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Hot List: December 2008

1 GIFT BUDGETS
According to the National Retail Federation's 2008 Holiday Consumer Intentions and Actions Survey, this holiday season the average person will spend:

2 Web Shopping

Seven percent of retail sales are expected to occur online this year. Why consumers prefer to shop online during the holidays:

3 Let's Make a Deal

40%
of holiday shoppers say that sales/promotions is the biggest factor when determining where to shop.

12.6%
say that everyday low prices are most important.

Source: National Retail Federation

4 STAT BOX
23.2% of annual sales during the holidays are spent in clothing and accessories stores. Source: National Retail Federation

Gerber Coburn NEWS

Gerber Coburn, a unit of Gerber Scientific, Inc., has appointed Alex Incera as president of Gerber Coburn and corporate vice president. He replaces Stephen Lovass, who remains president of Gerber Scientific Products and senior vice president of Gerber Scientific, Inc. Incera has held several management positions in the company since 1995. In other company news, Gerber Coburn and Buchmann Optical Holding have reached an agreement for Gerber Coburn to distribute the Weco line of products for labs. Under the terms of the agreement, Gerber Coburn will distribute the Weco brand industrial products including the new Edge 990/980/970, Edge 950, Verifier Pro T, and the Trace II exclusively to the wholesale lab market in the U.S. Comments Jacky Buchmann, president of Buchmann Optical Holding: "When Weco exited the U.S. market in 2003, we were determined to return with a strong partner. Our industrial product line coupled with Gerber Coburn's technical expertise, sales and marketing, and service capabilities ensures mutual success." "The collaboration of Buchmann and Gerber Coburn supports our long-term strategic commitment to the wholesale marketplace," says Incera.

Safilo Names New CEO

The board of directors of Safilo Group has appointed Roberto Vedovotto as Safilo's new chief executive officer. He will report directly to Massimiliano Tabacchi and the Board. Vedovotto returns to Safilo after spending two years at Lehman Brothers and then at Nomura, where he held the position of head of investment banking in Italy. Massimiliano Tabacchi is assuming the position of executive vice chairman, and will continue to supervise the group and oversee its strategic direction.

Test Your Mettle!
OPTOMETRY Q. What does the Pelli-Robson chart measure? OPTICIANRY Q. Drugs that produce pupillary constriction are classified as ___?

Test Your Mettle ANSWERS
Thanks to Essilor and the NFOS for providing this month's questions and answers. Optometry Answer: Contrast sensitivity Opticianry Answer: Miotics

Healthy Sight Institute Unveiled

Transitions Optical, Inc., unveiled the Healthy Sight Institute during Silmo. The Institute is an educational and learning resource for health and vision care professionals worldwide. Supported by Transitions Optical, the Healthy Sight Institute is guided by a global steering committee of more than 25 health care and eyecare professionals and is dedicated to the preservation of healthy sight for all people.

In its first phase, the Healthy Sight Institute will serve as a knowledge center for professionals in the form of an online resource center (www.healthysightinstitute.org), providing a comprehensive range of preventive eye health and vision care information and resources.

The Healthy Sight Institute website will also provide a forum for education and collaboration among health and vision care professionals, optical industry leaders, policy makers, and the public for a wider understanding of proactive and preventive eyecare choices.

AUGEN TO DISTRIBUTE INTERCAST EUROPE RX SUNLENSES

Intercast Europe, S.r.l., a business of PPG industries, has appointed Augen Optics as an authorized distributor of NXT Rx performance sunlenses. "The partnership between Intercast and Augen is an excellent opportunity to provide consumers with a unique sunlens that can meet all the demands of an active, outdoor lifestyle," said Christine Camsuzou, PPG general manager, optical materials. The addition of NXT Rx sunlenses, a combination of Trivex material from PPG and Light Management Technology from Intercast, complements Augen's wide range of products made with Trivex material and expands Augen's Trivex availability.

MURPHY Joins CooperVision as President, Americas

CooperVision has named Dennis Murphy president of its Americas region. He joins CooperVision with an extensive background in healthcare, medical devices, and consumer products. He will be involved in executing global strategies, including integration of marketing, product development, manufacturing, and sales across the organization. Murphy previously served as president and CEO of two early stage companies: dock3 and Carttronics LLC, which provide service-orientated solutions to large retail and industrial organizations.

LICENSE LINE UP

Boucheron and Gold&Wood announced that they have entered into a new license agreement for sunglasses and optical frames. Gold&Wood will work with Boucheron in the design, production, and worldwide distribution of high-end luxury eyewear products. The agreement is for an initial term of six years and will begin on January 1, 2009. The first collection under the agreement will be launched in summer 2009.

