VCPN February 2017

UNO SGUARDO D’ITALIA/A GLIMPSE OF ITALY P.25 FEBRU 017 ARY 2

re a c n o i vis

THE FEMALE LEAD BRENDEL

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GROUP HUG PROFITABLE TEAMWORK AT edCFDA INSPECS USA SEALS THE DEAL WITH SEEMLESS BECOME A PRO IN ANTIREFLECTIVE

BY TALBOT RUNHOF FROM TURA PRODUCT INFORMATION FOR OPTICAL PEOPLE • VISIONCAREPRODUCTS.COM

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OUTFIT YOUR PATIENTS WITH SUPERIOR LENSES Seiko Superior SV and Transitions® lenses give you the latest solution for your patients who expect the best in lens technology.

Seiko Superior SV lenses bring precision optics to any prescription with the ability to customize the depth of focus to your patient’s unique lifestyle. Only Transitions Signature® lenses use exclusive Chromea7™ technology, an advanced formulation that allows the lenses to be more responsive than ever before while blocking harmful UV rays and reducing exposure to harmful blue light indoors and out. Seiko Superior SV is available in gray and brown Transitions lenses to perfectly accent style-savvy frame choices.

Available in gray and brown.

Transitions and the swirl are registered trademarks of Transitions Optical, Inc., used under license by Transitions Optical Limited. ©2016 Transitions Optical Limited. Photochromic performance is influenced by temperature, UV exposure and lens material. ©2016 Seiko.

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Fine Tuned to The Patient’s Lifestyle Choosing the perfect pair of

exercise, like zumba in public

hike or run. In addition to

on the advanced light-to-dark

glasses depends on a lot of

places, group cycling, and run-

computers emitting harmful

adaptability for optimal visual

factors, including intended use,

ning. These types of activities

blue light, exposure to sunlight

acuity in all lighting situations,

prescription strength, and per-

require proper distance vision

without proper eye protection

including indoor and outdoor

sonal preference. Most impor-

and superior sun protection.

is also dangerous and can

use, driving, and specific

lead to degenerative effects on

sports, all with photochromic and polarized options.

tantly, a patient is looking for the best lenses for their lifestyle

Talk About the Job

the eye. Hobbies that involve

and frames to complement

According to a survey by the

spending prolonged amounts

their unique personality. For the

Vision Council, over 90 percent

of time staring at a screen or

Recommending Lenses

Millennial generation, lenses

of people age 18 to 39 use a

reading require proper depth-

Educating patients on the ben-

that parallel specific hobbies or

digital device for more than two

of-focus calculations to ensure

efits of Transitions Chromea7™

occupational needs while pro-

hours per day and 43 percent

comfortability at any distance.

technology will impress a

viding superior visual acuity are

have jobs that require prolonged

essential. With a high demand

computer use. With so much

Talk About Lens Options

that adapt as quickly as their

for superior lens performance,

additional time spent viewing

Seiko Superior SV and Tran-

fast-paced lifestyles. In addi-

conventionally surfaced lenses

computer and digital devices in

sitions lenses are the perfect

tion, Seiko single vision lenses

are no longer making the cut. A

the intermediate zone, it’s even

option for Millennials looking

feature freeform surfacing to

perfect solution for patients is

more important to recommend

for total customization and

provide optimum performance

recommending Seiko Superior

lenses that are customized for a

adaptability in their eyewear.

in the as-worn position, while

SV and Transitions lenses.

patient’s position of wear. In ad-

Seiko Superior lenses can be

essentially eliminating errors

dition, blue light and glare from

precisely surfaced, with optics

caused by variations in eye

Talk About Lifestyle

computer screens have upped

optimized for a patient’s lifestyle

rotation, pantoscopic tilt, and

The best way to begin discuss-

reports of computer vision

needs, and advanced lens po-

vertex distance. The three lens

ing lens options is by tapping

syndrome symptoms, including

sitioning to ensure a highly cus-

designs—balanced, near, and

into what makes a patient’s life-

eyestrain, fatigue, headaches,

tomized fit. These single vision

far—create nearly unlimited

style unique. Living in the midst

and blurry vision, increasing the

lenses can be designed with

depth-of-focus customization.

of the technology boom means

need for lenses that adapt and

the intended distance in mind

Remind your patients that

most patients are tech-savvy

protect their eyes.

depending on the patient’s

Seiko Superior SV and Transi-

personal preferences. When

tions lenses are as custom and

introducing Transitions, focus

unique as their lifestyle.

and spending the majority of their day viewing up-close

Talk About Hobbies

information on a digital device.

For an adventure junkie, there

Millennials are also turning to

is a huge difference between

more activity-based forms of

their job and their after-hours

Millennial looking for lenses

SPONSORED CONTENT

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MY VISION IS AS VAST AS MY TASTES, STYLES,

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SEIKO + ® TRANSITIONS ® SIGNATURE FINISHED SINGLE VISION LENSES

Seiko Optical Products of America

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Transitions® Signature Lenses

Transitions® lenses block harmful UV rays and reduce exposure to harmful blue light indoors and outdoors so your patients can more safely enjoy their vision today and in the future.

Transitions® Signature® VII lenses block at least 20% of the harmful blue light indoors, which is up to 2 times more than standard clear lenses,* and they block over 85% outdoors.

Super Surpass ECP AR

SUPER Surpass ECP AR features an anti-static, super hydrophobic/oleophobic topcoat that repels water, oil and grime. Surpass ECP AR performs as well or better than nationally advertised AR brands and is engineered to prevent lens deterioration due to UV, humidity, and temperature fluctuations. Stock Surpass ECP AR lenses include a no slip protector to eliminate slippage and simply in-house edging.

Seiko Optical offers the largest selection of finished single vision Transitions® lenses for in-house edging at your practice.

FINISHED SINGLE VISION HARDCOAT

•

SEIKO 1.74 Transitions® Signature™ VII (Gray) SEIKO 1.67 Super SV Transitions® Signature™ VII (Gray)

SURPASS SUPER HYDRO AR

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SEIKO 1.67 Super SV Transitions® Signature™ VII (Brown) 1.59 DiamondClear® Transitions® Signature™ VII (Gray) - Aspheric

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1.59 DiamondClear® Transitions® Signature™ VII (Brown) - Aspheric

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1.50 Transitions® Signature™ VII (Gray) 1.50 Transitions® Signature™ VII (Brown)

Call Now to Order!

Telephone: 800.235.5367 Fax: 800.992.2895 Transitions and the swirl are registered trademarks of Transitions Optical, Inc., used under license by Transitions Optical Limited. ©2016 Transitions Optical Limited.

Photochromic performance is influenced by temperature, UV exposure and lens material. ©2016 Seiko.*Transitions lenses block 20% to 36% of harmful blue light indoors excluding CR607 Transitions Signature VII products which block 14% to 19%. The 2 times comparison refers to typical clear 1.50 and polycarbonate hard-coated lenses.

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HUNT | MATTE BLACK NAVY Happy Bronze Polar w/ Dark Blue Spectra

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YOUR TOTAL OPTICAL PRODUCT RESOURCE

TABLE OF CONTENTS 22

On the Cover

UPFRONT VIEWS 14 THINK ABOUT YOUR EYES Guest Editorial

by Jon Torrey 18 PRODUCT BUZZ 20 NOTEWORTHY Look and Shoot 22 0NE-TO-ONE Dan Bliss, President, SD Eyes 23

BRENDEL BY TALBOT RUNHOF FROM TURA, INC. Known for its glamorous designs, the Brendel by Talbot Runhof eyewear collection combines extreme femininity, wit and high quality. Created by visionary designers Johnny Talbot and Adrian Runhof, who also design costumes for opulent stage works, the brand is based on the concept, “Never go too far; just always far enough!”.

The 2017 collection arrives with refreshing materials such as luxurious, shimmering translucent acetates from Italy. Thin contoured acetate expertly wraps the stainless steel chassis and is then secured with screws. Signature metal piercing, inspired and derived from elements in the Talbot Runhof runway collection, is used throughout the collection, and the colors match the global trends.

This brand encompasses an architectural assertiveness with ladylike hues and sophisticated details. Model wears 3070.

Tura Inc., Tura.com, 800.242.8872.

“Our new Brendel by Talbot Runhof styles have a strong global appeal—wearable, fashionable designs with European flair. ” Jelena Halliburton, brand manager, Brendel

VCPN VisionCareProducts.com

TOC_Feb17.indd 9

EYEWEAR & FASHION

28

30

A Glimpse of Italy

by Isabella Morpurgo 25 Come Together

by Kaitlyn Robertson 28 Very Vintage

by Jill J Luebbert, CPOT, ABOC 30 Frame Front Staying Neutral 32 Interview The Irresistible Charm of Brendel by Talbot Runhof

by Michele Silver 34 Panorama Sticking Together 36

by Michele Silver NEW 46

ESSILOR SALES MEETING HAS IMPACT FACEBOOK.COM/ VISIONCAREPRODUCTNEWS.COM VCPN’s coverage of Essilor’s national sales meeting held last month in Colorado Springs generated lots of buzz.

Among the news announced was a new tiered distribution model for Varilux, and Kristan Gross made her first appearance as the Vision Impact Institute’s new global executive director.

EXTREME CLOSEUPS

TRACKING WITH POGOCAM

Nicole’s Got You Covered 39

FACEBOOK.COM/ VISIONCAREPRODUCTNEWS.COM People are talking about PogoTec’s PogoCam: The video we posted received many comments and shares.

Getting More With Rimless 41 Totally Trendsetting 43 Millennial Madd-Ness 45 Finding the Style in Transitions Adaptive Lenses 61

Being Social

February 2017 9

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DRURY

BOND

KEW

THE COMBINATION COLLECTION HANDMADE ACETATES MEET 18KT GOLD CREATE AND MANAGE YOUR ACCOUNT AT INSPECSUSA.HANDSHAKE.COM

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YOUR TOTAL OPTICAL PRODUCT RESOURCE

TABLE OF CONTENTS FEB. 2017 Volume 17, Issue 2 EDITORIAL STAFF Vice President, Editorial John Sailer • JS@VisionCareProducts.com Managing Editor Michele Silver• MS@VisionCareProducts.com Senior Editor Joanne Van Zuidam •JVZ@VisionCareProducts.com Assistant Editor Cara Aidone Huzinec • CH@VisionCareProducts.com

VISION CARE TECHNOLOGY Going Pro with Anti-Reflective

by Jaimee Palkovicz 53

From a Distance

by Jaimee Palkovicz 58 NEW 62

BUSINESS SOLUTIONS

Vice President, Design Jane Kaplan • JK@VisionCareProducts.com

Solutions for Business Resolutions

by Bob Main, ABOM 64

Assistant Art Director/ Bruce Kenselaar • BK@VisionCareProducts.com

Social Media Advisor

by Samantha Toth 66

Production and Web Manager Anthony Floreno • AF@VisionCareProducts.com Contributing Writers Jill J Luebbert, Bob Main, Isabella Morpurgo, Jaimee Palkovicz, Kaitlyn Robertson, Samantha Toth

NEW 68

VISION EXCHANGE ADVERTISERS’ INDEX Advertisers’ Contact Information 70

BUSINESS STAFF

Artful Advertising 72

Executive VP & Associate Publisher Shawn Mery • SM@VisionCareProducts.com

51

Classified Advertising for the Optical Industry 69

Editor Emeritus Ed De Gennaro, MEd, ABOM ED@VisionCareProducts.com

President & Publisher Frank Giammanco • FG@VisionCareProducts.com

58

Consumables for ECPs…and Consumers

by Michelle Titzkowski 56

LOOKING BACK Correction: In the January issue in Noteworthy on p. 22, the contact number for Essilor Instruments USA should be 800.542.5668.

68

Director of Sales Janet Cunningham • JC@VisionCareProducts.com Vice President, Marketing Debby Corriveau • DC@VisionCareProducts.com Vice President, Operations Sharon O’Hanlon • SO@VisionCareProducts.com Subscriptions SUB@VisionCareProducts.com

12 February 2017

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ESSILOR AND LUXOTTICA GROUP HAVE MERGED TO FORM ESSILORLUXOTTICA, WITH A COMBINED REVENUE OF $16 BILLION. VisionCareProducts.com VCPN

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PRESCRIPTION FOR PERFORMANCE

© 2017 Wiley X, Inc. All rights reserved.

Dealer Ordering

Wiley X’s expert lab offers state-of-the-art Rx solutions as well as proprietary lenses designed specifically for Wiley X frames. Our proprietary DIGIFORCE™ digital Rx lenses have been specifically designed for our high wrap frames with point by point digital lens mapping to ensure a wider field of vision and more significant reading zone. Our new Road and Trail navigation performance progressive lens features a fully compensated design specially formulated for driving and riding.

Now more people than ever can experience the ANSI safety rated protection and sleek style of Rx-ready sunglasses to see clearly at critical times. Wiley X: For Work. For Play. For Life.

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12/22/16 2:47 PM

VIEWS

Take Patient Education to New Heights

world’s largest frame company with the world’s largest lens company, the new EssilorLuxottica entity represents integration on a much larger, global scale. The JOHN SAILER

Under One Global Roof

revenue of $16 billion, more than 140,000 employees and sales in

What a year 2017 has been already.

more than 150 countries. The deal

CES, the Essilor national sales

is worth $49 billion.

meeting, The Vision Council

Even with many in the optical

Executive Summit, Transitions

field grumbling about the market

Academy and the announcement

dominance this new company will

about the merger of Essilor and

have, an outside observer might

Luxottica . . . all in the month of

wonder why it has not always been

January. The new year is heating

the case in the eyewear business

up to be an eventful one indeed.

that one company is not typically

A couple of issues ago we wrote

Educate your patients and build your practice with free services from AllAboutVision.com.

new company will have combined

responsible for both frames and

The new company will have combined revenue of $16 billion, more than 140,000 employees and sales in more than 150 countries. in this space about the unique

lenses and putting them together

positions that Costa and Maui Jim

into a finished pair of eyewear.

put themselves in by adding oph-

The founder of Luxottica,

Visit www.allaboutvision.com/ecp/ to learn about…

thalmics to their already popular

Leonardo Del Vecchio, said it

• Free, comprehensive, trustworthy patient education

sunwear lines. By offering frames,

himself when the merger was

finished lenses (both sun and clear)

announced: “With this agreement

and putting them together into a

my dream to create a major glob-

• Free Eye Health Videos for practice websites

finished pair of eyewear in their

al player in the eyewear industry,

• Free Eye Health News Feeds for practice Facebook pages

own labs, these companies are

fully integrated and excellent in

among the few uniquely vertically

all its parts, comes finally true.

integrated eyewear companies.

