main Registration Level on one side and the Eyewear & Accessories Pavilion on the other.

The expansion of the show onto four levels continues the trend of growth at International Vision Expo East. Currrently, the square footage of the 2012 show has exceeded last year’s, aided by the 575 expected exhibitors, of which nearly 130 are new first-time exhibitors. Last year, the show expanded into the new North Hall, which includes The Galleria, The Underground and The Atrium.

“We’re delighted to be able to once again expand International Vision Expo East at the Javits Center,” said Val Scott, vice president strategic accounts for Reed Exhibitions. “Bringing the global vision community all together, especially the premier buyers and retailers that attend Vision Expo East, in New York helps keep the industry connected.”

The French-inspired loft environment will feature 10, high-end exhibitors with unique products. Modern silhouettes, colors and textures offer a fresh take on the latest eyewear trends, designs and collections, according to show organizers. Exhibitors in the space will include: Pierre Eyewear, Histoire de Voir, Jeremy Tarian, French Vintage Lunetier, Glance of Lens, Bruno Chaussignand, Struktur, Jacques Durand Lunetier, Lotho and Waiting for the Sun.