Gucci Group and Safilo Group announced the extension of license agreements for the production and worldwide distribution of Gucci, Bottega Veneta, and Alexander McQueen eyeglass frames and sunglass collections. The renewals extend the Gucci brand contract to 2018, Bottega Veneta to 2010, and Alexander McQueen to 2013. Gucci Group and Safilo Group began their business relationship in 1989.

FENDI announced a five-year global license renewal with Marchon to manufacture and distribute sunglasses and ophthalmic frames. The license renewal is effective January 1, 2009. Marchon was initially awarded the global license for FENDI eyewear and sunwear in 2005.

CALL FOR PARAOPTOMETRIC AWARD NOMINEES

The American Optometric Association's (AOA) Paraoptometric Section is seeking nominations for the Paraoptometric of the Year Award. The award is given annually to the optometric assistant or technician who has made the most outstanding and worthwhile contributions to the profession of optometry, paraoptometry, and the general public. The awards committee judges each nominee on the basis of his or her own performance in these categories: service to optometry and paraoptometric associations; participation in public service activities; and a personal endorsement by the nominating individual. Nominees must be a member of the AOA Paraoptometric Section in order to be eligible. Nominations must be received by AOA by February 1, 2009. The award will be presented on June 25, 2009 during Optometry's Meeting® in Washington, D.C. For a nomination form or more information, call 800-365-2219, ext. 4222, or send an email to JVMurphy@aoa.org.

Web World

CooperVision has added two new free, video-based continuing education courses to its Online Learning Center. The new courses—which review the benefits of one-day contact lenses and provide information about silicone hydrogel material—are being offered in conjunction with the Contact Lens and Cornea Section of the American Optometric Association (AOA). For more information, visit http://learning.coopervision.com.

A new industry website called www.eyeoverheard.com brings all of the latest industry rumors and gossip online, with wit that spares no one along the way.

Created to be a place where people can anonymously read and post their industry-related thoughts and the gossip they hear, the fun site also sports eye-catching images. Anyone can anonymously add a comment to a story or post a rumor by sending an email to info@eyeoverheard.com.

VSP® has launched a new comprehensive Spanish website, located at www.vsp.com/espanol, to meet the unique vision care needs of the Latino community. Latinos are at a greater risk for macular degeneration, cataracts, glaucoma, and especially diabetic retinopathy.

VSP's new website helps Latinos learn about the health risks they face and how vision is connected to overall health, and helps them to find an eye doctor.

OAKLEY PARTNERS WITH SURFLINE.COM

Oakley, Inc., and Surfline have announced the release of an Apple® iPhone® application that provides worldwide mobile access to surf reports. Developed by Oakley in conjunction with Surfline, the application uses a media-rich format to present real-time information from Surfline, the leading provider of surf reports, forecasts, and editorial content on the sport. The initial release of the free downloadable mobile iPhone application will provide continually updated information on surf and weather conditions, as well as information on the surf community and culture, including news, photos, and videos. Direct links to the application are available at www.oakley.com/SurfReport and www.surfline.com/iphone.

On the Town

On Oct. 1, American Business Media presented Shamir's Matt Lytle with a CEBA Award for Shamir's "In the Office: AutoReply" ad campaign at the 13th Annual CEBA (Creative Excellence in Business Advertising) Awards at the Lincoln Center in New York City (top left photo). The campaign won in the Single Ad–Spread or Larger category.

Joseph Barr, OD, Bausch & Lomb vice president, global clinical and medical affairs and professional services, received the 2008 EFCLIN (European Federation of the Contact Lens Industry) award for his contributions to the contact lens industry (top right photo). Barr was chosen for his commitment to education and advancing the fitting of contact lenses.

Transitions Optical, Inc., partnered with VSP® Vision Care and two Central California opticianry schools to raise awareness within the Los Angeles Hispanic community about healthy sight habits and the impact of diabetes on eye sight during the American Diabetes Association's Feria de Salud por tu Familia™ (bottom photo). Transitions volunteers shared educational materials and provided demonstrations highlighting the importance of proper eyecare and sight-enhancing eyewear.

Chrome Hearts opened its first store dedicated exclusively to its luxury eyewear collection on Madison Avenue in New York City. The store is designed and decorated in signature Chrome Hearts style.

OLA Convention Focuses on Partnership

The 2008 Optical Laboratory Association annual meeting, held in Nashville at the Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center offered education, an exhibit hall, special events, and general sessions geared toward the meeting's theme: "Focus on Your Partner."