Finally, after 50 years, two prod-

• Free listings in the Eye Care Practice Network

• And more!

AllAboutVision.com is a leading provider of online eye health and vision correction information. We have hundreds of pages of easy-to-understand, trustworthy content that is developed with the input of eye care professionals on our Editorial Advisory Board.

Traditionally, frames come

ucts which are naturally com-

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plementary, namely frames and

another, and finally a third com-

lenses, will be designed, manufac-

pany that operates a lab brings

tured and distributed under the

them both together to create a fin-

same roof.”

ished pair of eyeglasses.

Now, with the merger of the

It shouldn’t be much of a surprise after all.

AllAboutVision.com is a Supporter National Sponsor of Optometry Giving Sight. © 2016 Access Media Group LLC. All About Vision and AllAboutVision.com are registered trademarks of Access Media.

email me at JS@VisionCareProducts.com 14 February 2017

John_Views_Feb.indd 14

VisionCareProducts.com VCPN

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VIEWS

BOOTH 321 |

be more than $8 billion.

What does all this mean for optical? Simply put, it’s the biggest revenue opportunity since the introduction of progressive lenses.

FRANK GIAMMANCO

Getting Smart

RE

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are jumping on the bandwagon.

Smith, a division of Safilo, is

About five years ago, it seemed

introducing a wearable product

that the world was agog over an

to help induce meditation and

improbable

Oakley has just come to market

invention

called

Google Glass.

Y DB

And a number of industry players

with a product that monitors

The potential for this product

response rates during exercise.

was staggering—a computer you

And a new company launched by

wear on your face that connects

industry veterans, called PogoTec,

you to the Internet, takes pictures

has come up with a platform that

and video and assists with virtu-

can allow any eyewear maker to

ally any informational request.

turn their frames into vehicles

Luxottica and VSP got involved.

for smart components such as a

Everyone believed it was just a

mini-camera—compact devic-

matter of time before Google

es that can be attached to metal

Glass saw explosive growth. But

tracks within the temples. Thus

it was expensive, and—as we ulti-

far, ClearVision Optical and FGX

mately learned—really not ready

(purveyors of the Foster Grant

for public consumption.

brand) have partnered with

However, it established a market for myriad other wearable

PogoTec and will be introducing their products soon.

products from companies such as

Retailers big and small are also

Sony, Intel, Microsoft, Apple and

entering the space, with the most

lesser-known companies such

notable being Eyeglass World’s

as Recon, Vuzix, Meta, Lumus

California locations. This is not

LTD, and LaForge Optical. In

to suggest that the average ECP

fact, there are now more than 16

convert her dispensary into an

entries in the smart eyewear cat-

electronics store (although mak-

egory (which also includes virtual

ing eye-wearables available will

and augmented reality models),

certainly be good business). But

and it is projected to exceed 10

many smartglasses purchasers

million units by 2018.

will need prescriptions.

It’s also been projected that

As one smartglasses pundit put

category growth will exceed 19%

it, “If the optical business doesn’t

per year over the next five years,

want to provide Rxs for smart

wherein the market revenue will

eyewear, Best Buy will.”

email me at FG@VisionCareProducts.com 16 February 2017

Frank_Views_Feb.indd 16

VisionCareProducts.com VCPN

1/24/17 11:22 AM

PLAY HARD.

STUDY HARD.

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ASTM F803 SPORTS PROTECTIVE EYEWEAR LINE

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12/22/16 2:49 PM 10/6/16 10:45 AM

Give the gift of vision this

Photo courtesy Ver Bien para Aprender Mejor

Holiday Season

All Eyes on 2017 The year 2016 will be remem-

members a basic listing on the

bered as a time of tremendous

online practice locator for free

growth for Think About Your

or at a greatly reduced price,

Eyes. Research early in the year

and doctors can upgrade at

showed that the campaign drove

a similar discount. With this

828,000 incremental eye exams

support, the locator has more

and $320 million in industry

than 19,000 listings, enabling

revenue during the previous year

patients around the country to

alone. With this momentum, the

find a doctor near them. Think-

campaign was set up for success

AboutYourEyes.com recently

in 2016 and delivered.

reached 3 million visitors since

Beginning January 1, 2017, Think About Your Eyes wel-

Practices can support Think

comed Johnson & Johnson Vi-

About Your Eyes in several ways.

sion Care as the second major

Purchasing a listing on the lo-

contact lens company to support

cator not only gives direct visi-

the campaign. As of now, 21 in-

bility, but it also improves your

dustry companies are campaign

ranking in local Google searches.

partners, representing a wide

Upgrading to a Premium listing

range of the industry, from low

can grow patient engagement

vision to labs.

by as much as eight times and

Thanks to the support of new partners and increased contri-

A donation of $100 could help provide glasses to 10 children in need

butions from existing partners,

In Mexico 13% of children in public schools suffer from visual acuity problems.* Please help us to provide glasses for more than 20,000 as part of the Our Children’s Vision campaign.

to increase advertising for the

*Mexican Ministry of Education

its launch in 2013.

further improves Google search rankings.

Think About Your Eyes is able year. For the first time, Think About Your Eyes ads will be on air for three quarters, up from two quarters in previous years.

TV advertising started February 13 and will run through the end of the third quarter. The

Please donate today at givingsight.org or call 1888 OGS GIVE

proud supporters of

18 February 2017

TAYE.indd 18

Think About Your Eyes campaign appears on cable TV and

Jon Torrey is executive director of

online on radio, display and

Think About Your Eyes, an industry-

banner ads.

and doctor-funded public awareness

Support from doctors con-

initiative promoting the importance

tinues to grow, with 37 state

of an annual eye exam and overall vi-

optometric associations now

sion health. First Vision Media Group

supporting the campaign at the

supports Think About Your Eyes as a

Leadership level. This gives all

media partner.

VisionCareProducts.com VCPN

1/23/17 4:15 PM

Endless possibilities.

Design your frame at www.cvoptical.com/aspire-custom

Distributed by ClearVision Optical 800.645.3733 | AspireEyewear.com

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PRODUCTBUZZ LAUNCHES, PROMOTIONS, MERCHANDISING, EVENTS AND OTHER THINGS TO KEEP YOU IN THE KNOW

BRAIN BOOST Designed for athletes, outdoor enthusiasts or anyone looking to get “in the zone,” Safilo introduced Smith’s Lowdown Focus Mpowered by Muse, the first product built on the new SAFILOx eyewear platform. The new “smart” sunglasses integrate Interaxon’s Muse brain-sensing technology into Smith Lowdown frames to deliver cognitive training technology for enhanced performance.

They are expected to be available to patients via SmithOptics.com during the third quarter of this year. SmithOptics.com; 800.631.1188, Safilo.com.

Silver Dollar Optical NEW NAME AND LOOK REBRANDED AS THE NEED FOR SPEED Maui Jim has launched an updated and more user-friendly B2B website. MauiJim.com is faster and secure across desktop, tablet and mobile devices and features enhanced product browsing and filtering, fast order entry capability, payment history and account information, improved prescription orders and quick access to marketing materials. 888.666.5905, MauiJim.com.

20 February 2017

Product Buzz_Feb17.indd 20

REEL IN FYSH UK MERCH Fresh P-O-P materials for 2017 can help ECPs take their FYSH UK collections to a new level. Each element is made of high density cardboard that is eco-friendly yet durable. Items include a four-piece display with a swivel panel, onepiece display, display tray, nameplate and tilting mirror. A fuchsia background with a crisp, white logo creates visual impact.

855.455.0042, WestGroupe.com.

ONE-STOP DISPENSING SOLUTION Professional Eyecare Resource Co-Operative (PERC), a nationwide purchasing group of independent ECPs, joined forces with Vision Associates to provide a “best-inclass turnkey dispensary solution” that will maximize profitability and efficiency of their dispensaries.

“We’re able to create an offering for ECPs that will be both profitable and compelling,” said PERC president David Golden, OD. 626.502.1882, PercAlliance. com; 800.346.7486, VisionAssociatesInc.com.

GO FOR A GRANT Prevent Blindness is accepting applications for its 2017 Joanne Angle Investigator Award, a research grant of up to $25,000 for one year to investigate public health in relation to eye health and safety.

This year, preference will be given to age-related macular degeneration or glaucoma. The application deadline is March 6. 800.331.2020, PreventBlindness.org/ Investigator-Awards.

LEGENDARY OLYMPIC SKIER JEAN VUARNET PASSED AWAY LAST MONTH AT 83. VUARNET GAVE HIS NAME TO THE FRENCH SUNGLASS BRAND 60 YEARS AGO. CHARMANT INKED A DEAL TO MANUFACTURE AND DISTRIBUTE EDDIE BAUER OPHTHALMICS AND SUNGLASSES, SET TO LAUNCH NEXT MONTH. AS OF LAST MONTH, MITCH BARKLEY IS THE NEW VICE PRESIDENT OF TRADE SHOWS AND MEETINGS AT THE VISION COUNCIL. TRANSITIONS OPTICAL APPOINTED DARRAGH O’CONNOR VICE PRESIDENT OF GLOBAL MARKETING, EFFECTIVE LAST MONTH.

VisionCareProducts.com VCPN

1/23/17 12:06 PM

Memor y metal titanium eyewear that bends and returns to its original shape

www.flexon.com

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1/23/17 11:42 AM

Š2017 Flexon is manufactured and distributed exclusively by Marchon Eyewear, Inc. Style: Flexon Nathaniel www.flexon.com. Controlled test. Do not try at home. Any attempt to duplicate will void all express or implied warranties relating to the frame and lenses.

Marchon Eyewear disclaims any responsibility for injury or damage. Although Flexon frames are durable, they are not indestructible. Flexon frames should not be twisted more than 90° and Flexon temples should not be twisted more than once around the finger.

NOTEWORT HY FOSTER GRANT INTERNATIONAL

ARGUS VISION VISTA EYEWEAR

CLEARVISION OPTICAL

LOOK AND SHOOT H A N D S - F R E E P H O T O G R A P H Y W I T H P O G O C A M E N S U R E S T H AT W E A R E R S W I L L N E V E R M I S S T H AT S P E C I A L M O M E N T. Unveiled last month at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, PogoCam entered the wearable technology market as the “smallest attachable eyewear camera.” Developed by PogoTec, PogoCam uses PogoTrack, a magnetic “track” that attaches the camera to the eyewear and is currently available on select styles of Rx, plano and sunglasses from Argus Vision, ClearVision Optical, Vista Eyewear and FGX International.

PogoCam was designed for the mass market, with PogoTec exploring other uses for PogoTrack: from UV meters and pedometers to alertness monitors that prevent drivers from falling asleep.

“We wanted something that works for 15

year olds to 70 year olds, and we also wanted the camera to be incredibly simple,” said Ron Blum, founder, president and CEO of PogoTec. “Our research said that there was a market out there, and the question was: ‘How can we do it in a user-friendly way that allows eyewear to look like eyewear and not be embarrassed to wear it out socially?’”

The result is a camera that weighs less than two dimes and measures 10.9 x 12.5 x 42.8 mm.

While attached to eyewear, PogoCam allows users to “look and shoot” up to 100 photographs or two minutes of continuous HD video with audio (or 12 10-second clips). PogoCam’s mobile

app provides auto-centering, auto-alignment and image rotation and transmits images directly to a smartphone using Bluetooth. Every PogoCam includes a Smart Case for storage and a charger that is small enough to fit in a pocket.

PogoTec will be exhibiting PogoCam at this year’s International Vision Expo East in New York City. PogoCam and branded non-Rx sunglasses with PogoTrack will be available this year at major retail chains, optical retailers and eyecare offices as well as bundled for sale at PogoCam. com and Amazon.com. Initial customers who purchase PogoCam via the e-commerce site will receive a pair of sunglasses with PogoTrack.

POGOTEC, 540.904.5156, POGOTEC.COM, INFO@POGOTEC.COM 22 Februry 2017

Feb Noteworthy.indd 22

VisionCareProducts.com VCPN

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ONE-TO-ONE “THE PEOPLE WHO KNOW US, LOVE US. WE JUST WANT TO EXPAND THE PEOPLE WHO KNOW US.”

-Dan Bliss

marketing company. The

are commissioned reps, so if

strong. I believe they’re the back-

change for Silver Dollar

they’re not making money with

bone of our industry.

came in 1993 when we

us, or they don’t feel we’re taking

Online buying by the consumer

Mike Hundert (l) Massimo De Rigo (r).

[made the decision] to get

care of them or their customers,

is a problem, and I think it’s only

into direct sales, [and

they’re going to move. We take

going to get [worse]. But [they

Dan Bliss, the president of SD Eyes,

today], 90% of our product is also

care of our employees here. They

are] missing the professionalism

formerly known as Silver Dollar Opti-

through direct sales.

like working with us, and it comes

that the eyecare professional can

across in many ways.

provide you: the fitting, the edu-

cal, is a product of working his way up

cation of how to take care of the

through the ranks. Bliss began his

SILVER: What does the company

career at the age of 23 for then-own-

name change from Silver Dollar

SILVER: In what ways is SD Eyes a

er Ron Russ in sales, becoming the

to SD Eyes represent?

traditional company?

