ENV O IS DEPUB LIC A TIO NS CA NA D IENNES • NO .DECO NV

Transcription

ENVOIS DE PUBLICATIONS CANADIENNES • NO. DE CONVENTION 40052210 Adresse de retour : 202-495 boul. St-Martin O, Laval (Québec) H7M 1Y9
A_vis03:8
11/03/08
11:13
Page 1
B_vis03:8
11/03/08
11:14
Page 1
ENVOIS DE PUBLICATIONS CANADIENNES • NO. DE CONVENTION 40052210 Adresse de retour : 202-495 boul. St-Martin O, Laval (Québec) H7M 1Y9
_vis03:7
11/03/08
13:06
Page 1
| mar_apr | 2008
Søme things just
Vision Expo East
Booth #3353
April 11-13, 2008
w w w. k l i i k . c o m
A brand of
11/03/08
13:07
Page 4
| CONTENT | mar_apr | 2008
| Cover image: Versès Mod. Tiger-SS08-Eyewear-02-020 |
_vis03:7
| 08 | Fashion Frames: Niche Trends Grab the Spotlight
Spousal RRSPs Still Worthwhile
| 24 |
From North to South: Two Great Designers at Ego
| 26 |
Eyeglass Chandelier Creates New Vision
| 30 |
Drug Access for AMD Sparks Controversy
| 34 |
Alternative Eyewear and Plan B: New and Newer Still
| 36 |
OAC Surveys Opticians
| 40 |
Lead Your Customers to Multiple Sales
| 42 |
Issues and News from your
| NEXT ISSUE | may_jun | 2008
| 20 |
Association
| 46 |
| 56 |
PRODUCED FOR THE OPTICIANS
ASSOCIATION OF CANADA BY:
Breton Communications Inc.
495 St-Martin Blvd. West, #202
Laval, Québec H7M 1Y9
Tel. : (450) 629-6005
Fax : (450) 629-6044
[email protected]
www.bretoncom.com
4
VISION | mar_apr | 2008
What’s new?
Classified Ads
PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER
Martine Breton
[email protected]
ART DIRECTION
Marco Gagnon
Martial Graphics Inc.
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Paddy Kamen
Tel. : (250) 469-4350
[email protected]
ADVERTISING
Martine Breton
[email protected]
Isabelle Groulx
[email protected]
1-888-462-2112
Tel. : (450) 629-6005
Fax : (450) 629-6044
ASSOCIATE EDITORS
James Ahola, B.A.Sc.
Mary Field
JoAnne Sommers
ADVERTISING COORDINATOR /
COPY EDITOR
Lauren Saroukhan
[email protected]
CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING
[email protected]
PRINTING
K2 impressions Inc.
Sporting Goods
From high-flying snowboarders
to on-the-ground golfers and
underwater scuba divers, all
sports enthusiasts need sun
protection and many require an
ophthalmic package. The latest
cool products are reviewed in this
feature.
Published six times a year
For subscription information, contact the
Opticians Association of Canada
Legal deposit
National Library of Canada
ISSN 1194-224X
Canadian Publication Mail Product
Convention NO 40052210
Postage Paid in Quebec
All reproduction, in all or in part,
of the herein publication, is strictly
forbidden, without the written
authorization of the publisher.
Printed in Canada
Allison Canada Inc. 866-811-2011 www.allisoncanada.com Mod. MI 112
05_vis03_8:8
04/03/08
11:51
Page 1
11/03/08
13:08
Page 6
|
EDITORIAL
|
_vis03:7
Paddy Kamen
Editor-in-chief
|
Fashion frames are simply bursting with creativity, as
befits the spring season. What are the trends? Well,
there are niche trends certainly, but no one who knows
the business today will say that the market is
overwhelmingly moving in any one direction.
In this market, having an open mind as a retailer is
more important than ever. Daniel Laoun, director of
Montreal-based distributors Georges et Phina portent
des lunettes, notes that sales associates sometimes
have a hard time being open to round shapes, for
example, because they are used to seeing them on
older people. “But it is important to consider that our
perceptions of what is right for the customer don’t
necessarily reflect the reality of the client. So no matter
what the trends are, the first concern of the dispenser
should be how the frame looks on the person.”
Amin Mamdani, vice president of Toronto-based
Josephson Opticians relates an experience fitting a grey
haired woman with pale skin on the Trial by Jury
makeover show. “If I was talking trends I would have fit
her in a frame of neutral colour to match her skin tone,
hair and eyes, but those frames were just too flat. She
ended up looking stunning in a violet frame with vivid
lime green accents. Definitely not ‘on trend’ for the
vintage look but the frame was wonderful on her.”
Mamdani says he sees ECPs at trade shows pick
up a frame, try it on and decide against it because it
doesn’t suit them. He advises a different perspective:
“Think instead: ‘What kind of customer would this be
good for?’ ”
This issue’s feature story on fashion frames should
give you some idea of the breadth of current trends and
thus help you with buying decisions.
Our report on the current controversy around
the drugs made by Genentech to treat AMD is an
interesting read. This story has been all over the news
and our reporter, JoAnne Sommers, has done a great
job of examining the issues.
