DEAR MEMBERS Industry WATCH

VOL. XXVI NO. 07
JULY 2011
DEAR MEMBERS
Here’s a story about a
small business and its
efforts to compete against
a large competitor…
A local garden center,
known for its high quality
plants and excellent
service, had been a goto
place for many people
in the community - until Home Depot
opened a few miles away. Customers flocked
to the big box store, filling garden after garden
with Home Depot plants. The small garden center
started to wither away.
But the owners weren’t ready to throw in the towel.
They found a niche that they felt Home Depot
hadn’t filled. They built on their creativity, making
baskets and planters filled with unusual combinations of plants. They offered a new free service,
planting arrangements in customers’ own baskets
and pots. They kept their prices competitive
and their service top-notch. If someone needed
information on a particular plant, they offered it.
If customers were confused about plants choices
and care, they provided it.
As a result, they gained new customers and drew
old ones back. But they’re not complacent about
their improved bottom line. They know that Home
Depot will continue to be a problem and that they
will always have to find new ways to reinvent their
business in order to compete.
And that’s a sound take away message – small
businesses and practices sometimes need to
reinvent themselves in order to compete. What
do they do?
•
They fill a niche, emphasizing a particular
demographic, lifestyle or product selection.
• They make new strategic alliances, joining
forces with complementary professionals or
businesses.
• They discover new marketing or promotional
avenues and strategies to elevate their stature or
change their image in the community.
• They move to a more prominent – or a less
expensive location.
• They look for cost effective business practices
to keep expenses down.
• They revamp their physical space to transform
their image.
By the way, this year the garden center is offering
a selection of new plants that aren’t available
at Home Depot. They’re beautiful, unusual, and
they set them apart from the competition. This
is a business that keeps finding new ways to
reinvent itself.
Sometimes the status quo just isn’t good enough.
How can you reinvent your business or practice?
Sincerely,
Michael Block
Industry
WATCH
Reinventing Your
Business or Practice
In March of this year, when the National Retail
Federation (NRF) kicked off its second Innovation
Conference, the NRF President and CEO encouraged attendees to get out of their comfort zone
by challenging every assumption they had about
their business practices. And for two days, NRF
members explored how they could do so.
Business consultant Jim Mathis believes so
strongly in this concept that he wrote a book about
it. In Reinvent Yourself – the Simple Steps to Dominate Your Market, he leads readers on a path of
assessment and innovation. According to Mathis,
the purpose of the book is to help business people
take a hard look at their business environment so
they can make decisions – some of which might
be uncomfortable – in order to adapt creatively to
our changing economy.
What kind of changes might help your business
or practice?
EXPANDING ONE ASPECT OF YOUR BUSINESS
•
Everyone uses computers, and computer
fatigue is a growing problem. Do you have the
expertise and the products to help alleviate eye
strain, headaches, and other symptoms of this
syndrome? Maybe it’s time you did.
• Is your patient base getting younger? Or older?
If you realize that more young families are living in
the area, beef up your kids’ dispensing know-how
and product selection. If your community seems to
be aging, make sure your knowledge and product
offerings are geared toward helping with aging eye
conditions.
• Are you surrounded by industries whose workers need safety eyewear? Become the safety
expert in your community.
• Sports activities for athletes of any age open a
door for a local expert in sports vision, with the best
products to protect and enhance wearers’ eyes.
FORMING PROFESSIONAL ALLIANCES
It often makes good sense for the 3O’s to join
forces under one roof. Would an optician/optometrist/ophthalmology practice work well for you?
Vision care and other health-related fields
can make for successful alliances. Dentists,
podiatrists, chiropractors, and medical doctors can
provide good synergy with eyecare and eyewear
professionals.
CONVEYING YOUR DISTINCTIVE “BRAND” OF
PROFESSIONALISM
If you take steps to change your business or
practice or want the public to know about the high
caliber of your expertise, service and products, you
have to formulate a plan to share that message.
Sometimes it’s through a slogan. Think of some of
the successful slogans businesses use:
Timex’ “It takes a licking and keeps on ticking”
conveys the message that this is a watch with
durability.
Motel 6’ “We’ll leave the light on for you” creates
an image of hospitality and coziness.
Hallmark’s “When you care enough to send the
very best” conjures up an image of sentimentality
and caring.
Avis’ “We try harder” shows that better doesn’t
mean biggest.
Whether it’s through a slogan, a logo, a noticeable
presence in the community or on social media
sites, it might be time to create a new brand or
image for your business or practice.
Whatever path you pursue, these are times
that warrant a good hard look at your current
status and an open mind about making changes.