BLISS: We went through the

BLISS: We have a 112-page cata-

rebranding process to better

log that we print every year. I can’t

reflect the identity of who we are.

tell you how many opticians tell

BLISS: We have a wonderful blue-

Our new revamped website is

us, ‘Please, guys, don’t ever stop

print [based on] customer service.

sdeyewear.com. Silver Dollar did

printing this catalog.’ They love

We have a two-year warranty on

a wonderful job, but now we have

having it at the dispensing table.

our products. But if somebody

SILVER: Why do you think SD

national sales manager and eventually vice president of sales. He and his wife, Nancy, bought the company in 2008. As Silver Dollar Optical evolved, it became apparent that a rebranding was necessary. Last month, the house-brand-only company with a penchant for good, old-fashioned customer service officially became SD Eyes. With nine distinct collections that cater to a wide patient demographic, SD Eyes is ready to meet and surpass the needs of eyecare professionals across the country.

MICHELE SILVER: What is the

frames and the lenses

Eyes has been successful?

returns something that is two

a name to go with who we feel we are now. From a product point of

SILVER: How do you react to the

years and two months over the

view, there has been a huge change

changing needs of the market?

date, guess what? They get credit for it. There’s enough situations

and evolution over time. Today, of course, we are marketing to every

BLISS: From a product point of

out there where opticians or ECPs

demographic.

view, we always have our head on

are having ‘the big boys’ put lim-

a swivel. We’re always looking

itations on them.

SILVER: What are the company’s

around to see what we want to do.

[We offer] very well-crafted,

strengths in terms of staff longevi-

We’re constantly evolving our

sellable, cost-conscious lines. We

ty and customer service?

own collections to address the

want to continue with growth and

needs of our customers.

product styles, naturally. We hon-

history of the company?

estly feel that our service will keep

BLISS: The average employee has DAN BLISS: The company was

worked with us for 18 years. My

SILVER: What do you think is

us in any office that gives us a shot.

first started in 1982. I started in

initial hire here was in 1983, and

most challenging about the eye-

Once you try us, it’s very hard to

1983 in sales, and my wife Nancy

he’s still working for us 23 years

wear industry right now?

find a reason to give up on us. The

started in 1989 in shipping and

later. About 50% of our outside

receiving. From a product point

sales reps have been with us a

BLISS: I think it’s protecting our

just want to expand the people

of view, originally we were a tele-

minimum of 10 years. These guys

ECPs and helping them stay

who know us.

VCPN VisionCareProducts.com

One-To-One.indd 23

people who know us, love us. We

February 2017 23

1/23/17 4:18 PM

We’ve taken all we’ve learned making legendary sunglasses and put that into a new line of expertly crafted frames. Introducing Costa Optical.

Because not every moment of our lives takes place under the sun.

Fo r n e w a c c o u n t i n q u i r i e s o r t o o r d e r C o s t a O p t i c a l f r a m e s , c a l l 1- 8 0 0 - 4 4 7 -3 7 0 0 .

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Eyewe ar & Fa s h i o n

A Glimpse of Italy

With Mido taking place in Milan, VCPN highlights “Made In Italy” with trendsetting eyewear, Italian brands for the U.S. and American brands made in Italy. By Isabella Morpurgo

Classique Eyewear’s GIOS Italia collection embodies the spirit of Italy, encapsulating authentic Italian craftsmanship, elegant styling and fashion chic.

•

An intriguing blend of mystery, intrigue and gentleness. These have all inspired Italian eyewear and sunglass designers for 2017.

The new year brought models that seem to be borne by dream-like visions. The study of materials has allowed games of transparencies in beige, very light pink and nude, both in frames and lenses. Artistic inspiration and the study of the architectural elements have led to new futuristic, unusual shapes. Technology and new materials have allowed them to also be innovative and very light.

The use of lace combines memories of sweet and timid damsels with sexier and actual personalities. At the same time, oversize models continue to be a must in sunglasses. In many cases they have become real statement sunglasses, with a definite and impressive shape that covers most of the face as a mask, sometimes now enriched with jewel decorations, crystals and colored stones.

The vintage trend does not seem to fade, and tortoise remains stylish and suitable for any occasion. Also, the return to the pride of the Italian manufacturing tradition and design has led many companies to reinterpret the successful models of the ‘70s and ‘80s, so round or aviator models are complemented by new generation colored lenses, and cat eye styles continue to give an elongated and very feminine look. The eyewear industry reflects what we have seen in recent fashion shows in Milan where the energetic raspberry color, between deep red and fuchsia, played the main role, but we also saw color blocking, even daring color combinations.

For those who want to play it safe, black and white never fade, and a sophisticated minimalism is coming with shapes and volumes obtained, revisiting the ‘80s in a progressive manner. Isabella Morpurgo is publisher of Italian eyewear magazine Vedere.

•

•

•

•

•

•

VCPN VisionCareProducts.com

Mido Report.indd 25

February 2017 25

1/24/17 11:24 AM

Eyewe ar & Fa sh ion

1. Luxottica Dolce & Gabbana Mambo Masterpiece DG 2171B The profiles of these lenses are encircled by a frontal frame adorned with small gold-tone pearls and 32 precious and multicolored diamond-cut Swarovski crystals handcrafted on gold bezels. The sinuous temples, featuring acetate tips, are made from metal. They are available in shiny gold with multicolored Swarovski crystals, gradient black lenses and in shiny pink gold with transparent crystals and gradient pink lenses.

2. Barberini Eyewear Voyager Special Edition BR160809 With new shades inspired by the reflections of the sky, a special edition Voyager model is the protagonist of the new collection. Created as always in Platinum Glass and featuring rare earth elements and UV400 protection, it includes a leather cord.

1

Luxottica 800.422.2020 Luxottica.com

2

Barberini Eyewear BarberiniEyewear.it Info@BarberiniEyewear.it

3

Pugnale & Nyleve 39.0432.811987 PugnaleNyleve.com Info@PuglnaleNyleve.com

3. Pugnale & Nyleve, Priscilla From the Golden Rain collection, this model is made of steel coated with 16 karat rose gold with 3D drops, embroidery fabric on the front and leather ends.

4. De Rigo REM John Varvatos Cooper V517 Artisan Collection With modern lines rooted in vintage details reminiscent of Detroit’s “Golden Era,” this sun style draws inspiration from old-world artisanship, paying homage to the premium styling of classic muscle cars and steel-enforced art-deco architecture that once made the city an icon of America’s modernity. The rounded silhouette of lightweight stainless steel in contrasting colors makes a statement with an avant-garde nosebridge.

5. Area98 La Matta LM3195 Combining animal patterns with feminine shapes, Area98’s new La Matta collection is designed for the woman who likes to stand out from the crowd. Complemented by the use of exclusive acetates, the new collection offers larger and more rounded forms with a more pronounced thickness at the top of the frames that are thinner and lighter at the bottom. The new La Matta styles will be introduced in Italy.

4

De Rigo REM 800.423.3023 • DeRigo.US CustomerService@REMEyewear.com

5

Area98 USA/Poets Eyewear LLC 305.763.8981 PoetsEyewear.com Info@PoetsEyewear.com

6. Marchon Ferragamo SF863S A glamorous squared oversize shape, this style is distinguished by fashion

26 February 2017 Mido Report.indd 26

VisionCareProducts.com VCPN

1/23/17 2:42 PM

forward design and sophisticated construction. Designers’ connection to nature is represented by this particular color, one in line with the overall apparel and accessory categories of the Italian Fashion House.

The injected front is embellished by a metal detail applied on the cut-out lenses. A Gancino pin is applied on both temple tips, a subtle but recognizable element that gives the frame an intricate touch.

6

Marchon Eyewear 800.645.1300 • Marchon.com CS@Marchon.com

7. Marcolin Moncler Lunettes ML0002 Inspired by the down jacket synonymous with the Moncler brand and classic ‘70s ski goggle shapes, the acetate ML0001 and the more feminine ML0002 models feature an embossed metal logo on the frame front and details on the temples that recall the “boudin” manufacturing that distinguishes the jacket. Moncler was founded in France in 1952 and is currently headquartered in Italy.

7

Marcolin USA 800.345.8482 • Marcolin.com InfoUSA@Marcolin.com

8

Blackfin Blackfin.eu (distributed in the U.S.

by Villa Eyewear • VillaEyewear.com • VillaEyewear@AOL.com)

9

Safilo USA 800.631.1188 Safilo.com Info@Safilo.com

10

VANNI (distributed in the U.S.

by Design Gallery 800.876.3937) VanniOcchiali.com Info@VanniOcchiali.com

VCPN VisionCareProducts.com

Mido Report.indd 27

8. Blackfin Doran BF781 The feather-weight sinuous nature of titanium is the hallmark of the new spring/summer 2017 Blackfin eyewear collection. BF781 Doran for women has clear-cut square lines and an ample front emphasized by the three-dimensional finish of the top rim. All Blackfin eyewear is manufactured according to the company’s “neomadeinitaly” concept, an all-Italian production model that cares not only for the product but for the people who produce it.

9. Safilo FENDI Waves FF0240/S These squared sunglasses are available in transparent shades with solid-color stripes, available in azure with purple/white stripes and blue shaded lenses, green with coral/blue stripes and blue/gray shaded lenses, pink with azure/green stripes and green shaded lenses, yellow with pink/gray stripes and gray shaded lenses.

10. Vanni Raster V1285 The weave of the Raster eyewear collection conjures up the tight graphic lattice that contains the infinitesimal information of a pixelated digital image. Raster reproduces a compact, high resolution, iridescent and consequently changing checkerboard, creating the optical illusion of a cubic geometric pattern. Models V1285 feature a combination of Raster material with one transparent or solid color, tone-on-tone or in two-color contrast versions.

February 2017 27

1/23/17 2:42 PM

Eyewe ar & Fa sh ion

COME TOGETHER

1

3 2

The eyewear team within the Council of Fashion Designers of America places a premium on empowering the industry. Find out what else makes these optical artists such assets to the fashion world at large.

By Kaitlyn Robertson

Kuwahara Eyewear; and Christian Roth of

we are creative enough and have a successful

Founded in 1962, the Council of Fashion De-

Christian Roth Eyewear. Roth currently serves

business., Salaun Says.”

signers of America (CFDA) boasts a member-

as the committee’s spokesperson.

ship of more than 500 of the industry’s foremost

COMPETITION AND COLLABS

womenswear, menswear, accessory and jewelry

EYEWEAR IS FASHION, TOO!

While each member of the edCFDA is a com-

designers. Fast forward to 2014, when four eye-

“In the entire landscape of fashion, eyewear is

petitor of the others, many carry each other’s

wear designers from within the CFDA—Blake

still a bit of a stepchild,” explained Kuwahara.

product in their boutiques. Additionally, they

Kuwahara, Gai Gherardi, Selima Salaun and

The edCFDA aims to pool its collective resourc-

engage in special collaborations such as the

Christian Roth—joined forces to create a sub-

es in order to give the eyewear industry more

Blake Kuwahara x l.a. Eyeworks line for spring/

committee called the Eyewear Designers of the

heft and secure its equally prominent place with-

summer ’17. For a future season, Morgenthal

CFDA (edCFDA). This working group aims

in the fashion world. Steven Kolb, president and

Frederics plans to team up with Rosie Assoulin.

to inspire, empower and promote the eyewear

CEO of the CFDA, stated, “The formation of the

“Raising the visibility of eyewear as a category

industry as a whole, according to the group’s

eyewear designers of the CFDA gives credit to

is a mutual benefit,” Kuwahara said. What helps

mission statement.

the important role that these designers play not

one of us, helps all of us.” Similarly, Baum likens

only in the accessories space, but in the Ameri-

the collaborations to musical artists: when one

can fashion industry at large.”

artist appears on another’s album, the fan bases

Currently, the edCFDA comprises Barbara McReynolds and Gai Gherardi of l.a. Eyeworks;

for each are exposed to the material.

Shane Baum of Leisure Society; Robert Marc of

Salaun credits the power of group network-

Robert Marc New York; Selima Salaun of Seli-

ing as one of the benefits of the edCFDA, as

The edCFDA offers the opportunity for de-

ma Optique; Daniel Silberman and Justin Sal-

membership comes with resources and con-

signers to share information and insights with

guero of Illesteva; Garrett Leight; Larry Leight;

nections within the fashion world. Addtional-

one another, according to Marc and Press,

Grant Krajecki and Natalie Levy of Grey Ant;

ly, Salaun cites being “certified” by the CFDA

sparking greater creativity. “All members have

Jeff Press of Morgenthal Frederics; Patty Perrei-

as a major plus: “The CFDA stamp is crucial

their own identity, history and design philos-

ra of Barton Perreira; Blake Kuwahara of Blake

for the boutiques…to be part of it means that

ophy—we complement each other and have a

28 February 2017

CFDA.indd 28

VisionCareProducts.com VCPN

1/23/17 2:58 PM

10 4

7

8 11

5

12

6

9 great respect for each other. Yes, we are com-

FUTURE GOALS

designers have always been part of it,” Salaun

petitors, but we are also a family.”

As the edCFDA continues to grow, so do its

expressed. “In eyewear, the emphasis was on

goals. One of the educational objectives for the

function and not on creativity; the goal is to

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

committee is to establish programs for aspir-

change that.” Baum agreed with this senti-

The edCFDA spearheads many eyewear events,

ing designers since there are not currently any

ment: “We are making the world more aware

including panel discussions at Vision Expo and

schools dedicated to the craft.

of their contribution to this oft-overlooked

through The Vision Council, that take place

As far as the industry as a whole, the edCF-

throughout the year. In November, the com-

DA members hope that eyewear will continue

mittee finished its second Accessories Show-

to grow into a category all its own. “For too

Kaitlyn Robertson has been writing for more

case in conjunction with the 82 jewelry design-

long, [eyewear] was not recognized in the

than a decade with eight years spent covering

ers of the CFDA.

fashion world when shoe, bag and jewelry

the optical industry.

faction of fashion.”

