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May 18, 2013
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Essilor Launches New Crizal Consumer Ad Campaign

Posted: 5/17/2013 12:27 AM
DALLAS— Essilor of America is launching a national advertising campaign that talks directly to consumers about the benefits of Crizal No-Glare lenses.

Global Eye Ventures Announces New Sponsors for EyeXam Mobile App

Posted: 5/17/2013 12:24 AM
SAN JOSE, Calif.—Global Eye Ventures, developers of the EyeXam mobile application, has announced new sponsorships with industry partners to provide consumers a “powerful and fully enhanced user experience while searching for a local eyecare provider.”

Essilor Names Maureen Cavanagh to Board of Directors

Posted: 5/17/2013 12:21 AM
CHARENTON-LE-PONT, France—At Essilor International’s (Reuters: ESSI.PA) combined Ordinary and Extraordinary Annual General Meeting, held yesterday in Paris, shareholders approved Maureen Cavanagh’s appointment as representative of employee shareholders to the company’s board of directors.

Prevent Blindness America and Prevent Blindness Texas Host Briefing on Diabetes and Eye Health

Posted: 5/17/2013 12:18 AM
AUSTIN, Texas— Prevent Blindness America (PBA) and its affiliate, Prevent Blindness Texas, held a briefing at the Legislative Conference Center here this week to present data from a new Texas University of Medicine study depicting the dangers of diabetic macular edema, specifically applied to commercial drivers.

Calif. Club Brings Joy of Bicycle Riding to Visually Impaired on VisionMonday.com

Posted: 5/17/2013 12:15 AM

SAN DIEGO—The Blind Stokers are a San Diego, Calif.-based organization that puts sighted bicycle riders together with riders who have visual impairments. Based on teamwork and mentoring, club members introduce and share the simple pleasures of recreational bicycling with those who cannot see well enough to pilot a bike. View the video on VisionMonday.com as they ride on tandem bikes, with the sighted partner doing the steering and the “stoker” providing the power.

Industry Gears Up for Optometry’s Meeting in June

Posted: 5/15/2013 12:27 AM
SAN DIEGO—The American Optometric Association will hold its 116th Annual AOA Congress & 43rd Annual AOSA Conference, known as Optometry’s Meeting, at the Convention Center here from June 26 to 30.

Warby Parker Will Open Second Store in Boston, Adds New Design Collaborations

Posted: 5/15/2013 12:24 AM
NEW YORK— Warby Parker is due to open its second full-service store in Boston this Friday, May 17, at 83 Newbury Street.

Hoya Labs to Offer Paws N Claws Brand Frame and Lens Packages

Posted: 5/15/2013 12:21 AM
DALLAS— Hoya Vision Care, North America has entered into an exclusive distribution agreement with Eyewear Inventions and EyeDeals Eyewear to distribute Paws N Claws branded eyewear to independent eyecare professionals in the U.S.

Dr. Paul Sidoti Named Chairman of Department of Ophthalmology at The New York Eye and Ear Infirmary

Posted: 5/15/2013 12:18 AM
VALHALLA, N.Y— New York Medical College and The New York Eye and Ear Infirmary have appointed Paul A. Sidoti , M.D., as chairman of the Department of Ophthalmology at The New York Eye and Ear Infirmary (NYEEI), an affiliate of New York Medical College in New York City.

Entries for VM’s D.A.R.E. Awards Now Being Accepted on VisionMonday.com

Posted: 5/15/2013 12:15 AM

NEW YORK—Vision Monday is now accepting submissions for the Dispensing and Retail Excellence (D.A.R.E.) Awards saluting the most daring optical retailers in the U.S. and Canada. Now in its third year, the Vision Monday D.A.R.E. Awards include six different categories of optical excellence:

The PDA (Public Display of Attention) Award for Most Daring In-Store Merchandising and/or Window Display (NEW)
The Shop It Like It’s Hot Award for Most Daring Store Design or Retail Environment
The Lead, Follow or Get Out of the Web Award for Most Daring Social Media or Web Presence (including websites, social networking and viral marketing)
The Resistance Is Futile Award for Most Daring Advertising Campaign (print, TV or radio)
The Sphere of Influence Award for Most Daring Community Outreach, Philanthropic or Patient Education Program
The Seeing Green Award for Most Daring Eco-chievement

Submissions will be considered for optical retailers (including online) or dispensers who have been continuously operating since May 1, 2012 or sooner and whose primary business is the retailing or dispensing of prescription eyewear or sunwear. Those submitting can be retailers or non-eyecare professionals.

Vision Monday’s third annual D.A.R.E. Awards are being sponsored by Europa International. For more information, visit www.visionmonday.com/dare or email dareawards@jobson.com.

MESVision Launches Website for Members to Use Benefits Online

Posted: 5/13/2013 12:33 AM
COSTA MESA, Calif.— MESVision, a national vision benefit company, has announced the launch of MESVisionOptics.com.

Doctors Vision Center Names Bob Wright President

Posted: 5/13/2013 12:30 AM
ROCKY MOUNT, N.C.— Doctors Vision Center has named Bob Wright president, following the retirement of William “Buzz” Hollis, who served in the position for the past five years.

DentalPlans.com Adds EyeBenefits Discount Vision Program to Its Offerings

Posted: 5/13/2013 12:27 AM
PLANTATION, Fla.— DentalPlans.com has announced the addition of EyeBenefits Discount Vision Program to the company’s offerings. DentalPlans.com has been a leading retailer of dental savings plans and the addition of EyeBenefits is the second vision discount plan offered to its members, the company said.

Great Glasses Play Day Event Highlighting Children’s Vision Health to Return for Second Year

Posted: 5/13/2013 12:24 AM
MINNEAPOLIS—The Great Glasses Play Day, celebrating children who wear glasses or have other vision issues, is scheduled to return for its second annual celebration on Aug. 4, 2013.

Walt Mayo OD Is Guest on May 15 ‘Power Hour’

Posted: 5/13/2013 12:21 AM
FRANKLIN LAKES, N.J.—Computers, mobile and digital media, and featured guest Walt Mayo, OD, are the focus of the Wednesday May 15 edition of the “The Power Hour,” the free weekly online radio talk show hosted by Gary Gerber, OD, founder of The Power Practice, a practice management company.