Necessity is the mother not only of invention,
but of reinvention as well.
THE MONTHLY NEWSLETTER OF
THE BLOCK BUYING GROUP
P.O. Box 310720
Boca Raton, FL 33431-0720
(800) 524-1480
Fax (561) 893-9231
www.blockbg.com
customerservice@blockbg.com
Frame Company
UPDATE
FROM NEW YORK EYE / HART
SPECIALTIES : The view from the top is best
seen through the accessory of the well dressed
professional. Marc Hunter Eyewear is a combination of classic clean cut styling in stainless steel,
handmade zyl, and 100% nickel free titanium.
Marc Hunter Titanium model MH7416 is featured
below. Please call 800-221-6966 to order.
FROM PRODESIGN: Introducing Essential
models 1691-93…this colorful, happy collection
is yet another extension to the highly successful
1670-76, a popular bestseller all across Europe.
The three new feminine shapes all have larger
dimensions, which will suit progressive lenses.
Some of the colors are repeated, back by popular
demand and some are brand new acetate patterns, especially developed for ProDesign. Three
shapes are available in eight colors each. Please
call 800-654-6099 to order.
FROM ZYLOWARE: Stetson 281 is a classic
FROM MOREL EYEWEAR: Colchique
is the newest collection in the Koali line of sunglasses inspired by the autumn crocus (Colchique
in French), the flower whose name it bears. The
frame provides exciting volume and plays on
visual contrasts. Boldly defined acetate fronts
and slim tri-injection temples create stylized floral
decorative elements depicting the crocus flower
at the end piece. A refined and precise design,
in which the curving shapes depicting the petals
interlink merging autumnal colors of black, red,
plum, etc. All models are fitted with glamour-look
graduated CR39 or polycarbonate category 3
lenses. All lenses are coated with an inside antireflective coating for visual comfort. Please call
800-526-8838 to order.
Stetson frame with a modern update. The full rim
wire front sports a double bar bridge and a masculine shape that is appropriate for a wide range
of wearers. Round, handcrafted zyl temples feature a decorative rounded metal plaque. Round,
barrel zyl temples sport 3 metal wrapped rings
as a subtle decorative treatment. Zyl temple tips,
snap-in silicone nosepads and integrated spring
hinges complete the look and uphold Stetson’s
core values of durability, style and comfort. In
colors gunmetal and brown, with sizes 54/17/140
and 57/17/145. Please call 800-765-3700 to order.
The Fysh UK collection features stunning fashion frames for men
and women seeking to take their style up a notch
with unique designs and textures. F-3432 is a
semi-rimless stainless steel model with threedimensional undulated patterns on the temples,
which adds depth to the design. Colors are rich
with soft undertones available in brown gold, black
aqua, wine palladium and purple pink, with size
51/19/135. Please call 800-948-0025 to order.
for your laboratory…
◆ ProEdge™ Blocking Pads… Suited for standard
and super slippery AR coated lenses; designed to
prevent slippage on hydrophobic AR lenses, yet
deblock easily and cleanly from coated and uncoated
lenses; made exclusively by Dynamic Labs with a
revolutionary new foam and adhesive.
◆ DynaGrip™ Anti-Slip Discs…Get extra assurance in blocking slippery lenses; available in oval
and diamond shapes.
◆ Dynasty™ Polish…Provides an ultra smooth finish; prepares a perfect finish for AR coatings.
◆ Dynamic Polish…For CR-39 high index and polycarbonate; excellent suspension - polish will not cake.
◆ Dynamic Dyes in Dissolvable Packets…Lasts
longer; easy to store; no mess; better for the environment!
◆ Ultra White UV™…Fast acting UV protection;
unique white formulation - impossible to yellow a
lens; no clumping; 8 oz. concentrate.
◆ Poly Safe AR Stripper…Safe on CR-39, hi-index
and poly; strip lenses right in the jar; no mixing or
pouring.
◆ Surfacing Pads & Polishing Pads with Adhere
Backing…Finest quality one step, two step and
polishing pads for all your surfacing needs; all with
exclusive adhere backing for superior hold and easy
removal.
For more information please call 888-339-6264 or
visit www.dynamiclabs.net.