1. Leisure Society, Saville 2. CFDA designers (left to right) Christian Roth, Selima Salaun, Shane Baum, Gai Gherardi, Blake Kuwahara and Robert Marc 3. Christian Roth, RocknRoth 4. Christian Roth, Jackie 5. Selima Optique X Dusan, Hilde 6. Blake Kuwahara and l.a. eyeworks, Two-Noons and Two-Rays 7. Leisure Society, Akoya 8. Blake Kuwahara and l.a. eyeworks, Two-Noons and Two-Rays 9. Robert Marc, RM 865 10. Selima Optique, David 11. Christian Roth, Ellsworth 12. Robert Marc, sunwear in Broadway Red, Empire Blue and Lexington Green VCPN VisionCareProducts.com

CFDA.indd 29

February 2017 29

1/23/17 2:58 PM

Eyewe ar &Fash ion C los eup

BEAUMONT

HANCOCK AUGUSTA

WARWICK

VERY VINTAGE

Rocking neoclassical looks since 2009, the already extensive Seraphin by Ogi Eyewear expands its sunwear offerings.

By Jill J Luebbert, CPOT, ABOC

premium acetate with an angular

shape modernized with ageless

enough color to captivate while

With more than 100 meticulous-

cat-eye shape, and the studded

colors and two-tone options and

maintaining lightweight comfort.

ly handcrafted styles in trendset-

sweeping brow gives a distinct

a classic keyhole bridge. A silver

The Seraphin neoclassic look

ting colors and inspired shapes,

appearance. Regenerating a look

hinge accent is an inspiration in

is exemplified in Penrose. Hand-

Seraphin by Ogi Eyewear appeals

from the past is the Beaumont

making Warwick a modern-day

crafted from horn-inspired ace-

to patients seeking a cultured

Sun with a classic P3 shape and

classic; Ogi uses steel core temples

tate, this full-rimmed frame offers

and contemporary aesthetic with

a keyhole bridge. This unisex op-

to enhance durability.

a distinguished swooping brow.

enough variety that each wearer

tion features a five-barrel hinge

Handcrafted from high-strength

Temples of titanium modernize

will be able to find their own in-

to solidify the structural integrity

titanium, Draper is very appeal-

the look and sustain the comfort

spired look. The special attention

of this frame. The Hancock Sun

ing with its use of fresh colors.

and resilience of this model.

to cut, shaping and polishing is a

is suited for the most sophisticat-

The rectangular shape is accented

breath of fresh air.

ed gentleman, while the dual-pin

with a keyhole bridge and filigree

Jill J Luebbert, CPOT, ABOC, is

detailing and custom arrowhead

adornment on the hinges and

a certified paraoptometric tech-

hinge have a refined retro appeal.

temples. The cat-eye Belmont em-

nician, a certified optician and

For 2017, Seraphin will offer greater choices in fashion-right UV protection. The Augusta Sun

Seraphin’s ophthalmic selec-

ploys a combo of premium acetate

a location manager in a practice

is an impressive artistic look in

tion includes Warwick, a timeless

and titanium to give this selection

in northeast Nebraska.

Ogi Eyewear • 888.560.1060 • OgiEyewear.com • CSR@OgiFrames.com 30 Feruary 2017

Ogi_Seraphin_Closeup.indd 30

VisionCareProducts.com VCPN

1/23/17 4:20 PM

Introducing

STYLE: JULES MATTE DARK DEMI

®

Untitled-2 1

1-212-378-7900

allure-eyewear.com 1/24/17 11:54 AM

Eyewe ar & Fa sh ion

STAYINGNEUTRAL

Color takes a backseat to these striking options with plenty of fashion attitude in milky white and gray.

Zac Posen Luciana from Kenmark shows off a fashion-forward cat-eye style with connecting acetate brow.

Nautica N6222S from Marchon In matte crystal with silver mirrored lenses, this minimalist model highlights sleek temples, and detailed logo treatments blend the materials together.

Past and present come together in POLICE VPL283 from De Rigo REM for this retro-futuristic look in a unisex model. The modified-round profile “rests” on the metal core and is set apart by the clever play of colors and transparencies.

KLiiK denmark K-581

by WestGroupe features thin stainless steel temples with a decorative laser-engraved pattern that give a lightness to the design and are reminiscent of ’90s styling.

The use of a circle evokes a design by the digital age, in Emporio Armani EA2044 from Luxottica, while the oversized lenses, with a satin outer profile and mirrored interior, marry for an unusual visual effect.

WHERE TO FIND IT: De Rigo REM 800.423.3023 • DeRigo.US • CustomerService@REMEyewear.com // Kenmark Optical 800.627.2898 • KenmarkOptical.com // Luxottica 800.422.2020 • Luxottica.com // Marchon Eyewear 800.645.1300 • Marchon.com • CS@Marchon.com // WestGroupe 855.455.0042 • WestGroupe.com • Info@WestGroupe.com 32 February 2017

Frame Front.indd 42

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Untitled-1 1

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Eyewe ar &Fash ion Inter view

THE IRRESISTIBLE CHARM OF BRENDEL BY TALBOT RUNHOF When electrical engineer Johnny

and three sun models inspired by

MICHELE SILVER: Explain the DNA

SILVER: How were you able to trans-

Talbot met business/textile/style

the designers’ motto, “Never go

of the Brendel by Talbot Runhof

late the design elements of the

guru Adrian Runoff, it was fash-

too far; just always enough!” and

brand.

ready-to-wear line into eyewear?

ion magic. The duo created Tal-

with an emphasis on intricate pat-

bot Runoff, a brand that balances

terns, rich translucent hues and

JOHNNY TALBOT & ADRIAN RUNHOF:

TALBOT & RUNOFF: Our last col-

playfulness with extreme feminin-

a signature purple stripe design.

A balancing act of function ver-

lection was filled with a variety

ity and discreet design details.

Style 902212 is a bow-tie shape

sus fashion.

of overlapping of textures, colors

The ready-to-wear collection

featuring Italian crystal acetate. A

can be found in 36 stores in the

dramatic and bold cat-eye shape

SILVER: What are your professional

parency, which proved to be the

U.S. and 59 stores globally. Their

for sun style 906102 offers a soft

backgrounds and the unique qual-

perfect set of tools for developing

fashion is worn by celebrities such

line metal brow that appears as

ities you bring to your designs?

our eyewear.

as Paula Patton, Kristen Bell, Lisa

a shadow through the custom

Edelstein and some of the Kar-

translucent plastic material and

TALBOT & RUNOFF: We have very

SILVER: Who is the core customer

dashian women. When it comes

continues through into a gently

unusual curricula vitae, business

of the eyewear collection?

to eyewear, the logo-free Bren-

swooped temple. The look is fin-

management and engineering re-

del by Talbot Runhof collection

ished off with a flash lens coating.

spectively, that have given us our

TALBOT & RUNOFF: As with the Tal-

from Tura, Inc., demonstrates re-

VCPN had the opportunity

refreshing approach to fashion.

bot Runhof main collection, the

strained curves and patterns that

to interview the designers about

Everything we’ve learned over

eyewear collection is for a woman

segue into a ladylike color scheme.

their foray into eyewear and why

the past 30 years, we’ve learned

who isn’t keen on wearing what

For 2017, the carefully curated

their brand is so unique in today’s

through our close personal rela-

everyone else is wearing. The mar-

fashion landscape.

tionships with our customers.

ket is so completely oversaturated

collection offers three ophthalmics 34 February 2017

Brendel.indd 32

and varying degrees of trans-

VisionCareProducts.com VCPN

1/23/17 2:40 PM

2212

2212

6100

2213

6104

3070

2214

2213

6102

Tura, Inc. 800.242.8872 Tura.com Orders@Tura.com with product from the usual sus-

TALBOT & RUNOFF: Eyewear, like a

TALBOT & RUNOFF: We are not

pects, it is refreshing to know that

pair of shoes or a handbag, can

fond of logos; you’d never see a

there are still enough people who

make or break an outfit. It is won-

Talbot Runhof logo on one of our

want to set themselves apart from

derful to be involved in the pro-

garments. This is a rather unusual

the rest of the crowd.

cess of creating the outfit literally

attribute for an eyewear collection,

from head to toe.

but it somehow sets us apart and

a little about our history, who we

highlights the newness of our de-

dress, where we manufacture, our

sign and the quality of the product.

passion for fabrics and our philos-

SILVER: Describe the new styles and inspiration for the spring/

SILVER: What have been the chal-

summer 2017 collection.

lenges introducing this fash-

TALBOT & RUNOFF: It’s statement

ophy in life and in design. Tell your

ion-forward brand into the Amer-

SILVER: What advice do you have

ican market?

for helping eyecare professionals sell this brand to their patients?

eyewear in new, unusual shapes;

Adrian Runhof and Johnny Talbot

customer a story.

SILVER: What are the three “musthave” fashion items for a woman’s

exciting color combinations and

TALBOT & RUNOFF: The eyewear

[it] toys with textures. [The frames

market is, of course, extremely

TALBOT & RUNOFF: We think it is

are] a game of transparent, trans-

competitive, and as you can imag-

very important to be able to tell the

lucent, opaque. Yet at the same

ine, there are very specific chal-

customer a story. We share with our

TALBOT & RUNOFF: Our light blue

time, the collection is completely

lenges that face a smaller brand.

customers all kinds of information

oxford men’s shirt with oversized

about fabrics, weaving techniques,

cuffs and gold buttons, any one of

SILVER: What has surprised you

manufacturing and embroideries.

our “it’s a jungle out there” monkey

SILVER: What did you enjoy the

both the most about the Ameri-

People want to feel like they are

pieces and a pair of Brendel by

most about producing eyewear?

can eyewear market?

buying something special, learn

Talbot Runhof glasses, of course.

understandable and wearable.

VCPN VisionCareProducts.com

Brendel.indd 35

spring/summer 2017 wardrobe?

February 2017 35

1/23/17 2:40 PM

STICKING

TOGETHER

What happens when a rimless system employs a new adhesive-centric assembly? Seemless by Inspecs USA. By Michele Silver Vance Wright, president of Inspecs

wider, oval pin rather than the typ-

in three categories of sporty (four

loose that can reduce comfort or

USA, freely admits that rimless

ical method that uses two round

styles), classics (three styles) and

affect visual performance. Since

“isn’t a massive part of any busi-

holes. The pin has horizontal and

fashion designs (five styles) for

there are no posts of compression

ness,” but he’s quick to point out

vertical grooves on its surface to

a total of 35 lens shapes that can

fittings protruding from the lens,

that eyecare professionals (ECPs)

form a key, and a specially devel-

be mixed and matched; each of

cleaning is a cinch. There is also a

are always looking for better tech-

oped adhesive that fuses to the

the 12 styles has three colors. The

debonding agent that allows lenses

nology in this category. Namely,

lens material. Since the adhesive

collection is carried both through

to be removed, so the frame can be

more efficient construction, in-

acts like a buffer between the lens

Inspecs USA and Kasperek USA

fully reglazed for a new Rx.

creased patient satisfaction with

and pin, it eliminates the stress

Optical for existing customers who

“The manufacturing process

fewer trips back for adjustments

in the lens that’s often created by

wish to continue to make their pur-

of this eyewear is really unique,”

and more repeat sales.

pressure assemblies. The whole

chases through the distributor.

Wright said. “The chemical pro-

So when Wright found Seem-

process is fast, doesn’t require a

As for lens materials, most plas-

cess bonds the pin so tightly, the

less bonded rimless technology—

more skilled staff and there are no

tics, including Trivex, PNX, poly-

frames won’t loosen over time. It

which had been test marketed

parts for the optician to lose. And

carbonate, 1.61, 1.67, 1.70 and 1.74

reduces remakes, saves the ECPs’

since 2003—he knew there was a

that is a win-win-win situation.

index, will fit the bill. According to

time and increases patient satis-

need in the U.S. market. Inspecs’

Launching for spring/summer

Wright, patients will appreciate the

faction.” Now, that’s great technol-

patented Seemless system uses a

’17, the Seemless collection comes

fact that there are no parts to come

ogy making a difference at work.

Inspecs USA, 727.771.7710 InspecsUSA.com Sales@InspecsUSA.com 14 OCTOBER 36 February2016 2017

Inspecs Panorama.indd 36

VisionCareProducts.com visioncareproducts.com VCPN

1/23/17 2:56 PM

Panorama

SMS 503

SMS T03

SMS 505

SMS T02

SMS 507

SMS 508

VCPN VisionCareProducts.com visioncareproducts.com

Inspecs Panorama.indd 37

February OCTOBER 2017 201637 14

1/23/17 2:56 PM

Model worn is NM Ellery

EYEWEAR

Untitled-1 1

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E X T R E M E

C L O S E U P

NICOLE’S GOT YOU COVERED Inspired by the eponymous clothing label, the three Nicole Miller collections from L’Amy America has multi-generational appeal.

DETAILS

features contemporary styles that

palette come in metals, acetates and

A discreet logo reflects a trend

What started with one Nicole Miller

come in enhanced sizes for women

a combination of both.

toward more subtle styling.

collection for women has expanded to

who need a larger frame.