You’ll also find OAC news and other bits and bites
round out this issue, including a fun piece on an
samazing artist who uses old eyeglasses in marvelous
ways.
Thank you for sharing your time with us!
6
ISI
Perfect Optical 800-361-1900
07_vis03:8
04/03/08
13:50
Page 1
_vis03:7
11/03/08
13:11
Page 8
S: ht
E
M
ig
RA Spotl
F
ION b the
H
FAS s Gra
nd
e
r
eT
h
Nic
| Versès Tiger-SS08-Eyewear-02-020 |
8
_vis03:7
11/03/08
13:14
Page 9
The Opticians Association of Canada
Association des opticiens du Canada
2706-83 Garry Street
Winnipeg, Manitoba R3C 4J9
(204) 982-6060 • 1-(800) 847-3155
E-mail : [email protected]
Web site : www.opticians.ca
2008
PROVINCIAL DIRECTORS /
ADMINISTRATEURS PROVINCIAUX
LORNE KASHIN
Techno, vintage, geek
and glamour – fashion frame designers
are clearly having fun as trends move in
several directions. From the runways to
the office there’s a plethora of choices for
consumers who want more than ever
to assert their individuality.
President / Président
Thornhill, Ontario
(905) 881-1276
Alberta
DAVID MCGOWAN
Red Deer • (403) 347-1020
British Columbia / Colombie-Britannique
CINDY KOSZEGI
Victoria • 1-866-920-5911
Manitoba
TODD SMITH
Secretary Treasurer / Secrétaire-trésorier
Winnipeg • (204) 788-4571
By Paddy Kamen
New Brunswick / Nouveau-Brunswick
ROBERTA MCLAUGHLIN
| Where exactly are fashion frames going? In many directions as it turns out.
The hip young man may want to slay them at the office or even out on the dance
floor with his nerd/geek/chic frames reminiscent of the 80’s. The business woman
or lawyer may be sporting a tech/industrial frame with keen architectural detailing.
And the ultra-feminine party-girl lets nothing stand in the way of her provocative
look. You’re thinking ‘futuristic’? We have that, too!
Saint John • (506) 634-0016
Newfoundland / Terre-Neuve
MARIAN WALSH
St. John’s • (709) 579-2605
Nova Scotia / Nouvelle-Écosse
ROBERT DALTON
Everyone seems to agree that fashion
frame trends for the coming year are all over
the map. We can, however, point to niche
trends that, while not dominating the market,
are finding solid acceptance. Amin Mamdani,
vice-president of Josephson Opticians in
Toronto, says vintage, techno and luxury are
all strong niche markets in his decidedly
upscale stores.
Vice-President / Vice-président
Halifax • (902) 455-4305
Ontario
LORNE KASHIN
President / Président
Thornhill • (905) 881-1276
Prince Edward Island /
Île-du-Prince-Édouard
DALIE SCHELLEN
Charlottetown • (902) 566-2020
Saskatchewan
JAMES HOLSTEIN
Rosetown • (306) 882-3511
9
_vis03:7
11/03/08
13:15
Page 10
ht
e Spotlig
ds Grab th
re |
| featu
Fashion
Niche Tren
Frames:
Very fashionable and easy to
wear, this strong and stylish
take on techno from
Zig Eyewear makes a colourful
statement.
JF Rey
A lyrical Jean-François Rey
collection, Boz seduces those
women with design draws from
Japanese culture, nature, and
poetry – and stamps the frames
with a refined touch. Kaprisse
won the 2007 Silmo d’Or in the
Style and Design category.
François Pinton
This titanium folding frame from
François Pinton’s 2008
collection is made from super
flat titanium. Designed for men,
it can either be a classic or a
cool half eye. The frame is
delivered in a soft-touch and
elegantly designed case that
will fit any pocket.
By ‘vintage’ Mamdani is referring to the
thick, heavy plastics in dark finishes that are
reminiscent of the mid-late 80’s. “Vintage
has quite the wow factor right now and has
received the greatest media and fashion
attention, with a favourite shape being the
aviator square,” he observes. He cites the
Oliver Peoples’ 20th anniversary collection,
Entourage of 7, and l.a.Eyeworks.
Feminine and playful, this Zig
Eyewear frame is very colour-on
for current apparel and accessory trends.
Daniel Laoun, director of Montreal-based
Georges et Phina distributors, confirms the
vintage or geek/chic trend, adding that the
demand for wide temples is very strong.
Interestingly, Laoun notes a resurgence in
some shapes that we haven’t seen for quite
a while – round and oval. “They look
fabulous on some faces and should be part
of every dispensary’s collection for that
reason alone,” he says.
Laoun and his colleagues were excited
when a frame represented by Georges et
Phina portent des lunettes recently won a
distinguished award. The ‘Tornado’ from the
Derapage collection of Nico Design won the
prestigious Chicago 2007 Good Design
Award from the Chicago Athenaeum Museum
of Architecture and Design.
Founded in Chicago in 1950, the Good
Design Award bestows international recognition
on the world's most prominent designers
and manufacturers for advancing new,
visionary and innovative product concepts,
invention and originality, and for stretching
the envelope beyond what is considered
basic product and consumer design.
