Author Archives: Envision Magazine

Manufacturing Advances

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logo_plasticplusPlastic Plus completed yet another major equipment and system upgrade that not only increases their lens production by up to 35 per cent, but also allows them to remain Canada’s most technically advanced optical lens manufacturer, the company reports.

In addition to the integration of the first fully automated digital lens measuring and verifying control system in North America, they have added more advanced manufacturing equipment to the line. It now includes a large extension to their full facility automated conveyor system, a new Satisloh Orbit generator and three new Duoflex polishers.

Says Plastic Plus President Paul Faibish, “Our customers are always amazed when they see our equipment and automated systems at work, but it certainly helps put everything we are able to do in perspective. Though we are now considered to be one of North America’s most technically advanced labs, the central reason for ongoing re-investment in the business is our desire to deliver the finest lenses and coatings with the most consistent accuracy to our Canadian clients. By continually seeking the best equipment and technology in the world, we hope to provide exactly what our customers need to compete in today’s market. ”

Two New Products

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SeeMax_PresioMasterAlways committed to providing exceptional optical performance, Nikon once again redefines vision. Introducing Presio Master FP and SeeMax Master AP, Nikon’s latest progressive lenses designed to eliminate visual discomfort and provide instant adaptation.

Presio Master FP and SeeMax Master AP push the boundaries of ophthalmic lens technology by using the third generation Aberration Filter Surface Technology™ (AFS Generation III). AFS Generation III relies on two optimization technologies, Deformation Tuning and Binocular Tuning, to virtually eliminate distortions on the peripheral portions of the lens, which generate the most visual discomfort. Your patients will benefit from a remarkably wider usable lens area and significantly sharper fields of vision.

Avalon Eyewear Adds Romeo Gigli to its Portfolio

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Romeo_GigleAvalon Eyewear has announced an exclusive distribution agreement for Romeo Gigli Eyewear with Italy-based manufacturer Logoproject Design. The new collection, a full range of optical styles and sunglasses debuted at this year’s Vision Expo East. Designed and handmade in Italy, 17 ophthalmic and six sunwear designs are slated for release throughout 2014.

The collection is all about simplicity of form, bringing the focus of each style down to the essence of shape, which has all been rendered in beautiful Italian acetates. Additional features such as European hinges, metal trim, discrete branding, and subtle textured finishing details can be found throughout the line.

“The collection reflects the masterful Italian style of the iconic designer and aims to create innovative styles in tune with modern trends of high fashion, with exquisite Italian taste and international flair,“ says Avalon Eyewear Vice-President David Pildes. “Romeo Gigli is a brand that embodies a legend of unique and inimitable style that is one of the most prestigious international brands in the luxury goods market.”

The Romeo Gigli brand story began in New York in 1979. Initial training as a tailor in the classical tradition allowed the designer to learn the fine points of the craft and to develop his creative talent. The impeccable technique learned during this formative period is at the foundation of the Romeo Gigli brand’s style.

In addition to Romeo Gigli, Avalon produces and distributes its own trademark brands including Deja vu, Wired, Vavoom, Avalon, K12, Elan, Bookmark and Parade. Additionally, they also distribute a full range of cases and optical accessories through their Avalon Accessories division.

Ready for Springtime

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PlanB
Plan “B” Eyewear adds new spring models to its Glacée line. The newest models are all about colour and shape, keeping designs simple and feminine.

The 6706 model includes gorgeous dark blue, light pink and classic black and white options. Interplay between light and dark colours with high-end matte finishes give these frames a classic look with a bold twist. The 6707 is a slim frame that creates bold brow dimension through precise colour application. The 6708 frame is the most playful amongst the new models, featuring an interesting eye shape and perforated temples that allow hints of bright spring colour, like green or coral, to peep through.

High quality materials and stunning colour applications continue to define Glacée, and this release is no exception.

New Partnership between IRIS and Nikon

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Nikon_IrisIRIS The Visual Group partners with Nikon, introducing MyLabTM, the Nikon/IRIS integrated laboratory. This is a first in NIKON Optical Canada’s history. Following its 2013 spring launch, IRIS locations are now fully integrated and are seamlessly processing increasing demands and delivering on patients’ needs. MyLab offers exclusive designs to IRIS patients, namely, their latest digital progressive lens series, I View Series2.

“IRIS and Nikon share a similar vision — to improve Canadians’ vision. Partnering up with Nikon was not only something we aspired to, but a sensible next step. Our partnership will demonstrate that vertical cooperation is more efficient than vertical integration,” said Dr. Francis Jean, optometrist and president of IRIS.

MyLab is equipped with advanced industrial software and the latest edging and mounting technologies, enabling it to produce new generation lenses that store superior  intelligence. The most specific of patients’ needs relevant to their IRIS profile are met. This allows IRIS to provide patients with personalized and exclusive products in real-time.