BACK STORY

WOW FACTOR

a full range of 50 ophthalmic and sun

Styles run along themes such as

styles for wearers from kids and

Celtic, nstar (a design that plays on

Nicole Miller’s signature bold prints

L’Amy offers wall decals, logo blocks,

tweens through the elegant yet edgy,

“Nicole”) and material effects, in

and patterns as well as her sequined

single- and four-piece displays and

sexy but subtle modern woman,

which frame designs mimic the

looks, often inspired by Miller’s

board clips for flexible merchandis-

thoughtfully designed by the team at

effect of material through shine or

travels, translate to the eyewear

ing options that work for both large

L’Amy America. Niki Nicole Miller

shimmer or patterns and colors.

collections. Collections also incor-

and small practices. Nicole Miller

offers “tween girls” fun designs while

Intricate details include angled cut-

porate a NYC-centric design philos-

eyewear offers a plethora of styles

the subtly sparkly Jeweled collection

outs inspired by Nicole Miller shoes

ophy and urban lifestyle with styles

for girls and women seeking modern,

is a direct reflection of embellished

and handbags and an alternating geo-

named after Big Apple streets, such

chic and feminine styles that encap-

dresses for which the designer is

metric pattern set into the temples

as Douglaston, Ellery and Heyward.

sulate the Nicole Miller style.

known. Nicole Miller YourFit, the new-

influenced by ready-to-wear collec-

est collection launched last October,

tions. Modern shapes in a rich color

VCPN VisionCareProducts.com

L'Amy ECU V2.indd 39

L’Amy America, 800.USA.LAMY, LamyAmerica.com February 2017 39

1/23/17 11:56 AM

The New Classic Collection

We’re Back! Bigger and Better!

Pick A Shape, Pick A Color. 81 Combinations J 51-19-145 Gold

M 53-19-145 Black

P 55-19-145 Green

K 52-19-145 Brown

N 56-19-145 Gunmetal

Q 51-19-145 Silver

L 55-19-145 Burgundy

O 52-19-145 Copper

R 54-19-145 Blue

Contact your local Essilor lab for more information about your new Tuscany Mount Eyewear Stainless Steel Classic Collection Kit Box and available frame & lens packages.

$199.

95

Special pricing, one-time only. Kit Box. Purchase from your Essilor lab or directly from Tuscany Eyewear.

12960 West State Road 84. Davie, FL 33325 � 954-835-2155 � 800-293-9588 � �-mail: nyoi@tuscanyeyewear.com � www.tuscanyeyewear.com

Untitled-1 1

12/22/16 10:49 AM

E X T R E M E

C L O S E U P

GETTING MORE WITH RIMLESS Tuscany Mount Eyewear is all about options with a host of lenses and shapes without having to stock a lot of inventory.

DETAILS

blue, black, green, brown, gunmetal

Eyewear in the U.S. and Canada.

Mount Eyewear are able to provide a

With nine new shapes and nine

and burgundy, any of which can be

Tuscany Mount Eyewear’s initial

large assortment of lens shapes,

fresh colors, Tuscany Mount

combined with any shape.

collection included smaller lenses

frames and bridge colors, but only

in A to I shapes. By adding “bigger

need one small display case to show

Eyewear allows eyecare professionals an impressive total of 81 combi-

BACK STORY

and better” sizes J to R in 2017,

the eyewear. Labs stock the chassis

nations for their patients to create

Tuscany Eyewear produces oph-

Tuscany is responding to industry

and lenses, which means practices

their unique look. This three-piece

thalmics, sunglasses and sports

trends that target men and women

can keep inventory to a minimum.

rimless collection comes in round,

goggles for the U.S. Canada, Central

ages 25 to 55.

Tuscany Eyewear offers a complete

square, oval and rectangle frame

and South America and Caribbean

shapes with on-trend larger lens

markets, and is also the exclusive

WOW FACTOR

include poster cards, backlit dis-

sizes and stainless steel temples

distributor of Porsche Design

Optical Practices that carry Tuscany

plays and window cases.

range of P-O-P materials that

and bridges. The nine colors comprise copper, gunmetal, gold, silver, VCPN VisionCareProducts.com

Tuscany ECU V2.indd 41

Tuscany Eyewear, 800.293.9588, TuscanyEyewear.com, BVega@TuscanyEyewear.com.

February 2017 41

1/23/17 11:57 AM

B O N D E D

Toll Free: 844.771.7710 Untitled-1 1

sales@inspecsusa.com

R I M L E S S

E Y E W E A R

inspecsusa.handshake.com 1/23/17 11:41 AM

E X T R E M E

C L O S E U P

TAYLOR

OXLEY

BUSTER

MILA

TOTALLY TRENDSETTING From geek chic college student to brand-obsessed fashionista, Superdry from Inspecs USA has funky styles for every wearer.

DETAILS

and real wood temples in ash, oak,

500 Superdry locations spanning 46

WOW FACTOR

Superdry was launched in 2003 after

and kasood. Many models are char-

countries and a celebrity following

Inspecs USA supports its Superdry

an inspirational trip to Tokyo. The

acterized by the bold use of color

that includes David Beckham,

brand in your practice with cases

brand aims to create “future classic”

including tri-layered and ombre-fade

Bradley Cooper and Matt Damon.

and cloths, countercards, posters,

garments inspired by fusing vintage

gradient acetates, 5-barrel hinges

A fusion of vintage Americana and

logo cubes, branded mini shopping

Americana and high-impact Japanese

and all styles claim the signature

Japanese-inspired graphics with a

bags and countertop stands. A

graphic imagery with a British twist.

Superdry Japanese script logo.

British style, Superdry pulls these

unique, up-and-coming brand with

worlds together through its use of

tons of style, Superdry allows ECPs to

The eyewear collection offers 29 ophthalmic styles in three to four

BACK STORY

natural materials such as woods and

differentiate themselves in the mar-

color per model as well as 25 sun-

In 2004, Julian Dunkerton opened the

leather, tumble-plated stainless

ket by adding color and fashion to

glass options with up to nine hues

first Superdry apparel store in

steel quality fabrics, unique detailing

their boards while maintaining the

per style. Materials comprise hand-

London. Today, there are more than

and hand-drawn graphics.

highest quality standards.

made acetates and distressed stainless steel for a stonewashed effect VCPN VisionCareProducts.com

Inspecs_Superdry ECU.indd 43

I n s p e c s U S A , 7 2 7. 7 7 1 . 7 7 1 0 • i n s p e c s u s a . c o m • s a l e s @ i n s p e c s u s a . c o m February 2017 43

1/23/17 11:57 AM

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Distributed by ClearVision Optical | 800.645-3733 | cvoptical.com | Frame Shown: Fancii

E X T R E M E

C L O S E U P

LAYYERD

LAYYERD

CHIPPA

MILLENNIAL MADD-NESS The largest launch in ClearVision Optical’s history, Steve Madden Eyewear targets a robust fan base that craves fast fashion.

DETAILS

Fancii, a fresh and colorful look

Featuring 51 ophthalmic styles in

accentuated by its brow line. Men

more than 140 colors for men,

will be drawn to Eccentrk, a ret-

women, and kids as well as sun-

ro-inspired round in HDCA and

glasses for men and women, the

Layyerd, named after its custom

Steve

“layers” of color along the endpiece.

Madden

Collection

by

ClearVision Optical (CVO) was

EDJJI

Steve Madden army, love this brand

the items that work best for their

BACK STORY

for its fashionable, bold and trend-

individual retail environments.

Millennials. Distinguishing charac-

Steve Madden is a fashion power-

setting styles that speak to their

Visual merchandising items com-

teristics include custom lamination,

house with a huge Millennial (ages

culturally diverse lifestyles.

prise a variety of countercards,

HDCA (high density compressed

19-34) and Gen-X (35 to 50) follow-

acetate) that’s 33% lighter than

ing. Millennials love eyewear, in

WOW FACTOR

plaques, hanging banner and small

traditional acetate, texture and

fact in 2015, they were dubbed

An assortment of visual merchan-

and large brand IDs. Display items

décor such as glitter and lamination

“Generation-Eye” because they

dising and display merchandising

include a three-piece or six-piece

for women and 3D printing technol-

wear eyeglasses even if they don’t

items are available to help support

easel display, 36-piece top-of-

ogy that incorporates unique colors

need Rx lenses. Steve Madden fans,

the Steve Madden collection in

counter display, wall system, and

for men. Highlights for women

who refer to themselves as the

store. Customers are able to select

two differently sized floor displays.

designed

by

Millennials

for

frame board images and logo

include Edjii, which is named after its “edgy” angular eye shape, and VCPN VisionCareProducts.com

Steve Madden_ECU.indd 45

ClearVision Optical Co. 800.645.3733 • CVOptical.com • CService@CVOptical.com February 2017 45

1/23/17 11:58 AM

Eyewe ar & Fa sh ion NEW

LAUNCH L’AMY AMERICA, ANN TAYLOR

ATR040

READERS This four-style collection of readers each come in +1.50D, +2.00D and +2.50D. The lightweight frames offer handmade acetate temples combined

ATR030

with TR-90 fronts and lenses with blue anti-reflective coating.

Styles incorporate rivet details, matte finishes and translucent temples that complement rectangular and

ATR020

round shapes in rich hues.

800.USA.LAMY, LamyAmerica.com.

LAUNCH WOODONE, SC405 For a company based in Italy’s Dolomite mountains, it’s fitting it would launch a line of ski goggles. WooDone’s frameless SC405, which is compatible with all hard helmets, includes two interchangeable lenses with a horizontal cut-out on the upper lens for greater ventilation.

Mirrored, anti-fog lenses come in two colors, Fumo Arcobaleno (rainbow smoke) and Fumo Grigio (gray smoke). Soft foam padding and an adjustable strap ensure a snug fit. WooDone also plans to debut a wood-constructed goggle by the end of the year. 39.0472.613.612, WooDone.it/en.

46 February 2017

Eyewear&Fashion NEW_Vb.indd 46

VisionCareProducts.com VCPN

1/23/17 2:49 PM

LAUNCH SAFILO GROUP, ELIE SAAB Elie Saab has launched its first eyewear collection of five sunglass styles, each of which come in three models. Reflecting the

Chaine ES 003/S

refined craftsmanship and feminine, modern look from this haute couture brand, styles range in shapes from

Couronne ES 002/S

classic square and round to aviator. Swarovski crystals and gold-plate adorn frames in soft tones of gold and palladium. ZEISS lenses offer UV protection and scratch resistance. 800.631.1188,

Diamant ES 005/S

Safilo.com.

VCPN VisionCareProducts.com

Eyewear&Fashion NEW_Vb.indd 47

February 2017 47

1/23/17 2:49 PM

NEUBAU EYEWEAR, ZYLOWARE EYEWEAR,

T607 Mia 4040

WESTGROUPE,

VIA SPIGA, VS Celeste 500

Three new suns and oph-

KLiiK DENMARK, K-571

Two full-rimmed acetate,

CHARMANT GROUP,

thalmics evoke images of

Three styles—one women’s;

rectangular frames feature

LINE ART, DOLCE, XL2097

Hollywood icons. Dou-

two men’s—were created

spring hinges and a gun-

Four new Duo styles and two

ble-bridge frames recall

for smaller face sizes. Cat

metal logo inside the temple

first-time jewelry models

Tom Cruise in Top Gun while

eye, square and rectangle

tip. Brigida is available in

in the Dolce collection

the Mia cat eye conjures up

ALTERNATIVE & PLAN “B”

frame shapes include details

four color choices, includ-

constructed of Excellence

Audrey Hepburn. Lightweight

EYEWEAR, GLACÉE, GL6827-3

such as rivets, color-blocking

ing three horn finishes in

Titan are fresh for this

polymer combines with hy-

Textural details of acid and

and laser-engraved patterns.

brown, teal and purple.

women’s collection. Twisted

poallergenic stainless steel

laser etching stand out in

Antique patina finishes, gra-

Celeste comes in black or

double-filament temples

for durability and comfort.

this women’s line. Styles

dient hues and two-tone ep-

burgundy. Both styles can

and brilliant-cut Swarovski

800.223.0180,

incorporate animal prints,

oxy with glitter round out the

accommodate progressives.

crystals adorn Dolce frames,

Neubau-Eyewear.com.

fabric and wood with round-

color choices. 855.455.0042,

800.765.3700,

while Duo styles feature

er frame shapes in bold

WestGroupe.com.

Zyloware.com.

a contemporary milling

color combinations of teal/

frame with soft temples

purple, emerald green/dark

that adapt to head shape.

blue and blue/burgundy.

800.645.2121,

888.399.7742,

Charmant.com/US.

AlternativeEyes.com.

48 February 2017

Eyewear&Fashion NEW_Vb.indd 48

VisionCareProducts.com VCPN

1/23/17 2:50 PM

Follow Eyewear Designs Ltd. and Elizabeth Arden on Facebook and Twitter to learn more!

Visit us at MIDO in Milan Pav.2 D34

www.eyeweardesigns.com 800.645.6596 EA 1173

EA_1173_FEB_17_v1.indd Untitled-2 1 1

1/24/2017 1/24/17 11:34:27 11:43 AM AM

SPY, COLE SEELY

MONDOTTICA USA, LUXOTTICA,

SIGNATURE OMEN MX

Two women’s ophthalmics

CLEARVISION OPTICAL,

RAY-BAN, THE GENERAL

A goggle designed by

reflect a “masculine edge”

OP EYEWEAR, MYRTLE BEACH

First introduced in 1987

PEPE JEANS, PJ 3262

Motocross star Cole Seeley

with rubber finishing and

Colorful and youthful, four

in tribute to Gen. Douglas

HILCO, LEADER PIT VIPER

metal logo plaques inspired

new styles for men and

MacArthur, The General

This Rx sunglass style

off the track. Matte mint

by the denim line. The

reflects his personal style

women stay true to this

aviator has been updated

includes a carrier system

accents on a black/graphite

square PJ 3262 comes in

beach-inspired brand.

as both a sun in eight colors

that makes for simple

base include a signature

vitamin yellow, aqua blue

Modified rectangle and

and ophthalmic in four.

glazing. The Pit Viper has an

“CS/14” logo incorporated on

and hot pink, while the more

square shapes come in

Some of the hues include

8-base wrap protection and

the strap. Features include

classic PJ 3261 features

metal/acetate combos with

military green, cool metallic,

6-base removable adapter

the SPY Happy Lens, anti-fog

denim inlays in the temples.

multicolored patterns. Colors

copper flash gradient and

with soft adjustable temples

RISE ventilation system and 100% UV protection.