The organization elected new officers, directors, and members-at-large. OLA officers for 2008-2009 are: J. Larry Enright, president; Kevin Bargman, president-elect; Jonathan Jacobs, vice president; Mike Francesconi, treasurer; and Paul "Barney" Dougher, immediate past president.

OLA 2008 Hall of Fame honorees are: Donna Benedict, Bruce Calhoun, Al de Rojas, Susan Crawley, Ray Knoll, Don Ruden, Steve Sutherlin, Art Waite, Gerald Ward, and, posthumously: John Payne, Irving Rips, and George Weber.

In addition, Digital Vision, Inc.'s. Gordon Keane received the 2008 Director's Choice Award.

The 22nd Annual Awards of Excellence put nominees in the spotlight in several categories. Winners were:

Frames and lenses: Best in Dress Frames: Mount Eyewear SL-A, Tuscany Eyewear; Best in Safety Frames: TR3095, Uvex by Sperian; Best in Children's Frames: Via Spiga 410, Zyloware Corporation; Best in Lens Designs: Image Wrap Decentered Design, Younger Optics; Best in Lens Materials and Treatments: Polycarbonate Drivewear Activated by Transitions, Younger Optics.

Equipment and Finishing: Best in Surfacing Equipment: VFT Ultra, Satisloh North America, Inc.; Best in Finishing Equipment: 7E HLP Edging System, National Optronics; Best in Lens Treatment Equipment: Magna-Spin, Satisloh North America, Inc.; Best in Finishing Materials and Tools: SecurEdge Plus Blocking Pads, Optisource and Practical Systems, Inc.; Best in Surfacing Materials and Tools: HD-360 Polish, DAC Vision.

Best in Marketing: Drivewear Activated by Transitions Informational Videos, Younger Optics; Best in Accessory Products: Shield Lens Protection System, Hilco; Best Booth: Signet Armorlite.

1. Gordon Keane, president of Digital Vision, Inc., receives the OLA's Director's Choice Award from Barney Dougher; 2. John Enright inducts his son, J. Larry Enright, as OLA president; 3. 2008 OLA Hall of Fame honorees gather for a photo op; 4. Nancy Friedman, The Telephone Doctor, energized the audience at the first general session.

CHAIN LINK: Ilori's First Year

With one year of business under its belt, how has ILORI, Luxottica's ultra-high-end sunglass retail concept, proven and differentiated itself in a tightening luxury market? We caught up with Michael Hansen, ILORI's vice president and general manager, to find out.

EB: How does ILORI serve an unfilled niche in the sunglass retail marketplace?

Michael Hansen: The ILORI business model is founded on providing our clients with the "rare, special, true, exclusive." With this in mind…our product selection includes an eclectic range of iconic brands, emerging designers, and hard-to-find niche brands—many of them offered in limited editions exclusive to and created specifically for ILORI.

EB: Who is the target customer?

Hansen: ILORI caters to fashion and accessory enthusiasts who shop for rare and extraordinary items.

EB: How do you deliver first-class service?

Hansen: ILORI customs set it apart…offering guests a glass of water or champagne upon arrival, private-room purchasing, sharing upcoming in-store events and local activities, concierge services, presentation of the purchase and celebratory ILORI French imported chocolate, and sending handwritten thank-you notes following each purchase.

EB: How is the ILORI brand marketed?

Hansen: The brand has worked closely with its key designers to host a number of impactful events at its various boutiques…including Badgley Mischka "Sunglasses and Your Little Black Dress" hosted by Mark Badgley and James Mischka… and the Derek Lam Spring 2008 Collection Preview hosted by Derek Lam.

ILORI also developed a relationship with The Museum at Fashion Institute of Technology director and chief curator, Dr. Valerie Steel, and sponsored her new exhibit "Gothic: Dark Glamour" to coincide with the brand's in-store theme of "Dark Angel."

ILORI was carefully designed by architect Craig Nealy to be welcoming so that customers can interact with the eyewear. Full-length mirrors are strategically placed throughout the boutique allowing shoppers the opportunity to see how their choices complete head-to-toe looks. The Voice of ILORI wall featured at the front of all ILORI boutiques exhibits current trends in style and culture. By confirming itself as an authority on style, ILORI becomes a "go-to" place for more than just eyewear.

Perspective: Fred and Mimi Friedfeld on the Past and Future

Founded in 1949 by Fred and Mimi Friedfeld, ClearVision is heading into its 60th anniversary year under the direction of the second generation of Friedfelds. Here, EB speaks with the first generation of Friedfelds about their reflections and hopes for optical..

EB: What is the one business lesson you've tried most to communicate to your children?

