HANDS ON - Publisher's Letter
Making Connections

Connections—that's what it's all about. As the publisher of Eyecare Business, I'd like to introduce myself to those of you I haven't met yet, and to say hello again to those I met in my previous 14 years with BCI.

Four years ago while working with BCI, I spoke with some of the major players in the optical industry. These decision makers revealed major concerns about the future: How could they communicate the importance of optical products and services to consumers; how could they keep the frontline dispenser informed and enthusiastic; and how could they weather the financial storms that hit altogether too often.

Recently, I chatted with a dispensary owner while our sons played at a Little League game. The 30-year optical veteran is struggling to find new ways to make a profit while serving the consumer and partnering with managed care and manufacturers. He's still making a good living, but he's puzzling over how to hang on and grow in a challenging market.

What was true several years ago remains true today: Eyecare Business helps answer these questions. We respond to the issues that come up in dispensaries and in practice and build connections between ECPs, manufacturers, labs, and consumers.

I've been a publisher of magazines in the high tech market, an environment where the status quo constantly changes. The same movement is happening in optical.

It's exciting, because there's always new equipment, frames styles, materials, and lens technology just waiting to hit the market. Eyecare Business provides a runway where they can take off.

Our goal is to build connections between our two major customers: The readers who are on the frontline, and the vendors supplying the goods and services to get the job done.

Research and outreach are my passions. My publishing philosophy is: Follow the reader and win. And my question is: What can we do as a magazine that will help you grow your business?

I look forward to expanding Eyecare Business' efforts, helping you make critical connections, getting your questions answered, and providing you with a blueprint of retail strategies for continued profitable dispensing.

Sincerely,

Mark Durrick, Publisher

P.S., I welcome your input on the latest products, business challenges, or industry issues. I can be reached via phone: 215-643-8138, fax, 215-643-3902, or E-mail durrickm@boucher1.com.