“Nikon Optical Canada is proud to have partnered with Iris to create MyLab, a dedicated structure providing IRIS patients with Nikon’s latest technology lenses. We strongly believe that the association of our respective expertise in professional patient care and premium quality products will contribute to elevate the optical market and provide Canadians with better vision for a better life,” added Pierre Longerna, president of Nikon Optical Canada.

IRIS has increased its Nikon lens volume from 15 to 50 per cent in recent years, in part due to patients requesting the sophisticated lenses, and essentially because Nikon delivers innovation that resonates with IRIS’s comprehensive patient service.

Ocuco Acquires See20/20

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OcucoOcuco, a U.K.-based leading practice management system vendor, has acquired See20/20, the supplier of the world’s first entirely cloud-based practice management system.

The acquisition effectively secures the future of the See20/20 product for current customers. It will also enable Ocuco to build on its current UK market presence in cloud-based practice management solutions.

The See 20/20 product will continue to be supported and all staff will join the Ocuco team.

“We recognise that the Software as a Service or Cloud deployment business model offers a low upfront cost service option which is particularly appealing for smaller independent opticians. The acquisition of See20/20 will extend our already existing capability to offer cloud-based (SaaS) practice management solutions to opticians. We plan to improve See20/20 by integrating it with our OptiCommerce, adding an online sales and appointment booking channel to customers’ practices. We are also looking forward to benefitting from See20/20’s excellent pool of experienced talent in the development of cloud-based practice management solutions,” says Leo MacCanna, Ocuco CEO.

Meet the Cool Cats at the Beach

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Dsquared2JamesInspired by the beach beauties of the 50s, Dan and Dean Caten of Dsquared2 designed a duo of ultra-feminine women’s eyewear models for spring/summer 2014. Fascinatingly feline, the cateye optical shapes feature clip-on sunglasses to create a beguiling aura of mystique. The frames’ vintage looks belies their detailed construction by Marcolin’s expert craftsmen. An extremely flexible clip-on sunglass frame is attached to the optical frame beneath it at three points on the bridge and both sides. Differing textured materials and shades layer to form the final transfixing look. Both women’s cateye-shaped optical frames can be mixed or matched with sunglass clip-ons in diverse materials and colours.

The Esther model (DQ5152) – named for the famous bathing beauty of Hollywood’s glamour era – is a more exaggerated shape, with bigger lenses pulled out dramatically to the top corner of the eye. Esther’s base optical style is a wire frame topped with either black, grey mother of pearl or dark Havana acetate. Adding a dose of feminine allure, Esther’s diversely hued sunglass clip-ons come in either horn acetate on top of shiny rose gold metal frames and gradient brown lenses; mirrored gold top on shiny rose gold metal frames with silver mirror lenses; or shiny black acetate tops on shiny roDsquared2Estherse gold.

Bringing their cool handsome style on vacation, the guys wear optical clip-on sunglass model James (DQ5148) – named for the unforgettable James Dean. The classic 50s style squared-off optical shape is constructed in a mix of metal rims topped with textured materials and colours. Showing bookish good looks, the optical styles include palladium metal rims featuring glossy black acetate on top of the frame, while rose gold metal rims are combined with stripped honey acetate on the tops of the frames. Lightweight and ultra fine ruthenium metal is given a fashionable touch with either yellow horn effect acetate or brown horn effect acetate on top of the frames. He starts to smolder when the sunglasses are attached. Clipped on, the sunglasses create a double bridge effect in fine metals matched with differing lenses: shiny rose gold metal frames are paired with green lenses and shiny light ruthenium metal frames feature smoked lenses so he too, can cast an air of intrigue.

Leadership Changes at Transitions Optical

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PrintTransitions Optical announced a number of key executive changes following a PPG Industries statement that after nearly 40 years of service, including almost 24 with Transitions Optical, Richard C. Elias, senior vice president, optical and specialty materials, and chief executive officer, Transitions Optical, would be retiring, effective April 1, 2014.

The announcement also came on the heels of Essilor International’s report that it had finalized the acquisition of PPG Industries’ 51 per cent ownership stake in Transitions Optical.

Dave Cole, Transitions Optical president, has accepted the promotion to vice president for PPG’s packaging coatings business following nearly 24 years with Transitions Optical. Cole joined PPG in 1981 and held a variety of sales and marketing roles in the chemicals organization prior to joining the Transitions Optical organization. He participated in the start-up of Transitions Optical in 1990 as manager, sales and business development and later progressed through several positions of increasing responsibility before being named its chief operating officer in 2010. He was appointed president, Transitions Optical in 2011.

Paddy McDermott has been appointed president, Transitions Optical, effective immediately. He will report directly to Bertrand Roy, senior vice president, strategic partnerships, Essilor. McDermott originally joined Transitions Optical in 1993 and has previously held several key positions in the company’s EMEA region and globally. He was responsible for the start up of Transitions Optical’s Ireland facility and subsequently worked as director of operations and customer service for Europe, global supply chain director, and information technology leader globally. Subsequent positions included director, lenscaster sales, EMEA; director, operational excellence and global engineering; and his most recent role as global director, strategic initiatives.