866.666.3662,

include navy, purple and

classic black. 800.422.2020,

in a semi-rimless frame.

MondotticaUSA.com.

pewter as well as coffee,

Luxottica.com.

Available colors are black/

800.779.3937,

plum and brown laminate.

lime green, white/neon blue,

SpyOptic.com.

800.645.3733,

navy/silver and gunmetal/

CVOptical.com.

black. TK. 800.955.6544, Hilco.com.

50 February 2017

Eyewear&Fashion NEW_Pg 50.indd 50

VisionCareProducts.com VCPN

1/24/17 11:05 AM

•com

57-0528-TAYE-21-Partners-2020-01.indd Untitled-1 1 1

1/11/17 11:52 1/23/17 11:05 AM

“I ALWAYS CALL IT DISNEY WORLD FOR OPTICIANS. IT’S VERY FUN.

IT’S

VERY EXCITING, THERE’S SO MUCH TO SEE.” COLLEEN GALANTI, Optical Manager, Pascarella Eye Care & Contact Lenses, Founder, Opticians on Facebook #OOF #Opticiansonfacebook

MEET THE VISIONARIES in Education + Fashion + Technology VisionExpo.com/Visionaries

NEW YORK THURSDAY, MARCH 30 – SUNDAY, APRIL 2, 2017 BROUGHT TO YOU BY:

Untitled-1 1

PROUD SUPPORTER OF:

PRODUCED BY:

1/23/17 11:51 AM

Vision Care Technology

GOING PRO WITH ANTI-REFLECTIVE GROWING YOUR AR SALES IS SOMETHING THAT CAN BE DONE WITH EDUCATION, DEMONSTRATION AND SIMPLY BY WEARING THE PRODUCT YOURSELF.

By Jaimee Palkovicz

demonstration as well as wearing

Although to some, anti-reflective

the product yourself.

(AR) lenses may be just an added expense, or even viewed as a pos-

EDUCATION

sible gimmick in order to upsell

One of the key ways of growing

a customer, it can actually allow

your AR sales is through educa-

patients better use of their lenses.

tion. Chris Beyer of Rosenblatt

While patients may still see AR as

Eyecare in Raritan, NJ, explained

an added cost that they don’t feel

how education can boost your AR

the need to spend on, how can

sales: “The key to growing your AR

eyecare professionals grow their

sales is to plant the seed with the

AR sales and encourage their

patient as soon as they get into the

­patients to add AR?

exam chair. It is the doc-

Why are some ECPs more ef-

tor’s job to plant the AR

fective than others at fitting their

seed and briefly men-

patients with AR lenses? There

tion the benefits of AR

seem to be a few similarities

and how it can en-

among ECPs with high percent-

hance their vision by

ages of AR sales. These tech-

decreasing the glare

niques i­nclude education and

of

lights

when

Point-of-Purchase materials, such as these from VISION EASE, are a good way to reinforce the AR message for your patients.

A custom-made brochure stand and “bullet” lens display let patients touch and see Shamir’s Glacier Plus UV premium coating.

driving, reducing eyestrain and much more.

This means not only educat-

Once the exam is com-

ing your patients but also mak-

plete and the p ­ atient moves

ing sure that your staff is fully

onto frame selection, I make

informed and well versed on the

sure to reiterate what the

positive ­­effects of AR for your

doctor mentioned about

patients’ lenses and ultimately

AR in the exam room, the benefits of AR coating

VCPN VisionCareProducts.com

Palkovicz_AR.indd 53

That usually gets them.”

their vision.

Point-of-purchase

materials

and how it can enhance

are a great way for your patients

their ­ vision. Lastly, I

to be able to see what AR can

make sure to mention

do for them. Your optical lab

the scratch warranty.

and manufacturer website can February 2017 53

1/24/17 11:28 AM

supply you with all the point-of-

understand things more clearly

purchase materials you need to

when a product is demonstrated

grow your AR sales. Among the

to us rather than just explained

companies o ­ ffering promotional

by words. Showing your patients

materials you can use to improve

demo l­enses, especially compar-

your AR sales are Carl Zeiss

ing a lens with AR to a lens with-

­Vision, Inc., Essilor of America,

out AR, is a great way to show

Inc., Seiko Optical Products of

your patients the power of the

America, Inc., Shamir Insight,

product and exactly how it works.

Inc., Signet Armorlite, Inc. and

Mike Kennedy, head optician

VISION EASE, among others.

A demo lens not only shows but also lets patients touch and feel the difference with KODAK Clean&CleAR.

at Berlin Eye Care, in Berlin, NJ,

Ricki Hedenberg from Classic

explained how he demonstrates

Eyewear in Linwood, NJ, ­offers

AR on lenses to his patients.

AR to everyone who sits in the

“One of the tips I follow is to have

exam chair or checks out frames.

samples in finished product to

“Educating the customer and

show to clients. When they see

then offering to improve their

how nice it looks they usually

­vision with AR is the strategy that

do opt for AR.” By showing your

we use,” Hedenberg said. “We do

patients the finished lenses with

our best to educate the customer ­ using point-of-purchase and answering all questions they ­

Essilor Instruments introduced a backside Crizal coater for smaller labs at the company’s recent national sales meeting.

may have. Making sure they understand the HOYA’s demonstration images show the differance between lenses with or without EX3 treatment

importance

of

AR is something that should be done at every

­appointment.

We make sure to get across to the patient that by getting AR on their lenses it is going to better their vision and help out their eyes in the long run.”

DEMONSTRATION The

best

strategy

to reinforce the AR message in conjunction with education is demonstration. As The ways in which AR can improve vision are illustrated by Essilor’s promotional materials.

54 February 2017

Palkovicz_AR.indd 54

humans, we tend to VisionCareProducts.com VCPN

1/24/17 11:28 AM

PHOTO COURTESY OF ESSILOR

AR LENSES AROUND THE WORLD

U.S. AR SALES HAVE FAR TO GROW. The statistics regarding anti-­reflective (AR) lens sales in the U.S. compared to other countries is surprising, considering that the U.S. is among the lowest with AR sales at an average of 30%. The highest percentages of AR sales in the world are J­ apan at 100% and Korea at 99%. Canada tops U.S. AR sales at 63% along with Europe with AR sales over 50%. The only country that has a lower percentage of AR sales is Brazil with 27%. The bright side about the fact that the U.S. has such a low percentage of AR sales is that there is so much room to grow.

AR, you are ­allowing them to see

product when you yourself are

with the patient that since you’re

achieved using education, demon-

and try out for themselves just

wearing it and reaping the ben-

wearing it then it has to be effec-

stration and simply by wearing the

exactly what AR can do for them

efits of d ­ oing so. It is hard for a

tive. We tend to live in a “mon-

product yourself. With these three

and their lenses.

patient to deny the benefits of

key-see, monkey-do” world, and

guidelines, your practice should

AR coating when you are wear-

if the person we trust most with

have no problem bumping up its

WEAR IT YOURSELF

ing the product yourself. You

our eyes is wearing AR on their

percentage of AR sales.

One of the strongest strategies

are able to give your patients an

lenses, most likely their ­patients

to boost your AR sales is to wear

honest opinion about how AR

will agree that it must be put on

Jaimee Palkovicz is marketing

the product yourself. A patient

works, and when patients see you

their lenses as well.

coordinator of i-see Optical

cannot deny the power of the

wearing it yourself it resonates

Growing your AR sales can be

Lab in Blackwood, NJ.

WHERE TO FIND IT: Carl Zeiss Vision, Inc. 800.358.8258 • Zeiss.com/Lenses • Customer.Service@Zeiss.com // Essilor of America, Inc. 800.542.5668 • EssilorUSA. com // HOYA Vision Care, North America 877.528.1939 • HoyaVision.com • SalesSupport@HoyaVision.com // Seiko Optical Products of America, Inc. 800.235.5367 • SeikoEyewear.com // Shamir Insight, Inc. 877.514.8330 • ShamirLens.com • Info@ShamirLens.com // Signet Armorlite, Inc. 800.759.0075 • SignetArmorlite.com • MarketingLiterature@SignetArmorlite.com // VISION EASE 800.328.3449 • VisionEase.com • Info@VisionEase.com VCPN VisionCareProducts.com

Palkovicz_AR.indd 55

February 2017 55

1/24/17 11:28 AM

Consumables for ECPs…and Consumers Typically, consumables are considered the powders, pads, dyes and more for processing eyewear, but when asked for their latest, these distributors shared some for consumers as well.

By Michelle Titzkowski

FOR ECPS

As an optical geek, I enjoy the

OptiSafe lens dye packets from

part of my day spent shopping for

Phantom Research Labs, Inc. are

new items to simplify my life as

the newest formulated dyes avail-

an optician. Researchers and de-

able from the company. After years

velopers are always looking into

of research and development, these

ways to make our jobs more effi-

advanced lens dyes are available in

cient, which in turn makes work-

more than 100 colors. They pro-

ing with our patients more enjoy-

vide consistent and uniform color-

able. We are constantly receiving

ing and are fade resistant. OptiSafe

catalogs and information on new

is recommended for use on CR-39,

items designed to either make

polycarbonate and high-index lens

our jobs easier or to be able to

materials. With the wide variety of

sell to our patients for their visual

color variations including blacks,

needs. Diving deeper into this in-

greens, browns, yellows, blues and

fomercial that is constantly bom-

others, your patients will be sure

barding us reveals the following

to find just the right color for their

products rising to the surface.

new sunwear.

DON Company’s anti-reflective materials are now distributed in the U.S. by Practical Systems, Inc. (PSI), are 99.99% pure and hold a constant hardness.

56 February 2017

Titzkowski_Consumables.indd 56

The EZ Grip Driver ergonomic screwdriver from Western Optical Supply combines a comfortable grip with extra torque.

The EZ Grip Driver from Western Optical Supply, Inc. is a truly

and easy to locate the right driver for each job.

ergonomic screwdriver that saves

DON Company’s anti-reflec-

your fingers and makes it easy

tive materials, now distributed in

to find the right tool for the job.

the U.S. by Practical Systems, Inc.

Just like it sounds, EZ Grip allows

(PSI), are 99.99% pure and hold

your thumb to fit inside a cradle

a constant hardness. In order to

while your pointer finger rests on

provide a stable make-up it is

the opposite side. This provides a

manufactured to specific granule

comfortable grip that’s great for

sizing. PSI has developed a top

opticians with arthritis and large

quality, cost-effective AR stack

or sensitive fingers. An oversized

using DON’s high purity con-

cap disperses the pressure over a

sumables with next generation

large area of the palm. Because

topcoats.

of the finger grip and cap, the EZ

DAC Vision’s FormaFlex Digi-

Grip is able to generate a large

tal Polishing Tools offer first-step

amount of twisting torque to

polish materials that produce

break screws free or drive them

outstanding surface finish and

into the barrel with tremendous

clarity. The company’s exclusive

force. Handles are available in six

black polish material yields op-

different colors, making it quick

timum lifetime and durability VisionCareProducts.com VCPN

1/24/17 11:18 AM

Vision Care Technology

while reducing torn or damaged

tween the lens and blocking pad

tool surfaces caused by sharp-

stop applied forces during the

FOR CONSUMERS

edged lenses. FormaFlex’s col-

edging process to ensure accura-

Gel Lens Cleaner, from Hilco,

or-differentiated bases simplify

cy of axis and eliminate damage

is available in a countertop

tool picking and loading. They

to the lens.

display case consisting of 12

are available in convenient 10-

Also available from Salem are

bottles. This product is safe to

STM630 and STM640 coolants.

use on anti-reflective coatings

Tak is an adhesive-backed an-

STM630 is formulated for con-

and can even be used to keep

ti-slip film from Salem Vision

ventional lens grinding, exhibit-

cell phone/iPad screens free

Group that is utilized for super

ing terrific lubrication for faster

of grease and fingerprints. The

oleophobic

hydrophobic

cycle times. It will control swarf

gel-like consistency reduces

lenses. The revolutionary adhe-

and foam contributed to by poly-

the mess and dripping that can

sive removes costly slippage and

carbonate material. STM640 is

often result when using sprays.

premature deblocking in the

designed for digital lens gener-

edging process. The interface be-

ating. The demanding require-

tool packaging.

and

Gel Lens Cleaner is available in a countertop display of 12 bottles.

Blu-Ban protective eyewear is Hilco’s latest release. We have listened to the lectures and read the articles about protecting our patients from the dangers of blue light, and Hilco has a solution with three comfortable trendy styles that are affordable for your patient.

Blue light protection is 85% at 480nm. There are four frame styles that range in powers from plano to +2.50D. A countertop display is

Blue-Ban glasses protect wearers from 85% of blue light at 480 nanometers.

DAC Vision’s FormaFlex Digital Polishing Tools feature differently colored bases to simplify tool picking and loading.

available and holds up to 16 pairs.

ments of the digital generating

for quality optical products and

process are addressed by the

our need to be efficient in mind.

specific process of coolant. This

What will you look into putting

coolant has a very low amount of

on your wish list? I know what’s

foam produced.

on mine...now it’s time to get out

These are just a few of the new-

my credit card.

er items available. Have a little

Tak is an adhesive-backed anti-slip film from Salem Vision Group that removes costly slippage and premature deblocking in the edging process.

fun today and log into their web-

Michelle Titzkowski is

site catalogs to add to your list of

the practice manager at

must-haves. These consumables

Vision Clinic Dr. Savin and

are developed with our passion

Associates in Racine, WI.