The ‘Final Frontier' in Eyewear and Video Advice on UV Safety on VisionMonday.com

Posted: 5/13/2013 12:15 AM

NEW YORK—Some actresses are known for their period piece work, while others gravitate toward outer space. In the latest edition of Bold Face, VM focuses on the latter and highlights three stars whose roles routinely take them to the Final Frontier wearing what else but styles from Marchon, Safilo and Luxottica.

Despite the damaging effects of ultraviolet radiation (UV) to eyes and vision, 40 percent of U.S. adults do not wear sunglasses while outdoors, according to a new report from The Vision Council titled The Big Picture: Eye Protection Is Always in Season. To find out more about the Report, view the video where Ed Greene, CEO of the Vision Council and Dora Adamopoulos, OD, a member of the Better Vision Institute, sat down with VM to discuss how ECPs can educate their patients about this important topic.

Latest VisionWatch Consumer Barometer Reflects 4.3 Percent Increase in Total Vision Care Market Revenues

Posted: 5/10/2013 12:27 AM
ALEXANDRIA, Va.—The latest VisionWatch Consumer Barometer, covering the 12-month period ending March 2013, reflects a 4.3 percent overall increase in revenues for vision care products and services in the U.S. compared to the prior year period.

Registration Now Open for American Academy of Optometry Annual Meeting

Posted: 5/10/2013 12:24 AM
ORLANDO, Fla.—The American Academy of Optometry has announced that registration is open for its 92nd annual meeting, Academy 2013 Seattle, taking place here on Oct. 23 to 26.

Alex Kelly Joins Bausch + Lomb as Vice President Investor Relations

Posted: 5/10/2013 12:21 AM
ROCHESTER, N.Y.— Bausch + Lomb, based here, announced that Alex Kelly has joined the company as vice president, investor relations, reporting to the company's president and chief financial officer, Bob Bertolini.

Prevent Blindness America Announces 2013 Most Beautiful Eyes Contest

Posted: 5/10/2013 12:18 AM
CHICAGO— Prevent Blindness America has announced the dates of this year’s “Most Beautiful Eyes Contest,” a competition offering children across the U.S. a chance to win an educational scholarship of $10,000 from Marchon Eyewear.

Synergy Between Art and Eyewear and the Decline of Employer Provided Health Care on VisionMonday.com

Posted: 5/10/2013 12:15 AM

NEW YORK—Art and film is often only realized thanks to the creator’s unique vision; given this point of view, collaboration between both mediums and the world of eyewear is a natural. In the latest installment of Hi Vis, VM highlights the ways Luxottica, Safilo and Baumvision are bringing more attention to this synergy.

On the ever changing landscape of health care coverage, a recent report by the nonprofit Robert Wood Johnson Foundation revealed that the percentage of Americans who receive health insurance through employers fell significantly over the past decade, from 69.7 percent in 2000 to 59.5 percent in 2011. The latest edition of HR Corner reveals that 11.5 million fewer Americans received health coverage through their job or a family member’s job than did at the start of the century.

Essilor Acquires Majority Stake in EyeBuyDirect.com

Posted: 5/9/2013 9:15 AM
DALLAS— In a move that broadens its presence in the internet e-commerce realm, particularly in the international arena, Essilor has acquired a majority stake in EyeBuyDirect.com, VMail has learned. EyeBuyDirect, founded in 2005 by Roy Hessel, CEO, is a leader in the online space with operations in China, Hong Kong and the U.S., and the company delivers eyeglasses to customers around the world. Hessel will continue in his role as CEO of EyeBuyDirect with the acquisition.

“At Essilor, we embrace the internet as a wonderful tool to provide access to vision correction to the largest number of people worldwide,” John Carrier, president and CEO Essilor of America, told VMail. “However, we do not believe it should act as a replacement for visiting an eyecare professional.”

New Report by The Vision Council Examines Gaps in UV Safety

Posted: 5/8/2013 12:30 AM
ALEXANDRIA—Despite the damaging effects of ultraviolet radiation (UV) to eyes and vision, 40 percent of U.S. adults do not wear sunglasses while outdoors, and nearly half of drivers do not protect their eyes on the road, according to a new report from The Vision Council titled The Big Picture: Eye Protection Is Always in Season.

Commission on Opticianry Accreditation Honors Retiring Commissioner, Appoints Board

Posted: 5/8/2013 12:27 AM
SAN ANTONIO—The Commission on Opticianry Accreditation (COA) appointed new executive board members and honored retiring commissioner Jerry Himes, ABOC, NCLC, at its spring meeting held here at the Hyatt Regency, April 6 to 7.

Essilor Creates Board Committee to Oversee Its Corporate Social Responsibility Initiatives

Posted: 5/8/2013 12:24 AM
CHARENTON LE PONT, France— Essilor International announced the creation of a new board committee to oversee the company's corporate social responsibility (CSR) policy.

CDC Vision Health Initiative and NIH National Eye Institute Observe May as Healthy Vision Month

Posted: 5/8/2013 12:21 AM
ATLANTA—The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and its Vision Health Initiative are partnering with the National Institutes of Health (NIH) National Eye Institute this month to observe Healthy Vision Month.

Time Is Running Out—Nominate an Optometric Business Innovator Now

Posted: 5/8/2013 12:18 AM

NEW YORK—Time is running out to nominate an Optometric Business Innnovator. If you know a forward thinking OD, someone who’s improving their diagnostic skills, implementing new technologies or employing the latest management techniques, nominate them now for the third annual Optometric Business Innovators edition, a joint collaborative project of Review of Optometric Business and Vision Monday. The nominations deadline for the 2013 Optometric Business Innovators has been extended to Monday, May 13.

A Professional Advisory Panel of optometrists will help identify Optometric Business Innovators from across the U.S.—individuals who excel at using creative and results-oriented approaches in the following areas:

Business Management—Business savvy ODs constantly employing the latest management techniques.

Optical Dispensing—ODs who have introduced interactive ideas and new technologies into the art of patient care and dispensing.

