2014
January / February
Seniors and Low Vision
Seniors have unique vision needs and there are powerful and effective optical solutions for many of the challenges this growing demographic group faces. Low vision aids are also helping to improve the quality of life for many seniors who need good vision to read, watch movies and pursue other activities. This issue features optical products designed with the needs and concerns of seniors in mind.
***
March / April
Sunwear: What’s New and Exciting!
It’s hard to imagine a world where people are indifferent to sunglasses. Of course, sunwear meets a very real need for vision protection but what about its value as a statement of ‘cool’? This issue will look at who’s wearing what (and why) in the sometimes fickle world of sunwear fashion. We’ll also examine sport-specific sunglasses that help to boost the performance of athletes of all stripes.
***
May / June
Youth and Branding
Today’s kids have greater brand awareness than ever before. How can eyewear companies leverage that awareness with brands that appeal to their emotions, needs and desires? Can house brands come close to the cross-category success of the pop culture icons we all recognize? This feature examines the use of branding to appeal to youth – from younger children to older teens.
***
July / August
The Latest in Lenses
Every optical professional loves the ‘wow’ reaction that comes from a patient when he or she first looks through new lenses. How do they keep those wows coming? With the latest lens technologies, of course! This special feature covers the newest lens products and designs and most exciting technical innovations.
***
September / October
Chains / Banners / Groups / Franchises
What is the difference between a chain store and a banner store? What is a franchise? And what role do professional networks and buying groups play in the market? It’s time to sort it all out. We bring you great statistics on the number of chains in Canada, their locations – and even some revenue data from Statistics Canada.
***
November / December
Make it a Grand Opening
Whether they’re opening their first store or their tenth, ECPs need to consider location strategies, demographics, signage and much more. And once the perfect site has been found, there’s interior design, furniture and displays. There’s a lot of ground to cover before the first customer walks in and this feature covers the products, services, consultants and concepts that will help ECPs take a successful leap into retail.
***