Fred: Being honest and fair with our employees, customers, and suppliers should always be priority one.

Mimi: Remember to always exercise good financial judgment because we have many wonderful people and families who rely on our decisions.

EB: To what do you attribute your success?

Fred: Hard work, having a good staff to back you up, and a strong working network with the best suppliers is key.

Mimi: I think that having built a team that has worked together to achieve a common goal is responsible for our success. Being honest and diligent business people has brought us much success. Fred and I have never forgotten why we work—the company is responsible for making a profit to supply the needs of everyone who works here and buys quality products from us. I believe that these simple principles are the secrets of our success.

EB: What are the biggest challenges in optical today?

Fred: The number-one challenge in the optical industry today is to make sure the independent optical professionals are here to stay. If this does not happen, the public will be cheated and they will not get the proper care they deserve.

Mimi: Today's challenges are for the industry's business owners to keep their eyes on their goals and to make sure they know their bottom line at all times, so their employees are secure. That has always been a goal for us.

EB: Would you recommend optical to young people?

Fred: I would highly recommend the optical industry to young people for two reasons: 1) there will always be a need for eyewear. As the population is aging, there will be more of a demand for people in need of good vision care, and 2) it is a respectable profession.

Mimi: I, too, would recommend the optical industry to a young person because it has no bounds. As long as one desires to work very hard in this business, you will succeed.

EB: What do you think will happen to optical in the current financial crisis?

Fred: After being in business for 60 years and seeing many ups and downs, the optical business has always stayed afloat because there always is a need for eyecare. People need to see to function and have to take care of their vision problems. It's our job as frame suppliers to make sure we give the independent optical people what they need to serve their patients well.

Mimi: The optical business will always be here, especially the independents because they are the heart of our industry. Caring about people and their eye health will always be an asset to our industry.

Silmo Wrap-Up

The 41st Silmo, the international optics and eyewear show in Paris, offered an outstanding effort to show off the industry's latest products and plans to keep the optical community moving forward through the year-to-come's uncertain financial future.

While the final figures were down slightly, by 435 visitors compared to last year, the event welcomed 42,234 visitors, of whom 52 percent came from abroad. According to show representatives, "visitor numbers and business volume will have met expectations and will have swept away the questions and even fears aroused by the difficult conditions in which the 42nd Silmo opened."

The event hosted 1,000 exhibitors, including 150 first-time exhibitors, noted Guy Charlot, Silmo president. "A trade show is the perfect venue to gain some perspective and to look into the future in order to find new products and brands," he added, noting, "Silmo is opening in a difficult global economic context, but is resolutely defending its fundamental role as a rallying point and a unifier for the entire optics and eyewear industry."

The show, which ran on an alternate schedule this year, will return to its Friday through Monday schedule next year, from September 17 through 20 at Paris Expo Porte de Versailles. For more, visit www.silmo.fr.

1. Flip-up eyewear from Entourage of 7 (E7) Los Angeles; 2. A hall of frames highlighted trends; 3. Alain Mikli utilized his collection of classic cars to shuttle "patients" to his eyewear "clinic;" 4. ic! Berlin's handmade booth; 5. Natural materials from Emmanuelle Khanh Paris; 6. Lafont created scene sets for its eyewear groups.

7. Grotesque created its second annual limited edition eyewear series for Silmo—each buyer receives the eyewear as well as a picture of how the artwork looked as a whole prior to becoming frames; 8. Face a Face continued its glamour in sunwear with a touch of retro curving for drama and face flattery; 9. Kirk Originals hosted performances by The McCarricks; 10. The Design Village stayed open late to celebrate Silmo.

2008 Silmo d'Or Awards

The winners of the d'Or Awards were named at the annual Silmo d'Or event. Children's Frame: Zoobug style Daisy 01 Sport Eyewear: Demetz style Fablerd Low Vision: Ceciaa product KnfbReader Optic Instrument: Medes product Jumelle Papilio by Pentax Product Environment: Mikli Diffusion's Exolook for Vanessa & Mehdi Accessory: Opta Filao's Berberi Ade Frame Technological Innovation: Logo's C-Flex for Tag Heuer Lenses: Essilor's Varilux Ipseo New Edition Village Sunglass: Face a Face style Monoi 1 Village Optic Frame: ic! Berlin style Urban Workshop Tool and Equipment: Essilor's Essibox Eye Test Instrument: Nideks' OPD Scann II Luxury: Lindberg's Precious Art Temple Optical Frame: Morel's Osaka style by Nomad Sunglass (TIE): Luxottica style PO 2911S by Persol AND Marchon style EP 629S by Emilio Pucci