WHERE TO FIND IT: DAC Vision 800.800.1550 • DACVision.com • DACVision.NA@DACVision.com // Hilco 800.955.6544 • Hilco.com • Requests@Hilco.com // Phantom Research Laboratories, Inc. 800.225.5559 • PhantomResearch.com • Sales@PhantomResearch.com // Practical Systems, Inc. (PSI) 800.237.8154 • LookToPSI.com • Info@LookToPSI.com // Salem Vision Group 800.234.1982 • SalemDist.com • CMcCall@SalemDist.com // Western Optical Supply, Inc. 800.423.3294 • WesternOptical.com • Orders@WesternOptical.com VCPN VisionCareProducts.com

Titzkowski_Consumables.indd 57

February 2017 57

1/24/17 11:18 AM

F R O M A D I S TA N C E With these remote maintenance and troubleshooting technologies, virtual technicians are available at a moment’s notice.

By Jaimee Palkovicz

and serviced right away by the

problems with FastGrind can be

MAX lens surface/finish blocker,

As an eyecare professional (ECP)

manufacturer’s technicians with

fixed remotely by the Super Opti-

the ECP is able to access a secured

no long-term delay in production.

cal staff, who can also teach ECPs

high-speed internet connection

how to resolve any issues that

using the machines’ built-in Eth-

with a retail lab, it is very important to ensure that your machines are efficiently up and running

BUILT-IN REMOTE LOG-IN

they might experience in the fu-

ernet ports. If a particular lab’s

at all times. What happens when

FastGrind in-office lens surfac-

ture themselves.

logistics require a Wi-Fi setup,

there is a malfunction and the

ing is an advanced technology

A built-in lens ordering form

Optek’s machines also have USB

manufacturer is a plane ride away,

from Super Optical Internation-

is also embedded in the software.

ports that can accommodate a

leaving you without a working

al that is primarily run through

machine for days? With advances

software on a computer that the

in optical lab technology, some

company provides for the ECP.

companies offer automated and/

When installing the software, Su-

or remote maintenance features

per Optical equips the computers

for certain machines that ECPs

with remote log-in that enables

use in their retail labs. By elimi-

the FastGrind staff to access the

After grinding, customers can

USB Wi-Fi adapter. The equip-

nating in-person service calls and

device at any time in order to

click a button that adds those

ment’s remote support features

no longer having to wait, ECPs

address issues customers may

lenses to the form for easy reor-

are able to provide technicians

can now get their machines fixed

experience at their location. Any

dering. The software also keeps

with access to every aspect of the

track of frequently used tools and

machines’ software and operat-

the grind rate so you know how

ing systems, even when it is at the

much material your machine

ECP’s remote location. Optek’s

takes off a lens during a designat-

remote technicians can see every-

ed amount of time. This prevents

thing that local users see on their

lenses from coming out too thick

screen, and the technicians can

or too thin. It also stores jobs if

operate the machine’s controls as

you need to come back later to

if they were there in person. The

see what a patient previously had

ECP will also receive a diagnos-

or make additional pairs of lenses

tic report on demand by the local

for them. By digitally storing pa-

operator when necessary.

A key feature of Schneider’s Nano line is a remote diagnostic system that enables technicians to dial into the machine and perform any function remotely.

A machine that can be repaired from a remote location is one way to guarantee a fast return on your investment.

tient information some additional paperwork can be eliminated.

REMOTE FREE-FORM DIAGNOSTICS The HSC Nano Generator and

58 February 2017

Palkowicz_Remote Maintenance.indd 58

AS GOOD AS BEING THERE

the CCP Nano Polisher from

With many of the machines from

Schneider Optical Machines offer

Optek International, including

a complete digital surfacing line

the Optek Contour MAX lens

for all lens types, including free-

generator and the Optek Unity

form progressives and all convenVisionCareProducts.com VCPN

1/24/17 12:48 PM

Vision Care Technology

tional styles. The Nano Line is de-

is the remote diagnostic and trou-

signed to offer the same technical

bleshooting system. Schneider

capability for the small lab that is

technicians are able to dial into

used in the company’s larger ma-

the machine and perform any

chines, making it easy to process

function remotely. The machine

even sophisticated branded lens

can transmit all kinds of data

designs in-house with the touch

including maintenance require-

of a few buttons. The Nano Line

ments, error logs and trouble-

needs only a single operator and

shooting information that allow

has space-saving features such

Schneider’s technical team, in

as an on-board laser engraver to

most cases, to resolve the issue and

reduce the overall footprint and

restore the machine to produc-

allow for a lab to be set up in a

tion without ever having to visit

very small space. The latest tech-

the lab. This can save time and, of

nology even allows for the sur-

course, money, while keeping the

facing of prescriptions up to 18

machine in production.

diopters, an increase of 50% over

The Countour MAX generator and Unity MAX surface/finish blocker are among the Optek machines capable of accessing the internet via either Ethernet or USB ports.

track maintenance. Because it is

chines in a carefree manner, re-

sold completely separately from

motely connecting maintenance

other machines. This means you

MONITORING SOLD SEPARATELY

the machinery, Maintenance

professionals to their operations.

can keep more prescriptions in-

Maintenance Connection is soft-

Connection is capable of work-

By offering automated and/or

house and even digitally surface

ware that is installed separately

ing with any piece of equipment.

remote maintenance, these tech-

the more difficult jobs.

onto your machine of choice to

Its dedicated communications

nologies can improve the pro-

provide alerts and schedule and

between operations and mainte-

ductivity of ECPs’ retail optical

nance staff allow for clear and ac-

labs. Automated and/or remote

curate communication in regards

maintenance features allow ECPs

to repairs and maintenances. Fea-

with a retail optical lab to ensure

tures of Maintenance Connec-

that there will be little delay in

tion include work order tracking,

production if a machine mal-

asset management, preventive

functions

maintenance, inventory control,

Investing in a machine that can

reporting, mobile, screenshots

be repaired from a remote loca-

and security.

tion is one way to guarantee a fast

A key feature of the Nano Line

Maintenance

during

production.

Connection

return on your investment and

delivers quality Computerized

high profitability while taking as

Maintenance Management Soft-

much stress as possible off oper-

ware (CMMS ) to many different

ators, allowing them to focus in-

industries throughout the world.

stead on the quality of the lenses

Communication

they produce.

Maintenance

and Asset Management Software

Super Optical equips the computers that run its FastGrind in-office lens surfacing machines with remote log-in so technicians can fix problems remotely.

(browser-based CMMS) is de-

Jaimee Palkovicz is marketing

signed to help businesses manage

coordinator of i-see Optical

the maintenance of their ma-

Lab in Blackwood, NJ.

WHERE TO FIND IT: Maintenance Connection 888.567.3434 • MaintenanceConnection.com • Info@MaintenanceConnection.com // Optek International 727.522.2301 • OptekInternational.com • Sales@OptekInternational.com // Schneider Optical Machines 972.247.4000 • Schneider-om.com • Info-USA@Schneider-om.com // Super Optical International/FastGrind 800.543.7376 • SuperOptical.com • Jennifer@SuperOptical.com VCPN VisionCareProducts.com

Palkowicz_Remote Maintenance.indd 59

February 2017 59

1/24/17 11:16 AM

Untitled-1 1

1/23/17 11:53 AM

E X T R E M E

C L O S E U P

FINDING THE STYLE IN TRANSITIONS ADAPTIVE LENSES Tran sitions Lens es Offer Opt ions fo r th e S ty le-Cen tric Eyeg la sses Wea rer DETAILS

shield of a car to protect the eyes

WOW FACTOR

along with the hottest frame col-

Transitions adaptive lenses offer

while driving and come in gray,

Lens colors can offer another layer

ors—including classic tortoise, vin-

the benefit of being able to auto-

brown and graphite green.

of style to a completed eyeglass

tage gold, and multi-colored. Try dif-

package. Today, more than ever, eye-

ferent combinations of frame

matically adjust from clear to dark and every shade in between.

BACK STORY

wear has evolved from pure function

shapes and colors along with lens

Transitions Signature lenses, the

Different lens tints have different

to fashion statement. There are

colors until the perfect pair of eye-

most responsive adaptive lenses,

advantages. Gray lenses are a neu-

plenty of options to match every-

glasses comes together. There’s a

are available in gray, brown and

tral color that provide the most

one’s personal flair. When choosing a

Transitions lens option that will suit

graphite green. Ideal for noticeably

natural vision, while brown lenses

lens color to match a pair of frames,

every fashionista’s busy lifestyle.

crisper, sharper vision outdoors,

allow for the most contrast and

consider current frame shape trends

Transitions Vantage lenses are

enhanced colors. Graphite green

like edgy, classics or oversized—

made in gray. Transitions XTRActive

affords natural vision and enhanced

lenses darken behind the wind-

contrast.

VCPN VisionCareProducts.com

Transitions ECU.indd 61

Transitions Optical, Inc., 800.848.1506, Transitions.com February 2017 61

1/23/17 11:59 AM

Vision Care Technology NEW

OptiSource Cad-Con 1000 Retinal Bliss DES from

Adding 4 ounces of Cad-Con 1000 Dynamic Labs’ Pro Edge 3 Finish Blocking Pads Thanks to their firm green foam substrate material, Pro Edge 3 blocking pads reduce slippage and twisting during high torque edging.

Pro Edge 3 works on all coated and uncoated lenses and easily and cleanly de-blocks. 888.339.6264, DynamicLabs.net.

treats 5 gallons of alloy tank wastewater by acting like a magnet to attract and chemically bind with dissolved particulate cadmium and lead. Once metals are bound, they are unable to become soluble again and remain trapped in the sediment in a chemically stable state that leaves water clear and free of cadmium and lead. Cad-Con 1000 also treats other alloy-contaminated wastes such as block washer waters, swarf sludge, coolant,

62 February 2017

VCT NEW.indd 62

Arch Crown TT364 Poly-Lam Computer String Tags Made of Poly-Lam gloss material that is stronger than polyester or Kimdura, these computer string style tags from Arch Crown have adhesive-free adjustable loops ideal for tagging frames. Text and bar code images will not rub off from cleaning. Tags come in eight colors in packages of 4,000 tags per roll.

800.526.8353, ArchCrown.com.

Quantum Innovations Offering total protection from glare, smudges, water, scratches, dust and oil, Retinal Bliss DES coating from Quantum Innovations filters up to 17% HEV light in the 400 to 455 nm range and 5% at 500 nm. Retinal Bliss DES blocks the highest level of UV rays when used on polycarbonate, high-index and Trivex lenses. A proprietary backside coating transmits blue light away from the eye, reducing

polishes and emery. 800.678.4768,

backside reflection to less than 1%.

1-800-OptiSource.com.

888.268.3414, QTMI.net.

VisionCareProducts.com VCPN

1/23/17 11:19 AM

Vision Care Technology NEW

UV-XBT Scratch-Resistant Coating This patent-pending coating was put to stringent tests by Ultra Optics to produce New Edging Supplies from Hilco

superior adhesion on all lens substrates.

Lens blocking pads for hydrophobic, super hydrophobic and standard lenses

UV-XBT (Extreme Bonding Technology)

are available from Hilco in popular sizes and shapes to work with most

offers ”superior hardness, great tintabil-

edging equipment. Anti-slip films prevent slippage or torsion during edging,

ity, untouchable adhesion, unmatched

and two options of backside protectors are now available to protect lenses

AR compatibility and excellent surface

during edging. 800.955.6544, Hilco.com

coverage” along with a low yellowness factor, according to the company.

Testing was performed on 1.60, 1.67, 1.74, Trivex, Tribrid, polycarbonate and CR-39. 800.365.9993, UltraOptics.com.

FIRST QUALITY FINISHED & RX/SURFACED LENSES FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED Winter Specials 1/1/17 – 4/30/17 LENSES

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Register at www.lab-tech.net All prices subject to change without notice.

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170 LeGrand Ave. • Northvale, NJ 07647 PHONE: (800) 822.4343 • FAX: (800) 627.7280 LabTech_WinterSpecials_0117.indd VCPN VisionCareProducts.com

VCT NEW.indd 63

1

FREE GROUND SHIPPING on lens orders of $70 or more when placed online only.

9025 NW 13th Terrace, #2 • Doral, FL 33172 PHONE: (800) 822.4343 • FAX: (800) 627.7280

16128 Cohasset St. • Van Nuys, CA 91406 PHONE: (855) 589.5367 • FAX: (877) 229.3862 12/20/16 11:59 AM

February 2017 63

1/23/17 11:19 AM

Busi ness S o l u t i o n s

Solutions

7apps F O R B U S I N E S S 2017 Resolutions to optimize your optical in

By Bob Main, ABOM It wasn’t that long ago that most eyecare professionals (ECPs) didn’t even know what an “app” was let alone know how one could be used to build their prac-

64 February 2017

Main.indd 64

If you want to… …Improve Dispensary Automation Shamir Arch

1

This app will immediately let the ECP know if the frame

selected and lens choice are com-

tice. Now there are so many to

patible. Just fill in the parameters

give your business a boost it’s

of any frame and immediately get

hard to know which ones to use.

the range of prescriptions suitable

These days, apps can improve

for that frame. With instantaneous

office

facilitate

feedback on the frame/lens choice

patient communications, attract

while the patient is still in the

new patients and even help take

office, it makes it easy to choose

measurements in the dispensary.

another frame if necessary.

Here are a few apps to improve

Get it at: Google Play and Apple

your practice in 2017.

iTunes

automation,

VisionCareProducts.com VCPN

1/23/17 11:17 AM

otto

graphic information, and read

and a way to check eyecare

The otto app, from VSP

staff-to-doctor or patient-to-doc-

insurance benefits. The

Optics Group, allows the

tor messages in an encrypted-ac-

ECP gets software to man-

dispenser to take accurate lens

cess (HIPAA-compliant) manner

age the connection/com-

measurements, demonstrate lens

from any smartphone.

munication process and to

options, offer patients virtual try-

Get it at: Google Play and Apple

market to consumers.

on for frames, file VSP insurance

iTunes

Get it at: Google Play and

2

Apple iTunes

claims, order glasses and more.

