DE+I: The Retail Perspective

In optical, several chains have taken the lead in committing to new initiatives surrounding diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I). Here’s a look at what steps two chains—Shopko Optical and National Vision Inc. (NVI)—have taken in this area.

NVI’s initiatives are led by Jacqueline Grove, senior vice president of talent development; culture; diversity, equity, & inclusion; and philanthropy. At Shopko, chief people officer Cindy Moen is responsible for DE&I initiatives.

RECOGNITION + INITIATIVES

Earlier this year, NVI was recognized by Forbes as a “Best Employer” for two categories—Diversity and Women. More than half of its total employees and 45% of optometrists in its network identify as Black, indigenous, or people of color (BIPOC).

Both companies became very involved with DE&I in 2020. National Vision established a Diversity Council of optometrists, field leaders, and executives, and Shopko launched employee resource groups (Shopko Optical Communities).

FOCUS + GOALS

“As people are learning to become more inclusive leaders and increasing their cultural intelligence about people who are different from them,” explains Grove, “that is ultimately going to help someone become a more enriched and fulfilled person.”

“At National Vision, we want every associate and doctor in our network to feel comfortable bringing their full selves to work each day,” shares Grove. “We focus on fostering allyship, advocacy, and awareness for diversity of thought, race, ethnicity, background, sexuality, religion, and gender.”

PROGRAMS + ACTIVITIES

DE&I initiatives at NVI include a $100,000 pledge to support scholarships for first-generation students from underrepresented backgrounds at the New England College of Optometry, as well as the sole sponsorship of the Summer Enrichment Program of Salus University’s Pennsylvania College of Optometry.

Within the company, associates are required to complete DE&I compliance training and new O.D.s participate in DE&I overview sessions.

At Shopko, “employee resource groups (Shopko Optical Communities) are led by teammates and provide education and information to our entire workforce,” shares Moen. “For example, our LGBTQ+ group created Shopko Optical Pride pins that we made available for all teammates in June, and our Military & Veterans Community is working on a companywide event to celebrate Veterans Day. We use our intranet for the groups to sponsor weekly content.” 

TRAINING + BENEFITS

“Our teammates are diverse,” explains NVI’s Grove. “So is our patient base. It’s great when patients can walk in the doors of our stores and feel like it is a safe and welcoming environment for all.”

Looking ahead, Shopko’s Moen adds, “We are rolling out additional training this fall related to unconscious bias. Our communities have provided us with so much information to celebrate the differences we all bring.”