Contact Lens Dispensing—Experts in contact lenses, offering patients specialized optometric services.

Digital Media—“Digital Docs” who have mastered the new media and are experts in reaching patients in the online community.

Marketing—ODs who put their own spin on the latest marketing techniques used by other service oriented businesses.

The Patient Experience—Forward thinking ODs, always improving diagnostic skills and new practice technologies.

Influencers—Veteran ODs, translating their business savvy ideas into larger groups and organizations.

Review of Optometric Business and Vision Monday are also soliciting nominations from readers. If you know of a candidate that would merit recognition, please help out and use this form to tell us your choices. Readers may nominate up to three candidates in each category. Deadline for submission is Monday, May 13.

All nominations will be reviewed by the Professional Advisory Panel and the editors of Review of Optometric Business and Vision Monday. The honorees will be featured in a special report in VM’s June 17 issue as well as in Review of Optometric Business.

Meeting to Discuss Health Care Reform and Matching Cricket Skills on VisionMonday.com

Posted: 5/8/2013 12:15 AM


SAN DIEGO—The second joint Specialty Health Summit sponsored by the National Association of Vision Care Plans (NAVCP) and the National Association of Specialty Health Organizations, hosted 161 attendees, with 114 vision organizations represented, at the Rancho Bernardo Inn from April 29 to May 1. View the slideshow to see some of the managed vision care and allied executives in attendance as they discussed topics such as Affordable Healthcare Act, the advent of public and private health exchanges, market trends and technological innovations.

Other members of the optical community gathered to compare a different set of skills as teams from Essilor, National Vision and Transitions Optical took to the Sarasota International Cricket Club’s field here on Saturday, May 4, for what has become a three-year eyecare-industry tradition—a day-long cricket match. See who ultimately claimed the top spot in this year’s event in the latest installment of Scene & Heard.

Submissions Now Open for Vision Monday’s D.A.R.E. Awards

Posted: 5/6/2013 12:30 AM
NEW YORK—Vision Monday is now accepting submissions for its Annual Vision Monday Dispensing and Retail Excellence (D.A.R.E) Awards sponsored by Europa International. Now in its third year, the D.A.R.E. Awards salute the most innovative and daring optical retailers in the U.S. and Canada for their dispensing, merchandising and philanthropic initiatives, as well as their marketing and advertising campaigns. Entries will be accepted from May 6, 2013 through June 14, 2013.

Louisiana Withdraws Bill to Permit Optometrists to Perform Eye Surgery

Posted: 5/6/2013 12:27 AM
BATON ROUGE, La.—On May 2, Louisiana Republican Representative Frank Hoffmann withdrew House Bill 527, which would have expanded the scope of practice for optometrists, allowing them to administer medication by injection as well as perform many eye surgeries, including several eye laser and incisional procedures.

Eyes of Faith Contribution to Sight Ministries Brings Eyewear Donations to Over 10,000 Pairs

Posted: 5/6/2013 12:24 AM
LAS VEGAS—At the annual Vision Source member meeting here, Eyes of Faith Optical presented its latest contribution of $5,000 to Sight Ministries, a Christian mission organization which uses the funds to purchase eyewear for distribution during its global missions.

Optometry Giving Sight Recognizes Top Donors at Vision Source Exchange

Posted: 5/6/2013 12:21 AM
DENVER— Optometry Giving Sight (OGS) recognized its top donors for 2012 at a function sponsored by Hoya at the recent Vision Source Exchange meeting in Las Vegas.

EMR Is Topic of the May 8 ‘Power Hour’

Posted: 5/6/2013 12:18 AM
FRANKLIN LAKES, N.J.—Electronic medical records and the issues surrounding EHR are the topic of the Wed. May 8 edition of the “The Power Hour,” the free weekly online radio talk show hosted by Gary Gerber, OD, founder of The Power Practice, a practice management company.

Keeping Up Appearances and Patients Taking Eyewear Into Their Own Hands on VisionMonday.com

Posted: 5/6/2013 12:15 AM


NEW YORK—An eyewear sighting can happen anywhere. In this week’s edition of Bold Face, VM features three well-known faces and the frames that recently made an entrance perched front and center. Check out these stars who are Keeping Up Appearances in styles from Marchon, Sama Eyewear and Altair.

Patients expecting repairs and adjustments on glasses they bought somewhere else, requesting their prescription and asking ECPs to provide them with their PD measurements all seem to be accelerating, particularly as buying online increases. See the latest edition of dba, where several retailers shared the policies they follow including the viewpoints of: Larry L. Pearson, president and CEO, Midwest Vision Centers; Brad Bowers, managing partner, Bowers & Snyder Opticians; Judd Sky, president/CEO, Partners in Vision Inc.; Stephen L. Franklin, chief executive officer, Accurate Optical Company, Inc.; Alan Ulsifer, OD, CEO and president, FYidoctors; Gordon A. Bishop, FNAO, ABOC, RO, CEO and president, Sunland Optical; Mark Johnson, director of optical services, Virginia Eye Institute; and David H. Hettler, OD, Drs. May & Hettler.

Managed Vision Care Executives ‘Navigate’ Health Care Reform

Posted: 5/3/2013 12:27 AM
SAN DIEGO—At the second joint Specialty Health Summit sponsored by the National Association of Vision Care Plans (NAVCP) and the National Association of Specialty Health Organizations, Andrew Alcorn, president and CEO of Block Vision, was inducted as chair of NASHO, while Richard Sanchez, president and CEO of Advantica, announced that he would continue as chair of NAVCP for 30 days until a successor could be found.

The Vision Council Concludes Merger Agreement With COLA

Posted: 5/3/2013 12:24 AM
ALEXANDRIA, Va.—Officials from The Vision Council and the California Optical Laboratories Association (COLA) signed a definitive merger agreement last week during COLA’s Spring Meeting in San Diego.

IDOC and Legacie Partner for Private Label Collection, M by Isaac Mizrahi

Posted: 5/3/2013 12:21 AM
NORWALK, Conn.— IDOC and Legacie, the luxury house of B. Robinson, have announced their partnership for an exclusive, private-label frame program: M by Isaac Mizrahi.

