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ʘV°Ê www.visionmonday.com THIS MONTH IN VM VISION MONDAY/JUNE 16, 2008 3

EDITOR’S NOTE IN THIS ISSUE It's Time to Get With the 'Online' Program News PBA joins groups opposing FDA It’s mid-way through millions, and of all age groups and social/eco- 6 lens impact regs ...... 2008, people. nomic spheres, they are seeking out and learning VisionMonday.com wins EPpy Let’s try to all agree what they can about eyecare and health care via Award, min honors ...... 10 that we’re way past the Web searches, building new assumptions about Transitions Healthy Sight Survey 14 point where ‘Internet’ brands by interacting with robust and fun sites confirms key issues ...... 10 Mido 2008 figures up by 1 percent . 18 and ‘Web site’ are con- and, importantly, recommending these experi- Marchon signs Calvin Klein, ck cepts that you think ences and brand products to other friends and Calvin Klein for Japan ...... 20 are relevant only for colleagues. They are buying from sites they Scene & Heard Marge Axelrad your kids and ‘Ameri- locate via Google, and via other style, culture or SAA/ESA execs mingle at Editorial Director can Idol’ fans. media influencers. 26 Mido dinner ...... If you haven’t updated, or, um, created your Your brick-and-mortar offices and retail stores Giorgio Armani eyewear marks 20 Web site in the past year, get with the program, need to extend your customer and patient rela- years, launches special editions . . . 28 Exam Lanes 18 there are plenty of resources available to help tionships 24/7. you do so. And then there’s the business-to-business side AOA issues ‘Caring for the Eyes of America’ ...... 44 If you have updated and are proud of some of of the Web. Do you keep records and data about Retail Dispensary the new features of your retail business’ or prac- your business? About your patients? Are you Launches tice’s Web site, please let us know! We really, ordering or reordering products online? How are Signature launches Carmen really want to hear from you. you communicating among your offices? With Marc Valvo ...... 50 The universe of online is daunting, no ques- your suppliers? With other colleagues? Second Looks 20 tion. But the eyecare and eyewear business is The Web is more than a parallel universe to Costa Del Mar releases new metal being swept up in a new world of concepts and the real world. It’s a realm all its own, with new 48 sunglass styles ...... communication fueled by bits, bytes and broad- rules and game-changing developments. Kenmark intros designs to Thalia band. It’s something to explore and take part in. It’s Girl Eyewear ...... 48 Consumers and patients are not waiting for no longer debatable that it needs to play a role in Viva adds optical groups to Catherine Deneuve Lunettes . . . . 48 companies in our industry to get into it. By the your business—it’s a reality. II Aoyama unveils new styles in Shiseido collection ...... 48 28 WHAT’S ONLINE Columns F.Y.Eye ...... 50 Contact Lenses ...... 51 Inside the Lab VSP Legends 4.0 adds Teflon coating ...... 52 Extra Business Essentials 50 Few organizations plan to stem Visionmonday.com VMail EXTRA VM Archives OptiStock 58 brain drain ...... Visit our new site, Be ‘in the know.’ Sub- As a VMail EXTRA For the latest stock quotes, Opinion completely redesigned, scribe to this e-news subscriber, search financial and investment Here Comes the Sun ...... 60 reorganized with search service. Twice a week beyond the Current news for publicly traded by rank or date, new plus “Breaking News” and Last Issues of VM vision care companies, go Balance Sheet navigation and exclusive Buying Group revenues see gain . . 70 “On the Web” stories in HTML. Your sub- to review and access to www.visionmonday.com scription lets you access thousands of VM news and click on the Marcolin reports increased sales . . . 70 and up-to-date industry news. visionmonday.com stories, special reports OptiStock button Orange21/Spy Optic report loss . . . 70 52 features and archives. and company profiles. on the left. 4 VISION MONDAY/JUNE 16, 2008 IN THE NEWS www.visionmonday.com

NEWS VIEWS Transitions Links With PGA, Promoting ‘Healthy Sight’ PINELLAS PARK, Fla.—In its latest nearby Innisbrook Resort and Golf that could include additional sports move to bring its message about Club. The golf tournament will be marketing as well as possible associa- “Healthy Sight” to increasing numbers called the Transitions Championship tions with celebrities or other groups of consumers, Transitions Optical has For Healthy Sight. outside sports. signed a deal with professional golf’s Transitions officials told VM the spon- The week-long golf event—to be PGA Tour to provide a four-year title sorship may be the initial effort in a new held March 16 to 22, 2009, at Innis- sponsorship of a PGA Tour event at the strategy to get the company’s message out brook’s Copperhead course—is designed to enhance Transitions’ ongoing efforts to help elevate con- Carl Zeiss Vision, VSP Add At the announcement of Transitions’ golf tournament spon- sumer awareness of the need for sorship, (l to r) PGA Tour commissioner Tim Finchem Tri-City Optical to Its Lab Network healthy sight, the importance of applauds as Transitions’ Brett Craig and David Cole receive vision care and the benefits of sight- personalized golf bags from Sheila Johnson of Salamander CLEARWATER, Fla.—Carl Zeiss Working together with valued suppliers enhancing vision wear, according to Hospitality, owner of the Innisbrook Resort and Golf Club. Vision has added Tri-City Optical to its like Carl Zeiss Vision is part of our ongo- a company announcement. using our resources to communicate with network of U.S. laboratories. The com- ing focus on strengthening the eyecare In announcing the PGA deal, five consumers and reach a whole new, and pany acquired the independently-owned delivery system for private practice.” months in the making, Transitions presi- logical, demographic for Transitions.” Clearwater, Fla. wholesale lab in partner- The Tri-City acquisition marks the dent Brett Craig said, “Partnering with the The company is also in negotiations to ship with VSP Vision Care, with Carl second time Zeiss and VSP have part- PGA Tour aligns well with our company become an official marketing partner of Zeiss Vision as the majority shareholder. nered in an optical lab purchase. Last and brand. The tournament makes an the PGA Tour, which could include The purchase price was not disclosed. year, the two companies each acquired a important contribution to our local com- being named the official eyewear of the “We are very excited to have Tri-City stake in Perfect Optics in Vista, Calif. munity, and the sponsorship is a tremen- Tour. An announcement on that is as part of Carl Zeiss Vision’s laboratory VSP chairman Rob Lynch stated at that dous opportunity to educate consumers expected shortly. network,” said Fred Howard, Carl Zeiss time that VSP would pursue other lab about the importance of healthy sight.” Cole said Transitions is “still working Vision’s president, the Americas. “This acquisitions in partnership with vendors After the formal announcement of the out the details” on how to involve its will enhance our ability to support Flori- and on its own. sponsorship at Innisbrook, Dave Cole, trade partners—lens manufacturers, da eyecare professionals with outstanding Founded in 1993, Tri-City serves managing director of the Americas, Aus- wholesale labs, optical retailers and eye- laboratory services and advanced products independent eyecare professionals in tralia and New Zealand for Transitions, care professionals—in the promotional like GT2 Progressive Lenses by Zeiss, Central Florida and beyond. Carl Zeiss told VM, “The PGA Tour is number opportunities generated by the golf Carat Advantage and Teflon Clear Coat Vision confirmed that Richard Hoerbelt one in charitable giving and has a tournament. “Our next phase is to find Lenses. Tri-City has the capabilities, and his management team will remain in tremendous reputation and integrity, so ways to use this platform to work with experience and reputation that will help place, and no business process changes that platform and the ability to associate our partners,” he noted. “This is a major us to grow in this key market.” are contemplated. our brand with this event offers us a new event, offering so many opportunities it Commenting on the significance of the “We chose Tri-City in part because of voice to the consumer about the impor- will take a little time to figure them all move for VSP, Don Oakley, VSP vice the excellent service the lab provides to its tance of vision care. This is a way of out.” —Cathy Ciccolella president of ophthalmic supply chain and customers,” said Claude Labeeuw, Carl services, said, “This development will Zeiss Vision’s vice president, business Sàfilo Group Appoints Massimiliano benefit doctors and their patients in the development. “Our goal is to maintain that Southeast by offering enhanced choices service while providing Tri-City customers Tabacchi Sole CEO; Gottardi Retains for high quality products and services. with outstanding new product options.” ■■ Role as President/CEO of Sàfilo USA PADOVA, Italy—Sàfilo Group S.p.A. has outstanding eyewear," said Tabacchi. "A Atchison Named President of Schneider announced the appointment of the exec- few months ago, we presented an impor- Optical Machines, North America utive vice chairman, Massimiliano Tabac- tant business plan, both in terms of chi, to sole CEO of the company. commercial development as well as from CARROLLTON, Texas—Kurt Atchison, a in the lens processing equipment field. Claudio Gottardi, who has resigned as an industrial point of view. This project is 13-year veteran of the optical industry “Schneider is fortunate to have such a co-CEO for personal reasons, will remain continuing and will be strengthened by has been named president of Schneider capable leader to serve its North American a member of the board of directors of an increasingly competitive organization- Optical Machines, North America, effec- customers. I want to show a new dedica- Sàfilo Group S.p.A. and Sàfilo S.p.A. He al structure which will preserve and seek tive July 1. The company, based here, is tion to the needs of the North American will also return to the U.S. and continue the best managerial competencies, nec- a subsidiary of the German lab equip- market. That will require a strong, local his role as president and CEO of Sàfilo essary to put into action and develop our ment manufacturer Schneider OpticMa- organization with a strong and experienced USA Inc. and its subsidiaries, according strategy." chines, a leading supplier of free-form leader. Kurt provides us that leadership to a statement from the company. Reached by VM, Gottardi commented, lens surfacing equipment. and experience,” said Gunter Schneider, In 2006, Massimiliano Tabacchi was “I am delighted to spend more time in In his new role, Atchison will be president of Schneider OpticMachines. appointed co-CEO along with Gottardi, the U.S. with my family.” responsible for all business aspects in Added Atchison, “Schneider has fan- and then appointed to the position of Massimiliano Tabacchi has been with the North American market. tastic new developments and the right executive vice chairman by the board of the company for seven years and held Atchison most recently worked for equipment for today’s surfacing needs. directors this past May. the position of COO from 2001 to 2006 National Optronics as vice president. Prior I’m lucky to be able to have the leader- "During the last two years, I have overseeing research and development, to that, he worked for Satisloh North Amer- ship role for a company that’s really worked together with Claudio Gottardi to product development, planning, opera- ica as vice president of sales and market- excited about creating a great organiza- re-focus the Group on its core business, tions, information technology and human ing, where he gained years of experience tion here in the U.S.” ■■ the design, production and distribution of resources. ■■ brands with distinct ambition

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NEWS VIEWS PBA Joins Groups Opposing FDA Lens Impact Regs CHICAGO—Criticism of the Food and The letter questioned “We have a stake in insuring Sunglass Association of America, Interna- Drug Administration’s (FDA) recently whether the FDA update tional Standard Organization TC 72/SC7, proposed changes to its long-standing “provides added safety in that vision care remains at a low National Academy of Opticianry and The guidelines for lens impact testing light of modern lens technol- cost and that cost not be added Vision Council. Last month, the group received a broader base of support when ogy and the current experi- submitted a revised draft of the guidelines Prevent Blindness America, based here, ence of the industry,” noting to vision care unnecessarily. to the FDA containing its own recom- threw its hat into the ring of groups that it could add extra costs to the con- —Jeff Todd, PBA mendations, which reflect current indus- strongly opposed to the guidelines. sumer and potentially increase the time try practices and testing methods. Although a coalition of optical industry to complete prescriptions. we didn’t see any evidence that an “This is good news and I believe it helps groups also opposes the FDA’s proposed “The main reason we decided to join increase in safety would override any our position a great deal to have a con- changes to the guidelines, PBA is the first in is that as a patient advocate group, increases in cost. sumer group that is specifically interested consumer optical organization to do so. In this wasn’t high on our radar until it was In addition to PBA, the other optical in eye safety support our efforts,” said Ed a May 12 letter to FDA officials, PBA brought to us by some other organiza- groups opposed to the FDA’s proposed Greene, CEO of The Vision Council. II chairperson John D. O’Neill, Jr., and tions,” Jeff Todd, senior vice president changes to the guidelines include Hugh R. Parry, the organization’s presi- of PBA, told VM. “We have a stake in the American Academy of To View a PDF of Prevent Blindness America’s letter to the FDA or to View a dent and CEO, said the FDA’s updated insuring that vision care remains at a low Ophthalmology, American PDF of the optical industry coalitions draft guidelines for impact-resistant lens- cost and that cost not be added to vision Optometric Association, Opti- revised draft of the FDA’s guidelines for lens es “would increase cost [for consumers] care unnecessarily. Based on the infor- cians Association of America, impact testing go to the New & Noteworthy section on www.VisionMonday.com. without an increase in safety.” mation our scientific advisors reviewed, Optical Laboratories Association,@ Luxottica Signs Franchise Deal for Sunglass Hut Stores in Thailand MILAN—Luxottica Group’s 1,970- “The entry into Thailand employment there. menting further and stricter cost controls unit Sunglass Hut chain will be A Luxottica spokesman described the in marketing, product and other areas, expanding into Thailand through a strengthens our presence laid-off employees as “support staff,” say- Luxottica Retail conducted a compre- newly signed franchise agreement in southeast Asia, a high- ing no high-level executives were let go. hensive review of its North American VM with privately held international firm potential growth region for He told , “In response to what has operations. As a result, efficiencies have Diethelm Keller. been an overall challenging economic been gained through, among others, Initial plans call for 15 Sunglass Hut the sun retail business. environment, Luxottica Retail North delaying activities, shifting resources, stores to open in Thailand; the chain —Chris Beer, Luxottica America announced further plans to combining select functions, re-assigning currently has 220 stores in the Asia improve efficiency and effectiveness associates to different roles and eliminat- Pacific region, in markets such as Australia, globally. Specifically, this transaction rep- across its business. In addition to imple- ing certain open positions.” II New Zealand, Hong Kong and Singapore. resents an important step in the devel- Said Chris Beer, chief executive offi- opment of the Sunglass Hut brand in cer of Luxottica’s retail business in Aus- Asia-Pacific, allowing us to leverage its tralasia, southeast Asia and South Africa, global attributes while partnering with 'Give the Gift of Sight’ Launches “The entry into Thailand strengthens local expertise to maximize growth First Consumer Eyewear Drive our presence in southeast Asia, a high- opportunities also in new markets.” potential growth region for the sun retail In other Luxottica news, the compa- MASON, Ohio—This month, Luxottica chance to have clear vision. The global business. It is also an example of the sig- ny’s Luxottica Retail operation recently Group’s Give the Gift of Sight global chari- need for vision care is massive, and nificant additional opportunities for addi- laid off 65 employees at its corporate table foundation is asking consumers to we’re asking the public for their support tional growth that the group sees for headquarters in Mason, Ohio, represent- help in its mission of providing free eye by donating used glasses.” Sunglass Hut both in the region and ing approximately 4 percent of its total exams and eyewear to needy people by This year alone, Give the Gift of Sight donating used eyeglasses. needs approximately 1.2 million used First Insight Integrates With During June, Give the Gift of Sight is glasses to support 20 planned missions conducting its first annual used eyewear to developing countries including India, collection drive. Consumers can donate Cambodia, Guatemala, Honduras, the DrFirst for 'E-Prescribing' their old prescription glasses and non-Rx Philippines, Thailand, Mexico, Chile and HILLSBORO, Ore.—First Insight, the pharmacies through a real-time clinical sunglasses at Give the Gift of Sight part- more, the organization said. Volunteer practice-management and electronic transaction network, according to the ner locations, including LensCrafters, teams consisting of Luxottica Group medical records software company, and two companies. Pearle Vision, Sears Optical and Sun- associates, ECPs, opticians and pro- DrFirst, which offers electronic prescrib- Said Nitin Rai, president and chief glass Hut stores as well as participating gram partners travel around the world to ing and medication reconciliation, are executive officer of First Insight, “The independent eyecare practitioners. Give hand-deliver free eye exams and recy- partnering to launch an “end-to-end e- e-Prescribe Link will allow doctors to be the Gift of Sight will clean and repair the cled glasses to an average of 20,000 prescribing solution” through First one step ahead of electronic prescribing donated eyewear for distribution on its adults and children per mission. Insight’s integration with DrFirst’s Gol- mandates, provide a higher level of international missions. So far, Give the Gift of Sight has dRx certified Rcopia e-Prescribing tech- patient service and safety by minimizing Said Greg Hare, executive director of helped provide clear vision to more than nology. potential adverse drug events, and will Give the Gift of Sight, “For a vast major- six million people worldwide through The integration allows users of First increase staff productivity due to less ity of people in developing countries, the more than 135 optical missions to 32 Insight’s maximEyes program to submit time spent with pharmacy questions and used glasses we collect are their only countries. II regulatory-compliant e-prescriptions to renewal requests.” II