TRI-SUPREME OPTICAL
Supplier NEWS
FROM NC EYEWEAR:
DYNAMIC LABS offers innovative products
BUDGET OPTICAL LABS is pleased to offer
their basic A-R for the low price of $17 for
the month of July. This price is good on any
lens purchased from Budget Optical. This A-R
is a Multi-layer, Hydrophobic Treatment which
comes with a 1-year warranty. On-line ordering
is available at www.budgetopticallabs.com,
or call toll-free at 855-508-7463 to place your
order today. Please note that Budget Optical
Lab’s 2011 price list does not reflect the 10%
Block Buying Group member discount.
partners with
Shamir digital lenses. In addition to their line of
semi-finished designs, Shamir’s progressive offering includes a line of Freeform® designs called
Shamir Autograph II®. Shamir’s Autograph II®
line is digitally back-surfaced, allowing both the
Rx and the design to be ground on the back-side
of the lens. This technology enables each Shamir
Autograph II® lens to be created at the highest
level of optical accuracy (up to 1/100 diopters).
With five different designs, each patient is ensured
Autograph II® lenses personalized to their specific
lifestyle needs, and by grinding the design on the
back-surface, patients receive up to 20% wider
fields of vision. Available with two groundbreaking technologies: As-Worn Technology™ and
FreeFrame Technology™, Shamir Autograph II®
is further fine-tuned for each patient by taking additional measurements and frame selection into
account in the design. Tri-Supreme Optical is an
Essilor Partner lab and an authorized Varilux and
Transitions lab. The lab is open seven days a week
with weekday production shifts until midnight and
also on Sundays. Tri-Supreme features a Crizal
coating center and a Digital Processing Center for
fast turnaround. A vast inventory of branded and
private label stock lenses is available. Accounts
can order surfaced and stock lenses with one convenient call and are then combined in one money
saving shipment. For more information, please
call 800-321-1100 or visit www.tri-supreme.
com (features complete and comprehensive lens
availability updated weekly, and a new price list
updated monthly.
Supplier NEWS
(cont.)
BLOCK BUYING GROUP
WELCOMES...
LEGACY 66
The expression ‘O Dark Thirty’ is variously
described as those hours between midnight
and 5 a.m. It is 1960’s jargon for the early
hours of the morning - around 30 minutes
before sunrise. Handcrafted in quality metals
and acetates, all ophthalmic and sun styles
in the O Dark Thirty Eyewear collection have
an individual personality with easy-to-wear
shapes and unique hand created designs as
sophisticated accents and treatments. Metal
embellishments, urban inspired details, and
tattoo-like branding radiate original style.
Legacy 66 is a family owned and operated
company. All industry veterans with massive
combined years of experience in design,
manufacturing, marketing, sales, and love for
the optical industry comes the debut of the
O Dark Thirty eyewear collection. Industry
veteran Marc Rothstein opened C220, LLC.
and its first brand O Dark Thirty in 2009. His
untimely death in 2010 did not inhibit the
realization of his dream and his belief that
handcrafted design based product is still an art
form and should be attainable reasonably. His
family continues to grow the business, having
renamed the company Legacy 66 in his honor.
Block Buying Group members receive a 5%
discount. Opening order required. For more
information please call 877-399-0056 or visit
www.odark30.com.
MARCOLIN recently released incredible new
styles for Kenneth Cole New York, and a brand
new colorway for Marcolin Group. ‘Dark Cherry
Horn’ is a deep, rich color for that confident, style
savvy customer that wants something different,
but still with an inherent sense of classic luxury.
Among the fourteen new styles are not one,
but two cat eye styles, a trend that continues
amongst celebrities and customers alike.
The four frames featured below are all available
in the Dark Cherry Horn and retail for $80 each.
For more information please call 800-527-9265 or
visit www.marcolin.com.
LUXOTTICA
introduces the Dolce & Gabbana 2011 Lace collection, which draws its
inspiration directly from the cultural roots of the
Dolce & Gabbana brand: Sicily. The collection is
characterized by authentic Dolce & Gabbana lace
inserted within the acetate frames. A relaxed and
sensual elegance is the foundation for every Dolce
& Gabbana collection. It can be found throughout the new designs for the summer season, as
demonstrated by the styles seen on the Dolce &
Gabbana Spring / Summer 2011 woman catwalk.
The major news of the collection is that the styles
are made with real Dolce & Gabbana lace. The
acetate is made by placing real lace in the middle
of the two layers of acetate. Model Naomi Campbell will be the face of the Dolce & Gabbana LACE
eyewear advertising campaign. A certification of
lace authenticity will verify that genuine Dolce &
Gabbana lace was used in each pair of frames
purchased. Featured below from top to bottom are
models DG1218, DG3116, DG4111 and DG4116.
For more information please call 800-422-2020 or
visit www.luxottica.com.
