DALLAS—Eyemart Express, an optical retailer founded in 1990 by Dr. Doug H. Barnes and now a group of 218 office locations in 40 states nationwide, will celebrate more than just clear vision in 2020. The optical retailer turns 30, “a milestone in the retail and optical industries,” according to an announcement this week. Eyemart Express, which calls itself “the fastest provider of glasses in the industry” with its onsite labs, will launch a “2020 Glasses Giveaway” as part of its anniversary celebration. Customers who shop at Eyemart Express locations starting Jan. 1 will automatically be entered to win a $2020 gift card.A customer’s winning ticket will be selected each month this year, according to the announcement. (The gift card can be used to purchase any of the more than 2,000 frame options carried in every Eyemart Express, as well as sunglasses, lens treatments or accessories.)

Additionally, a video series documenting Eyemart Express' history through the experiences of long-term associates, loyal vendor partners, generations of customers, and nonprofit partners will be released throughout the year beginning Jan. 15 on the site eyemartexpress.com/30years.

Eyemart Express was founded on the philosophy of making prescription eyewear more accessible, including a revolutionary one-hour production time. Over the last 30 years, the retailer has delivered on Dr. Barnes' promise by providing shoppers with same-day glasses, some that are ready in as little as 30 minutes, according to the announcement.

"This 30-year milestone is a testament to our Eyemart Family: it starts with our stores and extends to our customers nationwide who depend on us to see clearly," chief executive officer Michael Bender said in the announcement. "We remain dedicated to the founding values of Eyemart Express, which are focused on making the glasses buying experience easy.”

Bender said the company continues to operate with convenience at the forefront, while providing current customers with a simplified online shopping experience.

"We are proud to play a role in improving our customers' lives by helping them see better," added chief marketing and merchandising officer Paula Blomquist. "We have made deep connections with our customers, associates, and vendor partners over the last 30 years. Our new year-long [video] series highlights these powerful stories."