8 VISION MONDAY/JUNE 16, 2008 NEWSMAKERS www.visionmonday.com

NEWSMAKERS ABB/Concise: Redefines Role of the Modern Distributor By Marge Axelrad “Today, nearly 50 percent of our busi- Editorial Director ness is online, meaning b-to-b and some b-to-c, depending on what practices CORAL SPRINGS, Fla.—Command of choose to do for their operations and information. Continual investment in sys- their patients,” Alvarez said. tems and engineering. A team of experts The ABB/Concise systems generate in sales, service and training support. some 9,000 shipments, on average, per To Angel Alvarez, modern distribution day. The company’s sales exceeded $300 in today’s optical market is fusion of all million in 2007 and Alvarez is projecting of these. sales to reach $330 million by the end of His company, ABB/Concise, has this year. The company’s new Coral Springs, HQ, is one of grown through acquisition, development several facilities serving ECPs. Now comprised of some 520 employ- and merger to become the largest con- ees, the ABB/Concise organization is a tact lens distributor in the U.S., serving itable transaction is when a patient blend of financial, engineering, logistics more than 15,000 accounts, representing orders an annual supply over the Inter- and sales and marketing teams. Senior more than two-thirds of independent Angel Alvarez net for shipment to their home or office. management includes Brad Weinbrum, eyecare professionals and accounting for C&E, Contact Optical, Doctors Optical “We are the ‘back-room’ operation for president; Cindy Pelletier, CFO; Lynda some 45 percent of distributor sales of Supply and Wise Optical distributors led ECPs in this regard and we work to Baker, executive vice president; Tim soft lenses. up to the merger one year ago with Con- show them how they can better com- Aiken, vice president, sales; Jeff Rinkus, Staying ahead of the optical industry’s Cise Contact Lens, then the country’s pete, build patient loyalty technology curve and employing the third-largest distributor, which included and grow their practice.” strategic science that characterizes the the San Leandro, Calif. company’s West- ABB/Concise’s Your Lens speed and deployment of distributors in lens and Con-Cise East operations. Con- program helps practices’ Cise also owned the Primary Eyecare Web sites enhance their Network (PEN), a buying and practice image to patients while management group of over 1,000 providing such back up optometrists in California, Nevada, Ari- fulfillment service. other industries outside the realm of zona, Utah and Hawaii. ABB has a field sales Brad Weinbrum Cindy Pelletier Diego Cruz eyecare and eyewear, ABB/Concise is a PEN’s successful practice education force of 50. It publishes a unique resource for its clients and sup- program, anchored by its “Preserving quarterly magazine about pliers. The company not only automates Independent Optometry” theme, will be contact lens management efficiencies and order fill rates, but its expanded to other parts of the U.S. start- called Contact Lens Profit marketing, sales and training resources ing this year and into next, Alvarez noted. Advisor. The ABB/Con- enables ECPs to improve contact lens With the steady consolidation of the cise Soft Lens Retail Price contact lens industry, Monitor, a proprietary serv- ABB/Concise’s position ice for accounts, lists aver- Jeff Rinkus Lynda Baker Tim Aiken represents streamlined age practice prices for pop- ordering, shipment rec- ular contact lens brands and compares vice president, logistics and customer care; onciliation, accounting these to prices charged by leading retail- Denise Spencer, vice president, human and record-keeping, pric- ers and Wal-Mart and 1-800 Contacts to resources and training, and Diego Cruz, ing parity and lens banks help ECPs track trends and benchmark vice president, information technology. that afford one-stop shop- their own. “We had a vision of the whole- ping and other business saler’s role in the optical industry,” services from analysis to Alvarez said. “There have been dis- support and training. Soft Lens Retail tributors and buying groups but Alvarez said, “Inde- Price Monitor their core competencies were not in Alvarez and Baker, center, with the PEN team. Debbie Oseguera, A proprietary service for ABB CONCISE customers pendents perceive that to enhance contact lens profitability distribution. Our team, over the last director of PEN, is at top, center. contact lens profitability decade, has been taking what profitability, facilitating online ordering has declined and, in fact, gross profit they’ve learned from a range of are- and direct-to-patient delivery that margins have eroded. But at the same nas to integrate their expertise and improves their competitiveness and time, the number of annual purchase apply it to the world of optical.” practice operations. transactions per patient have doubled, as Second Quarter 2008 Alvarez noted, “We are the solu- “We are committed to keeping inde- the result of disposable lenses and other tion for independents to compete Advice on managing contact lenses via several print pendent ECPs in the game,” said wearing cycles. Managing transaction vehicles is delivered to ABB/Concise accounts. against mass merchandisers. You Alvarez, CEO, who founded ABB Opti- costs has become a more significant can’t bring a knife to a gunfight. cal in 1989. “We have a continuous con- issue for ECPs, both large and small- The company has been reorganizing We have a $30 million inventory in con- nection with the universe of independ- sized practices.” its warehouses, call centers and market- tact lenses and the capabilities for ECPs ents out there.” Alvarez pointed out that the least prof- ing/training departments, continually to leverage. Wal-Mart understands costs; The company started with the acqui- itable CL transaction ECPs make is to investing in the latest systems and pro- ECPs need to better understand costs sition of Co-optics of Pompano Beach. fill an Rx order for two boxes of lenses cedures to speed transactions and serv- and we are a major assistance to them in Subsequent acquisitions of RLI/Target, by calling a supplier. 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NEWS VIEWS VisionMonday.com Wins EPpy Award; Min Honors NEW YORK—Vision Monday’s revamped Web site, www.visionmon- day.com, recently won the EPpy Award in the category of Best Regional Magazine-Affiliated Web site. The 2008 EPpy Awards—one of the nation’s most prized and long-running honors for online content—were presented during a luncheon sponsored by the Knight Foundation, during the Editor & Publisher/Mediaweek Interactive Media Conference and Trade Show held in Las Vegas last month. The 2008 EPpy Awards competition is expressly designed to honor Internet sites affiliated with the media industry; especially newspapers, television and Vision Monday’s EPpy Award for Best Regional Vision Monday’s min Awards for honorable mention in three online categories. Magazine-Affiliated Web site. radio networks and affiliates, syndicat- ed shows, and magazines. Among the standing online efforts over the past year. Director of Vision Monday. “We’ll con- practice management. VM ‘s WebTV sites and publications honored along Selected from hundreds of Web site tinue to augment our print editions and features content updated weekly includ- with VM at the EPpy Awards were the entries, three Vision Monday online ini- market presence with new and exciting ing “Video of the Week” and YouTube New York Times, USA Today and the Asso- tiatives won Honorable Mention for the e-initiatives.” videos selected by VM’s editors. ciated Press. min’s Best of the Web Awards in the fol- The redesigned Web site, launched The site also features a downloadable Along with its EPpy honor, Vision lowing categories: Design: VisionMon- last November, features a fresh new look PDF version of the most recent issue of Monday’s Web site, VMail and market- day.com; Email Newsletters: VMail and enhanced features. The content VM. And all the past favorites, such as ing campaign for the new site were also Extra and for Marketing Campaign: from VM’s most recent issues has been links to VM’s E-newsletters and the recognized as finalists and won Honor- VisionMonday.com Ad Campaign. organized in a new way—by topic and latest stock quotes and financial news in able Mention at the min Group’s The “VM’s editorial, marketing and busi- category so readers can look up informa- OptiStock are still available. The latest Best of the Web Awards in April. The ness teams are thrilled that our leader- tion as they need it. New features on the industry news and Breaking News is min Awards recognize the top magazines, ship move into the electronic arena for redesigned site include the industry's still front and center, and users can digital campaigns, sites and people who delivery and coverage of industry news first-ever video channel, Vision Mon- watch for special Web features including are true pioneers in the digital arena. Both and issues has been recognized by two day Web TV, highlighting the latest on Slide Shows of industry events and winners and honorable mentions were such important media organizations,” special events, designers, brand mes- hard-hitting news analysis of the optical honored in over 25 categories for out- said Marge Axelrad, SVP and Editorial sages, lenses and new technologies and industry in New & Noteworthy. II Clarification: Adjustment of ‘Total Market’ Numbers Definition In VM 2008 Top 50 U.S. Optical Retailers Report

NEW YORK—The editors of Vision spent at all optical retail locations on the ous year. In 2006, the VM Top 10 reflects the revised information, compa- Monday need to point out that the sale of either spectacle lenses (regular accounted for 22 percent of that year’s rable with last year’s Top 50 report. The share-of-market numbers for both the Rx and Rx sun), frames, contact lenses, estimated $25.9 billion total U.S. vision downloadable PDF of the VM Top 50 VM Top 50 and the Top 10 U.S. optical sunglasses (plano and Rx), OTC readers, care business at optical retail locations. Report, also on the Web site, reflects this retailers within the “2008 Top 50 U.S. or revenues earned from refractive sur- The “total market” number of $28.6 clarified data. II Retailers Report” in the May 19 print gery or eye examinations. This number billion given in the edition—as well as the published “total does not include sunglass clips, and Top 50 report in VM’s Top 10 Share of U.S. market” numbers—were not comparable reflects the dollars spent only by those May 19 print edition Top 50 Share of U.S. with the previous year’s Top 50 report. U.S. residents 18 and older; it does not refers to the total U.S. Vision Care Market, 2007 Vision Care Market, 2007 (in millions) To clarify: In 2007, the VM Top 50 include retail dollars spent by/for those market (all retail) for (in millions) accounted for 27.3 percent of the 17 years of age and younger. vision-care products $25,759 million total U.S. market for In 2006, the Top 50 Optical Retailers’ and services, which 23.5% vision-care products and services sold at sales represented 26.2 percent of that includes dollars spent 27.3% $6,046.3* optical retail locations, as estimated by year’s $25,928 million U.S. vision care at all retail types/any $7,042.2* VisionWatch. That “total U.S. market” market. retail location (not estimate covers optical locations— In calendar 2007, the Top 10 optical exclusively optical) for including optical chains, other chains, retailers generated 23.5 percent of the those products, with the independents with optical locations, $25.8 billion U.S. market for vision-care same age restrictions. leased optical spaces in department products and services sold at optical retail The VM Top 50 Total Market: $25,759** stores and mass merchant optical loca- locations, a jump of 1.5 percentage points cover story posted on Total Market: $25,759** * VM Estimate tions—exclusively. It includes money over the Top 10’s market share the previ- www.visionmonday.com ** Source: VisionWatch

12 VISION MONDAY/JUNE 16, 2008 IN THE NEWS www.visionmonday.com

NEWS VIEWS Joan Casaponsa Named New Executive Chairman of Indo BARCELONA—Joan Casaponsa has support for the current team of profes- inaugurate this new phase, and we will Southern Europe, and the European vice taken over as executive chairman of Indo. sionals led by CEO Antoni Olivella, the definitely be implementing a solvent, president of Kraft Foods International. In addition to fulfilling duties as executive company said. ambitious project,” he added. Indo, is a Spanish multinational com- chairman, Casaponsa will also be the Joan Casaponsa’s appointment marks Previously, Casaponsa was the president pany devoted to the manufacture and chairman of the board of directors, a posi- the start of a new phase in the compa- of Chocolates Lindt in Spain and France, marketing of ophthalmic lenses, eye- tion previously held by Jorge Cottet ny’s development as he spearheads a the president of United Biscuits in wear, sunglasses and equipment. II Sebile, who is retiring as chairman, accord- strategic plan to focus on the business ing to an announcement from the compa- segments with the highest market value, ny. Indo’s board of directors has unani- according to the company. The strategic Pearle Europe Parent HAL Holding mously named Jorge Cottet Sebile plan will strengthen the lines of R&D Continues Expansion in U.K., Russia honorary president of the company. and innovation, which provides Indo Casaponsa’s appointment as the new with patents and products with added MONTE CARLO—Last month, HAL Hold- ter from 32 percent to 57 percent. executive chairman will provide great value, and will also focus on corporate ing’s GrandVision subsidiary acquired In the first three months of this fiscal growth through increased involvement the G C Bateman Group, a U.K.-based year, HAL’s comparable-store sales in in the more than 80 markets where Indo optical retail chain that operates 75 optical decreased by 0.6 percent, the currently operates. stores. G C Bateman reported 2007 company reported last month. The oper- To finance the resources required by sales of approximately €22 million. ating income of HAL’s optical retail oper- this strategic plan, the company will In May, HAL also reached an agreement ations activities for the first quarter, was carry out a capital increase of approxi- to increase its interest in the Moscow- €61 million, compared to €66 million mately €16 million. based optical retail company Lensmas- for the same period last year. II “The time has come for Indo to real- ize all its potential and reach the market position it deserves,” said Casaponsa. “I Bruce Sauer, Founding Joan Casaponsa am very excited to be able to personally Manager, VSP Lab Dies at 69 SACRAMENTO, Calif.— of the industry’s premier labs. Bruce Sauer, who founded Sauer retired in 1999 after 27 years at VSP’s Sacramento-based VSP. After retiring, he spent his time laboratory, died of liver can- traveling to Italy and restoring classic cer on May 10. Sauer, 69, wooden boats. His award-winning cre- died peacefully at home in ations have been shown in the annual Bruce Sauer Sacramento accompanied Lake Tahoe Classic Boat Show. by his wife Nicki and their “Bruce will be remembered for his sons, Christopher and Eric. personal warmth, integrity and humility. As the founding manager of the VSP He helped to create an employee-friend- Lab, Sauer was instrumental in the ly culture that lives on today,” said Jack development of VSP's laboratory busi- Banville, managing director of the VSP ness. He started his career in the optical Lab in Sacramento. industry working for American Optical Services were held on May 16 at Cal- in the San Francisco Bay area. In 1972, vary Cemetery Church, 7101 Verner he was hired by VSP’s first president and Ave. in Sacramento. Remembrances CEO, John O’Donnell, to start the first may be sent to the Sauer family, care of VSP lab. Sauer, in turn, hired many of Jack Banville, VSP Optical Lab, Sacra- the people who built the facility into one mento, Calif., 95827. II ODC Names New Int’l Distributors LOUISVILLE, Ky.—Optical Dynamics tive regions. World Optics LLC will dis- (ODC), a division of Vision Dynamics, tribute to Eastern Europe through its has named two new international distri- subsidiaries, World Optics EU, Hungary bution partners. World Optics LLC of and Nano Optics, Russia. Moscow, Russia and Eye Technologies “Both companies will provide new Group of Milan, Italy launched their distribution channels throughout Europe Optical Dynamics distributorships at this making available the Q-2100R and nan- year’s international Mido event. Under oCLEAR AR technologies with region- the terms of the partnership agreement, al service and support,” said Galen Pow- World Optics and Eye Technologies ers, president of Optical Dynamics, Group will maintain a sales force, service based here. “We look forward to growing team and inventory of Optical Dynamics Optical Dynamics’ presence in these products for distribution in their respec- international optical markets.” II 20/20 Fore!sight

The game of golf is a vision thing. At Transitions Optical, we’re very proud to be sponsoring the PGA TOUR event at Innisbrook Resort and Golf Club. The Transitions Championship For Healthy Sight will tee off March 16-22, 2009. The Championship is great news for the optical industry and for golfers everywhere. TransitionsChampionship.com 14 VISION MONDAY/JUNE 16, 2008 IN THE NEWS www.visionmonday.com

NEWS VIEWS Transitions’ ‘Healthy Sight’ Survey Confirms Key Issues MILAN, Italy—Demonstrating the con- their eye doctor or protecting Key results of the Global Survey pre- tinued need for education about healthy their eyes the way they do their sented by Zaret included: sight around the world, Transitions Opti- skin,” said Bette Zaret, senior • The vast majority of people are still cal, Inc. released the results last month vice president, global marketing, not aware that extended exposure to of its second-annual “Global Healthy Transitions Optical. “What would ultraviolet radiation can cause eye prob- Sight Survey” at the 2008 Mido Interna- be shocking is if a company like lems. Only 13 percent of people are tional Optics, Optometry and Ophthal- Transitions Optical would see aware of that fact in the U.S., and the mology Exhibition. these types of results and not number is lower in other countries. The comprehensive survey interviewed take action. This is why we are • Most people are unaware that many more than 12,000 individuals spanning six dedicated to continued education medications in common use can affect countries including the U.S., United in concert with eyecare and med- their quality of vision and/or long-term A new clinical paper providing insights into the impact of dia- Kingdom, Australia, France, Italy and betes on eye health was introduced by Transitions Optical, ical professionals around the world eye health. Only 31 percent of people China. It monitored shifts in awareness Inc. during Mido last month. Several tools for patient educa- on the need for healthy sight and in the U.S. are aware of that fact. More related to eye health risk factors, such as tion were also revealed at the press event. Pictured left to the steps people can take to than half of respondents report not hav- right are Caroline Tikhomiroff, marketing director, EMEA, UV, and explored awareness of the impact Transitions; Bette Zaret, senior vice president, global market- enhance the quality of their vision ing a regular eye exam. of systemic disease on eye health and ing, Transitions; Tunisian ophthalmologist Leila El Matri, Pr.; everyday and help protect their • Between 25 percent and 45 percent do vision performance. Importantly, the sur- and Denis Fisk, director of global clinical education, vision for the future.” not report wearing protective eyewear, Transitions Optical. vey uncovered an insufficient amount of Zaret summarized the survey’s such as prescription or non-Rx sunwear consumer awareness of and action toward temic diseases, such as diabetes, on eye key findings and announced that the or photochromic lenses. enhancing and preserving healthy sight. health and vision. Not surprisingly, this company will integrate education about • Fewer than half of respondents were While marginally improved over poor understanding of eye health risk these key topics into its ongoing profes- aware that high blood pressure can responses to the 2007 survey, consumers’ factors correlated to low numbers of con- sional and consumer efforts through its strongly affect eyesight. awareness levels remained extremely sumers seeking eye exams and wearing Transitions Partners in Education pro- • Less than 40 percent of respondents low related to UV and other risks to protective vision wear. gram. Details of a new series of education identified vision problems as a side healthy sight, such as taking certain “It’s not shocking that consumers who tools focused specifically on awareness of effect of diabetes, and only 15 percent medications. Awareness was also low don’t know what to do to take care of their the impact of diabetes on the eye were were aware that light sensitivity can be regarding the impact of particular sys- vision, don’t see the urgency in visiting also unveiled at Mido (see sidebar below). worsened by the disease. II Clinical Paper by Transitions Explores Impact of Diabetes MILAN, Italy—Designed to help raise increased focus on all the detrimental several public education tools. of reminding patients that cer- awareness of the impact of diabetes on side effects of the disease, including on Healthy Sight Counseling tain medications, which they eye health and the importance of proper the eye,” said Bette Zaret, senior vice emphasizes the importance of may be taking to manage their vision care and vision wear, Transitions president, global marketing, Transitions maintenance and preventive diabetes, may increase their Optical, Inc. has released a new clinical Optical. eyecare and increased profes- sensitivity to light. paper through its Transitions Partners in “Transitions is committed to an ongo- sional and patient awareness. Diabetics themselves remain Education program. ing and concerted level of support for The paper is authored by in the dark regarding the con- The clinical paper, “Healthy Sight professionals in staying on top of the lat- Bruce Bode, MD; Leila El nection between diabetes Counseling: Diabetes and the Eye,” pro- est clinical developments and providing Matri, Pr.; Paul Brant, OD; and eye health. Between vides insights into the impact of diabetes them with tools to raise the critically low Susan Stenson, MD and Gary one-third and two-thirds of on several debilitating eye diseases— public awareness of this important L. Trick, Ph.D. The full results In addition to the global diabetic respondents did not including diabetic retinopathy, cataracts health risk.” of the paper and its research are team from Transitions identify vision problems as a Optical, Inc., Leila El and age-related macular degeneration— Zaret advocated more education available by going to www.tran- Matri, a Tunisian ophthal- side effect of diabetes. as well as the susceptibility of diabetic among not just diabetics, but all the sitions.com/diabetes. mologist and professor, Awareness of specific visual eyes to heightened damage from ultravio- public, “since 50 percent of people with “All eyes are in need of pro- presented the latest conditions exacerbated by information relating to let (UV) light. diabetes are unaware that they have it tection from UV radiation and eye health and dia- diabetes was also low. For The paper also noted that diabetes and and early intervention is so important,” glare, but in diabetic eyes that betes—as captured in example, only 20 percent or related ocular complications, such as dia- she said. are already at risk for various the new clinical paper less of diabetics were aware “Diabetes and the Eye.” betic retinopathy and cataract, have been Zaret added, “Transitions Optical will eye diseases, this need may be that light sensitivity can be associated with reductions in contrast sen- be releasing additional education materi- even more acute,” said El Matri, worsened by the disease. sitivity and increased sensitivity to glare, als focused on the needs of children and who shared highlights. According to El Matri, “This lack of leading to reduced visual quality. special groups exhibiting higher inci- “As the prevalence of diabetes contin- awareness poses a real danger to diabetic “The alarming, rising prevalence of dence of diabetes later in 2008.” ues to rise throughout the world, it’s patients, for whom regular eye exams are diabetes around the world calls for The company is also making available imperative for doctors to keep the poten- essential to detect early onset and provide tial effects of diabetes on visual health top- early management of eye disease.” II of-mind and to properly advise those man- aging the disease, as well as To read the official press release describing See the Video of the Week those at risk for it, on steps they Transitions' Global Healthy Sight Survey or can take to optimize and pre- to downlaod a PDF of the Clinical Paper: www. .com "Diabetes and the Eye" go to the New & serve their vision.” The paper Noteworthy section on VisionMonday.com. also addresses the importance @