10
Zig Eyewear
Viva
Viva International Group presents a feminine frame with VES
652S, by ESCADA. A sleek flat
metal front and expressive plastic temples are enhanced with
the richness of rhinestones, and
the double “E” logo creates a
vivid display of feminine sophistication.
11_vis03:8
05/03/08
14:19
Page 1
_vis03:7
11/03/08
13:17
Page 12
ht
e Spotlig
ds Grab th
re |
| featu
Fashion
Niche Tren
Frames:
Viva
Lindberg
A luxury frame, the LINDBERG
evergreen collection AIR titanium
RIM has added four new designs
with a fashion twist in the lens
shapes. Lindberg’s AIR titanium is a
preferred choice among end-users
worldwide.
The Tornado exemplifies the techno/
industrial trend in fashion frames, not only in
appearance but also by virtue of its
construction. The frame’s three layers are cut
by photo-blanking technology. The shapes
are punched from a sheet of steel corroded
to hair’s breadth precision by a chemical
agent. The three layers are then held in a
sandwich by steel micro-rivets. The process
produces an all-steel frame that is non-allergenic
and recyclable. The metal needs no
protective coating, colour or paint, so the
beauty of the material lasts indefinitely.
“This is a very clean design with a
hi-tech assertive look,” says Laoun. “At the
same time it is light on the face and not at
all overwhelming.”
Tura
A trendy milled metal front in a very
wearable rectangular shape. The
stylish acetate temples and
wide-body spring hinge with
comfortable soft movement makes
this frame adaptable for many
head sizes and extremely
comfortable to wear.
The word ‘luxury’ when applied to fashion
frames can refer to high-end materials and
brands, as well as to frames that are significantly ornamented. For Mamdani, luxury
reigns this season with decadent jewel
pieces from Gold & Wood and frames
adorned with gold and diamonds from
Cartier’s Panthère de Cartier collection. He
also mentions Lindberg, a label famed for its
classic AIR Titanium rimless frame.
GUESS by Marciano Eyewear, the
refined GU 1511 delivers a sharp
innovative silhouette with
modified rectangular metal
fronts and open end pieces.
Deep marbleized colours,
including burgundy and cream,
enhance the lustrous aesthetic of
the handmade temples. Brought
to you by Viva International.
Versès Optik
From Versès Optik, two models
that bring vintage/geek/chic to
the spotlight. On the left is J.
Lindeberg’s ADHARA 4, an
oversized rectangle with very
vintage colouring in brown with
red tones. This frame features a
metal temple insert with the J.
Lindeberg logo. The piece on the
right is THYDEN 2, a Tiger of
Sweden classic frame that, while
vintage, has a light and clean
appearance. The bold silver “T”
logo on the temple makes a
strong design statement.
Laoun says he’s noticed more ‘bling’ on
the market. “It is better represented in
sunwear but we have also been selling more
frames with stones in the temples and
fronts. I definitely feel there is more
openness to wearing pieces like this now.”
Chantilli Canada
The Aurora is a glamorous vintage frame from Ottica Veneta, in
the Sospiri collection. Distributed by Chantilli Canada.
12
13_vis03:8
04/03/08
14:41
Page 1
_vis03:7
11/03/08
13:16
Page 14
ht
e Spotlig
ds Grab th
re |
| featu
Fashion
Niche Tren
Frames:
JF Rey
From JF Rey and inspired by
industrial imagery and modern
architecture, this stainless steel
frame with acetate end tips shows
graphic lines all around the frame.
Very light and comfortable it comes
in large sizes for men. Model 2168
is the same design but much
smaller, for women or men with
smaller faces. The end tips buck the
industrial trend with colours
reminiscent of horn.
These ornate styles are generally
designed for women, while techno and
vintage can be suited to either gender.
‘Kaprisse’ from the Boz collection, a product
of the JF Rey design studio, exemplifies the
women-only frame experience. Winner of the
Silmo d’Or 2007 in the Style and Design
category, Kaprisse offers a detailed and
sophisticated laser-cut face and arms, with
a leafy theme inspired by Japanese motifs.
The delicacy of the cutting is akin to lace.
Another highly feminine frame is
Escada’s VES 652S. Here we find rhinestones
fashioning the characteristic double ‘E’ logo
on plastic temples. The flat metal front
complements the colour of the stones. The
luxurious materials and striking colour
combinations of ESCADA Eyewear are
reflective of the brand’s attention to fine
detail.
A playful, yet distinctly feminine piece
is Ziggy 89, from Cendrine Obadia’s
St-Sauveur-based Zig Eyewear. The two-tone
wavy temples are sensuous and the colours
are very current with apparel and accessory
trends. Note also that Zig has some frames
that fall strongly within the tech category.
l.a.Eyeworks Pick Up is an exquisite
example of the niche trend known as
‘nerd’ or ‘geek-chic’.
l.a.Eyeworks
This gorgeous, colourful frame speaks
volumes: funky, retro, fun. As seen at
the “Italy at South Coast Plaza,”
fashion show in L.A.