OGI introduces new editions to Scojo’s Tribeca
collection. Inspired by the legendary downtown
district of New York City, the Tribeca collection
reflects the hip style and witty character of this
historic neighborhood bearing the same name.
Each style has been named after one of the most
captivating streets in the city. Each distinctive
Tribeca style is as unique as the person that wears
it. The Walker Street enters the Tribeca Collection as a timeless addition full of subtle details.
Each colorway utilizes intriguing materials to
reflect a sophisticated persona. The Black/Black
Stripe features a distressed wood front paired
with smooth, unique temples. Both colors are
finished with chrome rivets. The Cooper Street
is a thick acetate frame full of vintage mystique.
You could find the Cooper Street on the desk
of a Park Avenue law firm or nestled away on a
quiet bench along the Pacific. The snow tortoise
gives the style a unique, inviting feel, perfect for
a distinguished man or woman. The intriguing
cosmopolitan chic flavor of the Livingston Street
takes reading eyewear into a fresh, new realm.
The subtle upsweep of the browline creates a distinct look without becoming overly dramatic. The
unique color schemes give this outstanding frame
its long lasting appeal. Please call 888-560-1060
or visit www.ogiframes.com for more information.
TURA introduces new Humphrey’s models.
Wear what you want to wear! This rather rebellious
statement from the 2011 Humphrey’s collection
conjures up that sensational feeling of being
able to express your own style with confidence.
Recognize who you are, decide what you stand
for and be proud to show off your uniqueness.
Humphrey’s - for cool and trendy frames - is an
established brand which is renowned for being
on the leading edge of contemporary style and
fashion. Humphrey’s eyewear is for those who
love to be individual and love to have fun. It is for
the leaders of fashion and is famous for offering
the very latest looks and the very latest styling.
Featured below left is model 583010, a small
acetate with a shape and style that you can’t go
wrong with. It has a perfect contoured front with
a clean colorful temple. Model 582090 (right) is
fresh, unique and very wearable with an open lens
design. Outstanding use of color contrast in the
temples is the result of stainless steel and acetate
combination. For more information please call
800-242-8872 or visit www.tura.com.
EASTERN STATES EYEWEAR releases
three sunglasses and four new optical models into
the Diva Eyewear collection. The sunglasses
feature modern, plastic shapes with a retro flair
beset by bold, elegant metal accents enhanced
by a bevy of Swarovski Crystals. The optical
models feature beautifully cut temples with exquisite metal work. Similar to the sunglasses this
detailing is graced with a brilliant array of multicolored Swarovski Crystals in a variety of sizes
and shapes. A display will be available - clear,
see through cubes featuring a three dimensional
Diva logo will be complimentary with all orders.
“The new Diva collection is dynamic, feminine,
and exciting,” says Jason Shyer, ESE Director of
Marketing. “The sunglasses have an “it” factor
that is perfect for summer and vacations. The
optical styles provide a clean and modern look
with the added pizzaz that Diva has become
known for.” For more information please call
800-645-3710 or visit www.eseyewear.com,
www.facebook.com/eseyewear or www.twitter.
com/eseyewear.
Block Buying Group is the only buying group
providing its members with discounts and
rebates on the purchase of Oakley products.
If you are already an authorized Oakley dealer,
or would like information on becoming an
authorized dealer, please call Carolyn Walsh
at 800-524-1480 ext. 205 for more information.
Supplier NEWS
(cont.)
JONATHAN CATE
has published a book
entitled The Adventures of JimBob Jackfoot
Episode I: JimBob Visits the Eye Doctor. This
is the first book in an upcoming series about an
amiable character named JimBob Jackfoot and
his friends. The first story is about JimBob’s first
visit to the eye doctor. The book/story does serve
to inform, but it truly shines by focusing on the
emotional voyage a child has during his/her first
eye doctor’s visit. The book has already received
tremendous feedback within the optical community
by doctors, optometrist, and patients. The new
children’s eyeglass and sunglass collection from
Jonathan Cate is branded Katykids to coincide
with the book. The collection will utilize JimBob
Jackfoot branding as well as other main characters
from the story, and will consist of plastic and metal
eyeglasses and sunglasses for boys and girls.
There will also be action figurines, keychains, tshirts, and possibly children’s watches that will be
branded with JimBob Jackfoot related characters.
This will allow opticians to not only have a full kid’s
collection but to offer supplemental merchandise
that could be used as promotional items. For
more information please call 888-665-2326 or visit
www.jonathancate.com.
KENMARK releases exciting new displays
for its Thalia and Thalia Girls collections. The
new materials provide retailers with a fun, colorful way to highlight the flirtatious shapes, vibrant
colors and playful temple decor on the frames.