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NEWS VIEWS MIDO: ’08 Figures Up 1 Percent, Focus on New Dates MILAN, Italy—Mido organizers report- companies in the ed that attendance at the 38th edition of sector.” During the the show, which was held here May 9 show, the new tim- through May 12, was nearly 46,000, an ing was a major increase of 1 percent over 2007. topic of discussion They said Italian attendance was up, among factories, particularly on the first two days, includ- eyewear suppliers ing an increase of 30 percent on the and retailers. show’s opening day, Friday, compared to One international the previous year’s Italian attendance. show, the Vision-X Organizers said that the number of for- Dubai exhibition in From left are the press conference’s moderator, eign visitors remained steady. with Safilo Group’s Vittorio Tabacchi, president of the Middle East, The mood of the show was fairly sub- ANFAO, Visibilia’s Dan Emanuel Levi, VP of said it had changed dued, given the strength of the Euro ver- ANFAO, and an Italian fashion journalist. its show timing in sus the dollar, and the general economic exhibition space, an increase of 15 per- 2009 to mid-May climate of the U.S., which had impact on cent from 2006. from its traditional American companies’ purchases of Euro- As previously reported by VM, Mido’s The Design Lab at Mido. timing in March, as pean-made goods and their expenses for 2009 exhibition will take place in Milan a result. Organizers the show. Heavy buying activity among at a new time during the calendar year change was made “to better reflect the of other European and international shows retailers and distributors from such high- and will be held from March 6 to 9; a fashion sensitivities and need for March declined comment to VM at presstime. growth markets as the Middle East, Rus- new Mido Business Forum is planned and September timing of the leading —Marge Axelrad sia and Eastern Europe and Asia was from Sept. 4 to 6 in Rome. reported by many exhibitors. During a press conference prior to the Mido’s total of 1,246 exhibitors start of the show, Safilo Group’s Vittorio PPG and Intercast Highlight Growth spanned 54,640 square meters of net Tabacchi, head of ANFAO, said the of Trivex and NXT in Europe

MILAN, Italy—PPG Indus- tries (NYSE:PPG) and Intercast Europe S.r.l jointly announced their plans to support the growth of the Trivex lens material and the debut of a larger range of NXT Rx Sunlenses during the Mido show. In addition to the tes- timony of two European business partners, who discussed their reasons for choosing Trivex and Intercast’s Francesco Pellegrini, PPG’s Christine Camsuzou and Nathan Troxell. A Sterling Franchise Can Take You NXT for their product offerings, executives at to the Next Level PPG introduced the new “Trivex. True to Life” Want to supercharge your optical business by belonging to a national chain? marketing materials, Or do you simply dream of being your own boss? Here’s your chance! now available to Euro- A Sterling Optical franchise gives you: pean eyecare profes- sionals to present the • Big-company savings and buying power • Promotions that build traffic and increase profits lens materials’ benefits • National and regional cooperative advertising • Point-of-sale customer retention programs to their consumers. • A comprehensive system for easy operation • Access to exclusive group vision plans Intercast Europe is now a wholly-owned subsidiary of PPG Industries, part of the We have buyers ready in Rudy Project’s Simone Barbazza, Jenkiz Saillet, business manager, Optical Products strate- NY, NJ, PA, MD, VA and CA! marketing manager, explains his Novacel Ophthalmique talked gic business unit since Call Scott Finn today at 1-800-856-9664 company’s philsophy and use of about his company’s involvement April 2006. to learn more about franchising opportunities NXT Rx Lense materials. with the Trivex material. with Sterling Optical! www.sterlingoptical.com Mr. MAGOO and associated character names, images and other indicia are trademarks of and copyrighted by UPA Productions of America, Inc. All rights reserved. Are You In The “O”zone?

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NEWS VIEWS Marchon Signs Calvin Klein, ck Calvin Klein for Japan NEW YORK & TOKYO—Calvin Klein, distribute both the Calvin Klein Collec- Calvin Klein Collection and ck Calvin lection eyewear will be previewed short- Inc. (CKI), a wholly-owned subsidiary of tion and the ck Calvin Klein sun and Klein sunwear and ophthalmic lines for ly thereafter. Phillips-Van Heusen Corporation ophthalmic eyewear lines in Japan as of all countries except Japan since 1992. “We are very pleased to be expanding [NYSE: PVH] has announced that Mar- Oct. 1, 2008, giving the eyewear compa- “The Calvin Klein Collection and ck our partnership with Marchon to include chon Eyewear, Inc. will have the exclu- ny total global licenses for the brand. Calvin Klein offerings have been promi- Japan,” said Tom Murry, president and sive license to design, manufacture, and Marchon has held the license for the nent brands in Marchon’s portfolio for COO of Calvin Klein, Inc. “Japan is an many years outside of Japan,” said Al important market for us and I am sure Vision-X Dubai Moves 2009 Berg, president and CEO of Marchon. Marchon will operate this business as “We are proud of the significant busi- competently and successfully as they Show to New Dates in May ness we have built around the world and have in the rest of the world over the look forward to further developing the past 15 years.” DUBAI, U.A.E.—Dubai product offering and distribution of both The Calvin Klein Collection eyewear World Trade Centre Calvin Klein Collection and ck Calvin first launched in Japan in 1995 by Nikon (DWTC), organizers of Klein eyewear in Japan.” Eyewear Co., Ltd., followed by ck Vision-X Dubai, the 10th The new Japanese eyewear business Calvin Klein eyewear in 1997. Nikon Optical and Ophthalmic will be overseen by Marchon’s vice pres- Eyewear announced in September 2007 Exhibition and Confer- ident and managing director for Asia their plan to exit the eyewear business, ence held annually in Pacific, Fred Humphrey, with the first but assured that they will continue to Dubai, United Arab ck Calvin Klein product from Marchon provide service for all Calvin Klein prod- Emirates, has announced debuting in Japan at the 21st Interna- ucts they supplied to the market, accord- a date change for next tional Optical Fair Tokyo (IOFT), to be ing to a joint statement from CKI and year’s event. held Oct. 1 to 3. The Calvin Klein Col- Marchon. II The largest trade exhi- bition for the optical and ophthalmic industry in Prevent Blindness America Launches the region will now take Scene from Vision-X Dubai 2007. 2nd Annual Online Auction place from May 17 to 19 in 2009. Vision-X Dubai will again be held at The event was originally set to take Dubai International Convention and CHICAGO—Prevent Blindness America America’s mission of healthy vision and place next February. Stated Lucy Clarke, Exhibition centre. The show features (PBA) kicked off its second annual online saving sight. project manager, DWTC, “We have two sub-sectors: Vision Opticare, created auction as part of its 2008 fundraising “Because of the great success we had decided to change the dates of Vision-X to facilitate the growing needs on the efforts. from last year’s online auction, we are Dubai in response to the shift in dates of region’s eyecare specialists, featuring the This year’s PBA Online Auction is now excited to launch this year’s auction with other key worldwide exhibitions for in latest in ophthalmic, optometric and open for bidding at www.preventblind- new merchandise, gift certificates, and the industry. This will benefit both technical equipment, instruments and ness.cmarket.com. The auction will run memorabilia,” said Hugh R. Parry, presi- exhibitors and visitors alike and the gen- machinery, and Vision Lifestyle, featur- until June 20, 2008 and features a cata- dent and CEO of Prevent Blindness Amer- eral consensus was that May is the pre- ing fashion eyewear and accessories log of items ranging from vacation get- ica. “We want to thank all of our friends ferred time for the industry to meet in including the latest in branded eyewear away packages, Walt Disney World tick- that generously donated items this year this region. With Vision-X Dubai further as well as unique international designs. ets, sunglasses, autographed sports and to help with this fundraiser. And, I want to establishing itself as a must attend event For further information, please contact television memorabilia, and much more. invite everyone to go online and help sup- it is crucial for an optimal timing that suits Lucy Clarke at (ph): +971 4 3086904 or All proceeds support Prevent Blindness port our sight-saving mission.” II industry demand.” [email protected]. II ASCO Launching Revamped New Ga. Law Impacts Opticians: Web Site Sporting New Look Registration Date of Aug. 31 Set

ROCKVILLE, Md.—ASCO, the Asso- includes news about ASCO, member ATLANTA—In May, Georgia Gov. examination any time in the future ciation of Schools and Colleges of institutions, the group’s corporate contrib- Sonny Perdue signed a bill into law that needs to register by that date in order to Optometry, launched a revamped Web utors and the Partnership Foundation. requires anyone wishing to apply to take receive credit for his or her practical site in May at www.opted.org. According to ASCO, “The Web site the practical examination to be licensed training and experience. The Web site joins ASCO’s online-only has a fresh new look and organization, as a dispensing optician based on expe- Anyone not registering by Aug. 31 will journal, “Optometric Education,” and its which the staff believes is also much rience to register as an apprentice with be required to begin his or her two-year newsletter, “Eye on Education,” which more user-friendly.” II the state’s licensing board. apprenticeship all over, according to the The new law, HB 241, is scheduled to law. Those applying to take the optician- take effect on July 1. It sets an Aug. 31 ry exam based on education from a rec- deadline for registering to allow prior ognized school are not affected by the Have you seen VM WebTV today? hours/years to count toward apprentice- new legislation. ship—which means that any optician For more details, see the Opticians www. .com currently working in the field who may Association of Georgia Web site at wish to sit for the opticianry licensure www.oagonline.org. II F or more information about this amazing reward opportunity or to enroll, contact your sales representative, visit www.clearchoice2008.com, or call 1.888.307.5154 ssssppoorrtt ttoo oorr’’ss PPaa PPrraagguuee EEssssiill !! TThh s ...... ee TTrraaddiittiioonn CCoonnttiinnuuees

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NEWS VIEWS Eco-Lite to Focus on In-Store Enhancements TAPPAN, N.Y.—One of the leading increased sales by making merchandise In addition, Gurock said, “As we uations where there are extremely strin- specialty lighting companies in the U.S., look significantly better than it did watch the price of a barrel of oil skyrock- gent wattage restrictions such as in states Eco-Lite Products, is now the new cor- before, while at the same time reducing et each day, we strive to do our part to like California where Title 24 limits the porate name for a business setting its energy consumption. The name ‘Eco- help reduce energy amount of wattage new sights on the optical retail business— Lite’ reflects our corporate culture and consumption by and remodeled stores with an eye toward sustainability and philosophy.” constantly working are permitted to use.” ‘green’ awareness. The concept of Eco-Lites illumina- on the develop- He continued, “Our Howard Gurock, co-president of Eco- tion is behind the company’s tagline, ment of new energy efficient lighting Vision 390 fixture can replace between Lite, told VM, “Our light fixtures have “Our lights Are Your Best Salesman.” solutions. We produce light fixtures that three and four 50 watt halogen fixtures are ‘green’ and at the same time make and a single 220 series fixture can Vision-Ease Underscores Green the merchandise that they illuminate replace between one and two 50 watt look fantastic.” halogen fixtures.” II Commitment With New Logo Eco-Light has developed a new line of fixtures in the Vision 390 family, More Seeing RAMSEY, Minn.—In conjunc- importance within the company. called the 220 series, which draw only 22 tion with its recent announce- “Being a good corporate citi- watts of power. They can be installed Green to Come ment of purchasing 100 per- zen is one of Vision-Ease’s core into all standard tracks, recessed into any Launching with our April 28 Cover Story, cent renewable energy for its operating principles. Our efforts type of ceiling or made into a pendant. “SEEING GREEN,” Vision Monday will Ramsey, Minn.-facility, Vision- to be a more sustainable manu- They can illuminate both showcases and periodically cover optical industry initia- Ease Lens has established a facturer is a direct commitment walls displays. tives toward sustainability and environ- separate logo to represent its corporate- to this principle, and a separate logo to Gurock noted, “The 220 series are mental awareness. You can read our wide sustainability initiatives. Because represent these efforts solidifies its perfect for those situations where the overview at www.visionmonday.com. Vision-Ease Lens is making a long-term importance and provides recognizable retailer is looking to create a softer effect If your company is implementing “green” commitment to being more eco-minded visibility around the initiatives within our on their merchandise, where the mer- initiatives for your customers, commu- in its manufacturing practices, it was fit- organization,” said Doug Hepper, CEO chandise is situated in very close prox- nity or employees, please email us at ting to create a new logo to symbolize its and president, Vision-Ease Lens. II imity to the light fixture and in those sit- [email protected].

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NEWS VIEWS Shamir Profits Are Up in Unilens Vision Posts Gain First Quarter of 2008 In Q3 Royalty Income

KIBBUTZ SHAMIR, Israel—Shamir operating income was $4.5 million, or LARGO, Fla.—Unilens Vision Inc. Bausch & Lomb continue to increase, Optical Industry (NASDAQ:SHMR) 11.9 percent of revenues, compared to (OTC Bulletin Board: UVICF) (TSX resulting in continued double digit royal- reported that revenues for the first quar- operating income of $3.7 million, or 12.5 Venture Exchange: UVI), which devel- ty income growth, the statement noted. ter ended March 31, 2008 increased 29.5 percent of revenues, for the same period ops, licenses, manufactures, distributes For the quarter, the company reported percent to $38.0 million, compared to last year; net income was $3.2 million, an and markets specialty contact lenses, net income of $368,730, compared with revenues of $29.3 million for the same increase of 19.7 percent, from net reported its operating results for the third net income of $372,355 in the prior-year period of 2007. Gross profit for the quar- income of $2.6 million for the same peri- quarter and first nine months of FY 2008. quarter. ter increased 34.8 percent to $20.8 mil- od last year. As of March 31, 2008, Net sales, excluding royalty income, For the nine months ended March 31, lion, or 54.7 percent of revenues, com- Shamir reported cash and cash equiva- for the quarter ended March 31, 2008 2008, net sales excluding royalty income, pared to gross profits of $15.4 million, or lents, including short-term investments increased to $1,668,397 compared with increased 3.8 percent to $4,854,119 as 52.5 percent of revenues for the same of $27.6 million. $1,634,429 in the prior-year quarter end- compared to $4,677,358 for the prior- period last year. “Shamir had a good start in 2008,” said ing March 31, 2007, an increase of 2.1 year period. Net sales of the company’s For the quarter ended March 31, Shamir CEO Eyal Hayardeny. “During percent. The increase was primarily the C-Vue multifocal contact lenses 2008, operating income increased 27.2 the first quarter, we experienced favor- result of continued growth of the compa- increased approximately 12 percent dur- percent to $4.3 million, or 11.2 percent able results, many of which reflect the ny’s C-Vue multifocal contact lenses, ing the first nine months of fiscal year of revenues, from operating income of changes we have instituted throughout which increased approximately 11 per- 2008, while sales of replacement prod- $3.3 million, or 11.4 percent of revenues our organization to effectuate improved cent in the current quarter, which was ucts lines declined. for the same period last year. Net sales and manufacturing capabilities. In partially offset by sales of Unilens’ Net income for the nine months income for the quarter increased 25.2 addition, our R&D team diligently replacement products lines that declined increased 24.2 percent to $1,121,941, com- percent to $2.9 million, compared to net improved our technological capabilities. as expected, the company said. pared with $903,697 in the prior-year peri- income of $2.3 million for the compara- Hayardeny noted that Shamir’s U.S. Royalty income for the quarter od. Royalty income for the nine months ble period in 2007. subsidiary, Shamir Insight, generated increased 15.3 percent to $628,993 com- ended March 31, 2008 increased 21.1 per- Excluding the effects of non-cash $7.2 million in revenue in the first quar- pared with $545,293 in the prior-year quar- cent to a record $1,888,641, compared with stock-based compensation expenses, ter. II ter. Sales of licensed products by licensee $1,559,496 in the prior-year period. II

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Kodak and the Kodak trade dress are trademarks of Kodak, used under license by Signet Armorlite, Inc. ©2008 Signet Armorlite, Inc. PEOPLE 25

