flō Optics raises $35 million and adds MEI Systems as shareholder
The Atomic Layers: S7E5 (00183)
Atomic Layer of the Day:
What did I tell you about flō Optics about a week ago? That there would be news? That they’d soon be making headlines? Well, here it is…
flō Optics announced today that they have raised $35 million in Series A funding. These funds will be used to accelerate product development, expand manufacturing capabilities, and scale operations. The funding round included participation from leading global strategic players in the ophthalmic industry, including MEI Systems, a world leader in lens processing machinery.
As Jonathan Jaglom, the company’s CEO, emphasized in a brief conversation with me on the topic—the funds were secured from strategic partners. “Not VC money... Smart money!”
Founded in 2019, flō Optics focuses on digitizing the lens coating process through digital printing technology. This groundbreaking approach aims to revolutionize traditional manufacturing methods by offering greater precision, flexibility, and sustainability compared to conventional techniques.
flō Optics has developed innovative technology that allows lens coatings to be applied using additive printing. This makes the process more precise, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly.
The company now plans to use the funds to launch its first commercial product, Visiōn100, which is currently being showcased at MIDO 2025, the leading international optical industry exhibition. Participating in this event marks a pivotal moment for flō Optics, signaling their transition from development to commercialization. Visiōn100 is set to be the company’s flagship product, showcasing the benefits of digital printing technology in optical applications.
flō Optics was founded by Jonathan Jaglom, who serves as President and CEO. With extensive experience managing innovative projects, Jaglom has prioritized developing technologies that can bring meaningful change to the optical industry. The company, which currently employs about 60 people, has offices in Israel and Switzerland, allowing it to operate internationally and build global partnerships.
You can listen to Jonathan talking about his company (and the former ones too…) on my podcast:
Atomic Layer from the Past:
02-05-2018: HP announced the launch of its first full-color MJF 3D printers.
News & Gossip:
The first UK-built large format hybrid 3D printer is due to be unveiled later this month! Rapid Fusion will unveil its system called Medusa, on February 26 at its Exeter R&D center. Developed with a £1.2m Innovate UK grant, the machine is three times faster than conventional systems, twice as accurate, and reduces training and maintenance costs by 30% (at least according to the Rapid Fusion team). Medusa integrates a pallet extruder, filament, and CNC machining tool, offering a single-source solution for industries such as aerospace, automotive, and construction. The system features AI-driven enhancements, a 1.2m³ build volume, and high-speed operation. The launch event will include demonstrations and industry presentations, showcasing its potential impact on UK manufacturing. You can watch the premiere live, after registration to the event.
Nikon Corporation will open the Nikon AM Technology Center Japan in Gyoda on February 28, 2025. Following its Long Beach facility, this center will house the NXG XII 600 laser powder bed fusion system, Nikon’s directed energy deposition systems, and X-ray CT inspection equipment to support advanced metal additive manufacturing in Japan and Asia.
Stratasys Direct’s Tucson, Arizona facility has achieved ISO 13485 certification for medical device manufacturing. The company plans to extend this certification to its Texas and Minnesota sites, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. This certification supports scalable production of 3D-printed medical components, enabling innovation, reducing costs, and improving patient care.