Thalia Ladies displays feature a purple animal
print design while Thalia Girls offers fun purple
and orange heart detailing. These displays can
be used separately or in a group to add a touch
of Latin flair to any optical retail shop. The new
items for the ladies include: a logo block (6 frame
requirement) and mirror (8 frame requirement).
New items for Thalia Girls include: a logo block
(6 frame requirement) and two-piece display (8
frame requirement). Counter cards, postcards and
a banner are also available by request. All items
are complimentary with a minimum purchase
of Thalia and Thalia Girls frames. For more
information please call 800-627-2898 or visit
www.kenmarkoptical.com.
VIVA INTERNATIONAL
QUANTUM OPTICS / FGX INTL. introduces
new Private Eyes by Magnivision models for Spring
2011. Private Eyes by Magnivision is a premier
reading glass collection designed for eyecare
professionals looking to meet all their patients’
needs. Each pair features anti-reflective coating,
durable anti-scratch lenses and a carrying case.
Featured below from top to bottom are models
Hugh, Thixie, Larz and Ginger. Men’s model Hugh
is a modified square metal semi-rimless style
enhanced with an angled bridge and integrated
spring hinges. The temples are engraved with
a block pattern design and finished with matte
black tips. Ladies model Thixie’s full-rim bowtie,
flat metal frame front meets brown on crystal
temples, engraved with a floral filigree pattern.
The combination is a neutral palette with
a little elegance. Larz’ bold black plastic frame
complements its sharp square shape. Gunmetal
temples with integrated
spring hinges are
embossed with a block
pattern and completed
with matching black
tips. Ladies model
Ginger is a full rim pillow
shaped frame wrapped
in classic tortoise
and accented with an
engraved gold trim. For
more information please
call 800-480-4846 or
visit www.fgxi.com.
announces that
William Rast, the “New America” denim culture
brand founded by Justin Timberlake in 2005, and
winner of the 100th Anniversary Indianapolis 500,
has signed a multi-year endorsement agreement
together with Viva, for racing superstar Danica
Patrick to endorse William Rast Eyewear and
William Rast Racing Eyewear. Patrick will be
wearing William Rast on and off the racetrack and
be featured in upcoming campaigns. Patrick’s
endorsement of William Rast coincides with the
consumer launch of the William Rast Eyewear line
this year, which includes both optical frames and
sunglasses for women and men, and a special William Rast Racing Eyewear collection, that features
sporty, athletic styles with upgraded materials and
features. William Rast, known for its contemporary
American made premium denim for women and
men, has had a strong connection to the world
of racing since its inception by bringing its New
America esthetic and philosophy to iconic races
and events. This year at the Indy 500, William
Rast not only announced the partnership with
Danica Patrick, but also won the prestigious race
with the William Rast car piloted by Dan Wheldon.
Featured below is Danica Patrick wearing William
Rast Eyewear sunglass style WRS 2009. For
more information please call 800-345-8482 or visit
www.vivagroup.com.
CLEARVISION OPTICAL joins forces with
the culturally relevant voice in Fashion to create a
whole new dimension in eyewear. Introducing...
The Marc Ecko Cut & Sew Eyewear Collection. Ingeniously marrying a bit of pop culture
into re-imagined cult classics, ClearVision Optical
together with Marc Ecko, artist, craftsman and
perennial leader in style, bring forth a neverbefore-seen experience in men’s eyewear. A
new American sensibility that re-imagines cult
classics, Marc Ecko Cut & Sew Eyewear brings
a whole new dimension to the men’s eyewear
marketplace. Modern, contemporary looks with
subtle surprises and hidden details are key elements. The relevance and unique style of the
brand is emphasized by these unique product
aspects. Components for the inimitable hardware
were drawn from inspiration of turn of the century
industrial and utilitarian tools, including: knurling
metal seen on machinist tools, microphones, military components and record turntables as well as
textures from vintage foot lockers, driving gloves
and car vents. The color palette of black, blue/
black, olive drab and green khaki are suggestions
of “covert operations” and give the entire collection
a sexy, stealth and authentic feel. An experience
in Popstalgia, this future-minded with a wink to
the past Ecko-ology is brought into every piece.
Paying homage to Marc’s grandfather and his influence in Cut & Sew fashions, the collection speaks
to the unique detailing inspired from a simple pair
of tailor shears. The curve of the frame temple was
inspired by this shape and is a unique signifying
detail to the collection. Each piece features the
signature laser shears logo on every temple tip.