Howard Purcell, OD Joins Essilor as Bumerts Named National Sales VP Customer Development Manager for Briot USA DALLAS—Dr. Howard CUMMING, Ga.— Purcell has joined Briot USA, based Essilor of America, Inc. here, has named as vice president of Andrew Bumerts as customer develop- national sales manag- ment. In his newly cre- er. In his new role, ated role, Purcell will Bumerts will be continue to build on responsible for driv- Howard Purcell Essilor’s current suc- Andrew Bumerts ing the company’s cesses, while increasing coordination and sales efforts. visibility among the brand sales, profes- Bumerts is an optical industry veteran sional relations and eyecare professional with over 30 years of experience. He education groups. has been the South Central territory “We are truly excited to have someone sales manager with Briot USA for the of Dr. Purcell’s strength and reputation,” past 11 years. said John Carrier, president, Essilor of America. “With his knowledge and lead- CooperVision Names Aragon ership, we anticipate new avenues of cus- President, Asia Pacific tomer partnership and growth.” FAIRPORT, N.Y.—CooperVision, a Before joining Essilor, Purcell served division of The Cooper Companies as senior director of new program devel- (NYSE: COO), has appointed Juan Car- opment for Vistakon, a division of John- los Aragon to the position of president son & Johnson Vision Care Inc. In this for the Asia Pacific region. Aragon has role, he led Johnson & Johnson’s profes- more than 20 years of experience within sional support for the upcoming Olympic the contact lens industry, both as an Games with responsibility for global strat- international business leader, and as an egy, as well as program development and optometrist. coordination. At Vistakon, Howard was Since beginning with the company in responsible for developing and managing 2000, Juan Carlos has held several posi- CONFIDENCE The Vision Care Institute which is tions within CooperVision, most recently known today as an industry benchmark as president, Latin America. Prior to that, in education and customer relations. he was the vice president of international Before Vistakon, Purcell progressed in marketing and business operations. academic leadership roles including assistant professor, chairman of the Hydrogel Vision Names Deb Bulken Cornea & Contact Lenses Department, Director of Sales for Northeast It’s the feeling you get when and deputy dean at Nova Southeastern SARASOTA, Fla.— University’s College of Optometry. Contact lens manufac- you are at your best, reaching Purcell holds a doctorate in optometry turer Hydrogel Vision higher levels of performance, from the New England College of recently named Deb Optometry. He also earned a bachelor’s Bulken its director of achieving your goals. degree in optometry from the same insti- sales for the North- tution. He is a Diplomate of the American eastern U.S. Confidence comes with having Briot as your Academy of Optometry and was recently Bulken has 21 years honored as a Distinguished Scholar Mem- experience in the CL business partner. It’s knowing you have the best Deb Bulken ber in the National Academies of Practice. industry with CIBA edging equipment, backed by the best technical Vision; most recently, she managed Advantica EyeCare Names Andy Davis seven regions and 54 sales representa- support in the industry. Senior VP, Sales and Marketing tives as CIBA’s north area sales director. CLEARWATER, Fla.—Managed-vision In her new position, Bulken is team- firm Advantica EyeCare has hired Andy ing up with Jim Massa, Edward Davis as its senior vice president of sales Lohmann and Peggy Schuster in similar FINISHING... WITH CONFIDENCE and marketing. roles partnering with distributors and Davis started his career in human developing key practitioner account resources at Raymond James Financial business, according to Hydrogel Vision. Services. Most recently, he was a large- Bulken now has responsibility for group account executive at Aetna. managing the Northeastern U.S., Massa “Andy will be a tremendous asset in is responsible for the Central U.S. and managing our business development Lohmann retains responsibility for the team and marketing initiatives,” said Western U.S., while Schuster takes over Richard Sanchez, Advantica’s president the Southeastern U.S., a company and chief executive officer. announcement said. II 800-292-7468 www.briot-usa.com 26 VISION MONDAY/JUNE 16, 2008 IN THE NEWS www.visionmonday.com

SCENE AND HEARD

SUNWEAR IN MILAN SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY SAA/ESA Executives Mingle Eye Care Associates Hosts at Annual Mido Dinner Annual Expo in Raleigh, N.C. MILAN—A record crowd of sunwear executives from around the world turned RALEIGH, N.C.—Eye Care Associates, a 15-location practice celebrating its out for the annual Mido cocktail party and dinner co-hosted by the Sunglass 30th anniversary this year, held its second annual Eye Care Expo for employees Association of America (SAA) and their colleagues at the European Sunglass and patients at the Raleigh Marriott Crabtree on May 19. Assocation (ESA). The SAA is now a new division of The Vision Council. The event included a fashion show featuring product from some of the 18 The ESA also recognized the contributions in the industry of two Vision- participating vendors, as well as vendor booths where the group’s 180 staff ary leaders: Joseph Hatchiguian, of Sporoptic Pouilloux/Vuarnet was honored, members, and later patients, were able to browse product lines. while M. Ciralli of Luxotttica accepted an honor for Ray-Ban. Stephen Bolick, OD, founder and CEO of Eye Care Associates said, “I’m Attendees at the elegant Hotel Principe D’Savoia also listened to an exten- excited about the evolution and growth of our Eye Care Expo. It’s gone from sive presentation from Alexandre Bau of Ralston & Bau about new materials an event designed solely for our staff and doctors, to this year’s fashion and used in industrial design which can be adapted into sunwear. Ms. Milou Ket frame show that could be enjoyed by our patients as well.” also reviewed a series of style/fashion trend influences to point to directions in Vendors supporting the exhibit included Nouveau, Marchon, Sàfilo, Maui sunwear design. —Marge Axelrad Jim, Imagewear, Robert Marc, Oakley, Eye Q Eyewear, Revolution, Frubi Shades, Seaworthy Swim Goggles, REM, Viva, Zeiss, Digital Eye Lab, Ciba Vision, Cooper Vision and Bausch & Lomb. —Deirdre Carroll

Rod Lane, president, ESA (l), with M. Ciralli of Luxottica accepting a Models of all ages showcased Pictured left to right are Dr. Stephen Bolick of Eye Care The Vision Council’s Ed Greene (l), with ANFAO’s Visionary honor for Ray-Ban; at right eyewear from participating Associates enjoying all the Expo had to offer with his family, son Francesco Gili and Federica Andreoli. is Petra Eckhart of the ESA. vendors on the runway. Stephen, daughter Kelly and wife Susan.

Bob Brodney, presi- Viva’s Mick Kunish greet- dent of Eye Care ed Eye Care Associates The NHL Carolina Hurricanes’ Storm Squad Costa Del Mar’s Chas McDonald, and From left are OpSales’ David Byk and Jerry Associates, welcomes staff members and got the energy going before the models took his wife, Amy. Beddingfield, and Costa Del Mar’s Ed Moody. staff members. patients at Viva’s booth. the stage.

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June 21, 2008 July 15-20, 2008 July 31 - August 2, 2008 August 8-10, 2008 Church Market Place Brickyard 400 Summer X Games Rochester Omnium The Optical Center Indianapolis, Indiana Home Depot Center Rochester, New York Burlington, Vermont Carson, California July 16-20, 2008 August 11-16, 2008 July 6-13, 2008 Laguna Seca Moto GP July 31 - August 3, 2008 Crankworx Mountain Bike Gretchen Bleiler and Monterey, California UCI Masters Whistler, Canada Nicholas Müller Sessions MTB World Championship Mt. Hood, Oregon July 17-20, 2008 Bromont, Canada Norba Mountain Bike Championship July 11-13, 2008 Mt. Snow August 1-3, 2008 MLB All-Star Game West Dover, Vermont AVP Volleyball Yankee stadium Mariner’s Point, Mission Beach Bronx, New York San Diego, California

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SCENE AND HEARD

A RETROSPECTIVE EXHIBITION I WANT CANDIE’S Giorgio Armani Eyewear The Candie’s Foundation Holds Marks 20th Year And Launch 5th Annual ‘Event to Prevent’ of Special Editions MILAN—It was 1988 when designer Giorgio Armani made his first appear- ance on the eyewear scene. At Mido last month, the milestone of Armani’s 20th anniversary in the category was celebrated at the Armani/Privé salon here with interna- tional retailers, media and executives from Sàfilo S.p.A, Armani’s current licensing partner, on hand. The retrospective photographic exhibition showed advertising images reflecting the changes in lifestyle and the evolution of eyewear created by Giorgio Armani during those two decades. The evening’s headliner, music legend James Taylor performs. Two iconic historical models of Giorgio Armani Occhiali were present- Claudio Gottardi, Sàfilo’s CEO (r), with Giorgio NEW YORK—The Candie’s Foundation held their 2008 “Event to Prevent” ed in new updated versions, highlight- Armani. 5th Annual Benefit Gala Wed., May 7 at Cipriani 42nd Street. ed as the 20th Anniversary Exclusive The Candie’s Foundation’s mission is to educate America’s youth about the Edition eyewear. These limited and devastating consequences of teenage pregnancy. Viva International Group, who numbered editions are restricted to has the license for Candie’s Eyewear, was one of the evening supporters. 1,020 pieces; one is the reconfiguration The evening was hosted by Darrell Hammond from Saturday Night Live and of the signature and model GA 634/N headlined by multi-Grammy award winner, James Taylor, with a performance by and the other is Model GA 646/N/S. country music sensation, Taylor Swift, as well. The designer himself toured the Celebrity guests who attended include Ali and Dina Lohan, America’s Next gallery, posing with Sàfilo executives Top Model Alum, Caridee English, actress Emma Stone, model/actor Jason and retail guests from Italy and around Lewis, actress Mischa Barton, musician Teddy Geiger, and designers Mark Bad- the world. gley and James Mischka. According to the Candie’s Foundation the event raised Sàfilo USA’s John Wachsteter and Dick Russo, close to $1 million. left, and Mark Ugenti, far right, greet Andrea Camerana, director of marketing and licensing for Giorgio Armani Group worldwide. Camerana is also Mr. Armani’s nephew.

A gallery of photographs spanned 20 years of Jon Martinez of Viva (l) poses with actress “Living Lohan” stars Ali and Dina Lohan Armani’s eyewear designs and advertising Emma Stone (r). attended the event which was raising money images. for teenage pregnancy awareness.

The designer with Sàfilo’s chairman Vittorio Sàfilo is issuing two Limited Edition Giorgio (l-r) Viva International Group’s Bill Munch, Sue Designers Mark Badgley (l) and James Tabacchi (r). Armani Occhiali pieces to mark the designer’s Hawksworth and Dave Walls enjoy the night’s Mischka (r) flank the evening’s second per- anniversary in eyewear. festivities. former, country music phenom, Taylor Swift.

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SCENE AND HEARD

SEVENTH ANNUAL ‘NEXT GENERATION AWARDS’ Accessories Council and Luxottica Support FIT’s Accessory Design Talent NEW YORK—The Accessories Council with Luxottica Group supported the place went to Apple & Eve (stu- Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) Seventh Annual Next Generation Awards dents Jessica Dubon and Kerry last month. The Next Generation Awards are meant to recognize creativity and Norton) while second place went talent of future accessory designers. to Jenn Min Lee. The event featured awards recognizing excellence in design in the categories Other Award benefactors were of handbags, hats and gloves, belts and small leathergoods, jewelry and footwear. Cipriani Accessories, LeSportsac, This year’s event also gave awards in the eyewear categories for both optical Nine West, Riviera Trading and On stage at FIT, Vittorio Verdun, VP marketing for frames and sunglasses. Initiated in 2007 by Luxottica Group, the FIT awards Miriam Haskell who honored stu- Luxottica Group, center, and Karen Giberson, presi- mark the first time any design school in the U.S. has required seniors to present dents’ work in handbags, belts/ dent of Accessories Council, second from right, with the students selected as Next Generation winners for eyewear as part their final accessory project. “The rapidly growing optical/sun cat- small leathers, footwear, hats/gloves sunglass design (from left) Jessica Dubon, Kerry egory is important and is due to record consumer demand and the fact that eye- and jewelry. Norton and Jee Min Lee. wear has become the most profitable key accessory for major fashion houses,” Noted accessory designer Rafe Totengco of Rafe New York was on hand to noted Accessories Council president, Karen Giberson. share a few words of wisdom. Rafe, himself an FIT alum, spoke about his experi- In the eyewear category, first place for optical frames went to graduating sen- ence as a designer and hopes to inspire the graduates to continue on their path in ior, Raine Anakanu while second place went to Hodaya Louis. In sunglasses, first accessories.

MARKING A MILESTONE A&R Celebrates 25th Anniversary MILAN, Italy— Automation & Robotics (A&R) hosted a gathering of over 100 people at the St. Paul Church Converso on Friday night during this year’s Mido to celebrate the company’s 25th anniversary. Christian Closset, founder and general manager of A&R of Verviers, Belgium led the festivities as the company marked the milestone of providing automated solutions to the optical industry for 25 years. During his presentation, Closset highlighted some of the many accom- plishments made possible by a close working relationship with his customers and the dedica- tion and creativity of his employees and staff. Founded in 1549, the historic site is currently operated by Foundazione Metropolitan of Milan and the A&R guests were treated to a display of Sampling a gourmet dinner are from the left, John T. Fried drawings of Salvador Dali, piano music, a roving (speaking), A&R Optical Machinery, Inc., Marie Fried, eldest magician, a gourmet dinner and of course a wide daughter; wife, Denise Fried; daughter Elizabeth Fried; Lenor selection of Belgian beer. Fowler, Jobson Publishing; Christian Laurent, Automation & Robotics; Laurent Loeckx, Automation & Robotics; Ms. The reception hall of the former St. Paul Church Converso was adorned with Russell Ward and Russell Ward, Optical World. frescos and paintings of the period.

MAKING THE GRADE Students Receive High Honors

NEW YORK—As part of the graduation ceremonies for George Westinghouse High School, a select group of vision care seniors at the school were the proud recipients of graduation awards from the school’s OPTICS Council members. Six students received awards from a range of OPTICS Council members includ- ing representatives from 21st Century Optics, Tri-Supreme/Lens Connection, Carl Zeiss Vision and Transitions. Other awards included student Robert Small, recipient of the Essilor USA Award presented by OPTICS member Donna Heyer. Graduation ceremonies took place at the school, located in Brooklyn, on May 22. Students posing with their awards, left to right are Nicole Abellard, recipient of the Cohen’s Fashion Optical Award; Eleanor Bumpurs, recipient of the 21st Century Optics award; Ethel Donkor, recipi- ent of the Rebaldo Memorial Award; Vision Care instructor Guillermo Hernandez; Alia Adams, recipi- ent of the Tri-Supreme/Lens Connection Award; Mayra Puma, recipient of the Carl Zeiss Vision Award, and Bianca Celiare, recipient of the Transitions Award. All Seasons Polarized Sunwear

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To learn more about Dr. Jiyen Shin and the advantages of partnering with Luxottica go to www.luxandme.com www.visionmonday.com COVER STORY VISION MONDAY/JUNE 16, 2008 35

Eyecare 2.0 Optical Evolves Online

The Pew Internet & American Life consumers and patients via the Internet. The “E-Doctor” Is In Project (www.pewinternet.org), a non- We are also looking at how online retail- At the 2nd Annual Vision Monday Vision Monday looks profit, non-partisan think tank that ers are embracing new Web “2.0” con- Leadership Summit held earlier this at the big picture and researches the impact of the Internet on cepts—those sites, accelerated by the spring, technology speaker Lynn various U.S. groups, found that in Sep- advent of high-speed broadband, feature O’Connor Vos, CEO and president of at how some eyewear tember 2007, 74 percent of American enhanced creativity, information-sharing Grey Healthcare, told attendees that 45 adults were Internet users, as compared and, notably, collaboration among users. percent of consumers are now getting and eyecare organiza- to only 48 percent in mid-2000. These are technology benefits that have their healthcare information online, tions are rethinking Given these numbers, it’s clear our led to the use of social-networks and nearly double the 23 percent that report reliance on the Internet is undeniable blogs—which are transforming tradition- getting their information directly from how they communicate and the importance of it in many aspects al ideas of influence, access and sales. health care professionals. with consumers using of our lives is growing. But there are issues to contend with. “We are seeing a major shift in the In addition to media and entertain- For example, how are some sites overcom- way consumers consume health care, the Internet. ment, news and information and the ing the limitations of selling technology where they seek information, who they phenomenon of social “communities” and Rx-specific products via the Internet? get advice from and who they are listen- By Deirdre Carroll online, two of the most significant areas Further, there is another universe of issues ing to,” said Vos. In fact, Vos noted that Senior Editor today in which the Web affects our lives within the business-to-business “b2b” in the 30 days leading up to the April 9 are the way we shop and how we deal Internet world: how are systems integra- VM Summit, there were 73,831 blog Marge Axelrad with and get access to medical and tions transforming the way suppliers and posts related to the terms “eyewear,” Editorial Director health information. buyers interact to communicate educa- “eyecare,” “eye doctor,” “eyeglasses,” Considering the optical industry’s tion, training and product purchasing? “eye health” and “eye exam” and, in NEW YORK—1.407 billion people is a strong ties to both retail and health care, In this Cover Story, we’ll look at the the week leading up to the event, there staggering number. According to Inter- Vision Monday is beginning to explore big picture, and at how some eyewear were 126,000 Google searches alone on net World Stats, as of March 31, 2008, how conventional retailers, ECPs, organ- and eyecare organizations are rethinking these topics. that’s the number of people using the izations and suppliers are extending how they communicate with consumers Mark Penn in his 2007 book, Microtrends, Internet worldwide. their brands, sales and connections with using the Internet. Continued on page 36 36 VISION MONDAY/JUNE 16, 2008 COVER STORY www.visionmonday.com