14
One frame design that stands in a class
of its own is Spectacle Eyeworks’ ‘Scorpion
Anthology’ from Vancouver-based designer
Mehran Baghaie. Inspired by his own Scorpio
zodiac sign, Baghaie surpasses his
reputation for the daring and eccentric with
these new designs. The ornate, intricate
temples are indicative of scorpions and the
front of each frame is multi-dimensional.
In order to diversify the look even more, an
interchangeable temple incorporates a
patent-pending concept.
Inspired by his own Scorpio zodiac
sign, Mehran Baghaie, operations
director and chief designer at
Canadian design house Spectacle
Eyeworks, adds six new designs
to the Scorpion Anthology. With
ornate, intricate temples and
multi-dimensional eye wires, these
frames can be diversified with
interchangeable temples.
Spectacle Eyeworks
Spectacle Eyeworks presents stainless
steel designs with metal plaques
on each plastic temple. The
Eastern-inspired intricate temple
designs are available in two – dragons
or the Chinese firehorse. Clean design
and striking colours make these
beautiful frames accessible to
everyone.
15_vis03:8
11/03/08
14:35
Page 1
_vis03:7
11/03/08
13:18
Page 16
ht
e Spotlig
ds Grab th
re |
| featu
Fashion
Niche Tren
Frames:
“I feel exceptionally passionate about
these creations,” says Baghaie. “They are
striking and eye-catching from every angle
because of the three-dimensional nature of
each style.” Spectacle Eyeworks also offers
striking designs that fall within the techno
trend.
Sàfilo
Rectangular shapes as well as
preppy horn-rim silhouettes
dominate the fourteen styles of the
new Banana Republic men’s
collection from Sàfilo.
A vintage throwback with some
retro shapes in brushed metal,
gold and Bakelite.
Fashion frames have been seen on the
runways of L.A. UCLA’s Fashion and Student
Trends’ annual juried exhibition of student
design, entitled “Rebirth,” featured
l.a.Eyeworks’ edgy frames among many
innovative student designs. One of the
frames in this show was Ultramost. And at
South Coast Plaza – an international legend
in luxury retailing – l.a.Eyeworks joined in a
celebratory runway show, “Italy at South
Coast Plaza,” that recognized the critical
importance of Italian design in contemporary
fashion. l.a.Eyeworks’ frames are produced
and hand-finished in Italy, and were a perfect
fit for hip fashion selections from Gucci,
United Colors of Benetton, Fendi, MAX&Co.,
and Roberto Cavalli.
“What is so invigorating for us, said
l.a.Eyeworks’ co-designer Gai Gherardi, is the
way clothing designers are now imagining
eyewear – and not just sunglasses – into
the conception and execution of their
collections.”
ISI
George et Phina
portent des lunettes
From Nico Design’s Derapage
collection, the Tornado
exemplifies the techno/industrial
trend. This piece won the
prestigious Good Design Award
for 2007 from the Chicago
Athenaeum-Museum of
Architecture and Design.
Available from Georges et
Phina portent des lunettes.
Nico Design’s Tornado exploded
view highlights the architectural
elements.
l.a.Eyeworks
l.a.Eyeworks and Italian performance artist Ennio Marchetto team up
to demonstrate that the transformation achieved with amazing
frames is bigger than the frame itself. The artist is wearing cut-paper
interpretations of iconic l.a.Eyeworks frames. Photograph by Greg
Gorman.
16
17_vis03:8
03/03/08
Design L821
Design B820 Point 7
800.242.TURA
15:08
Page 1
Design T058
Design 496
www.tura.com
18-19_vis03:8
04/03/08
14:51
Page 1
18-19_vis03:8
04/03/08
14:51
Page 2
_vis03:7
11/03/08
13:18
Page 20
| Finance |
Spousal RRSPs Still Worthwhile
By JoAnne Sommers
| Despite new rules that allow pension income-splitting, spousal RRSPs remain an excellent way
for couples to divide income and reduce their total income tax burden.
That’s particularly true for
self-employed persons, according to
David Ablett, senior tax and retirement
planning specialist with Investors Group
Inc. in Winnipeg.
“Spousal RRSPs are still a great
way to save for retirement, particularly
for those who are self-employed and
don’t have pensions,” says Ablett.
As of January 1st, 2007, the federal
government allowed individuals to split
up to 50 per cent of their employersponsored pension income, either from
a defined-benefit or a defined-contribution
plan, with a lower-earning spouse,
same-sex partner or common law
partner – without any age restriction.
The income is taxed at a lower marginal
tax rate in the hands of the recipient
spouse, which would result in tax
savings.
At age 65 or older, you can split up
to 50 per cent of the payments from an
RRSP annuity, a registered retirement
income fund (RRIF), a LIF (locked-in
RRIF), or a deferred profit sharing plan
annuity. There is no age restriction for
the spouse who receives the income
allocation.
When splitting company pension
benefits or payments from a RRIF, LIF or
RRSP annuity, both partners can claim
the pension credit, which was recently
doubled to $2,000 a year.
20
You might think that pension
income splitting would render spousal
RRSPs redundant. But you’d be
mistaken, says Adrian Mastracci,
portfolio manager with KCM Wealth
Management Inc. in Vancouver.