The single eye of the skull mimics the “eye” of
the needle - and passion of a true craftsman. The
initial collection consists of 13 optical models and
5 sun styles, available to purchase in August 2011.
For more information please visit www.cvoptical.
com/marcecko or call 800-645-3733.
LIBERTY SPORT releases new Protective
Sports eyewear models. F8 “Slam” meets or exceeds the ASTM F803 - 03 standard for baseball
for children 8 years old and younger and speeds
of 40 mph and below. Patented easy eye rim
assembly and 6-base design allows for a wide
range of prescription lens powers. This unisex
frame’s sizing allows for youth and teen fitting,
and features new dramatic two tone over molded
color treatments. Slam also features sculpted
temple design with coordinating inside padding,
and the front padding incorporates venting for
increased airflow. The back cushion provides
additional cushioning along the top and bottom of
the frame. A semi-rigid case, cleaning cloth and
strap are included. For more information please
call 800-444-5010 or visit www.libertysport.com.
Supplier NEWS
(cont.)
REM EYEWEAR
CELEBRITY SIGHTING
Seth Rogen wears the Indie ‘Quinn’ frame in his
upcoming film “My Mother’s Curse” co-staring
Barbra Streisand. For more information please
visit www.remeyewear.com or call 800-423-3023.
LEGACIE introduces the Deja Vu group from
Judith Leiber Eyewear. Channeling the 1950s
and 60s, the Deja Vu group explores influences
ranging from Marilyn Monroe to Bridget Bardot to
La Dolce Vita. These frames are unapologetically
glamorous and are a throwback to a time when
dressing well was de rigueur. JL1622, a round
optical frame, and JL1623SG, a square sunglass,
boast extensive stonework on the front of the
frame with contrasting minimalist temples. The
combination of dazzling genuine Austrian crystals
and luxe handmade acetate is striking and wearable - perfect for the modern Judith Leiber woman.
For more information please call 866-534-2243 or
visit www.legacie.com.
CHARMANT
expands its Ad Lib collection
with five new young energetic styles including one
Men’s AB3114, and four women’s models AB3200
- AB3203. These distinctive styles offer a unique
hinge system made of Excellence Titan material,
Charmant’s proprietary new material. The hinge
design provides flexibility and great wearing comfort in addition to being a visual design accent.
Color contrasting combinations in each style are
perfect for those looking to show off their sharp
fashion sense. Featured below from top to bottom
are models AB3114, AB3200, AB3201, AB3202
and AB3203. For more information please call
800-645-2121 or visit www.charmant-usa.com.
SAFILO introduces Gucci sustainable eyewear
models. In August 2011, Gucci and Safilo will
introduce four models made using an innovative
acetate which, compared to traditional acetate
used for optical frames, contains a much higher
percentage of material from natural origins. This
acetate has been created in two colors exclusively
for Gucci Eyewear, flamed Havana with either a
red background or a green background, which recall the House’s iconic green-red-green web. Also
in August the Gucci Eyeweb collection, dedicated
to a young and dynamic consumer who is attentive
and sensitive to environmental issues, will include
two bio-based sunglasses in a natural material
made from castor-oil seeds. These models feature
the same comfort and quality of the best plastic
currently employed in the eyewear industry, but
contain a large component from natural origins,
which in turn helps reduce CO2 emissions from
the production process of the material itself. Within
the first six months of 2012 new packaging will
follow for this eco-sustainable eyewear, specifically designed to simplify production processes,
with the goal of gradually reducing environmental
impact. In addition, eyewear catalogues will use
FSC certified paper. Lastly, Gucci and Safilo are
working together to create an innovative prototype
made from a material alternative to plastic. In this
way, they will continue to strive together towards
greater sustainability, sharing the human, ethical
and social values that have always distinguished
them as prestigious Italian luxury companies. For
more information please call 800-631-1188 or visit
www.safilousa.com.
SOUNDOFF
WHAT CHANGES HAVE YOU
MADE LATELY?
MICHAEL LAKHER, OD, ARCADE OPTICAL, BROOKLINE, MA: “We’ve made
a number of changes recently, all in order to
improve customer service and our image to the
public. On the professional side, we upgraded
equipment and instruments. For example, our
new digital camera was a terrific investment
professionally and it’s a clear example to
people that we’re keeping up with the times.
“On the optical side, we’re always looking for
new products. We want to show patients that
we keep up to date with contemporary products, whether it’s in new lenses or frames. And
we realize that simply making these changes
and upgrades isn’t enough. People have to
know about it. That’s why we hired a social
media consultant to help optimize our website
and our presence on Facebook and Twitter.”