Bertrand Roy, senior vice president, strategic partnerships, Essilor, will lead the Transitions Optical business for the Essilor Group. Roy has been with Essilor International for nearly 27 years and was instrumental in the foundation of the Transitions Optical joint venture. He has served Transitions Optical in many capacities including executive director and board member.

Congratulating Elias on his retirement and Cole on his promotion, Roy shared his appreciation saying, “For me, it has been both a professional and personal honour to work with Rick and Dave for nearly two decades. They are gentlemen of the highest caliber of integrity and professionalism. Their leadership has been integral to creating Transitions Optical’s unique culture and driving its continued strong performance since its inception. Their dedication has positioned Transitions Optical for continued success well into the future.”

Zyloware’s Bob and Henry Shyer Honoured

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Sophia-LorenOn March 27, Zyloware Eyewear Chairman Bob Shyer and Vice Chairman Henry Shyer were honoured as the 2014 recipients of the Persons of Vision Award by Prevent Blindness. The Persons of Vision award recognizes individuals or corporations involved in the field of vision, eye health and/or eye care.

The awards were presented to Bob and Henry by their sons, Chris and Jamie Shyer, the current leaders of Zyloware Eyewear. The business is the oldest family-operated optical company in the United States and now in its third generation of family management. Joseph Shyer founded Zyloware in 1923, at the advent of manufacturing eyewear with zyl. During the 1960’s, Bob and Henry brought the first-ever commercially viable, nearly indestructible, nylon optical frame to the market. Called the Invincible, it went on to sell over 30 million pairs.

The Shyer brothers have had a storied partnership, both of them noted for giving back to the industry through their Optical Manufacturers Association (OMA) leadership. Founded by their father, the OMA was the predecessor trade association to the Vision Council, which was their initiative. However, among their many accomplishments is most notably the moment in 1979 when they joined with Academy Award-winning actress Sophia Loren in creating the first celebrity eyewear brand. This launch was instrumental in changing the world’s perception of eyewear from simply a medical necessity to a fashion accessory.

Turn Digital Consumers Into Optical Buyers

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By Grant Larsen

Digital_Marketing

You have a high-traffic location, brilliant merchandising, the latest in branded fashion frames and years of selling experience. Yet growing numbers of digital consumers are walking out of your dispensary without a backward glance. In many cases, the lack of pre-purchase marketing by ECPs is creating customers who simply have no intention of buying from their existing eyecare provider.

Top marketing companies and large agencies start multi-million-dollar marketing campaigns by meticulously mapping out how targeted consumers buy each product. Armed with this research, they can adjust marketing tools and digital campaigns to match specific consumer groups. Online retailers and large chains know in great detail when and how to engage digital consumers and exactly what offers will entice them to buy. As an independent optical retailer or even a small multi-office practice, you don’t have the marketing dollars to hire an agency or research the consumer decision-making process. However, you can take research information, apply it to your business and turn digital shoppers into digital buyers.

The following tips will help you turn “just looking” consumers into buyers.

It’s Time for a Brand Audit

Clear off the largest table in your office and lay out your recent advertisements, business brochures, promotions, prints of your web landing pages, email templates, invoices, signage and any other materials you use for business. Over the years you may have changed some or all of these materials without realizing how confusing this can be to information-hungry potential consumers. Consumers buy from people they know, like and trust. It’s okay to have some branded supplier material, but make sure your brand is consistent across all media and materials, including digital.

Does Your Website Persuade and Inform?

Consumers want to be able to find your store, products and services 24/7. Chances are you created your website more than two years ago, and don’t have video or pictures that tell a story, or interesting and engaging offers that drive consumers to want to buy from you. Monthly offers, a welcome video, top-selling fashion lists and simple explanations of technology or services are the new standards in optical retail. If you want to attract information-seeking buyers, you must deliver this content before they arrive in your store.

Connect and Share

Store, website, social media and community today’s “omni-shopper” expects to access you, your product information and promotions via multiple devices whenever it’s convenient for them. With a little communication and some help from technology, this should not be an impossible task. Social media management systems allow you to promote to several channels simultaneously with speed and ease. Suppliers have electronic promotions that are easy to post on your promotional web page. Direct shipping or selling to digital consumers are available as a free app or widget for your website. But don’t think that these tools replace your personal touch. By integrating your business with multiple channels, tools and communication sources, your connections with consumers and your community will dramatically improve your sales.

These tools and tips don’t require a significant amount of time and money. Many services are available from optical-based marketing companies for a monthly fee or a one-time payment. Regardless of the route you take, all of them will require you to be actively involved in determining your brand offering and who you want to sell to. By preparing for the changes in optical buying behaviour, you can start turning consumers who are “just looking” into buyers today.