We have so many questions today. No doubt, you do, as well. We wondered things like:

» How much impact did 2020 have on ECPs’ bottom lines?

» When do eyecare businesses expect to fully rebound from the Covid-caused downturn—if ever?

» What are your staff’s biggest fears and concerns, right now?

» How are practices across the country currently handling masking protocols?

» How many practices are planning to start selling online now?

» How have you and your staff approached vaccination?

» What is your own stress level?

Our big, 10-page annual 2021 Market Trends Report starting on page 40 in this issue digs deep to answer these questions and more—and analyzes their answers. We put a laser focus on how things look at the national level—and then break them down by region. Clear trends and regional differences have emerged.

One key takeaway—eyecare professionals are recovering and hopeful but still struggling…with their own business reboot, filling the exam schedule, staffing, online competitors, and how to face the future.

When asked to share their one biggest business challenge right now, here’s what some had to say:

“Keeping the exam schedule full.”

“The pandemic has accelerated online eyewear purchasing by the consumer. Convincing them that we offer much more value for their dollars is a top challenge.”

“Economic instability and rent burden brought by Covid-19.”

“Keeping staff happy and engaged...I have a great team and want to keep them!”

There is so much more crucial intelligence, too, in this issue:

Head to page 15 for our TrendSpotting section where we explore national data on practice masking and staff vaccination directions.

And, on the lighter side, don’t miss our Purely Modern. men’s eyewear fashion feature starting on page 32. And, we dive into the inspiring details of the new Tumi eyewear collection from De Rigo REM in my interview with Tumi creative director Victor Sanz—Taking Flight on page 38.

We hope you enjoy the issue!

TRENDING VIDEO ➤ TOUR THE ISSUE WITH EB’S EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Curious what’s in store in this issue of EB? Join editor Erinn Morgan by clicking play in EB’s digital edition for quick highlights + insider info.

Erinn Morgan,
Editor-in-Chief + Editorial Director
Director of Social Media, PentaVision