In fact, ECPs’ own California, said the Web sites can be a group’s site mission source of patient edu- is “comprehensive cation and/or a source eyecare meets indi- of bolstering connec- vidual style.” There, tion to existing patients. the message is for Stated Walker, “For Kaiser’s members to most ECPs, their Web get great medical site is a service tool. On care from Kaiser Per- one level, they are com- manente MDs and municating through it to optometrists plus prospective patients learn more about a and the site sends a great selection of marketing message. On eyewear. another level, Web sites “We conducted enable doctors to be focus groups to see Luxottica Retail’s, PearleVision.com, which is undergoing a redesign, focus- es on eyecare topics. there 24/7 for their what members need- AllAboutVision.com has had 35 million visitors since its inception eight patients; they can pre- ed and now this program, which started The sites—which offer consumers years ago. survey their needs, use in Northern California, is national and all information on both eyewear and eyecare Continued from page 35 it for appointment scheduling, for pro- of Kaiser’s regions are on the Web site,” under a variety of headings—have been noted, “The biggest trend in American viding forms and support materials to said Torrence. The goal was for the designed to reflect the market positions health care is ‘Do-It-Yourself-Doctors.’ the in-office visit, and the convenience imagery to tie in to Kaiser Permanente’s of Luxottica’s various retail brands. For These are people who research their of online ordering for replacement con- “Thrive” branding program and the fea- example, the LensCrafters site has a own symptoms, diagnose their own ill- tacts—any number of reasons to keep tures of the site are many, including an strong fashion orientation, highlighting nesses, and administer their own cures.” that connection.” Eye Health Encyclopedia that connects areas such as New & Now (a changing While finding accurate and reliable to the Kaiser home site and others that get style portfolio, heavily skewed toward online health care information remains a Connecting…to a Brand them thinking about the eyewear they can prescription sunwear for Summer 2008), challenge, consumers are turning to the choose from when Eyewear 101 (helping site visitors select Internet to find things out and in many they come in for eyewear by face shape, color, material and cases to locate professionals they trust. their visits. style details) and Frame Personality (a The Pew Internet Project corroborates “We have a Virtu- quiz to help consumers determine their the growth of this phenomenon. Its al Frame Board that best eyewear looks). Online Health Search report from 2006 lets them search by The Pearle Vision site—currently contended that 80 percent of American designer or by brand undergoing “a major redesign,” accord- Internet users, or 113 million adults, have or by style character- ing to the company—is more eyecare- searched online for health information. istics and Find Your oriented, to match that chain’s position- The number of patients turning to the Perfect Eyewear ing. The site features prominent Web for eye health information has asks them a series of mention of the Optomap retinal exams prompted companies to explore this new quick questions they offered by the Pearle stores; Pearle’s health care frontier and given rise to sites can answer, print out Web site also has a stronger emphasis on like WebMD.com’s Eye Health portal, and bring with them eyecare, including an Eye Education AOL Body’s Eye Care Condition Cen- Kaiser Permanente’s Homepage, kp2020.org, shows members all of the eye- to their appoint- section incorporating an Interactive care options available to them. ter and AllAboutVision.com. According ment,” added Tor- Guide to the Conditions of the Eye and to Ron Walker, president of All About On that level—that of extending a “real rence. Our goal was for them to be able to a “virtual eye exam,” as well as a sepa- Vision, the site, developed as an inde- world” brand to a community of users, learn more about the selection and options Continued on page 38 pendent source of information about eye patients or customers who interact available to them as health and eyewear, has served some 35 online—brand extension is taking on a Kaiser members. And million visitors since its inception eight new meaning via the Internet. In some it’s working to help years ago, and forecasts more than 8 mil- cases, the development of a brand, or change perceptions lion visitors in 2008. the establishment of a consumer com- about our business.” A big believer in SEO (search engine munity around one, is accelerated with Luxottica Retail optimization), Walker said, “We are very new online tools and concepts. (See maintains separate search driven; our stats run parallel to sidebar on page 38). and distinctly brand- Internet searches in general and the most In other cases, the practice or organi- oriented Web sites for popular parts of our site reflect con- zation’s Web site is one way of stamping most of its retail chains: sumers’ overwhelming interest in contact an existing brand and extending real- www.lenscrafters.com, lenses and LASIK. Then they are look- world retail or eyecare presence via the www.pearlevision.com, ing for basic info on eyeglasses—what to Internet. At Kaiser Permanente, using www.searsoptical.com, buy, what their options are, what they the Web to build a cohesive identity for www.sunglasshut.com need to know—and then we are really Kaiser’s “Vision Essentials” vision busi- and www.iloristyle.com. seeing our searches for info on conditions ness for the HMO’s millions of mem- (Its licensed Target and diseases really jump. And we wel- bers, has become a major initiative Optical locations are come ECPs to link to our site from theirs. throughout the organization. Kathy Tor- accessible through the Some 7,000 people per month check us rence, product line manager, Kaiser Per- main Target Web site Kaiser Permanente’s Virtual Frame Board helps members learn about out for that, to locate eye doctors.” manente Eye Care Services, Northern at www.target.com.) the eyewear selection available to them. THEONLY ONE WORLD’S MATERIAL DEFINES FINEST OPTICS.

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Continued from page 36 scheduling in September 2007, following study that the number of Americans the new report, Multi-Channel Retail- rate Kids Corner area with information a redesign/relaunch of its site last July. who had ever bought a product online as ing, “As a consequence, online product on children’s eyecare. of September 2007 was 49 percent, up research is driving more in-store sales In addition to product and eyecare Click to Buy from just 22 percent in 2000. In fact, that than online sales.” information, the LensCrafters, Pearle Shop.org’s 11th Annual 2008 State of same study concluded that 93 percent of eMarketer, an online destination for Vision and Sears Optical sites all now Retailing Online study, conducted by online users have done something relat- market research and trend analysis on the offer online exam scheduling as a con- Forrester Research, found that in a year ed to e-commerce, be it using the Inter- Internet, projected in November 2007 sumer convenience. LensCrafters where retail sales are expected to suffer net to research goods or services or to that the percentage of Internet users who launched online exam scheduling in due to the slow down of the economy, make purchases. have made an online purchase will con- December 2006, as part of a major online retail will continue to grow with “Today, online consumers think noth- tinue to rise steadily through 2011. redesign of that Web site. Pearle started sales rising 17 percent to $204 billion. ing of shopping across a retailer’s stores, “With consumers showing such strong online scheduling in December 2007; The Pew Internet Project also found Web site and catalog,” said Jeffrey Grau, acceptance of online shopping, retailers Sears Optical began offering online in their February 2008 Online Shopping eMarketer senior analyst and author of Continued on page 39

NEW YORK—Erin Byrne, global chief digi- community. to the DNA of the Ray-Ban brand. Though tal strategist for Burson-Marsteller, In 2007 when Luxottica’s Ray-Ban the campaign is comprised of traditional observed during the recent Vision Mon- launched their “Never Hide” campaign, marketing tools like print and outdoor day Global Leadership Summit, their Web site played a huge part in the advertising, it is the use of the Internet “Because of the nature of digital commu- kick off. People from around the world that has really given people the opportu- nications today, marketers can no longer were able to upload photographs of nity to make the brand their own. control their message; they can only themselves in their Ray-Bans to Ray- “The interactive online component of hope to influence it. Companies are Ban.com. The pictures were then played the Ray-Ban Web site is important starting to recognize this as both an on 11 screens in New York City’s Times because it helps deepen the relationship issue and a possibility. Today, we recom- with our target consumers and also mend integrated communications where extends the brand’s reach while comple- you use traditional mass mediums to menting offline activities,” added Vittorio build awareness and then use digital to Verdun, Luxottica’s vice president of mar- drive that awareness through to action.” keting. “Our digital plans will continue to Among eyewear suppliers, the theory include engaging and interactive content and power of consumer that generates buzz and drives aware- communications and ness among Ray-Ban’s target consumer.” recommendations via Another eyewear company that is con- social media and com- tinuing to use the Internet to help online munities is on the rise. users make the brand their own and Glen Eisenberg is (Clockwise from top) Costa Del Mar’s Channel C – CostaChannelC.com; build a lifestyle community based upon FyshNation.com, Ray-Ban’s Confessions – Ray-Ban.com. president of Precision the brand’s principles is Ormond Beach, Advertising, the Montre- television. Mar- Square where Ray-Ban had photogra- Fla.-based Costa Del Mar. Not only are al-based agency of keting online is phers on hand to catch each moment. visitors to CostaDelMar.com able to record for Montreal- not an oppor- Visitors to the site were not only able to share their own journeys and experi- based Wescan Optical, tunity, it is a peruse the photos that had been ences, or offer recommendations on manufacturer of Fysh necessity.” uploaded but those who contributed pic- favorite beaches, surfing areas and pad- UK Eyewear; Precision is the agency respon- “Part of the overall strategy is to cre- tures where also able to download a pic- dling spots with others, but in July 2007, sible for the launch of FyshNation.com. ate not just product, but emotional ture of themselves being broadcast in the brand also launched “Channel C,” an FyshNation.com is an interactive online bonds that connect with the consumer,” Times Square captured by the onsite online video network dedicated to water community, launched this past May, continued Eisenberg. “Our challenge was photographers. sports and angling adventures that fea- based on social networking and aimed at to create a cultural aspect for the brand At the recent South by Southwest tures original programming and user-sub- driving brand involvement by building a that goes beyond the physical aspects of music festival in Austin, Texas, Ray-Ban mitted film footage of extreme water lifestyle culture around the Fysh UK eye- the frame. The Fysh UK brand is about took the “Never Hide” campaign a step sports and fishing expeditions. wear brand’s core identity—Dream Big, living life to the fullest, so having an further by allowing festival goers a “Our goal is to get people to our Web Think Big, Live Big!—through quarterly online place that was a community chance to record their 30-second “Con- site so they can get the full Costa brand contests, quizzes and videos. based home gives us a platform to rein- fessions” in a special photo booth. The experience,” said Al Perkinson, vice pres- “The world of online communication is force that. Of course the long-term goal confessions were later uploaded on the ident of marketing for Costa Del Mar. like the advent of the TV in the ‘50s,” is that when visitors do go into a store site where visitors can “rate” each con- “Video content is the best way to do said Eisenberg. “Back then, if you bought that recognition and relationship is there fession on a scale of one to five stars. that. We create original programming and a 30-second advertising slot on one of and results in a sale.” The “Never Hide” campaign is based air it on Channel C and we then use the three channels you had 90 percent FyshNation.com is just one of the lat- on individuals having the courage to online and offline media to drive people saturation in American households. est manifestations of an online market- express their true selves, their thoughts there. We think that this approach will Today, the difference is that the adoption ing tool built by eyewear brands looking and their personality genuinely, and to become more and more popular as con- of the Internet has moved at a lightning to parlay their brand’s core values into a stay true to the values of authenticity sumers continue to gain control over pace when compared to the adoption of greater lifestyle movement and sense of and uniqueness, traits that are integral what they watch and when.” II www.visionmonday.com COVER STORY VISION MONDAY/JUNE 16, 2008 39

marketing for Luxot- only eyewear retailer, like EyeBuyDi- FramesDirect.com is taking the eye- tica Retail. rect.com or FramesDirect.com. wear e-tailing concept one step further. “We believe pur- In some cases, online-only sites are Founded in 1996 by Dhavid Cooper, chasing and online “price” driven. For others, the informa- OD, and Guy Hodgson, OD, Frames- engagement with Direct has embraced consumers will con- the online retail tinue to grow rapidly medium beyond just across all industries selling the 116,000 and categories,” Sharp products they carry. added. “More busi- The site also fea- nesses will become tures “walk-on” ani- ‘multi-channel retail- mated video technol- ers,’ incorporating the ogy that explains the Web channel into Web site’s features their business strate- and highlights some gies to make it easy brands; a FrameFind- for customers to shop er Virtual Try-On sys- where they want, tem, which gives vis- Jobson Internet Solutions, jis.jobson.com, builds and enhances Web sites when they want and itor the ability to for the optical industry. how they want. Like- upload a photo of Continued from page 38 wise, each of our retail brands continues themselves to see are stepping up their commitment to the to explore and evaluate what is right for how each pair of channel,” noted Joe Savarese, vice presi- that retail brand and our customers as it EyeBuyDirect.com’s Wall of Frames allows visitors to get instant feed- frames will look on dent of Jobson’s Internet Solutions divi- relates to providing eyecare and eyewear back on their frame choice before purchasing. them; The EyeZone sion, which builds and enhances Web information, selling products online and tion and interactive content move them Blog, which provides news, insights, sites for suppliers, ECPs and retailers, engaging customers in a retail brand in another direction. announcements, and a glimpse inside both online and traditional. “Such con- experience.” EyeBuyDirect.com is a prescription FramesDirect.com; as well as a large sumer acceptance is forcing retailers to eyeglass Web site social networking component that realize that if they are to survive the launched in 2005 by includes the ability to follow the blog retail market of the 21st Century, they Roy Hessel, founder through Twitter and link to the Web site must take their Web strategies into the and CEO. EyeBuyDi- through their Facebook Fan page. mainstream of the consumer culture.” rect.com offers visitors “Essentially, we’ve had to learn how “Having a huge selection is just one of Frame Personality to run a technology company that has the advantages of the Internet sales quizzes, trend reports expertise in optical products and servic- model versus the selection available on and color forecasting, es,” said Dhavid Cooper, OD, co-founder the dispensary board. Features like vir- instructions on meas- and CEO of FramesDirect.com. tual try-on tools have become popular, uring for an accurate “We have invested, and continue to but a properly designed Web site that fit and the EyeTry invest, millions of dollars into Web provides both a positive and intuitive “Wall of Frames,” an development and improvements annu- first-time user experience is critical, as is online social shopping ally. We continually re-invest in improv- a site that is optimized for search engine section that not only ing technology, hardware and software, recognition to build traffic for the site.” allows visitors to virtu- and have a dedicated team of specialists “Retailers are changing so that they ally try on frames but who are customer focused and service can benefit from the shift in consumer to post their photo, or oriented—and while we have and con- spending,” Savarese added. “Big chains FramesDirect.com’s homepage featuring walk-on video technology of CEO e-mail it to friends, in tinue to enjoy the journey we embarked are bringing a new-found zeal to online and founder Dhavid Cooper, OD. order to receive instant on over a decade ago, it’s not for the faint retailing, redesigning sites, adding new Jobson Research has not yet been able feedback prior to their final selection. of heart,” Cooper said. II features and capabilities and pumping to quantify online eyewear retail sales, “While choosing the resources into marketing. Online-only which can include frames, sunglasses, Rx right pair of glasses is a merchants are responding with their lens and eyeglass purchases. However, in question of personal own renewed commitment to the Inter- the 2007 Internet Influence Report con- taste, the opinions of net, innovating with products, customer ducted by The Vision Council and Job- friends, family, and service, content and marketing,” he said. son Research in June 2007, 52 percent of even strangers certain- respondents/ consumers had used the ly can help make the Optical e-Tailing Internet to examine possible brands and final choice much easi- Optical retailers, both traditional and types of eyeglasses prior to purchasing er,” explained Hessel. online-only, are taking heed. “Today, the their last pair. Some 28 percent said they “The Web makes it Internet is central to how consumers used it to examine possible eyewear possible to hear the shop, whether researching and ‘pre- retailers and nearly 33 percent said they opinions of the people shopping,’ making a purchase on-line or used the Internet to compare and bench- we value most and engaging in post-shopping behaviors mark prices for specific brands or eye- the general public, such as posting ratings or reviews about wear retailers. Of those who responded, which can feel much a purchase or product on Web sites, almost 5 percent purchased their eye- more genuine than group discussion boards, blogs, etc.,” wear directly over the Internet and 67 the feedback of an in- FramesDirect.com’s EyeZone Blog page provides news, announcements added Patricia Sharp, director of Web percent of them did so from an online- store salesperson.” and insights into FramesDirect.com. 40 VISION MONDAY/JUNE 16, 2008 SPECIAL REPORT www.visionmonday.com

Contact Lenses Get A Warm Reception

New Technology, Materials, and Patient Interest Spur Growth

By Marge Axelrad Optimistic, too, are executives about Angel Alvarez, president of ABB/Con- also in terms of contact lens penetration. Editorial Director the daily disposable modality. This is cise agreed. “Contact lens distributors We see the U.S. market growing very being spurred on by the highest patient have become the major source of soft quickly—it’s the fastest growing of all Coming off of a healthy compliance percentages in the market lenses for independent ECPs, in 2007 the developed markets, taking into after a year when some concerns about purchasing two thirds of their require- account its estimated 6 percent growth 2007, contact lens contact lens solutions’ safety and usage ments through this channel. Eighty-five in 2007, compared to 5 percent in Japan prompted consumers and ECPs to percent of independents rely on distrib- and a relatively flat market in Europe. company executives and reconsider the category or at least take a utors for some portion of their soft lens “Our outlook,” Balestrieri continued, first real look at it. requirements.” “for 2008 is another 5 percent to 6 percent leading distributors are In addition, there is a rise in the num- Alvarez pointed out, “At the same growth overall; the first quarter was below anticipating another very ber of eyeglass wearers who are starting time, the number of annual purchase that pace, but we see the market acceler- to like the idea of occasional or part-time transactions per patient has doubled, as ating as new technology is introduced this robust year of growth for contact lens wear. As a result, daily dis- the result of disposable lenses. Manag- year; it’s only a temporary slowdown.” posables are projected to experience ing transaction costs has become a more Contact lenses, he said, have a higher the category in 2008. another year, following 2007, of healthy consumer wearer base in the U.S. high double-digit gains. “There’s a 13 percent penetration NEW YORK—One of the brightest Jeff Rems, president of Optical Dis- among the total population and that’s segments of today’s eyewear market, tributors Group (ODG), noted, “The the equivalent of 25 percent of those contact lens sales, outpaced the total economy is not the greatest. But to a cer- who need vision correction wearing con- industry’s retail sales gains last year by tain extent, it’s a resistant industry to eco- tact lenses some or all of the time. Even growing at some 3 percent to 4 percent nomic downturns. And in reality, the with that, there are still big opportuni- overall, according to Jobson/The Vision growth in contact lenses are coming from ties for growth,” Balestrieri said. Council’s VisionWatch data for the 12 new products, a range of options with The ECP in the U.S. and patients months ending December 2007. ever-improving comfort to patients. Doc- themselves are always part of a dynamic And, they are at least keeping pace tors, too, are more confident about the CooperVision’s Avaira’s new two-week sihy lens market, they are looking for better com- features Aquaform Technology. with that rate of performance this year, new lenses and are recognizing that fort and eye health; they are receptive to too, the experts in the category tell monthly and annual dispensing keeps significant issue for ECPs. ABB/Con- new technologies, he observed. “We’ve Vision Monday, despite the current patients compliant and in their practices.” cise analyses show that administrative noticed that in the past year or so the daily economic climate. Rems said, “We’ve been working on costs of fulfilling contact lens orders can disposable category has taken off, growing Sales are being led by the very posi- helping ECPs understand and execute consume as much as 35 percent of gross double digits. Three years ago, dailies tive reception to silicone hydrogel (sihy) auto-replenishment, too, which helps profit. Our strategy is to educate ECPs were less than 7 percent of the total; today materials, many of which are now being their cash flow and builds connections about best management practices to the market is passing 10 percent—it’s still introduced in second and third phases. and convenience for patients at very reduce administrative costs.” Continued on page 42 Sihy’s now dominate and comprise an competitive costs.” Contact lens company leaders concur estimated 60 percent the market, Rems pointed out that while the that ECPs are recognizing gains to their observers reported. industry, in his estimation, grew in “high practice health and the ability to build Also running high are the predictions single digits” last year, the distribution patient loyalty through their contact lens for both torics, to serve the astigmatic channel was up in double digits while fitting, recommendations and sales. population, employing the new materi- ODG’s business growth exceeded that. Overall, they support a sunny outlook als and modalities, and multifocals, “We’ve structured a good level of serv- for the category this year. addressing either first-time presbyopes ices and other programs to help ECPS Francesco Balestrieri, president of who have never worn glasses and don’t better manage their business, we can North America for CIBA Vision, said, want to, or long-term contact lens wear- help on the back end and contribute to “The U.S. market is extremely attrac- Acuvue Oasys for Astigmatism is scheduled to be ers who want to stay in them. their bottom line.” tive; it’s the largest population-wise but launched this month by Johnson and Johnson. The Right Lens For Virtually Every Presbyope.