Spousal RRSPs, which take advantage
of Canada’s graduated income tax
system, are one of the few ways
Canadians can balance tax loads
between spouses with very different
salaries, says Mastracci.
“At retirement we want two equal
pots of money for each spouse. Instead
of withdrawing all the income in one
person’s name, you take it out in two,
which puts both people in a lower tax
bracket.”
With a spousal RRSP, the higherincome earner can contribute to a
spouse's plan, where it will be taxed at
what is likely a lower rate. The only
catch is that the money can't be
withdrawn by the recipient partner
within three years of the most recent
contribution.
“If it is, it’s taxed in the hands of
the spouse who made the contribution,”
says Mastracci. “The rule is based on
calendar years so if you contribute to a
spousal RRSP in January 2008, even if
it’s applied to your 2007 income tax
return, a withdrawal before January 2011
would be taxable as your income.”
21_vis03:8
03/03/08
15:07
Page 1
_vis03:7
11/03/08
13:19
Page 22
| Finance |
One advantage of spousal RRSPs is that
the contributor gets the tax deduction right
away. After three years, your partner can
withdraw funds, if so desired. And with a
spousal RRSP, income splitting can begin
before age 65, which is ideal for those who
are planning on early retirement, says Ablett.
There are other circumstances under
which spousal RRSPs can be beneficial, he
adds.
“When a higher-income spouse dies
without using up all of their RRSP
contribution room for the year the surviving
partner can obtain a tax deduction by having
the estate’s executor contribute to a spousal
RRSP, as long as the contribution is made
within 60 days of the end of the year
following death.”
In the event that someone continues
earning money past the age of 69, they can
get a tax deduction for contributing to a
younger spouse's plan, even though they
can’t contribute to an RRSP in their own
name.
There are two situations under which
you can make a tax-free withdrawal from a
spousal RRSP, Ablett notes.
One is the Lifelong Learning Plan (LLP),
which allows you or your spouse or partner
to withdraw up to $10,000 tax-free annually
to cover your tuition fees at a designated
22
educational institution. The limit is $20,000
over four years. Repayments begin in the
fifth year after the first withdrawal. You
cannot name your child as an LLP student.
Spousal RRSPs can also benefit younger
couples who are trying to save up enough
money for a down payment on their first
home. Often, the only savings they may have
are in RRSPs. Suppose one spouse works
while the other is in school or at home
looking after young children. The working
spouse could contribute a total of $20,000
to his or her own RRSP and then contribute
$20,000 to a spousal RRSP. Then each could
withdraw $20,000 under the Home Buyer's
Plan – something that could not be achieved
without a spousal RRSP.
Nor should the fear of marriage
breakdown prevent a couple from enjoying
the benefits of a spousal RRSP, Ablett says.
“Separation and divorce are really
non-issues because all RRSP funds are
routinely taken into consideration in
property settlements, just like any other
portion of a former couple's individual and
joint assets.
“If you’re concerned and want to keep
your RRSPs separate, you can always think
about signing a prenuptial agreement,” he
says.
ISI
49_vis01:8
04/01/08
11:21
Page 1
11/03/08
13:20
Page 24
| DESIGNER STORY |
_vis03:7
1.
| HANS GUSTAFSSON | Marco Benetti |
FROM NORTH TO SOUTH:
From the cold beauty of Sweden to the warm
aesthetic of Italy, Versès Optik presents
the designers of FACE Stockholm, Tiger of
Sweden and J. Lindeberg.
Relationships are truly global these
days and design influences cross
borders easily, just as travelers do. Ego
Optiska and Canada’s Versès Optik are a
good case in point, with a matrix of
design and commerce that spans
Canada, Sweden and Italy.
The story starts with Patrick Doyle,
president of Versès Optik. Being from an
optical family, and an optician himself,
Doyle had a passion for gorgeous
frames and innovative marketing
concepts, which naturally led him to
Ego’s first brand: FACE Stockholm. Doyle
enhanced this brand with a unique
concept of makeup as a logical
complement to eyeglass frames. He has
made the concept exciting for Canadian
eye care professionals by offering a
makeup artist for special trunk shows
and a customer-friendly lip gloss kit.
While continuing to develop FACE
Stockholm, Versès Optik is also excited
to be introducing Tiger of Sweden and
J. Lindeberg via their respective lead
designers Hans Gustafsson and Marco
Benetti.
24
Tw
13:21
Page 25
3.
2.
| DESIGNER STORY |
11/03/08
Two Great Designers at Ego
3. ZIGGY 89 C2 LIGHT
|
2. CASSIOPEIA
many fantastic brands and designers
were there! And the people are very
friendly, with good energy.”
Benetti aims for a mix of Northern
aesthetics with Italian warmth. “By
blending the serious way of the North
with the relaxed Italian approach we
create a fun and spirited collection.”
Doyle explains that they have a
particular buyer in mind for the J.
Lindeberg collection. “We don’t pretend
to sell to everyone, which is one of our
strengths. I expect the collection, with
25 new styles in the last month, to be
well received in Canada based on the
high level of recognition the brand
receives for its golf apparel.”
