The optical retailing landscape, especially for the independent ECP, is being buffeted by waves of change, as consolidation, new technology and an evolving patient mindset bring new challenges almost on a daily basis. In an effort to offset these challenges and support both the independent optometrist and ophthalmologist in today’s rough-and-tumble business environment, two optical dispensary management firms—Vision Associates and Partners in Vision—have come together as a division of Essilor of America to create a stronger entity in optical management.
Vision Associates was a company founded 25 years ago to provide expertise in both dispensary management and consulting services for busy ophthalmic practices, while Partners in Vision traces its beginning to 1999. Beginning late last year, the two firms moved to combine their resources and expertise under the Vision Associates name. (Both companies are part of Essilor as the result of previous transactions in July 2017). The firms historically have been more active in ophthalmology practices, but as a combined entity, senior executives now see a growing opportunity to manage dispensaries in the independent OD sector.
Today, Vision Associates is managing 208 locations across roughly 40 states, primarily in the Northeast region but spreading out rapidly. The combined entity reported collective dispensary sales of $68.4 million for 2018.
“In short, what we have done here is to look at these two entities and leveraged the best of both worlds to create an entity under Vision Associates that is stronger than ever,” Vision Associates president Pierre Bertrand said in a recent interview with Vision Monday. “And what we have realized is that the need that exists in ophthalmology also exists in optometry.”
To read the full article from Vision Monday, click here.