Schneider Optical Machines Plays Host at Digicon and Bracing for Health Care Changes on VisionMonday.com

Posted: 5/3/2013 12:15 AM


DALLAS—Schneider Optical Machines demonstrated its latest lens processing technology for an elite group of invited guests at Digicon, a three-day technical conference the company hosted last month at its headquarters here. The 135 attendees from various corners of the optical industry got a close-up look at Schneider’s new Modulo system, and were treated to hands-on workshops as well as other equipment demos. Read all about it and view scenes from the meeting in the latest edition of Meetings.

On the health care front, employers should brace themselves for Fall benefits enrollment when workers are expected to receive an avalanche of marketing materials from insurers, health insurance exchanges and government agencies in anticipation of health care reform, according to experts. Learn what all this may mean for companies and their workers in the latest installment of HR Corner.

Led by Optical Growth, Luxottica Continues Solid Increases in Q1 2013

Posted: 5/1/2013 12:30 AM
MILAN—Citing success in the optical sector and estimations that “there will be around an extra half a billion people wearing glasses in the next 10 years,” according to Andrea Guerra, CEO, Luxottica Group S.p.A (MTA: LUX; NYSE: LUX), released its Q1 2013 financial results on April 29 showing solid increases.

Coastal Contacts Opens Facility in the U.S., Its Fastest Growing Market

Posted: 5/1/2013 12:27 AM
VANCOUVER, British Columbia—Online eyewear provider, Coastal Contacts, Inc. (NASDAQ: COA) (TSX: COA) has opened its first U.S. production and distribution facility.

Donald Gagliano, MD Appointed Bausch + Lomb VP of Global Development Operations

Posted: 5/1/2013 12:24 AM
ROCHESTER, N.Y.— Bausch + Lomb has announced the appointment of Colonel Donald Gagliano, MD as vice president, global development operations.

European Academy of Optometry and Optics Attracts 300 Attendees

Posted: 5/1/2013 12:21 AM
MALAGA, Spain—More 300 optometric and optics professionals from more than 40 countries gathered here for the European Academy of Optometry and Optics’ (EAOO) annual conference held April 19 to 21.

High Performance Optics Hires Larry Rodriguez as Chief Operating Officer

Posted: 5/1/2013 12:18 AM
ROANOKE, Va.— High Performance Optics (HPO) has hired Larry Rodriguez as chief operating officer. Rodriguez is an experienced senior executive across several industries, and has held key positions with Pixel Optics and other companies.

Prevent Blindness America to Host Sixth Annual Swing Fore Sight Golf Tournament at Vision Expo West

Posted: 5/1/2013 12:15 AM
CHICAGO— Prevent Blindness America (PBA) will be hosting its sixth annual Swing Fore Sight Golf Tournament on Oct. 2, 2013 at the Bali Hai Golf Club in Las Vegas, Nev.

WellPoint to Allow ECPs to View Patient Medical History and to Include 1-800-CONTACTS as In-Network Provider

Posted: 4/30/2013 1:20 PM

WellPoint's Richard Hom (l) and
Jeff Spahr.
INDIANAPOLIS— WellPoint, Inc. (NYSE: WLP) has introduced three new initiatives intended to enhance its vision care offerings by “improving the provider/patient relationship,” Jeff Spahr, president, vision services, told VMail in an exclusive interview today. The health benefits company will begin allowing in-network eyecare providers to view and print patient medical history, will include 1-800-CONTACTS as an in-network provider of contact lenses on its vision plans and will create a vision care advisory board.

Vision Source The Exchange Draws Record Attendance

Posted: 4/29/2013 12:30 AM
LAS VEGAS—The newly branded annual Vision Source member meeting, The Exchange, hosted more than 3,100 attendees last week here at Caesars Palace.

EyeMed and VSP Vision Care Plans Join Mercer Marketplace Private Insurance Exchange

Posted: 4/29/2013 12:27 AM
NEW YORK— EyeMed Vision Care and VSP Vision Care are among the latest insurers to join Mercer Marketplace, a private insurance exchange being launched by Mercer L.L.C. offering more than 20 types of benefits.

Adlens Wins a Bronze Edison Award for Emergensee Glasses

Posted: 4/29/2013 12:24 AM
CHICAGO— Adlens has won a bronze Edison Award in the category Lifestyle & Social Impact for its Emergensee eyewear. The winners were announced during a ceremony here on April 25.

Matt Geller, Founder of OptometryStudents.com, Is Guest on May 1 ‘Power Hour’

Posted: 4/29/2013 12:21 AM
FRANKLIN LAKES, N.J.— SUNY College of Optometry student and the founder of OptometryStudents.com, Matt Geller, will be the featured guest on the Wednesday May 1 edition of the “The Power Hour,” the free weekly online radio talk show hosted by Gary Gerber, OD, founder of The Power Practice, a practice management company.

Nominate Your Choice for Optometric Business Innovators 2013

Posted: 4/29/2013 12:18 AM

NEW YORK—We here at Vision Monday know that today’s optometrists are getting more creative in their approach to both clinical and business matters when it comes to managing their practices. If you know a forward thinking OD, someone who’s improving their diagnostic skills, implementing new technologies or employing the latest management techniques, nominate them now for the third annual Optometric Business Innovators edition, a joint collaborative project of Review of Optometric Business and Vision Monday.

A Professional Advisory Panel of optometrists will help identify Optometric Business Innovators from across the U.S.—individuals who excel at using creative and results-oriented approaches in the following areas:

Business Management—Business savvy ODs constantly employing the latest management techniques.

Optical Dispensing—ODs who have introduced interactive ideas and new technologies into the art of patient care and dispensing.

Contact Lens Dispensing—Experts in contact lenses, offering patients specialized optometric services.

Digital Media—“Digital Docs” who have mastered the new media and are experts in reaching patients in the online community.

Marketing—ODs who put their own spin on the latest marketing techniques used by other service oriented businesses.

The Patient Experience—Forward thinking ODs, always improving diagnostic skills and new practice technologies.

Influencers—Veteran ODs, translating their business savvy ideas into larger groups and organizations.