Versès Optik is thrilled to have
Gustafsson and Benetti responsible for
the eyewear they are bringing to
Canada. “We’re fortunate to have the
North and the South meeting in these
capable and creative designers, notes
Doyle. I’m very excited to be working
with them.” In fact, Versès is so pleased
with their relationship with Ego that
their company will soon be known as
Ego Canada! ISI
|
are typically close friends with Ego. They
work together to ensure brand integrity.
We get the brands from Ego and
develop the marketing with the
Canadian reps for those brands. It’s a
much closer relationship throughout the
network than is usually the case.”
Tiger of Sweden Eyewear offers a
high-end urban professional look, with
a 60/40 split in favour of men’s models,
mostly in metal. “The look is trendy but
not wild in terms of colour or shape,”
explains Doyle. “Double bridges
abound, in line with today’s trends and
the tiger head logo is found in different
positions, singly or used as a pattern.
This is subdued on the men’s frames
but more visual on the women’s.”
Marco Benetti, hired by Ego in
September 2006, has been re-visioning
the J. Lindeberg collection, which is
geared toward young men. He is thrilled
to be working with Hans Gustafsson and
the other designers at Ego. “In Italy we
have many brands that are famous, and
I must admit I thought they were the
best. But when I visited Stockholm for
the first time I couldn’t believe how
1. TIGGER-DAHLGREN
Hans Gustafsson is creative director for Ego Optiska, with lead responsibility for Tiger of Sweden. Based in
Stockholm, he loves the constant
newness of working in design and the
opportunities that travel gives him to
become immersed in different cultures.
“Tiger of Sweden is a classic
fashion brand with three lines of
apparel – men’s, women’s and jeans,
says Gustafsson. The target market is
from 20 – 35, but we like to include
anyone who is young-minded.”
Like many brands, Tiger of Sweden
has found it important to create shoes,
bags, belts and other accessories. “Even
if you find a mix of different brands on
anyone person out on the street, the
brand does take a step forward when
everything around the clothes has the
same cache,” observes Gustafsson. “In
designing the eyewear we work closely
with the brand owner to ensure we
follow the trends in their other
products.”
Doyle appreciates the way brand
development is accomplished in
Sweden. “In Stockholm the licensees
|
By Paddy Kamen
|
TH:
_vis03:7
25
_vis03:7
11/03/08
13:21
Page 26
Haygarth obtained the glasses from a
London charity, which collects unwanted
spectacles for distribution in Third World
countries. “Unfortunately, many of them
can’t be used and would have to be
incinerated so I take them in exchange for a
donation to the charity.”
A native of Whalley, Lancashire, the
38-year-old Haygarth worked as a
photographer and illustrator for 15 years
before turning to design work in 2005.
“I began working on design projects
which revolve around the collections of
found objects, he says. They come from flea
markets, beaches – even the street – and
have no intrinsic value. I usually collect large
quantities and categorize and reconfigure
them in a way that transforms their
meaning.”
The finished pieces take various forms,
such as chandeliers, installations, functional
and sculptural objects.
He first attracted attention at the
Designersblock show in London in 2005,
when he showed his Tide Chandelier, made
of hundreds of items of plastic debris
collected on Dungeness Beach in England.
This functional work is a cocoon of over
1,000 objects, which forms a spherical moon
of light.
Eyeglass Chandelier
Creates New Vision
By JoAnne Sommers
| At first glance
the light fixture looks like a traditional
tiered crystal chandelier. But closer inspection reveals a
far more intriguing reality. Spectacle, the creation
of British artist/designer Stuart Haygarth, is actually
composed of discarded prescription eyeglasses – 1,020
pairs of them.
Haygarth, a London-based “salvage
pioneer”, created the 2.3 metre long chandelier using a 15 mm thick acrylic disc from
which he hung the glasses, linked together
in tiers of three to 15 pairs. The layers of
lenses refract the light, creating, “a mirrorable explosion of light,” says Haygarth.
“I’m very interested in the way the light
refracts through the lenses, he explains. And
I chose plastic frames for this work so that
light would transmit through them as well
as the lenses.”
Using old eyeglasses, “once an
essential tool for someone to see with,” to
create a chandelier – which also facilitates
sight – that draws, “an interesting
analogous line… between their old and new
purposes,” he says.
26
Another piece from the same series,
Tide Mark, is “both an installation piece and
a photographic work. Tide Mark is a collection
of primarily plastic objects categorized by
colour. Starting with white objects and
ending with black, a kind of tide mark
through the colour spectrum is produced.”
While Haygarth’s work uses recycled
objects, he does not consider himself an
eco-designer. “Recycling is a healthy
bi-product of my work, which is all about
giving banal and overlooked objects a new
significance, he says. I’m inspired by the fact
that they have a history, a narrative, and
that their original physical appearance has
been altered through use and aging.”
Spectacle is not Haygarth’s first work
using discarded eyeglasses. In 2006 he was
commissioned by London’s Design Museum
to produce a lighting piece for the stairwell
during the Design Mart exhibition. The
result was Twentytwenty, a light created
from hundreds of pairs of prescription
glasses and sunglasses.