SMILEN EYEWEAR
has signed a trademark licensing agreement with the U.S. Army, a
global brand licensing agency and consultancy, to
produce eyewear, sports frames and ready-made
readers with the use of the U.S. Army trademarks.
Scott Smilen, CEO of the company, said the
initial collection is expected to launch this
summer with distribution throughout the
U.S., its territories and possessions,
and Canada. Proceeds from sales of U.S.
Army licensed products provide support
to the U.S. Army licensing
program, and by federal
l o w, a l l n e w r e v e n u e
must be devoted to U.S.
A r m y M o r a l e , We l f a r e
and Recreation programs,
according to a statement
from the U.S. Army. For
more information please
call 800-887-5675 or visit
www.smileneyewear.com.
MARCHON EYEWEAR
introduces
the Emilio Pucci 2011 Resort Collection,
inspired largely by unique and colorful prints.
Metal detailing accenting select styles and
bright colors hold true to the Pucci style. Peter
Dundas’ cut out designs seen on red carpet
dresses are featured design elements that can
be found on frame fronts and temples. Emilio
Pucci looks to inspire, using elegant prints
reminiscent of the Mediterranean and vintage
shapes to create a truly unique collection.
Featured below is model EP683S. For more
information please visit www.marchon.com or
call 800-645-1300.
Dispensing
TIPS
What’s in a Name? If it’s
Branded Eyewear...More Sales!
When your dispensary purchased branded/
licensed product, you have given yourself a ‘leg
up’ on sales of that product, simply by name
recognition for your customers. But are you
taking advantage of this?
• Display properly. Branded/couture products
should be displayed like a department store
would, in a separate area, with appropriate
signage.
• Know your brand! Be able to easily discuss
the ‘story’ behind your branded product - who the
designer is, what other products they offer; in the
case of ‘couture’ know the history of the label.
• Shuffle your decks! Once every quarter,
every collection should be rearranged in a different place in your optical...not only does this
keep your dispensary looking fresh, you’d be
amazed how many people will suddenly notice
and comment on a line you’ve had for months.
• Onesies won’t cut it. If you are going to put
in a branded line, commit to it. Place enough
product in for a good representation (somewhere between 18-24 pieces).
• Keep the line fresh. When you sell a piece,
be sure to replace it in a timely manner. Think
of the retail concept again...if a rack has only 3
items on it, you think “old, dated” immediately.
That’s what your customers think if they see a
branded line with only a few pieces.
Remember, there is a reason why manufacturers sign agreements to carry these lines. Customers will gravitate to what they know. Your
job is to make it easy in your optical for your
customers to find those names.
These tips are courtesy
of Nikki DiBacco,
ABO/NCLE, owner,
DnD Consulting
& Design.
850-258-4777
www.dndconsulting.net
A&A OPTICAL
is pleased to announce the
launch of Jimmy Crystal Eyewear. Eighteen
designer ophthalmic, sun and reader styles will
be released from exotic animal prints to dreamy
organic swirls. There is something special for every taste to wear day to night. An opening order
of 6 pieces applies to receive 5% discount. For
more information please call 800-527-2684 or visit
www.aaopticalco.com.
MIYAGI EYEWEAR
CELEBRITY SIGHTING
Ryan Phillippe wears Miyagi Eyewear model
1421 Dominic in his recent movie The Lincoln
Lawyer. This contemporary style features a
metal clasp at the hinge. In addition to Shiny
Gunmetal worn by the movie star, the two other
available colors are Bronze and Black. Please call
800-678-9244 or visit www.MiyagiEyewear.com
for more information.
CLASSIFIED
Ads
Practice for Sale
Employment or take-over opportunity. Optometrist
needed for 65+ year old practice in NW NJ.
2-3 days per week to start and possible takeover when owner retires. Competitive salary and affordable terms. Must have TPA certification. E-mail drallanfeldman@yahoo.com.
15 year old practice for sale (OD), upscale
young area, excellent location, six figure gross,
two exams, complete lab, fashion optical
displays, computerized, excellent inventory.
Call 954-432-5822.
71 year old high end optometry - opticianry practice for sale in Syracuse, NY with large active
patient base. Excellent revenue with only 20 O.D.
hours / week. Serious replies please. Ask for Rob
(personal call) 315-422-6089.
60+ year old est. practice for sale in Somerville,
NJ with a very active patient base. Is an excellent
one person practice. Present optometrist is retiring and looking forward to a quick sale. Willing
to help out with transition period. Any questions
please call 908-725-2915.