Review of Optometric Business and Vision Monday are also soliciting nominations from readers. If you know of a candidate that would merit recognition, please help out and use this form to tell us your choices. Readers may nominate up to three candidates in each category. Deadline for submission is Wednesday, May 8.

All nominations will be reviewed by the Professional Advisory Panel and the editors of Review of Optometric Business and Vision Monday. The honorees will be featured in a special report in VM’s June 17 issue as well as in Review of Optometric Business.

Fit Stars in Stylish Specs and a New Kind of Event Planning on VisionMonday.com

Posted: 4/29/2013 12:15 AM

NEW YORK—While many of us dread swimsuit season, for some being fit is such an ingrained part of their life that they can strip down at a moment’s notice without fear. In this week’s edition of Bold Face, VM features four such super fit stars and their stylish specs from Marchon, Alexander Daas, Barton Perreira and Luxottica.

In another kind of social meet up, one eyecare group's special event got some needed exposure from digital and social media tools. Check out this helpful infographic from Marketo, which provides a detailed to do list for those who want to be sure they’re prepared thoroughly for social media events for their businesses via Facebook, Twitter and other sites.

Optical Profession Scores High in 2013 Jobs Rated Ranking

Posted: 4/26/2013 12:27 AM
NEW YORK—A job as an optometrist or optician apparently is a good career path in 2013, according to a recent ranking by CareerCast.com, a career website that listed 200 jobs from best to worst.

Louisiana Postpones Vote on Law to Permit Optometrists to Perform Eye Surgery

Posted: 4/26/2013 12:24 AM
BATON ROUGE, La.—The Louisiana House of Representatives postponed its debate and vote on House Bill 527, which would expand the optometric scope of practice to allow optometrists to administer medication by injection as well as perform many eye surgeries, including several eye laser and incisional procedures.

Carl Zeiss AG to Acquire Sole Control Over Carl Zeiss Vision

Posted: 4/26/2013 12:21 AM
BRUSSELS—The European Commission announced Wednesday that it has granted clearance under the EU Merger Regulation to the acquisition of Carl Zeiss Vision by Carl Zeiss AG, both of Germany.

Essilor of America to Open Distribution Facility in Lewisville, Texas

Posted: 4/26/2013 12:18 AM
DALLAS— Essilor of America will open a 170,000 square-foot distribution facility in Lewisville, Texas, near its corporate headquarters in Farmer’s Branch, Texas.

Prevent Blindness America Designates May UV Awareness Month

Posted: 4/26/2013 12:15 AM
CHICAGO—To educate the public on the importance of eye protection from the sun, Prevent Blindness America is urging the public to recognize May as Ultraviolet Awareness Month.

Florida Governor Signs Bill Authorizing Optometrists to Prescribe Ocular Pharmaceutical Agents

Posted: 4/24/2013 12:27 AM
TALLAHASSEE, Fla.—Florida Governor Rick Scott signed Florida Senate Bill 278 on Friday, April 19, authorizing optometrists in that state to prescribe ocular pharmaceutical agents. The bill will become law on July 1, 2013.

Eyeglasses.com Opens Its First Store

Posted: 4/24/2013 12:24 AM
WESTPORT, Conn.— Eyeglasses.com, a leading online eyeglass retailer, established in 1999, has opened its first store, a prototype which combines “brick” with “click” in this prosperous Fairfield County, Conn. suburb.

Louisiana to Debate and Vote on Law to Permit Optometrists to Perform Eye Surgery

Posted: 4/24/2013 12:21 AM
BATON ROUGE, La.—Today, the Louisiana House of Representatives will debate and vote on House Bill 527, which would expand the optometric scope of practice to allow optometrists to administer medication by injection as well as perform many eye surgeries, including several eye laser and incisional procedures.

American Optometric Association Forms Project Team to Address Integrated Eyecare

Posted: 4/24/2013 12:18 AM
ST. LOUIS—As part of an effort to encourage all eyecare professionals to work together for better patient care, the American Optometric Association is launching a new Integrated Eyecare Project Team that will analyze models of care and set out elements to develop an efficient, productive and patient-centric system, according to an announcement from the AOA.

An Inside Look at Employee Benefits Trends on VisionMonday.com

Posted: 4/24/2013 12:15 AM


NEW YORK—While only two out of five U.S. workers would strongly recommend their organization as a "great place to work," those who did so were three times more likely to be satisfied with their benefits, according to MetLife's 11th Annual Study of Employee Benefits Trends.

"With many employees saying they would pay more for a wider range of voluntary benefits, employers have an opportunity to increase benefits satisfaction without increasing the bottom line," said Anthony Nugent, MetLife executive VP. Find out about the study’s key takeaways including successful employee communication tactics in the latest edition of HR Corner.

March Optical Business Barometer Reflects Return to Higher Ratings Among Independents

Posted: 4/22/2013 12:24 AM
NEW YORK—The Optical Business Barometer (OBB), a monthly gauge of general business attitudes among independent ECPs as surveyed by Jobson Research, rose to a 3.8 in March.

Optrafair Organizers Report Robust Show in U.K.

Posted: 4/22/2013 12:21 AM
BIRMINGHAM, U.K.—Organizers of Optrafair, the show held here earlier this month at the NEC halls, report that more than 6,000 individual visitors and a total of 7,517 over the course of the Fair, attended the 2013 event to see more than 200 different exhibitors at the exhibition—including a delegate who traveled from Ghana for the educational lectures and to buy accessories.

Vision Source's Greenwood Is Guest on Friday April 26 'Power Hour'

Posted: 4/22/2013 12:18 AM
FRANKLIN LAKES, N.J.—Vision Source COO Jim Greenwood will be the guest on next week's "Power Hour," in a special Friday night session, April 26 at 9:00 p.m. ET, live from the Vision Source Exchange national meeting in Las Vegas.

Sunwear Mixes With Music and Stylish Smart Specs on VisionMonday.com

Posted: 4/22/2013 12:15 AM

NEW YORK—Coachella, the annual three-day music and arts festival held in Indio, Calif., features many music genres on several stages. It attracts all sorts of Hollywood notables and in this week’s Bold Face VM features three of them and the sunwear they chose to protect them from the desert sun. Check out these stars in sunwear from Marchon, Luxottica and Sama Eyewear.