Spectacle has been exhibited to critical
acclaim in London, Glasgow and Paris, and
will be shown at New York’s Museum of Art
& Design in September.
A limited edition of 10 pieces, which
costs 12,000 English pounds ($24,000), is
almost sold out. As is, the smaller version of
Spectacle, which is made up of 620 pairs of
glasses sells for 3,500 pounds ($7,000).ISI
For more on Stuart Haygarth’s work, visit his
website at www.stuarthaygarth.com.
27_vis03:8
04/03/08
15:06
Page 1
28-29_vis03:8
03/03/08
15:28
Page 1
Reduces
Eye Fatigue
and Strain
Now With
UV 400
Protection
28-29_vis03:8
03/03/08
15:28
Page 2
Introducing
Transitions Optical introduces the newest technologically
advanced photochromic lens with advanced performance
for healthy sight – Transitions VI.
Preserve
Healthy
Sight
Transitions® VI lenses enhance everyday visual quality and preserve the health and well-being of your patients’ eyes,
so they can see better now and in the future.
New Transitions VI lenses:
• As clear as clear lenses, now even better
• Darker in moderate temperatures
• Darker in hotter temperatures
• Darker for improved glare reduction
• Faster to dark, faster to clear
• 100% UVA and UVB blockage
• UV400 protection
See for yourself the advanced performance
of Transitions VI lenses.
1-877-254-2590
transitions.com
Transitions and the swirl are registered trademarks and Healthy sight in every light is a trademark of Transitions Optical, Inc.
© 2008 Transitions Optical, Inc. Photochromic performance is influenced by temperature, UV exposure, and lens material.
_vis03:7
11/03/08
13:22
Page 30
| Eye on Health |
Drug Access for AMD
Sparks Controversy
| It’s unusual for an optical story to attract widespread attention in the mainstream media. But the story of Lucentis –
the only clinically proven treatment that reverses vision loss caused by wet AMD – and Avastin – a cancer drug widely used
to treat the same condition – is no ordinary story.
By JoAnne Sommers
It’s a tale of blockbuster drugs, desperate patients, and
– some would say – corporate greed. And it’s being played out
against the backdrop of an aging population whose need for
AMD treatment is expected to grow dramatically in the near
future.
Most recently, the Common Drug Review (CDR) has taken
the unprecedented step of delaying its final recommendation
on whether or not provinces and territories must cover the
cost of Lucentis treatment.
The CDR conducts reviews of the
clinical and cost effectiveness of new drugs
and provides formulary listing recommendations to the publicly funded drug plans in
Canada, except Quebec.
On January 23rd, the CDR met to
reconsider its negative recommendation for
Lucentis reimbursement of late 2007. There
is no word on when its decision will be
announced.
In phase-three clinical trials of
Lucentis, 90 per cent or more of patients
with wet AMD maintained their vision while
up to 40 per cent experienced some
improvement. The gains experienced in the
first year of the study were maintained with
continued treatment in the second.
There is one problem with Lucentis,
however – its cost. In Canada, a single
monthly injection costs about $2,000, which
means the annual cost runs to $24,000 or
more.
Wet AMD is the most aggressive and
severe form of AMD, responsible for
90 per cent of the severe visions loss
associated with AMD. Those diagnosed with wet AMD often develop
serious depression and are more
likely to be admitted to nursing
homes or sustain serious falls compared to the general population. The
cost of vision loss in Canada, much
of it driven by AMD, is estimated at
$7.9 billion annually in direct and indirect health care costs, on par with
diseases such as diabetes.
In the meantime, many of North America’s retinal
specialists continue to prescribe Avastin, an anti-cancer drug,
for their patients who suffer from wet AMD.
Avastin, which, like Lucentis, is made by the
San Francisco-based biotech giant Genentech, was first used
to treat wet AMD during the period between the results of
Lucentis testing and FDA approval for marketing. Both are
There is significant anecdotal evidence that Avastin
arrests the progression of wet AMD, although it has not been
the subject of any randomized controlled clinical trials.
Avastin’s great advantage lies in its cost, which is one-tenth
or less than that of Lucentis.
According to the CNIB, AMD affects
more Canadians than breast cancer,
prostate cancer, Parkinson’s and
Alzheimer’s combined and is the
leading cause of vision loss in
Canada. It is estimated that more
than one million Canadians have
AMD and more than 100,000 of them
have wet AMD, with the incidence
expected to double within the next
25 years.
Health Canada approved Lucentis for
use in Canada in November 2007 and
Quebec okayed the drug for coverage under
its health care plan shortly after. Ontario is now studying
Lucentis under its rapid review process, although no decision
has been announced. The other provinces and territories are
awaiting the CDR’s recommendation before deciding whether
to fund it.
30
potent anti-blood vessel growth drugs that target VEGF, a
protein that causes the production of blood vessels in the
back of the eye.
Avastin is FDA-approved only for
treatment of colon and other cancers,
not AMD. However, since doctors are
allowed to prescribe any FDA – or Health
Canada – approved drug that they
believe will improve a patient's
condition, many eye specialists continue
to prescribe Avastin “off-label”, as a
low-cost alternative to Lucentis.