Get it at: seeotto.com

If you want to… …Increase Efficiency MyRev

3

Todoist

4

This is a very flexible, robust task manager that

gives the user the ability to prioritize, schedule, categorize and

If you want to… …Develop Customized Apps for Your Practice EyeDoc

6

Users of RevolutionEHR

even share the important tasks

This

app

enables

cloud-based practice man-

that drive both work and person-

agement and electronic health

al lives. This task-management

records software can access their

app can be shared on all of the

ized mobile app for their

patient schedule for any location,

user’s device platforms (comput-

practice so patients can

review patient contact and demo-

ers, tablets, smartphones, etc.).

request/book

ECPs to easily devel-

op their own custom-

otto allows the dispenser to take accurate lens measurements, demonstrate lens options, offer patients virtual try-on for frames, file VSP insurance claims, order glasses and more.

appointments,

diate or scheduled posts), get

Get it at: Google Play

order contact lenses, access

notified of posts on their busi-

and Apple iTunes

an Eye Encyclopedia and read

ness sites and quickly respond

unique practice information such

to those posts, and track perfor-

If you want to… …Build Your Practice EyeXam

as Google Maps and directions.

mance using analytic reports that

The app also includes built-in

will help improve online mar-

links to Facebook, Twitter and

keting efforts. Tip: Set up the

The EyeXam app

other social media networks,

primary account on a computer

gives consumers

including YouTube.

then download the app on your

Get it at: EyeDocApp.com

mobile devices.

5

a free vision screen-

Get it at: Google Play and Apple

ing, a GPS-based eyecare provider database search, two-way communication allowing for appointment schedul-

7

iTunes Bob Main, ABOM, is an

This social media tool pro-

optical industry veteran with

vides total, full-time control

over 35 years of experience

over all social media sites from

in the eyecare industry. He

promotional offers, an

one place. Hootsuite gives the

currently works as a business

eye health dictionary

user the ability to post (imme-

development consultant.

ing, real-time messaging and money-saving The Shamir Arch app lets the ECP know if the frame selected by the patient and the lens choice are compatible.

If you want to… …Manage Social Media Hootsuite

WHERE TO FIND IT: EyeDoc EyeDocApp.com // EyeXam 408.528.7100 • EyeXam.com // RevolutionEHR 877.738.3471 • RevolutionEHR.com // Shamir Insight, Inc. 877.514.8330 • Shamir.com • Info@ShamirLens.com // VSP Optics Group VSPOpticsGroup.com • OpticsInfo@VSP.com VCPN VisionCareProducts.com

Main.indd 65

February 2017 65

1/23/17 11:17 AM

S o c i a l Me di a A dv is or

Online Etiquette: What You Say and How You Say it Samantha Toth

people most often skip. Read what

then I guess I’ll see you tomor-

wouldn’t say to someone’s face what

you have typed to make sure it’s

row,” that could mean that they are

you’re about to write digitally, don’t.

clear, polite and helpful.

annoyed with you and don’t want

It’s that simple.

Social media managers aren’t the

to keep talking or it could literally

The Internet has changed the

only professionals expected to

Don’t comment when you’re angry.

mean that they will see you tomor-

way we communicate, and there

be on social media for work. The

If you’re mad about something

row. Digital communication can

are many positive factors about

demand for staff to participate in

online or just not feeling very help-

be ambiguous, so give the other

instant communication. The prob-

online marketing is prevalent in

ful, take a breather before adding

person the benefit of the doubt

lems stem from the fact that people

many industries and company set-

to the conversation. It’s too easy to

and assume that they’re not being

can feel detached from their words

tings,. While this can be effective, it

answer inappropriately in the heat

sarcastic or snarky.

and it’s too easy to fire off a message

can also be fraught with problems because some people have difficulty communicating clearly and appropriately with the written word, especially in an environment as

It’s in your best interest to be helpful and friendly wherever you go online so that you’re always building a professional and insightful brand.

impersonal as the digital landscape.

There are some rules when

of the moment. You don’t want to

Remember that the words you’re

without thinking about it. It’s in

communicating online, whether

tarnish your reputation by saying

seeing were written by people. Real

your best interest to be helpful and

by email, on social media or in a

something rude or mean.

people are on the other end of the

friendly wherever you go online so

Internet, and they’re writing those

that you’re always building a profes-

comments just like you are. If you

sional and insightful brand.

forum with colleagues, service personnel or patients.

Question your perception of the intent of the person posting. Ask

Use proper grammar and punctu-

yourself if it’s possible that the

ation. Few people are 100% con-

other party meant something dif-

fident in their comma usage, but

ferent. If someone writes, “Well

Samantha Toth is the resident marketing rockstar for Innereactive Media, a full-service marketing company specializing in the optical industry, in Grand Rapids, MI.

do your best to use punctuation.

Punctuation and good grammar together convey professionalism and show that you care how you are perceived.

Never use caps. It’s like walking up to someone and yelling at them.

Even if it’s just to emphasize a word, using capital letters tends to be seen as obnoxious.

Re-read what you wrote before you post or send it. Always! This is the simplest step and yet the one that 66 February 2017

Feb_Social Media Full Page.indd 66

VisionCareProducts.com VCPN

1/23/17 12:03 PM

20TH ANNIVERSARY Please join us for an exciting Optical Women’s Association event during Vision Expo East 2017 Pleiades Award honoree KATE RENWICK-ESPINOSA, VSP Vision Care Pyxis Award honoree LORIE LIPPIATT, OD, The Salem Eyecare Center and Pinnacle Honoree CORINNE McCORMACK, FGX International

KATE RENWICK-ESPINOSA

with special keynote speaker, DORI CARLSON, OD, FAAO, Heartland Eye Care

DORI CARLSON, OD, FAAO

Thursday, March 30th, 7:15 am - 9:15 am The Kimpton Hotel Eventi All are welcome.

Breakfast and champagne toast, $55 per person

LORIE LIPPIATT, OD

This reservations-only event is presented by OWA Platinum Sponsor, Luxottica, and the OWA Reserve online by Friday March 10, 2017 www.OpticalWomen.com/ChampagneBreakfast

BY INVITATION-ONLY, AN EVENING AWARD PRESENTATION WILL BE MADE TO THE 2017 OWA HONOREES.

CORINNE McCORMACK

For more information on the OWA and/or to become a member please visit our website at www.opticalwomen.com

OWA thanks its 2017 Professional Development Sponsors for their generous support and belief in its mission to enhance and promote the leadership role of women in the optical industry through networking, education, and peer support.

Our thanks to Vision Care Product News for providing this space for OWA’s message.

OWA_VCPN_2017.indd Untitled-1 1 1

1/24/17 1/23/17 11:07 4:09 PM AM

Busi ness So l u t ions

Modernizing Medicine Releases Analytics Feature In an enhancement to the com2017 Blue Light and Digital Eye

pany’s ophthalmology-specific

Strain Survey from The Vision

Electronic Medical Assistant (EMA)

Council

electronic health record system,

Biodegradable Retail Bags

Nearly 75% of Americans do not

Modernizing Medicine, Inc. has re-

Available from AOA Marketplace

know eyewear can be used to

leased Analytics to give physicians

New to the AOA Marketplace, 9-in.

EyeCarePro Offers Free

protect the eyes from the short-

near real-time population health

x 12-in. biodegradable plastic retail

Aspire Eyewear Integrated

and long-term effects of digital eye

data, supporting the transition to

bags are available to American

Marketing Campaign

strain, as well as blue light expo-

value-based healthcare. In addi-

Optometric Association members

Market your Aspire Eyewear online

sure. That’s according to the 2017

tion, with Modernizing Medicine’s

only. The white bags with the AOA

through a unique partnership

Blue Light and Digital Eye Strain

Apple Watch app, users can view

member logo imprinted in black let-

between ClearVision Optical and

Survey from the Vision Council. The

scheduling to provide insight into

tering are made from earth-friendly

EyeCarePro. This comprehensive

nationwide survey of 9,840 adults

the day’s agenda, including which

biodegradable materials, have a

marketing package is free to

details the effects and implica-

patients are coming in, what time

shelf life of 18 months and come

download and provides email

tions of blue light—and available

the appointments are and which

personalized with your practice

blasts, Facebook covers and posts,

eyewear treatment options, such

rooms patients are in. Other fea-

information. They are available in

website content, posters, jumbo

as lens and coating technology.

tures include access to Intramail

packs of 250 or discounted packs of

postcard mailers and point-of-care

TheVisionCouncil.org

and Notes. ModMed.com

500. Store.AOA.org

handouts. EyeCarePro.net

68 February 2017

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USED and REBUILT OPTICAL EQUIPMENT

* SURFACING EQUIPMENT * * EDGING EQUIPMENT * * AR EQUIPMENT * LOOKING FOR USED PATTERN-LESS EDGERS 714-963-8991 • www.usedlabs.com

BUY OR SELL Barry Shepard • California

USED OPTICAL MACHINERY, LLC

FRAME•MY•FACE The New App

INDEX TO ADVERTISERS ADVERTISER

PAGE

PHONE

WEBSITE

All About Vision

14

858.454.2145

allaboutvision.com

Allure Eyewear

31

212.447.0090

allure-eyewear.com

ClearVision Optical

19, 44

800.645.3733

cvoptical.com

Coburn Technologies

16

800.COBURN1

coburntechnologies.com

Costa

24

800.447.3700

costadelmar.com

Eyewear Designs

49

800.645.6596

eyeweardesigns.com

Inspecs

10-11, 42

800.852.7857

inspecs.co.uk

Lab-Tech Inc.

63

800.822.4343

lab-tech.net

L’Amy America

38

800.872.7377

lamyamerica.com

Marchon Eyewear

21

800.966.2020

marchon.com

Morel

CV2 Spread, 33 800.526.8838

morel-france.com

OAA

CV3

901.388.2423

oaa.org

Optical Women’s Association 67

—

opticalwomen.com

Optometry Giving Sight

18

888.OGS.GIVE

givingsight.org

Reed Exhibitions

52

800.811.7151

vision.reedexpo.com

of America, Inc.

CV1, 2-3, 6-7

800.235.5367

seikoeyewear.com

SPY

8

760.804.8420 spyoptic.com

Think About Your Eyes

51

—

thinkaboutyoureyes.com

Transitions Optical Inc.

2-3, 6-7, 60

800.533.2081

transitions.com

Tuscany Eyewear

40

800.293.9588

tuscanyeyewear.com

WestGroupe

4-5

800.361.6220 westgroupe.com

Wiley X Eyewear

13, 15, 17

800.776.7842

wileyx.com

Windsor Eyes

47, CV4

877.662.6006

windsoreyes.com

Seiko Optical Products

Try Them on for Size!

Customers Can Virtually Try Frames on Their Own Face Choose from a Variety of Brands You Offer in Store All Frames are Filterable and Searchable

Virtual TryOn app

Brand and style the App to match seamlessly with your site

FRESH, VITAL CONTENT IN A MINUTE (OR TWO) DELIVERED DIRECTLY TO YOUR INBOX EVERY MONTH

framemyface.mysocialreach.net framemyface.mysocialreach.net (ISSN-1549-6716) is published monthly, except December, by First Vision Media Group, Inc., 25 East Spring Valley Avenue, Suite 290, Maywood, NJ 07607. Phone (201) 587-9460, Fax (201) 587-9464. Periodical Postage paid at Hackensack, NJ and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Send address changes to VCPN, P.O. Box 9033, Maple Shade, NJ 08052-9033.

Subscriptions: VCPN, P.O. Box 9033, Maple Shade, NJ 08052-9033 or online at totallyoptical. com. Distributed to qualified optical dispensing locations, chain store headquarters, and optical laboratories. Other U.S. subscriptions are available for $85 for one year; $160 for two years. Contact publisher for overseas rates. Copyright © 2017 by First Vision Media Group, Inc., Frank Giammanco, President & CEO; Shawn Mery, Executive Vice President. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher. The publisher’s acceptance and publication of any advertising or editorial materials does not constitute endorsement of any product, service, or company by First Vision Media Group, Inc. Throughout this publication, trademark names are used. Instead of placing a trademark or registration symbol at every occurrence, we are using the names editorially only with no intention of infringement of the trademark.

70 February 2017

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February 2017 71

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LOOKING BACK

ARTFUL ADVERTISING In the ’20s and ‘30s, American Optical advertised its Fulvue frames and Tillyer lenses by commissioning illustrations from popular artists such as Norman Rockwell, James Montgomery Flagg and McClelland Barclay.

By 1940, American Optical launched the American Plan, a public awareness campaign aimed to educate the public on the history of eyecare with its motto: “Seek professional advice: not glasses at a price,” which still resonates with eyecare professionals and the optical industry-at-large today.

The ad based on “The Spectacle Peddler,” a painting by artist Herbert Morton Stoops commissioned in 1942 by AO, urges the public to heed that advice and not fall

72 February 2017

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victim to the way eyeglasses had once been sold: by transient salesman (some of whom were unscrupulous, as mentioned in the above ad) Promising much—giving relatively little—the Spectacle Peddler plied his trade among the country folk in the early nineties. who had no real training or knowledge of vision problems or eye health in general.

According to the 1943 AO sales group study course “Today’s American Plan Faces Tomorrow’s Problem,” AO wrote about a general lack of appreciation by the general public for adequate eyecare stemming from a “long-standing misunderstanding between the three groups in the ophthal-

mic field (that) led at times to antagonism,” thereby creating a “general impression that not services but glasses are essential, and that they ‘cost too much.’ In this setting, cut-rate houses and unethical practitioners flourished and the dignity of service was lowered in the eyes of the public.”

Stoops created four paintings for AO, each printed and framed for optical offices to reinforce this message. “The Spectacle Peddler” and three other original works by Stoops created for the American Plan are on display at the Optical Heritage Museum.

Courtesy of the Optical Heritage Museum, OpticalHeritageMuseum.com.

visioncareproducts.com VCPN VisionCareProducts.com

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