In keeping with the fashion theme, if you're hungry for a pair of smart specs but don't want to look like a cyborg, check out Epiphany Eyewear in the latest edition of Eye2. Created by Vergence Labs, a California-based start-up, the stylish specs feature a thick, black frame made of "shape-memory" nylon, spring hinges and polarized, UV-blocking lenses. Fun fact: VM had Epiphany on the radar last year in a crowdfunding story.

Pearle Vision Launches Major National Re-Branding Campaign

Posted: 4/19/2013 12:24 AM
MASON, Ohio—After more than half a century “caring for eyes,” one of the most iconic names in optical retail, Pearle Vision, a division of Luxottica Retail (NYSE: LUX), is in the process of redefining its brand identity.

Mini Summit Webinars Planned for Opticians by Opticianry Summit Leadership Team

Posted: 4/19/2013 12:21 AM
NEW YORK—In order to give all opticians a voice in the goals, objectives and actions being implemented following last year’s Opticianry Summit, the Opticianry Summit Leadership Team has announced a mini summit webinar scheduled for May.

The Vision Council Names Two New Eyecessorize Spokespeople

Posted: 4/19/2013 12:18 AM
ALEXANDRIA, Va.— The Vision Council has announced the addition of two new high-profile spokespeople, Lawrence Zarian and Jenn Falik, to its Eyecessorize fashion eyewear campaign.

Paying Tribute to An Industry Leader and the Lure of Translucence on VisionMonday.com

Posted: 4/19/2013 12:15 AM

ATLANTA— A jam-packed room at the annual Review of Optometry dinner during SECO last month was filled with friends, co-workers and colleagues among the optometric community, who came together at this year’s event to pay special tribute to the late Rick Bay and learn about the new Rick Bay Foundation for Excellence in EyeCare. Bay, who was the long-term publisher and president of Review of Optometry and Review of Ophthalmology, and a dynamic business leader and mentor to many, passed away in December 2012. Read about the tribute at the SECO dinner, one of Bay’s favorite and signature events, as industry friends reminisced about Bay, his passion, enthusiasm and friendship.

On another note, sheer, see-through fashions have been all the rage lately and eyeglasses are no exception. In the latest installment of Style.Pages: Translucents, frame designers opt for translucent acetate tinged in airy hues, making translucent frames the ultimate “neutral.”

Nominations Now Open for Third Annual 2013 Optometric Business Innovators

Posted: 4/17/2013 12:30 AM
NEW YORK—Do you know an innovative OD? Someone who excels at incorporating new technologies into existing practice structures, is exceptional at managing managed care, distinctively trains staff teams or is progressive and successful in the use of digital media? Nominations are now open as Review of Optometric Business and Vision Monday kick off their third annual collaborative project—2013 Optometric Business Innovators.

Boston ECPs Cope With Bombing Tragedy

Posted: 4/17/2013 12:27 AM
W YORK—The shock and tragedy of the Boston Marathon bombings last Monday have left the city and the nation reeling.

Google Releases Tech Specs for Glass

Posted: 4/17/2013 12:24 AM
MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif.—Google disclosed on Monday the technical details of Glass, its soon to be released wearable computer.

Opticians Association of America Presents Presidential Service, State Leader and Website of the Year Awards

Posted: 4/17/2013 12:21 AM
LAKELAND, Tenn.—The Opticians Association of America (OAA) has presented its Presidential Service Award to Blair Wong of Massachusetts. Presented infrequently, the award was given to Wong this year for his leadership and support of the Opticians Association of America, his home state association and opticianry in general.

David Tanzer Named New Chief Medical Officer, Abbott Medical Optics

Posted: 4/17/2013 12:18 AM
SANTA ANA, Calif.—David Tanzer, MD has been named divisional vice president, medical affairs and chief medical officer at Abbott Medical Optics with responsibility for medical affairs, product safety and the development and dissemination of scientific educational materials to the medical community.

The Rising Tide of Private Label Brands on VisionMonday.com

Posted: 4/17/2013 12:15 AM


NEW YORK—The hottest new digital progressive lens may be a brand you’ve never heard of. In VM’s exclusive Special Report, The Rising Tide of Private Label, learn how the new generation of house brands, from major lens players and lesser known companies alike, could reshape the digital PAL market.

Glasses.com to Launch Proprietary 3D Virtual Try On App in May

Posted: 4/15/2013 12:27 AM
NEW YORK –Using a proprietary technology combining advanced computer modeling, photo technology and Hollywood special effects, Glasses.com, the online eyewear site, plans to debut a new, unique 3D Virtual Try On App to consumers in early May.

Essilor Creates New Executive Committee Position

Posted: 4/15/2013 12:24 AM
CHARENTON LE PONT, France— Essilor International announced that Jayanth Bhuvaraghan, president of its South-East Asia and India business unit, has been named to the newly created position of chief corporate mission officer position within Essilor’s executive committee.

Hoya Launches Educational Resource for ECPs

Posted: 4/15/2013 12:21 AM
LEWISVILLE, Texas— Hoya Vision Care announced the creation of the “Hoya Learning Center,” an educational resource for independent eyecare professionals.

Professor Brien Holden Is Next Guest on ‘Power Hour’

Posted: 4/15/2013 12:18 AM
FRANKLIN LAKES, N.J.—Contact lens pioneer, researcher and educator, Professor Brien Holden will be the featured guest on the Wednesday April 17 edition of the “The Power Hour,” the free weekly online radio talk show hosted by Gary Gerber, OD, founder of The Power Practice, a practice management company.

Sassy Blondes and An Exclusive Interview With SECO’s President on VisionMonday.com

Posted: 4/15/2013 12:15 AM

NEW YORK—If the three ladies in this week’s edition of Bold Face are any indication, blondes really do have more fun, especially when they're wearing super stylish sunnies! Check out these bombshells wearing styles from Marchon, REM and Luxottica in the latest installment of Bold Face.