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©2008 CooperVision, Inc. 42 VISION MONDAY/JUNE 16, 2008 SPECIAL REPORT www.visionmonday.com

has just launched, just nine months after Biofinity, Gardner said. At Bausch & Lomb, the optimistic forecasts continue. Noted Linda Faw- cett, vice president, marketing, “Multi-

LdbVcD8/ > adkZ lZVg^c\ XdciVXih### 7ji > cZZY gZVYZgh idd4 6KD/ Cdi VcnbdgZ 7VjhX]  AdbW XdggZXi k^h^dc [dg gZVY^c\### focals are a huge focus for us as a compa- Bjai^";dXVa XdciVXih ny, to make sure that there’s awareness of the category, to make emerging pres- byopes aware of it. We’ve initiated a lot CooperVision’s business with the of communications to this group and ProClear Multifocal has grown. dialed up our advertising.” Torics will receive continued focus as are more comfortable fitting children, too.

[dg Y^hiVcXZ### VcY ZkZgnl]ZgZ ^c"WZilZZc# LdbVcD8/ 7nZ WnZ gZVYZgh½ ;dg V [gZZ ig^Va eV^g k^h^i WVjhX]#Xdb will the daily category. Fawcett said, “There’s another major trend we see Bausch & Lomb targets Boomers with its broadcast ads for MultiFocals. “Pure Vision Toric and Multifocal are a that has to do with vision related to per- big priority for us. And we are now get- formance. How important your eyes are to Continued from page 40 percent last year and it predicts that the ting ready to launch Softlens 1-Day Daily achieve things in your life—the lifestyle small but we still see higher, robust category will be strong again in ’08. Disposable, it’s a next level of fine-tuning out of the chair can be even more impor- growth in this arena for this year. “Daily disposables still rank low in per- and we’re very optimistic about it.” tant than the fitting experience when the “Patient satisfaction is the highest centage of overall fits, but I think ECPs At Vistakon, a division of Johnson & patient is sitting in the exam room. with dailies, there is good loyalty and also see them as an opportunity for prac- Johnson, Naomi Kelman, president, told “And, finally,” Kelman noted, more messages about dailies are being tice profitability. At Cooper, our three VM, “The last few years for contact “There’s the reflection of technology priority goals are health and safety, com- lenses have been very strong, ’07 was no happening in our lives. Everyone’s tex- pliance and business/practice profitabili- exception and in ’08 we anticipate real- ting or checking cell phones or working ty—dailies meet all of those [criteria].” ly good growth. with computers, which leads to eye- Gardner also said CooperVision sees strain, dryness. This has led people to more fits going to monthly, versus two- seek out lenses that are comfortable but week regimens. “CooperVision virtually do well in challenging environments. created the monthly market in the U.S. Acuvue Oasys is designed specifically to with the products we launched in the address that [issue].” Ocular Insight’s Clear 58 is a generic lens. mid-‘90s and we know compliance is A new entrant into the U.S. contact passed on. It’s still a mixed landscape higher. Last year the biggest monthly lens market this year is Ocular Insight, with some ECPs really committed to fit- lens launched was Biofinity, it was a Inc. With the U.S. distribution of con- ting dailies and others still considering much-anticipated Sihy lens launched tact lenses made by ClearLab, the com- embracing the category.” CIBA plans to and it’s rocketed because it’s delivered CIBA Vision is launching Air Optix for Astigmatism. pany debuted its lenses in April and is launch its new daily product in July, what doctors were looking for.” “Part of this is the fundamental nature targeting ECPs and optical retailers with under the Focus Dailies brand, Focus Torics, too, Gardner pointed out, con- of contact lenses—people need vision a “generic” contact lens that offers them Dailies Aqua Comfort Plus. tinue to be a major priority and market correction and there’s an annuity/renewal the alternative, said Steve Weisfeld, OD, Sihy, too, Balestrieri pointed out, con- position for CooperVision in the U.S. factor with contact lenses.” She added, vice president of professional relations tinues to grow as the market’s switch “Today’s torics aren’t really ‘specialty’ “We continue to have terrific success. and John Raycraft, president and CEO from hema to sihy materials progresses. lenses anymore, that’s an old term. They Acuvue Oasys is the fastest-growing dis- of the company. “There are many “ECPs are actively increasing their posable brand in the spherical segment options and lenses out there today; we choices of the product, new torics and and Acuvue Advance for Astigmatism feel there is room for the doctor to multifocals in the categories help.” continues to grow at double digit rates explain the alternative to the patient and James Gardner, director of marketing, for us. Acuvue Oasys for Astigmatism is present new choices.” CooperVision concurred that the market to be launched this month while Acuvue Ocular Insight offers several “generic grew at a solid rate last year and that SynergEyes recently launched the Multifocal Hybrid. 1-Day Moist product has strong health equivalent” contact lenses, ranging from “Cooper grew faster than the market.” perform well, they’re predictable in and comfort advantages for patients.” the Clear 58, the Clear 55A, the Clear He added, “2007 was an interesting year terms of how they fit; doctors are more Kelman continued, “We don’t define for a few reasons. Sihy lenses continued comfortable with them and so the cate- ourselves by ‘modalities’—that’s an old- to dominate fitting, in spherical lenses in gory is taking off.” Multifocals, too, he fashioned approach. Our focus has been particular, but the outlook for silicone noted, “especially with our broad portfo- about the critical benefits the end con- torics continue to look strong. We also lio” are growing very well; it’s one of the sumers and doctors are looking for. We saw daily disposables really take off. The best sectors of the market for us. A lot of see four major trends: people who want issue of solution recalls, solution efficacy Baby Boomers, long-time contact lens to wear contact lenses part time. We Unilens C-VUE debuted its 1-Day Daily Disposable. and compliance contributed to doctors wearers or first-time presbyopes, are have a recent survey that shows one out really taking a new look at dailies.” coming into the category.” of 10 contact lens wearers wear both All-Day and the Clear All-Day T. The Echoing the estimates of other execs, Cooper’s Avaira, its new two-week spectacles and contact lenses. And these company is working on a daily dispos- Gardner said dailies grew by some 25 Sihy lens with Aquaform Technology patients come back for care more often.” able, Weisfeld noted. She continued, “We also see a major Said Raycraft, “Our contact lenses are trend in the two-week segment and fit- about the value. Doctors have been ting kids at younger ages. We have a working with these materials for years See the Video of the Week recently published study that shows that and we are offering them huge price dif- fitting children as young as eight years old ferentials; they will discuss the options www. .com is really viable, they are as capable of and determine how to fit these into their wearing the product as teens and doctors practice portfolio.” II

44 VISION MONDAY/JUNE 16, 2008 EXAM LANES www.visionmonday.com

OPTOMETRY NEWS AOA Issues ‘Caring for the Eyes of America’ ST. LOUIS—Private practice optometrists private practices, although increasingly rior segment disorders, the study said. insurance coverage, 76.5 percent of are maintaining their position as the in partnerships or group practices as And ODs are providing patients the patients in a typical optometric office are nation’s primary eyecare providers, opposed to solo practices. latest in state-of-the-art eye and vision now covered (48 percent by private according to the American Optometric The Caring for the Eyes of America care, with a solid majority of practices plans, 28.5 percent by Medicare or other Association’s (AOA) recently released study examines the changing nature of now equipped with automated perime- public programs). Nearly half of patients “Caring for the Eyes of America” survey. optometric practice over time, including ters (91.3 percent of practices), autore- (45.6 percent) are in managed-care pro- The survey, the AOA’s 10th, indicates data from recurring surveys on consumer fractor/autokeratometer (77.8 percent) grams, the AOA study indicated. that private optometric practices trends, third-party/managed care partici- and the pachymeter (72.6 percent), And although practice gross revenues accounted for the largest share—approx- pation rates, the size and share of the according to the AOA survey. Scanning are up, some practitioners’ net incomes imately 44.37 percent—of what the ophthalmic market, optical dispensing laser ophthalmoscopes and pachymeters are not keeping pace, according to the organization estimates as a $29.25 billion and optometric income. are the technology most often being survey, as margins are squeezed by total U.S. ophthalmic market in 2007 (up The study indicates that ODs are pro- added in optometric practices. increasing expenses. 7.5 percent from the AOA’s estimate for viding not only more eye examinations On the financial front, although the The full Caring for the Eyes of Amer- industry volume in 2005). each year (2,229 exams annually, on aver- AOA says Americans are receiving more ica study is available for $279; AOA The AOA estimates that 37,083 full- age) compared with a decade earlier, but a and better eyecare through optometrists, members may purchase the compendi- time equivalent ODs were active in the wider range of care. Optometrists are now that care is rising in cost much more um at a steep discount, according to the workforce during 2007. Most (up to treating or co-managing 66.1 percent of slowly than other forms of health care or organization. For more information, go to three-fourths of those responding to their patients with glaucoma and 83.2 per- consumer prices overall, according to the www.aoa.org/caring08.xml or call (800) AOA surveys) provide care in traditional cent of patients they diagnosed with ante- Bureau of Labor Statistics data. As for 262-2210. II ODs Heading to Seattle for Optometry’s Meeting

SEATTLE—Optometrists, paraopto- to a welcome reception sponsored by Friday and from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday. meeting on Friday. metrics and optometry students from Bausch & Lomb. Thursday night, Essilor sponsors the The meeting wraps up Saturday around the country head to the Washing- At the annual opening general session annual Varilux Optometry Super Bowl night, June 28, with the Presidential ton State Convention and Trade Center on Thursday, June 26, author Christo- competition (this year is Super Bowl Celebration, sponsored by Hoya. Come- here next week for the 111th annual pher Gardner, who wrote The Pursuit of XVII) and reception for optometry stu- dian and “Tonight Show” host Jay Leno American Optometric Association (AOA) Happyness, will offer his views as the dents. The first-place winner receives a will entertain at that event, which hon- Congress and the 38th annual American AOA keynote speaker, sponsored by $1,000 grand prize and trophy. ors the newly elected AOA president Optometric Student Association (ASOA) Essilor. During that session, the AOA Also on Thursday, Hoya sponsors and board of trustees. Following Leno, conference, once again combined under will present several major awards, Washington Wine Experience in the The Grooveline, a tribute band featuring the umbrella of “Optometry’s Meeting.” including Optometrist of the Year and exhibit hall; on Friday afternoon, June music of the 1970s and 1980s, will per- The event, which runs from June 25 Young Optometrist of the Year. 27, attendees can participate in Micro- form during a dessert reception. to June 29, kicks off Wednesday, June The Optometry’s Meeting exhibit hall brew Mania featuring local beers, also in Next year’s Optometry’s Meeting will 25, with the first continuing education opens that afternoon; exhibits by more the exhibit hall. be held June 24 through June 28, 2009, courses; classes run through Sunday. than 200 industry firms and organizations New AOA officers will be elected dur- at the Gaylord National Convention Wednesday night, attendees are invited will also be open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. ing the annual House of Delegates Center in Washington, D.C. II

EYECARE NEWS

PENNSYLVANIA COLLEGE OF OPTOMETRY J&J VISION CARE INSTITUTE BECOMES SALUS UNIVERSITY JULY 1 ADDS SIXTH SATELLITE CENTER ELKINS PARK, Pa.—The Pennsylvania College of Optometry (PCO), based here, will JACKSONVILLE, Fla.—Johnson & Johnson’s Vision Care Institute recently added its significantly change its institutional structure on July 1, when it officially makes the sixth partner institution: the Inter American University of Puerto Rico School of Optom- transition from a college to a university and adopts a new name: Salus University. etry now hosts a Vision Care Institute satellite learning center. Salus, a Latin word for health and well-being, was unanimously adopted by the col- “The satellite learning centers provide a direct link between the main campus of lege’s board of trustees as an expression of the institution’s dedication to the preser- The Vision Care Institute in Jacksonville, Fla., and the optometry schools, enhancing vation of the health and well-being of the communities its graduates serve, an students’ experiences with even more information and contact lens-related skills use- announcement said. ful for their careers,” said Richard Clompus, OD, director of the Institute. “Education- “The university’s name supports the institution’s vision of an academic community al programming at the satellite centers includes distance learning programs for first- that emphasizes a holistic approach to education, prevention, treatment and rehabil- through fourth-year optometry students, using video conferencing technologies from itation, and includes a commitment to interdisciplinary learning,” noted president the Jacksonville headquarters. Additional satellite centers will be opened at other Thomas L. Lewis, OD. optometry schools in the future.” “Our faculty, students, staff and board of trustees realize that, as this institution The Inter American University of Puerto Rico School of Optometry was founded in grows and becomes more complex, the name Salus will offer direction, underscoring 1981; in 1992, it became a separate, autonomous academic unit within the univer- the value of interdisciplinary education and early clinical experience that are the hall- sity. II marks of our innovative curriculum.”

46 VISION MONDAY/JUNE 16, 2008 EXAM LANES www.visionmonday.com

OPTOMETRY NEWS Industry Experts Take Pulse of Low Vision Care Meeting Explores Treatments, Strategies, Models of Care By Mary Kane Farrell is an on-air personality and talk Executive Editor show host for 1019 RXP FM—New York’s Rock Experience. He suffers from WASHINGTON , D.C.—Experts from Retinoschisis, a congenital visual impair- across the country and throughout a vari- ment, but his disability hasn’t stopped ety of disciplines—including the oph- him from getting his driver’s license with thalmic community, low vision advo- the use of telescopic glasses. During his cates, rehabilitation experts and low presentation, Farrell demonstrated the vision patient groups—gathered at the use of his special glasses and magnifiers, National Press Club here recently for Attending the dinner and reception the night manufactured by Eschenback Optik of before the meeting are left to right, Tara Cortes, The Vision Summit: Focus on Low America. He joked that they made inter- Geoffrey Moss, Eschenbach Optik of America PhD, president and CEO, Lighthouse Vision sponsored by the Better Vision esting conversation pieces if he is ever presents Eleanor Faye, MD, medical director of International; Mary Lou Jackson, MD, chair, AAO Lighthouse International with the Visionary Award Institute (BVI). Vision Rehabilitation Committee; Lylas Mogk, pulled over by the police. But on a more from the Better Vision Institute. Tom Abbott, optician and incoming director, Visual Rehabilitation and Research serious note, he advised patients with BVI chair, summed up the “vision” of Center, Henry Ford Health System, and Catherine low vision to “be as proactive as possible. services; and a network of eye clinics Cohen, VP, Governmental Affairs, AAO. the gathering saying, “The strategic plan throughout the U.S. with basic low here is to examine the tools that the busy ECPs to use. They are under a vision services available at every loca- three Os are using in their practices. By tremendous amount of pressure to see tion, according to Watson. bringing together experts to share strate- many patients. How can they determine From the private sector perspective, gies and best practices, we hope to who needs treatment for low vision? Once Ronald J. Cole, MD, runs MVT Visual define the tools, resources and contacts that happens, can the treatment be han- Rehabilitation Center in Sacramento, needed to improve low vision treatment.” dled in a private center or a rehab facility?” Calif. and his practice takes a multi-dis- The presentation was organized into ciplinary approach to low vision. “We four panels highlighting the following cat- have 12 ophthalmologists in four offices egories: the Current Landscape, the in addition to a support staff of occupa- Patient Perspective, the Professional Per- tional therapists. Certain services, such Presenters from the panel, The Patient spective, and Economic Models of Care. Perspective, are Bill Robinson (l), CPA, and Mark as clinical psychology is outsourced but During the first panel, Cynthia Stuen, Farrell, talk show host for 1019 RXP FM—New we work as a team,” Cole said. senior vice president of policy and pro- York’s Rock Experience. Cole outlined some of the challenges fessional affairs for Lighthouse Interna- Don’t think about what you can’t do but facing a practice specializing in low tional, explored the psychological rami- what you can do.” vision: cancellations and unfilled Presenters from the panel, the Current Landscape, fications of vision loss. “The Gale Watson acting national director of appointments; insurance reimburse- are left to right Asel Ryskulova, MD, Centers for psychological effects of living with limit- Blind Rehabilitation Service for the ment; highstaff/patient ratio; high over- Disease Control and Prevention; Cynthia Stuen, ed vision are a critical part of low vision Department of Veteran Affairs, outlined head; and high maintenance patients. PhD, senior vp policy and professional affairs, Lighthouse International, and Dan Roberts, found- and its treatment,” she said. Since low her agency’s model for rehabilitative However, Cole was quick to offer solu- ing director, MD Support & International Macular vision tends to affect the senior popula- eyecare for veterans. “Most of our tions including recalls and follow-up; Degeneration Support Group. tion there is a double burden of growing patients have seen the worst of what life considering part-time vs. full-time mod- According to the BVI, 6.5 million older and acquiring vision loss. The has to offer—we want to offer them the els; evaluations at central locations; Americans aged 65 and older suffer from influence of family and friends can best.” Highlights of the VA model steady referral stream; and a mobile low vision, and the number of Ameri- either impair or support the rehabilita- include: a continuum care program with rehab unit since patients with low vision cans affected is expected to increase as tion process, depending on the level of no time lapse between diagnosis and won’t travel far for services. II the nation’s population ages. The gener- support they provide, according to al consensus among the speakers was Stuen. But she stressed that the issue that currently, low vision needs are not extended “beyond the three Os to a LOW VISION OUTCOMES AND ACTION ITEMS being adequately met and the aging larger population of providers that need Baby Boomer population will only exac- to be brought into the mix.” WASHINGTON, D.C.—At the conclusion of the day’s presentations, participants formed erbate the need for expanded services Treating the patient as a whole was a brainstorming groups to discuss what they learned and what other issues/concerns and personnel specializing in low vision. recurring theme throughout the day. came out of the meeting. The four groups came up with the following outcomes: Paul Michelson, MD, Better Vision During the second panel on patient per- Lessons Learned Institute liaison, opened the meeting by spectives, speakers currently living with • Profitability is tough. raising several key issues for attendees: low vision recounted their personal • Patient awareness is greatly needed. “Our goal here is to find viable models for experiences and challenges. Mark F. • There is a need for more providers. • The Veterans Administration model and funding is one of the ideal models. Questions and Concerns • How do we reach consumers? Have you seen VM WebTV today? • How do we help improve reimbursement? • How do we motivate eyecare professionals to include low vision in their practice? www. .com • How do we unify the community (optical and beyond) to address this issue? • How do we get the resources that are needed?