Employment Opportunity
BABY BANZ has developed a program to help
companies give away Baby Banz as promotional items!
For every 25 Baby Banz purchased, receive 10 free!
This offer is also good for combos. Companies get tired
of handing out pens, water bottles and badges. When
choosing a promotional tool, a company must consider
what items will make exceptional giveaways. These
are things that people will be happy to receive and say
something about your business culture. The great thing
about Baby Banz is that they are not very expensive
to use for promoting your practice. Baby Banz shield
sensitive eyes from bright sunlight and help your patients know that you care. To help advertise your new
giveaway program, Baby Banz will list your practice information and program details on a dedicated webpage
on usa.babybanz.com. For more information please
call 877-333-0074
or e-mail sara@
babybanz.com.
Employment Opportunity (cont.)
Optometrist / ophthalmologist wanted for eyewear
boutique in N. New Jersey. Call 973-239-1132 or
e-mail upscalespecs4u@aol.com.
Equipment for Sale
Optical furnishings for sale - oak and brass /
glass dispensing tables (2), solid oak / laminate
dispensing tables (2), oak frame display (1), oak
/ glass display cabinet. Excellent condition, all
pieces for $1,500. You arrange pickup and shipping. 330-332-2080.
Vigor polishing dust collector DC-2025; BPI
8-tank tint unit w/automatic gradient arm; Heat
treatment unit; Edgemaster 2000; Dimelp chem
unit; Dimelp 2 hr. photo chem. unit; Electronic
Track Master pattern maker Novamatic System
21 $100; Align-A-Lens II blocker; TL-100 Tomey
auto lensmeter; CL autoclave; 1,808 coated &
uncoated semi-finished lenses; lens storage
cabinets; pattern storage cabinets $60 (6 drawers
w/patterns & cataloged on Rolodex cards).
Best offer, pickup required. Call 509-334-3300
or e-mail pam-fec@frontier.com.
Santinelli LE-9000 SX patternless edger very
good condition, $6,900 O.B.O. Also some Topcons and Briot patternless edgers. Please call
845-783-6315 if no answer leave message.
P/T optician for S. Tampa optometrist office.
License not required. 1 to 2 days / week, No lab
work. Call 813-221-6655 or fax resume to 813221-6656.
Lombart slit lamp; AO projector, Burton stand,
chair & lamp; Marco trial lens set; Reichert phoropter; Tangent screen. Any reasonable offer
accepted. 718-238-3937 or 732-446-2944.
Optician - F/T position for a highly motivated
individual that prefers working with the latest
frames and lenses in the industry. Great working
environment, lab experience preferred. E-mail
optiqueboutique@comcast.net, phone 856-2347881, fax 856-234-1395.
Opportunity for optometrist (with option for partnership). Boutique optical store in Westchester
County, NY, seeking full or P/T optometrist,
contact lenses exams, and comprehensive eye
exams. Great opportunity, high volume. Practice
has all up to date equipment, and has been est.
for the past 10 years. Terry 914-948-1700.
Nidek patternless edger - Santinelli model LE7070X. Features easy 1-cut operation for poly,
high index and plastic and high gloss automatic
polishing. Use circulation pump system or direct connection to tap. Newly refurbished by
Santinelli, still unopened in box! Comes with
blocks, deblocker, tracing kit and manual, $7,900.
Humphrey lens analyzer, off white color, model
360-2675, $3,150. American Optical Corp. phoropter, model 11625, $2,500. 2 AO non-contact
II tonometers, off white color, model 12415 by
Riechert, $1,200 ea. AIT speede blocker, model
630, $190. Please call Dr. Paul Difiore at Optique
Boutique 856-234-7881.
Need an O.D for vacation coverage 2012 between
January - April (about 20 days total). Professional,
relaxed practice - 2 days / week, 6½ hour day, 1½
hour lunch, start 9 - 9:30, rx’s q 30 min. (8-10/
day). Upscale 72 year practice in Galleria bldg.
Syracuse, NY 315-422-6088.
SmartDrill from Smart Lab Inc., bought in 2004
and used only 4 times. All offers accepted.
Comes with the Smart drilling system formula
charts. Very easy to learn how to drill your own
3-piece mounts with this system. E-mail David
at Paparatzi2@aol.com.
Please submit your typed ad by the 10th of the month for publication the following month. Ads appear for one
month unless otherwise requested. E-mail ads to cwalsh@blockbg.com or fax to 561-893-9256. You can also
post your ad online in the BLOCKBOARD CLASSIFIED ADS/PRODUCT EXCHANGE feature of our website.