At 40 years old, Darby Chiasson, OD, is SECO International’s youngest president ever. Soon after assuming the presidency during last month’s SECO meeting here, he spoke with Vision Monday about his three primary objectives for the coming year. Read Vision Monday’s exclusive interview with Chiasson to learn what he has planned for SECO for 2013 and find out how Hurricane Katrina impacted his path to the presidency.

Online Ads Trump Yellow Pages

Posted: 4/5/2013 12:15 AM

Eyeglass.com Names New CEO

Posted: 3/25/2013 12:24 AM

Vision Monday Top 50 U.S. Optical Retailers

Posted: 3/22/2013 12:18 AM
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Financial News  

Safilo Reimburses High Yield Notes

Posted: 5/17/2013 12:20 AM
PADUA, Italy— Safilo Group S.p.A. (SFL.MI) has released a statement communicating that its subsidiary Safilo Capital International S.A has completed the expected reimbursement of the residual part of the High Yield notes (Safilo Capital International Senior Notes 95/8 percent 2003-2013), equal to a nominal amount of €135 million, of which €7.1 million will be held by the subsidiary Safilo S.p.A.

SPY Reports Financial Results for Q1 2013

Posted: 5/15/2013 12:20 AM
CARLSBAD, Calif.— SPY Inc. (OTCBB: XSPY) has announced their financial results for the three months ended March 31, 2013.

Hoya Reports Rise in Fourth Quarter Revenues and Profits

Posted: 5/10/2013 12:20 AM
TOKYO— Hoya Corp. (TOKYO: 7741) reported that revenues from all operations increased 9.8 percent to 96,095 million yen for the fourth quarter ended March 31, 2013 compared with the same period last year.

Safilo Finalizes New Financing Transaction

Posted: 5/8/2013 12:20 AM
PADUA, Italy— Safilo Group S.p.A. (SFL.MI) has confirmed that is has signed the agreements related to the financing transaction for a total amount of €100 million, approved by the board of directors on March 6, 2013, related to:

OptiStock Conference Call

Posted: 4/29/2013 12:20 AM
NEW YORK—Luxottica Group S.p.A. (NYSE: LUX; MTA: LUX), has scheduled its 1Q 2013 results conference call will be available via audio webcast on April 29, 2013, at 12:30 pm U.S. EDT (4:30 pm GMT, 5:30 pm BST, 6:30 pm CEST). The audio webcast will be available to the financial community and the media from Luxottica Group’s corporate website.

Essilor Boosts First Quarter Revenue 2.1 Percent, Confirms Objectives for 2013

Posted: 4/26/2013 12:20 AM
CHARENTON-LE-PONT, France—Essilor International (Reuters: ESSI: PA) announced consolidated revenue of €1,276.3 million for the three months ended March 31, 2013.

Safilo Group S.p.A. Reports Higher Profits and Sales Increase in Q1

Posted: 4/24/2013 12:20 AM
DUA, Italy—The board of directors of Safilo Group S.p.A. (SFL.MI) has approved the results for the first quarter of 2013 ended March 31.

PPG Industries Reports 1Q Sales for 2013

Posted: 4/22/2013 12:20 AM
PITTSBURGH— PPG Industries (NYSE:PPG) reported first quarter 2013 sales of $3.3 billion, virtually equal with the same period the prior year.

SPY Announces Q4 and Year End 2012 Results

Posted: 3/22/2013 12:20 AM
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International News  

Seraphin Introduces Three All New Styles

Posted: 5/17/2013 12:31 AM
Seraphin’s Vintage Icon Series harkens back to the basics of pure style to create an understated, yet classic look full of vintage panache More

Adidas Eyewear Hits the Podium on the Fourth Lap of the Giro d’Italia

Posted: 5/17/2013 12:28 AM
The brand's eyewear won first and third place with Enrico Battaglin and Giovanni Visconti in Sierra San Bruno More

Safilens Makes Its First Appearance at the BCLA Exhibition in Manchester

Posted: 5/17/2013 12:25 AM
A crucial presence for the launch of “Fusion 1day” on the British market More

Italia Independent Celebrates Juventus Football Team

Posted: 5/15/2013 12:28 AM
The company dedicates a special edition to the 2013 Champions of Italy football team More

Lozza: New Website, New Contest

Posted: 5/15/2013 12:25 AM
Playing the part of a designer is possible with the “Write on a Macho, Win a Macho” contest More

Transitions Optical Supporting the CBM Italia Onlus Campaign

Posted: 5/13/2013 12:31 AM
The company launches World Lights, a digital experience to see the world in its best light More

Vuarnet: A Glance at the New Models

Posted: 5/13/2013 12:28 AM
The brand’s new sun and unisex proposals More

Eyewear: 64% Growth in Exports to New Markets Over Next Six Years

Posted: 5/13/2013 12:25 AM
United Arab Emirates, Brazil, Russia, Mexico and China are the top five for opportunities More

Gant: New Eyewear Collection Spring-Summer 2013

Posted: 5/10/2013 12:31 AM
"Style can't be forced, it is gradually acquired" More

Success for Adlens at the Edison Awards

Posted: 5/10/2013 12:28 AM
Adlens wins the bronze for the category Lifestyle & Social Impact at the prestigious Edison Awards More

Benetton Kids: Flash Collection With Polar Lenses

Posted: 5/10/2013 12:25 AM
3 new sun models for very dynamic children More

ArtFrameTotalArt Is “Out of … Frame”

Posted: 5/8/2013 12:31 AM
Gherardo Canuto: "it’s an honor to have the chance of presenting our collection to the world here, the throbbing heart of Fuorisalone" More

Oliver Peoples Takes Centre Stage on the Week of Design

Posted: 5/6/2013 12:31 AM
Daniela Zappella: “Oliver Peoples' design aspires to be timeless and unmistakable in terms of quality” More

Benetton: Flash Collection Summer 2013

Posted: 5/6/2013 12:28 AM
3 sun models for very dynamic children More

New Puma Models Inspired by Athletics and Distinctive Qualities

Posted: 5/6/2013 12:25 AM
Quality frames that are young, casual and comfortable More

Alain Mikli Interviewed at ‘Out of Mido’

Posted: 4/26/2013 12:31 AM
Elena Dmitrieva: “The Alain Mikli brand encompasses the concept of design” More