48 VISION MONDAY/JUNE 16, 2008 RETAIL DISPENSARY www.visionmonday.com

SECOND LOOK SECOND LOOK Costa Del Mar Releases New Kenmark Introduces New Metal Sunglass Styles Designs to Thalia Girls Eyewear

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla.—Costa Del Mar has designed three new combination metal LOUISVILLE, Ky.—The Kenmark Group has added four new styles into the Thalia shades featuring aggressive styling and edgy interpretations on classic navigator Girls Eyewear collection for summer. and aviator looks. Inspired by Latin pop star, Thalia, the frames combine flirty shapes with modern “Placida, Flamingo and Cudjoe are aggressive new styles for the brand, bringing designs for a fun, fashionable look, while offering grown-up styling and colorful the latest fashion trends into our performance-driven sunglasses,” said Chas Mac- designs for young girls and teens. Shapes include trendy ovals and materials con- Donald, president of Costa Del Mar. “You don’t have to sacrifice style for adven- sist of sassy combinations of metals and zyls. Most of the frames feature ture—now you can see it all, do it all and look great while doing it.” adjustable nosepads and spring hinges for added comfort, while several designs The Placida is a revamped interpretation of a classic navigator sunglass for small are accented with a subtle heart logo on the interior temple tips. to medium face shapes. The Flamingo has a similar shape to a classic old school The styles include the Costa Del Mar style, the Nube, a metal/zyl combina- Havana, and is a larger frame tion frame available in to fit larger heads. Cudjoe is cocoa, lilac and rose with a an aviator shape with a medi- raised Thalia heart; the um-sized fit. Perla, a metal, rimless style These new models bring in cherry, cocoa and plum high fashion to the Costa line with a thick endpiece and with gold and gunmetal colors temple design; the Suave, for both men and women who an oval combination frame The new Flamingo sunglass style from Costa Del Mar. are adventure-lovers that love in black, magenta and tor- to look good. To that end, the toise; and the Viento, an The Nube from the Kenmark Group’s Thalia Girls collection. styles are also performance-driven with a sturdy wire cores, omega spring hinges upswept butterfly shape and sport-based silicone nose pads. Lens options include COSTA 400 or the ‘high- with color coordinated zyl temples in cocoa, magenta and plum. def’ 580 mirror or non-mirror. Each Thalia Girls frame comes with a signature pink purse case and features a All three new sunglasses have a logo plaque on the temple, are backed by a life- three-year warranty. The new styles in the Thalia Girls Eyewear collection from Ken- time warranty and are priced to the dispenser between $94.50 and $144.50. II mark are priced to the dispenser between $47.95 and $49.95. II

SECOND LOOK SECOND LOOK Viva Adds New Optical Groups Aoyama Unveils New Styles to Catherine Deneuve Lunettes in Shiseido Collection

SOMERVILLE, N.J.—Viva International Group presents two new optical groupings in RONKONKOMA, N.Y.—Shiseido Eyewear by Aoyama Optical USA releases new opti- the Catherine Deneuve Lunettes collection. cal styles for women. First is the “Modern Elegance” collection, featuring sophisticated detailing and The Shiseido eyewear collection features Japanese technology with subtle, fem- rich colorations on styles CD248, CD249 and CD250. Geometric shapes and intri- inine styling and intricate detailing, luxurious colors, 100 percent titanium construc- cate patterns inspired the metal detailing of these chic styles which embellish the tion and superior craftsmanship. open endpieces of the group A standout of the new models is the like precious jewels. The SH-5029, available in color combina- CD248 is a modified oval, tions brown/beige, dark red/clear and CD249 is a semi-rimless demi drown/beige, in size 51/17/136. oval and CD250 is a semi- Constructed of double laminate zyl, the rimless with deeper modified SH-5029 features a bold, slim line rec- rectangle profile, all featuring tangle frame front design and contem- handcrafted temples and rich porary geometric clear gem stones on colors, including ruby, bronze, the front temples. The Modern Elegance grouping from Catherine Deneuve champagne and gold. Another highlight is the SH-5033 in Lunettes by Viva International Group. The next grouping, “Sheer black, dark brown or dark purple, in Confidence,” includes two size 53/14/133. This frame is con- styles with open metal lace detailing that accents styles CD251 and CD252. These structed of double laminate plastic with semi-rimless styles feature intricate figure eight patterned metal braided endpieces a dramatic, modified feminine slim line The SH-5029 in brown/beige (top) and the SH- that complement the handcrafted temples. These metal/plastic combination group- wrap front design and jeweled and 5033 in black (bottom) from the Shiseido col- lection from Aoyama Optical USA. ing includes a modified oval, CD251, and a modified rectangle, CD252 with spring engraved flower motifs on the temples. hinges and adjustable nose pads in bronze, ruby and violet. POP materials are available upon request. Each Shiseido frame from Aoyama These styles from Catherine Deneuve Lunettes and Viva are priced to the dis- Optical USA comes with a case featuring the Shiseido signature logo. These new penser at $46.95. II styles are priced to the dispenser at $79. II from Thursday 30OCT. until Sunday NOV. 2 2008

Anticipate desire

SILMO? The ideal exhibition where eyewear meets fashion. The meeting place for all the big names in fashion, luxury and sport, with the Village a byword for innovative design. An outstanding trends information resource to meet your customers’ expectations. SILMO, MONDIAL DE L’OPTIQUE, a launch pad for new talent, For more information - Promosalons USA your autumn rendez-vous in Paris. Tel: 1-212-957-0932 - Email: [email protected] - www.silmo.fr 50 VISION MONDAY/JUNE 16, 2008 RETAIL DISPENSARY www.visionmonday.com

Carmen Marc Valvo’s parents knew he was born to nip and tuck. Little did his father, an anesthesiologist, and his moth- er, a nurse, know that he would do so as a fashion designer rather than the plastic surgeon they’d hoped he’d one day become. By Deirdre Carroll Despite the early confusion, the designer does now spend his days making women more beautiful, albeit with a nee- dle and thread rather than a scalpel. Valvo launched his own label in 1989 after working as a ready-to-wear designer for Nina Ricci in Paris and a stint at YE Christian Dior. Immediately, his sportswear and evening F. Y. E wear collections were a success. Having established a solid reputation with his Collection line, Valvo launched Carmen Marc Valvo Couture in 1998, to meet the overwhelming demand from his celebrity and VIP clients, who wanted original Carmen Marc Valvo creations. Stars like Beyoncé, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Lucy Liu, Oprah Winfrey, Kim Cattrall, Queen Latifah, Radha Mitchell and Vanessa Williams count him among their favorites, but it is his devotion to his non-celebrity clients that has made him a fash- ion star and today the world of Carmen Marc Valvo includes a sportswear collection, a suit collection, custom furs, shoes, lim- ited-edition jewelry designs, a swimwear line and a new eyewear collection with Signature Eyewear. F.Y.Eye asked this quintessential American designer about the newest addition to his fashion empire.

What are the most important influ- find it educational and exhilarating. The most difficult thing was trying 1 ences on your design work? to give my eyewear collection the I am very influenced by glamour and Describe the ultimate Carmen Marc same esthetic as my other creations. beauty combined with comfort and 3Valvo woman. of resin. I find the reading glasses so function. The women I dress are sophisticated, What are some of your favorite ever chic. self assured and appreciate quality. 5pieces or characteristics of the What excites you most about collection? What is the best advice anyone 2 design? What’s been the greatest challenge I find them all unique and special real- 6ever gave you? New challenges and doing something 4in interpreting your design philosophy ly. I particularly like the temple Never trust anyone who says “trust I’ve never done before is exciting. I or perspective into your eyewear line? details, the inlays of lace and overlays me.” II LAUNCHES Signature Launches Carmen Marc Valvo Eyewear By Deirdre Carroll of licensing for Signature. “The addition “The addition of the Carmen Marc Valvo Senior Editor of the Carmen Marc Valvo Eyewear col- Eyewear collection complements the lection complements the Signature Eye- NEW YORK—Signature Eyewear, Inc. wear portfolio. His input and enthusi- Signature Eyewear portfolio. His input has introduced the Carmen Marc Valvo asm in product development and and enthusiasm in product development Eyewear collection in collaboration with attention to detail are amazing. He is a designer Carmen Marc Valvo. truly skilled, artistic professional and is and attention to detail are amazing.” “We are so excited to be working with such a joy to work with. I hope that —Paul Cartwright, Signature Eyewear Carmen,” said Paul Cartwright, director when people are trying on his product it comes to life on their face the way he island getaways has transpired into a col- intended it to.” lection of beautiful shell, coral and rich The launch collection included 12 vintage tortoise coloration,” said Jill ophthalmic styles and 10 sun styles for Gardner, senior vice president of design women who are drawn to luxury and for Signature. sophistication. “Locations such as the French West Special features of the line include Indies, Seychelles and beyond create a French lace infused zyl, carved plastic color story that modernizes shapes for temples that emulate shells, step and today’s woman.” repeat “V” patterns etched into the tem- The case and marketing materials for ples and rich, metal-on-plastic embed- the collection complete the glamorous ded patterns. product offering. POP features a Angular cat-eyes, bold rectangles, over- matte/shiny step-and-repeat V logo sized sunwear with rounded edges and along the backside with a rich padded partial rimless metals are predominant in base. Cases are available in onyx or dark the collection in colors like fawn, mush- platinum with the step-and-repeat V room, cocoa brulee, oyster, cherrywood logo and a cleaning cloth. and black Tortuga, while style names The Carmen Marc Valvo Eyewear evoke women of glamour like Ava, collection from Signature Eyewear is Optical style Ava (bottom) and Carmen Marc Valvo POP imagery featuring Grable and Etta. priced to the dispenser between $90 sun style Palma (top) from the the optical style Grable in cocoa brulee “Carmen’s love of 1940’s glamour and and $150. II Carmen Marc Valvo collection. from Signature Eyewear. www.visionmonday.com RETAIL DISPENSARY VISION MONDAY/JUNE 16, 2008 51

CONTACT LENSES Vistakon Debuts Acuvue Oasys for Astigmatism

JACKSONVILLE, Fla.—Vistakon, a Medical Affairs, Vistakon. “It offers out- ers whose eyes can feel tired and dry in rays and 99 percent of UVB rays, meeting division of Johnson & Johnson Vision standing visual acuity and fit for astig- challenging environments, such as long the highest UV-blocking standards for Care, Inc., is introducing this month matic patients, providing clear and con- hours of computer use, frequent ground contact lenses. Although UV-blocking Acuvue Oasys brand contact lenses for sistent vision and comfort throughout or air travel, or everyday exposure to heat- contact lenses provide important added Astigmatism. The lens will soon be the day. With this lens, wearers do not ed or air conditioned surroundings. protection for patients, they should not be available at some U.S. eyecare profes- have to compromise vision.” Hydraclear Plus is an improved formu- viewed as a stand-alone solution. sionals’ offices, with distribution expect- lation of the unique Hydraclear technolo- Contact lenses should always be worn ed to grow through the coming months. gy that combines high performance base in conjunction with high-quality UV- Acuvue Oasys for Astigmatism com- materials with a moisture-rich wetting blocking sunglasses and a wide- bines the Accelerated Stabilization agent to create a more wettable, ultra brimmed hat for maximum UV protec- Design (ASD) technology of Acuvue smooth contact lens especially for chal- tion for the eyes. Advance brand contact lenses for astig- lenging environments that can make eyes Acuvue Oasys for Astigmatism is indicat- matism with senofilcon A, the new gen- feel tired and dry, the company noted. ed for daily wear vision correction and may eration silicone hydrogel material of In addition, the company points out be worn for up to 6 consecutive nights/7 Acuvue Oasys contact lenses. The lens that Acuvue Oasys for Astigmatism days of extended wear as recommended by also features Hydraclear Plus, the The Accelerated Stabilization Design blocks greater than 96 percent of UVA an individual’s eyecare professional. II improved formulation of the unique of Acuvue Advance for Astigmatism har- Hydraclear technology that combines nesses the natural pressures of a blinking high performance base materials with a eye to balance the lens in place and ODG Develops Library of moisture-rich wetting agent, the compa- quickly realign the lens if it rotates out ny’s statement said. of position, the company said, noting it Annual Dispense Guides “Acuvue Oasys for Astigmatism brings provides patients with astigmatism with together the best features of two of the consistent, all-day vision and comfort. HAWTHORNE, N.Y.—To can be personalized leading contact lenses on the market,” Senofilcon A, a new generation silicone assist ECPs and their and printed out. said Sheila Hickson-Curran, Director, hydrogel material, is for contact lens wear- staff, Optical Distributor “Today eyecare Group (ODG) has practitioners want developed a and need more Unilens Launches Aspheric complete library than just competi- of Annual Dis- tive pricing from a dis- C-VUE Daily Disposable Lens pense Guides. tributor. They want LARGO, Fla.—Unilens Vision improved depth of focus at all ranges. ODG has intro- and need a business Inc.(OTC Bulletin Board: UVICF; TSX There is no required daily cleaning or care duced a comprehen- partner committed to their Venture Exchange: UVI), which devel- required. The lenses may be worn for a sive marketing kit success, a company that offers “more ops, licenses, manufactures, distributes day and then just simply thrown away. consisting of 60 individual contact lens than just product” that’s why we have and markets specialty contact lenses, has “With the continued success of our sell sheets, sorted by manufacturer and developed this free online resource,” launched the C-VUE 1 Day Aspheric best selling C-VUE Multifocal lenses, C- brand. Each sheet has a product photo- said Jeff Rems, president of ODG. He Single Vision lens, which is the first VUE Toric Multifocal and C-VUE ASV graph and compares the cost benefit of added, “By simplifying the amount of aspheric, daily disposable contact lens we are now pleased to offer our very first buying an Annual Supply versus a single information, making it more visually inter- daily disposable single vision solution multipack purchase. Savings including esting for the patient and including all with the C-VUE 1 Day ASV to licensed manufacturer rebates are easily identifi- major contact lens brands, we have cre- eye professionals only,” stated Michael able. Sell sheets are customizable and ated a tool that helps our customers Pecora, CEO of Unilens. “This new include an area for the practice name quickly and easily explain the financial offering expands the company’s portfo- and logo. Being Web-based, all the sheets savings to their patients.” II lio of soft lens products, serving the rap- idly growing one-time use daily dispos- sold under the C-VUE brand. able single vision market.” CLMA Launches GP Fitter Locator According to Unilens, the new C- Established in 1989, Unilens Vision VUE 1 Day ASV is a daily disposable Inc. emphasizes its role as “the eyecare LINCOLN, Neb.—A new program, the Eyecare professionals are welcomed that is ideal for low level astigmats, early professional’s specialty contact lens com- “GP Fitter Locator,” is now functioning and encouraged to participate and sub- presbyopes, and those who simply wish pany.” Through its wholly owned sub- on the Gas Permeable Lens Institute mit their personal information (including to improve their vision. The new prod- sidiary Unilens Corp., USA, located in Web site: www.gpli.info. their listing of expertise as bifocal/multi- uct offering will provide independent Largo, Fla., develops, licenses, manufac- The searchable database is available focal fitter, irregular cornea fitter and practitioners with an additional aspheric tures, distributes and markets specialty for GP contact lens fitters to make refer- orthokeratology/ corneal reshaping fitter) C-VUE contact lens option that con- contact lenses under the C-VUE, rals to fitters in other regions in the U.S. for inclusion in this premiere database of tributes to patient retention and practice Unilens, Sof-Form, Aquaflex, SoftCon, The program has plans to grow to GP contact lens fitters. profitability. Lombart, and LifeStyle brands. Addi- include a GP fitter locator for consumers For further information, contact Pam C-VUE 1 Day ASV is easy to fit, tional information on the company may on the www.contactlenses.org Web site Witham, Administrative Director, ph: Unilens said, designed with aspheric be accessed on the Internet at so that patients can easily locate a GP fit- (800) 344-9060 or by email at CLMAs- optics that provides superb comfort and an www.unilens.com. II ter within their geographical area. [email protected]. II 52 VISION MONDAY/JUNE 16, 2008 INSIDE THE LAB www.visionmonday.com

NEWS VIEWS VSP Legends 4.0 Adds Teflon Coating LEWISVILLE, Texas—VSP Legends suppliers like Carl Zeiss Vision, VSP is Coat Lenses, combined with 4.0 optical laboratory has opened an dedicated to strengthening the eyecare VSP Legends 4.0’s outstand- onsite Teflon lens coating facility here. delivery system by expanding choice, ing service is an exciting The VSP-owned lab, located near Dal- increasing value and speeding delivery.” development benefiting las, services private practice eye doctors Developed by Carl Zeiss Vision in col- both doctors and eyewear throughout the U.S. laboration with DuPont, Teflon Clear consumers,” said C.J. Hart- “Onsite application of Teflon coatings Coat anti-reflective technology produces mann, Carl Zeiss Vision’s at VSP Legends 4.0 gives private-practice lenses with high luminous transmittance, brand manager for coatings. doctors an attractive option to reduce scratch resistance equivalent to a premi- VSP operates three whol- delivery times for this high-quality prod- um hard coating, and a super-hydropho- ly-owned optical labs located uct,” said Don Oakley, VSP vice presi- bic, oleophobic coating for easy cleaning. near Sacramento, California; dent of ophthalmic supply chain and Teflon Clear Coat lenses offer “the Columbus, Ohio; and Dallas, The Zeiss H3 hardcoating system is an integral part of the new services. “Working together with valued premium performance of Teflon Clear Texas. II Teflon AR coating facility at Legends 4.0 Optical. Saint-Gobain Intros Blocking BPI Introduces Spark- Pad for Super-Hydrophobics Resistant Vent Hood GRANVILLE, N.Y.—Saint-Gobain, during edging without compromising MIAMI—BPI is introducing the BPI which are sunlight color-balanced for color based here, is introducing SecurEdge lens integrity.” Stainless Steel Spark Resistant Vent matching by reflected light. An exhaust Plus, a new generation of blocking pads King noted that the SecurEdge Plus Hood (product code 15003). blower is included with the unit. specially engineered for super-hydropho- foam core is uniquely manufactured The hood is designed to help The vent hood measures 49 in. bic lenses. According to Saint-Gobain, with a microcellular polyurethane sub- eliminate the odors associated (124.5 cm) high by 36 inches the combination of SecurEdge Plus’ strate for superior torque resistance and with dyeing and neutralizing (91.5cm) wide by 28 inches foam core base and high performance conformability. Additionally, the pad is plastic lenses. It is spark (71.12cm) deep and runs engineered with two separate adhe- resistant to reduce the on 115 volts, 50/60 Hz. sives—one for the block and the other number of ignition The Stainless Steel Spark for the lens. The lens adhesive is specif- sources for chemicals Resistant Production Vent ically formulated to meet a wide range of that are used near or Hood (product code 15004) super-hydrophobic coatings. Ensuring above their flash points. is also available, which error-free application, the lens surface of The vent hood con- measures 49 inches by 51 the pad is identified with “SecurEdge tains two built-in poly- inches by 28 inches Plus” printed under the adhesive. chromatic (chroma- (124.5cm by 129.5cm “Proper application technique is cru- type) fluorescent lamps, by 71.12cm). II cial to maximizing lab efficiency and decreasing waste,” said King. “Lens slip- SecurEdge Plus provides easy liner release and is page most often occurs as a result of available in wide range of sizes and shapes. Briot USA Offers Versatile, improper application.” adhesive ensures optimal torque resist- For proper application, Saint-Gobain Affordable Finishing System ance and with no slippage. Its high per- recommends thoroughly cleaning the forming adhesive eliminates the need lens to ensure that the adhesive com- CUMMING, Ga.—Briot USA is intro- our already impressive line of edger for supplementary film and reduces total pletely bonds to the surface. The com- ducing the Silver Plus, a low-priced fin- options. At Briot USA, our main goal is to systems cost by minimizing waste and pany also pointed out that since con- ishing system that offers multifunctional give our customer base the best options enabling a single-step solution. formity is the leading cause of slippage versatility. The Silver Plus is the newest for their specific needs, instead of forcing “Super-hydrophobic coatings are and offset lenses, it is crucial to match addition to Briot’s all-in-one line of them to adjust to the edger options” said designed to repel dirt, water and unfor- the block and lens curvature to provide equipment which has built-in tracing, Bret Davis, president of Briot USA. tunately conventional pads,” said Geoff good wet-out. blocking and edging. The multi-axis tracer in the Silver Plus King, SecurEdge Product Manager for Saint-Gobain distributes SecurEdge “We are very excited about adding to measures height, length and curve of the Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics, pads through DAC Vision, Dynamic frame, while the frame thickness is ana- which is part of Saint-Gobain Corp., a Labs, Optical Laboratory Supply, Phan- lyzed to ensure that the lens fits the frame major industrial company. “SecurEdge tom Research Laboratories and Practical perfectly. The full-size screen display Plus accurately secures the lens in place Systems. II allows error-free verification of the uncut lens to the frame shape, and the manual blocking is simple and accurate. The Sil- What’s Online @ Lab Advisor This Month ver Plus can edge all types of materials Lab Advisor’s Dollars & Sense columnist Jason Meyer will continue his series, and specific edging cycles are available for “Assessing Financial Performance.” Lab executives will learn how to analyze their hydrophobic and fragile lenses. lab’s financial statements. In the Tech Talk section, you’ll find a tutorial on deblock- With safety beveling, grooving, bevel ing, an often overlooked but crucial step in the lens surfacing process. polishing, color screen, and 300-job Briot USA’s new Silver Plus finishing system features To get a copy of Lab Advisor delivered to your inbox every month, go to Vision- safety beveling, grooving and bevel polishing. The memory, the Silver Plus provides higher- Monday.com. II unit has a color screen and 300-job memory. end features with lower-end pricing. II Make Your Practice a Winner