Gloryfy Presents G4 PRO

Posted: 4/26/2013 12:28 AM
The ideal sunglasses for all outdoor activities More

Fall/Winter Proposals by Dsquared2

Posted: 4/26/2013 12:25 AM
A celebration of the brand’s refined style in a balance of contemporary design and glam overtones More

Versace Launches the Signature Collection

Posted: 4/24/2013 12:31 AM
The new line of iconic eyewear for spring-summer 2013 More

April 27-28: Open Day at Istituto Benigno Zaccagnini

Posted: 4/24/2013 12:28 AM
An orientation meeting is scheduled at the end of the month in preparation for the course enrollments for the 2013/2014 school year More

Look Occhiali Takes Centre Stage at Fuorisalone

Posted: 4/22/2013 12:31 AM
In the heart of the Design District, in Milan, some of the biggest names in Italian and international design meet up with sector lovers More

Transitions Presents Life 360°

Posted: 4/22/2013 12:28 AM
The innovative patent for measuring light-sensitivity performance which faithfully reproduces real-life situations More

This Year, Essilor Italia Provides Its Support to Brazil

Posted: 4/22/2013 12:25 AM
Massimo Barberis: “Our mission is to provide a better quality of life by improving the eyesight of an increasingly higher number of people” More

Ogi Eyewear's New Collection

Posted: 4/19/2013 12:31 AM
20 new styles, 2 of which quickly become rising stars More

Charmant-Z and Line Art at Fuorisalone 2013, Side-Events at Milan Design Week

Posted: 4/19/2013 12:28 AM
The company is a high profile exhibitor of Out of Mido, held at the Nhow Hotel in Via Tortona More

Silhouette's Vision of Lightness at ‘Out of Mido’

Posted: 4/19/2013 12:25 AM
To get Fuorisalone visitors up close and personal with the “Faces of Litestyle” value project More

JPLUS Among the Protagonists of ‘Out of Mido’

Posted: 4/17/2013 12:31 AM
A look at the brand’s collections at the event “outside” the fair More

Deseye at the Fuorisalone of the Nhow in Via Tortona

Posted: 4/17/2013 12:28 AM
The two brands of the Veneto company have opted for design, taking part in Out of Mido More

Vanni and Derapage at ‘Out of Mido’ 2013

Posted: 4/17/2013 12:25 AM
Icons of City and MoleCube in a temple to design April 11 through 14 More

Spotlight on Out of Mido!

Posted: 4/15/2013 12:31 AM
Today saw the presentation of the first edition of an event that takes a selection of design-oriented companies “outside” the fair More

Out of Mido? ArtFrameTotalArt Is There!

Posted: 4/15/2013 12:28 AM
Let’s find out about the philosophy of a brand that is the result of a meeting between the art world and quality craftsmanship More

Epos: The Vintage Style at Out of Mido

Posted: 4/15/2013 12:25 AM
The Epic Wood collection at Nhow, the design hub of Out of Mido in Milan More

Timberland’s Fall/Winter 2013 Proposals

Posted: 4/12/2013 12:31 AM

Travel in A-Class With Police

Posted: 4/12/2013 12:28 AM

'Indiscreet Eyes' for Safilo

Posted: 4/8/2013 12:31 AM

ZEAL Optics Presents E-llume

Posted: 4/5/2013 12:31 AM

The Birth of Yobe: Your Beautiful Eyes

Posted: 4/5/2013 12:28 AM

Feb31st Presents New Collections

Posted: 4/5/2013 12:25 AM

Peter Sagan Wins Gent-Wevelgem

Posted: 4/3/2013 12:28 AM

Galileo: New Ophthalmic Lenses Catalog

Posted: 4/3/2013 12:25 AM

Schalcon Colors Your Eyes

Posted: 4/1/2013 12:25 AM

X-Ide Capsule Collection

Posted: 3/29/2013 12:31 AM

NAU! Repeats Initiative in the Capital City

Posted: 3/29/2013 12:28 AM

Vintage Vespas at Porto Mirabello

Posted: 3/29/2013 12:25 AM

Important New Developments for Genio Lab

Posted: 3/25/2013 12:31 AM

New 2.0 Look for Sting

Posted: 3/25/2013 12:28 AM

Eyewear Marries Design

Posted: 3/25/2013 12:25 AM

New Appointment in Essilor Italia

Posted: 3/22/2013 12:31 AM
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In the News  

Colleagues and Friends Honor the Late Rick Bay at Review of Optometry’s SECO Dinner

Posted: 4/15/2013 Volume Number: 27:5
ATLANTA— A jam-packed room at the annual Review of Optometry dinner during SECO last month was filled with friends, co-workers and colleagues among the optometric community, who came together at this year’s event to pay special tribute to the late Rick Bay.

Doing Business in Optical’s Local Markets

Posted: 4/15/2013 Volume Number: 27:5
The ways in which two regional optical groups switched from traditional promotions such as yellow pages and flyers to more up-to-date methods, including search engine advertising and social media, are featured in the current edition of dba: Doing Business in Optical’s Local Markets.

Vision Expo Launches Vision Monday’s Eye2 Zone

Posted: 4/15/2013 Volume Number: 27:5
NEW YORK—International Vision Expo & Conference launched a new technology-focused booth, called Vision Monday’s Eye2 Zone, last month at Vision Expo East.
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New & Noteworthy  

Colleagues and Friends Honor the Late Rick Bay at Review of Optometry’s SECO Dinner

Posted: 4/18/2013 9:03 AM Volume Number: 27:5
ATLANTA— A jam-packed room at the annual Review of Optometry dinner during SECO last month was filled with friends, co-workers and colleagues among the optometric community, who came together at this year’s event to pay special tribute to the late Rick Bay.

STYLE.PAGES: TRANSLUCENTS

Posted: 4/18/2013 8:03 AM Volume Number: 27:5
The beauty of a translucent frame is that it actually allows the wearer’s skin tone to shine through and give the frame its own unique glints and highlights. Each frame can then take on a life of its own, making translucent frames the ultimate “neutral.”

MOODY BLUES

Posted: 3/29/2013 10:00 AM
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