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© 2008 VisionWeb, Inc. All rights reserved. VisionWeb is a service mark, and “Streamline, Simplify, Succeed.” Is a trademark of VisionWeb, Inc. 54 VISION MONDAY/JUNE 16, 2008 CLASSIFIED www.visionmonday.com

VM MARKETPLACE Advertising Information: (800) 983-7737 • Fax: (610) 854-3780

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hydrophobic treatment for mirrored lenses

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N RTH AMERICAN North American Coating Laboratories C ATING 9450 Pineneedle Dr. Mentor, OH 44060 the original LAB R T RIES 
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t www.nacl.com Certified to ISO 9001:2000 since 2000 and still the best. Mention code HT11 for 10% off a sample kit. Help Wanted Help Wanted Help Wanted Equipment & Supplies We Are Expanding Well-established importer Independent Multiline of optical frames seeking Reps Wanted Eyemart Express is a growing super optical chain with Account Executive Exclusive Territories available. 75 locations. We offer customers high quality eyewear Representative with extraordinary service at prices dramatically Representative for new account to service or call on major acquisition by detailing high lower than our competitors. retailer/labs/distributors. Domestic and International. quality lab at Midwest pricing. As we expand, we are seeking candidates Great opportunity Exciting opportunity to use your for the following positions: existing accounts to generate Fax resume to residual income on a ART Area Managers 718-633-5231 percentage commission as an [email protected] or e-mail independent contractor. M General Managers Lab Managers Please submit resume to: [email protected]. Along with a salary commensurate with experience, EXTRA COMMISSION! HPSOR\HHVUHFHLYHDQH[FHOOHQWEHQHÀWSDFNDJH including: paid vacation, health insurance, bonuses and Supplement your existing sales a generous 401K match. with a complete line of optical supplies, equipment and lenses. Please fax resume to Introduce to your existing clients. Jonathan Herskovitz at 972-488-8563 Nothing to carry except a or email to [email protected]. catalog. Short resume to [email protected] Eyemart Express is an equal opportunity employer. or 800-543-7376. www.visionmonday.com CLASSIFIED VISION MONDAY/JUNE 16, 2008 55

VM MARKETPLACE Advertising Information: (800) 983-7737 • Fax: (610) 854-3780

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VM MARKETPLACE Advertising Information: (800) 983-7737 • Fax: (610) 854-3780

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VM WHERE TO FIND IT Advertising Information: (800) 983-7737 • Fax: (610) 854-3780 The following is a list of suppliers’ toll-free numbers for quick access to all of your optical needs. This is a paid service of Vision Monday.

ACCESSORIES CASES INSTRUMENTS LENSES SUPPLIES

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Focusing all eyes SILMO? The international exhibition for the entire optics and eyewear sector. A unique business forum and showcase for innovation and know-how. The major exhibition and B2B event that brings together 1,000 international businesses and 45,000 optics and eyewear professionals. Innovation and design are in the spotlight with the Silmo d’Or awards, the leading industry endorsement. SILMO, MONDIAL DE L’OPTIQUE, the key event that’ll give you a competitive edge, For more information - Promosalons USA your autumn rendezvous in Paris. Tel: 1-212-957-0932 - Email: [email protected] - www.silmo.fr 58 BUSINESS ESSENTIALS

SOMETHING IT’S YOUR BUSINESS

SHORT Few Organizations Plan To Stem Brain Drain THAT’S The number of Baby approach, utilizing various tactics to Boomers poised for determine what will be most success- retirement should ful,” Harriott said. “Companies that serve as a warning to aggressively manage and protect their SIMPLY organizations about knowledge can readily increase their the importance of a value as an organization.” formal strategy to Following are some recommendations retain institutional from Monster’s report, titled Building Hedley Lawson, Jr. knowledge, but very and Securing an Organizational Brain HUGE. few organizations are making knowledge Trust in an Age of Brain Drain: retention a high priority, according to a • Pinpoint key knowledge assets and new survey. sources. Often, the knowledge can be While they recognize it as a looming related to customer, product and service issue, many managers face barriers to insights. It will differ from company to establishing strategies and tactics that company. help pre-empt that loss, according to • Obtain C-level accountability. Larg- findings released by Monster in Septem- er employers could appoint a chief ber 2007. knowledge officer to be responsible for KODAK Only 12 percent of 550 HR managers organizational knowledge. surveyed in November 2006 said knowl- • Give employee incentives. Only ™ edge retention is a high priority within one-third of organizations reported that Precise Short Lens their organization, even though one-third their employees are rewarded or encour- AWARD-WINNING DESIGN FOR of all respondents said more than 20 per- aged to share organizational knowledge cent of their current workforce will be with colleagues. SMALL FRAMES eligible for retirement over the next 10 • Create tools for involvement, such as years, Monster found. launching a blogging forum and mentoring About one-fourth, or 23 percent, said program where employees can redistribute • Direct Digital Surfacing ensures pinpoint accuracy is their organizations have a formal method and access organizational knowledge. to identify the knowledge that needs to A culture that promotes shared knowl- direct from the designer’s specs to the mold. be protected and retained. Sixteen per- edge has to start with the CEO, accord- cent consider themselves very effective ing to Harriott. • Horizontal symmetry in the distance and peripheral in informally sharing knowledge, while 10 percent said they were very effective Hedley Lawson brings over 25 years of areas provides superb binocular vision. in formally doing so. optical industry experience to Jobson Medical LLC. For over 10 years, he has • Smooth power progression produces visual quality Steps to Take been a contributing editor to VM, most “There is no one tool that readily recently as writer of the monthly column similar to a single vision lens. enables companies to effectively meet “Business Essentials.” In addition, knowledge-retention challenges,” said Lawson writes a quarterly Human • “Swim” effect is reduced, speeding up adaptation. Jesse Harriott, vice president of research Resources and Business column for Lab for Monster, in an announcement. Talk magazine and is the Contributing “Organizations should aim to manage Editor of VM’s E-Newsletter Business • Fitting heights as low as 13mm are ideal for fashion information with a broad strategic Essentials. frames. WHAT’S ONLINE @ BUSINESS ESSENTIALS THIS MONTH Don’t miss out on Vision Monday’s e-edition of Business Essentials providing monthly updates on day-to-day management issues for optical ECPs and retailers. This month’s lead feature takes a look at the perils of workplace romances in From the Top. To get a copy of Business Essentials delivered to your inbox every month, go Business WWW.BROTHERSOPTICAL.COM to VisionMonday.com, click on the Essentials button and go to the Subscribe to (800) 531-3112 Business Essentials option in the newsletter. Current and past issues of the newsletter are also available on VisionMonday.com.

Kodak and the Kodak trade dress are trademarks of Kodak, used under license by Signet Armorlite, Inc. Precise Short is a trademark of Signet Armorlite, Inc. ©2008 Signet Armorlite, Inc. 24

PREVENT DRY EYES, EXPOSE GOOD LOOKS.

Jake Blink Airborne

CLIMATE CONTROL™ SERIES Dry Eye Syndrome, an eye irritation condition caused by wind, dry air, dust and debris, affects nearly 14 million people in the US alone. Wiley X Climate Control sunglasses, with patented removable Facial CavityTM Seals, create a climate-controlled cocoon around the eyes to guard against irritation and prevent tear evaporation. They’re perfect for those who wear contacts or have had Lasik surgery. They’re also ANSI Safety certified and Rx ready. Protect dry eyes in style with Wiley X. // Please call 800.776.7842 to request a catalog or talk with a Wiley X account representative. // WILEYX.COM 60 VISION MONDAY/JUNE 16, 2008 OPINION www.visionmonday.com

EDITORIAL Monday

Senior VP, Editorial Director Marge Axelrad Executive Editor Mary Kane Here Comes the Summer Sun E-News Managing Editor Amy Grech Senior Editors Cathy Ciccolella, Deirdre Carroll As we head out of means a healthy percentage of people are • Ask patients questions about what, Group Editor, Lenses & Technology Andrew Karp Layout Editor Natalya Gerzhgorina Memorial Day and aware that unprotected time in the sun if any, kind of sunwear they are using. Art Director Iris Johnson toward the 4th of can damage their eyes. • Remind them to have their children Contributing Editors Jackie Micucci, Gloria Nicola, James J. Spina, July it’s almost But there seems to be a definite dis- wear sunglasses since they are more sus- Melissa Arkin, Christie Walker summer here in connect between knowing what to do in ceptible to UV rays than adults. Circulation Manager Renee Oechsner Production Manager David Herman New York—one of order to protect your eyes from the sun • Convince your patients that the best VP Advertising Sales Dennis Murphy Regional Sales Managers my favorite times and actually putting it into play when it place to buy sunwear is from you, the Amanda Churchill, James DeMatteis, of year. When I comes to choosing sunwear. In the same eyecare expert. Vincent Priore Mary Kane International Sales Offices walk around the Jobson Research study, when partici- • Enhance and if necessary expand Young-Seoh Chinn, Korea, [email protected]; Executive Editor city it amazes me pants were asked “How important is it the sunwear section of your dispensary Sho Harihara, Japan, [email protected]; Mary Ng, Asia, [email protected]; how many people don’t wear sunglasses. that your sunglasses have UV protec- so patients will be encouraged to buy Jochen Reinke, Germany, Austria, Denmark, Switzerland, Benelux, Scandinavia, Liechtenstein, [email protected]; It’s a pet peeve of mine, especially with tion?” only 60 percent rated it very sunglasses from you and not from a Asa Talbar, Israel, [email protected]; family and friends who generally shrug important. That means that nearly 40 street vendor. Cecilia Zanasi, Italy, France, Spain, United Kingdom, [email protected]. me off because “she works for an optical percent of the respondents didn’t think Director of Education and Training magazine.” But damage from the sun is that sunwear offering UV protection was In short, get the sun protection mes- Mark Mattision-Shupnick Director of Marketing, Education and Training tough on the eyes and if it’s not a pet that big a deal. sage out to your patients and remind Nancy Ness Creative Director Monica Tettamanzi peeve of yours when it comes to treating So as eyecare providers, what do these them: It’s not just about looking good, Creative Services Designers Barbara Winters, and advising your patients, it should be. numbers mean for you? As with any ultimately it’s about healthy eyes. Debbie Silva Marketing Manager Christine Yeh Many consumers are aware that UV other important health message, it needs Marketing Coordinator Amanda Jensen rays are a danger to their eyes. In a study to be communicated and promoted to And speaking of sun, take a look at Jobson Optical Research Int’l Managing Director conducted by Jobson Research in April your patients. Here are a few tips you this issue’s SportSun supplement, a joint Gerry Fultz 2008, when asked, “Are you aware that can add to your practice procedures: effort by Vision Monday and sister 20/20 UV rays can damage your eyes, 91 per- publication , and find out how you VP/Optical Retail Group Publisher cent of the respondents answered yes. • Incorporate this message into your can get into the game of sport perform- William D. Scott VP/Marketing/Publisher 20/20 These numbers are encouraging. It daily eye examination routine. ance eyewear. 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Buying Group Revenues Give DATA POINT Emerging Vision Triple-Digit Gain Independents Sell Over Half of Eyeglass GARDEN CITY, N.Y.—With groups—Combine Buying enues from the 146 franchised Frame Units in Highest Price Range revenues from its two optical Group, acquired in August locations were flat at $1.8 million. buying groups now represent- 2006, and Canada’s The Opti- Meanwhile, Emerging Vision Eyeglass Frame Unit Share by Price Point ing more than 80 percent of its cal Group, acquired in August board member Harvey Ross 12ME Dec. ‘07 51% total revenues, Sterling Optical 2007—accounted for $14.3 mil- continues to increase his stake 49% parent Emerging Vision (OTC lion of that total. in the company, SEC filings BB: ISEE.OB) posted a 118.2 As of March 31, the Combine indicate. So far in May, Ross has percent increase in revenues in group had 856 members, The acquired 48,000 more shares in this year’s first quarter. Optical Group 525 members. Emerging Vision, through three 22% According to its 10Q form Sales through Emerging transactions. As of May 15, Ross filed last week with the Securi- Vision’s eight company-owned owned 9.1 million of the com- Up to $99 $100-$149 $150+ ties and Exchange Commis- stores were $1.1 million in the pany’s 125.3 million outstanding sion, Emerging Vision had rev- quarter, down 15.8 percent; com- common shares, giving him just Independents* are responsible for over half of eyeglass frame enues of $18.2 million in Q1. parable-store sales for those units over 7 percent of Emerging units sold in the highest price point range ($150+). For the 12 Revenues from its two buying rose 6.4 percent. Franchise rev- Vision’s stock. II months ending December 2007, independents are responsible for 51 percent of eyeglass frame units sold in the highest price range Marcolin Reports Increased Sales ($150+). Similarly, independents are responsible for 49 percent of the eyeglass frame units sold in the middle price range ($100- MILAN, Italy—The board of ous year’s comparable period. Marcolin, stated, “The Marcol- $149) in the 12 months ending December 2007. Marcolin S.p.A [MCL-IT] Net earnings for the period in Group's perfomance for the * Jobson defines independents as retailers with 1, 2, or 3 locations. Prices are retail for frames only. reported earlier this week that rose significantly to €4.8 mil- first quarter is very positive, Source: VisionWatch, a study conducted by Jobson/The Vision Council. Total Annual VisionWatch Sample Size: 100,000 consumer respondents per year (US Adults 18+) the company’s turnover for the lion, compared to €2.4 million with relevant increase of * All data is for the 12 ME (months ending) December 2007. first quarter ended March 31, for the Q1 period of 2007. turnover and most of all, profit. 2007 reached €56 million euros, EBIDTA also rose to €10.8 mil- Despite the uncertain interna- a 4.4 percent increase, or a 7.8 lion compared to €7.9 million in tional economic situation, we BY THE NUMBERS The latest figures percent increase at constant the prior year. expect for 2008 a return to prof- exchange rates, compared to € Massimo Saracchi, managing itability after three years of neg- 53.7 million euros in the previ- director and general manager of ative results.” II 18% 30% Of those not using any form of vision 30 percent of all adult males in the U.S. correction even though it is needed, 18 (18+) who bought prescription lenses Orange 21/Spy Optic Reports Loss percent stated ‘Don’t like the idea of in the last 6 months said they bought CARLSBAD, Calif.—Orange three month period, compared to a net loss of $1.7 million for wearing glasses’ as the reason. bifocal/trifocal lenses. 21 [ORNG-NASDAQ], maker to $9.4 million for the compara- the three-month period in 2007. of Spy Optic sunglasses and ble period in 2007. Its domestic The company has two whol- 35% 42% goggles, reported losses for the net sales represented 75 per- ly-owned subsidiaries incorpo- first quarter ended March 31, cent of its sales for the period; rated in Italy, which include Spy Percent who said their eye doctor rec- Of those who have ever bought pre- 2008, while net sales increased foreign net sales represented 25 Optic S.r.l. and LEM, the com- ommends replacing their contact lenses scription eyeglasses and wear prescrip- for the period. percent of sales for the quarter. pany’s primary manufacturer. every 2 weeks. However, only 22 percent tion eyeglasses themselves, 42% said The company said that con- The company reported a net In California, Orange 21’s of respondents said they actually replace they purchase a new pair of prescrip- solidated net sales increased 23 loss of $0.9 million for the first wholly owned subsidiary is Spy their contact lenses every 2 weeks. tion eyeglasses about every 2 years. Source: VisionWatch, a study conducted by Jobson/The Vision Council. percent to $11.6 million for the quarter 2008, which compared Optic, Inc. II Total Annual VisionWatch Sample Size: 100,000 consumer respondents per year (US Adults 18+) * All data is for the 12 ME (months ending) December 2007. Contact Lens data is for the 3ME December 2007.

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