Lucentis remains the drug of choice
for Canadian retinal specialists,
including Dr. Alan Cruess, president of
the Canadian Ophthalmological Society
and Head of Dalhousie University’s
Department of Ophthalmology and
Visual Sciences.
Dr. Cruess, who prescribes both
Lucentis and Avastin for patients with
wet AMD, says Lucentis is, “The most
effective and one of the safest drugs we
have to treat AMD. But as someone who
has researched this area for years,
I won’t deny access to Avastin to
patients who need treatment and can’t
afford Lucentis.”
Avastin’s use spread “like wildfire”
while Lucentis was awaiting federal
approval, he says. The trigger was the
announcement by Dr. Philip Rosenfeld, a professor at the
Bascomb Palmer Eye Institute at the University of Miami
Medical School, that he had treated a patient who was
going blind with Avastin. The patient’s retinal scans dramatically improved after treatment and his vision began to
regain sharpness over six months.
Rather than wait until Lucentis received FDA approval,
many eye doctors started treating patients with Avastin,
with the help of compounding pharmacists who siphoned
tiny doses of the drug into small syringes. In large doses
used to treat cancer, Avastin costs US$55,000 a year; the
dose used to treat the eye cost just US$20-$100.
31_vis03:8
11/03/08
14:06
Page 1
_vis03:7
11/03/08
13:23
Page 32
| Eye on Health |
Avastin is, “pretty ubiquitous in referral centres now,” says
Dr. Cruess, adding that his patients have experienced mixed
results with the drug. “Some respond very well to Avastin and
others don’t. Some don’t respond to either drug and others
respond to Lucentis but not Avastin.”
“Doctors still have access to Avastin for ocular purposes;
they can order it from authorized wholesale distributors and
send it to pharmacies to break it down for them.”
Dr. Cruess’s principal concern with prescribing Avastin is
safety. “The key is to ensure that patients make an informed
decision. Because there is no clinical trial evidence to support
Avastin’s use in the treatment of AMD, it’s very important to
discuss the potential risks, including heart attack and stroke,
beforehand.”
Lucentis, by comparison, is a small molecule, which is
designed to be injected into the eye.
Dr. Keith Gordon, head of research for CNIB in Toronto, notes
that Avastin is not designed or manufactured for ocular use. “It’s
an infused therapy for cancer treatment and comes in a vial of
several grams which can be compounded into single dose
syringes by pharmacists. It is not sterilized by the manufacturer
so it doesn’t have the same standards of sterility as an
ophthalmic dosage form. That’s a concern, although I’m not aware
of any infections that have been caused by it.”
Pellegrino says that Genentech is concerned because
Avastin is a large molecule which was approved for IV use.
“They have different half lives – Lucentis is several days
while Avastin is two-and-a half weeks, which means that
Avastin stays in the patient’s system longer,” she adds.
Genentech’s decision to restrict the availability of Avastin
for ocular use has drawn fire from the American Academy of
Ophthalmology (AAO) and the International Academy of Compounding Pharmacists (IACP), as well as Herb Kohl (D-Wis.),
chairman of the Senate Special Committee on Aging, who said
the move could cost taxpayers billions of dollars through
higher Medicare costs.
Genentech says that safety concerns motivated its decision
to restrict sales of Avastin by its authorized wholesalers to
compounding pharmacies in the U.S. as of January 1. The ban
does not apply to Canada, where Avastin is distributed by Roche
Canada. (Novartis distributes Lucentis in Canada.)
Pellegrino acknowledges that Genentech received some
questions from a member of Congress requesting additional
information about the ban but didn’t comment further. She
also said that Genentech is, “Committed to ensuring that
patients have access to Lucentis, to making sure that price
isn’t a barrier to treatment. We have access programs designed
for that purpose.”
“We don’t expect the ban to increase Lucentis sales,” says
Genentech company spokesperson Krysta Pellegrino.
Further information about the program is available at
www.lucentisaccesssolutions.com.
Genetech has no plans to study the comparative
effectiveness of Lucentis and Avastin in treating AMD,
Pellegrino added. “Our research focuses on unmet medical
needs. We’re now studying the use of Lucentis in the
treatment of other ocular diseases that have no existing
treatment.”
Roche Canada, which distributes Avastin in this country,
has no plans for head-to-head studies, either, according to
Jessica McBay, the company’s communications and stakeholder
relations manager. “We’re concerned with Avastin’s use for
oncology patients,” she says.
Roche Canada does not support the off-label use of
Avastin because the drug was approved for IV use, not for eye
injections, adds McBay. “The issue is patient safety. When
Avastin is used to treat AMD, patients do not receive a full
dose and storing it improperly in small amounts may result in
safety and toxicity problems.”
In January, the National Eye Institutes (NEI) of the National
Institutes of Health in the U.S. was to begin a large-scale
clinical trial to compare the safety and efficacy of Lucentis and
Avastin for treating AMD. Britain announced last year that it
would conduct its own head-to-head study of the two drugs.
In the meantime, says Dr. Gordon, the CNIB is urging the
CDR to recommend the use of Lucentis for AMD treatment. Its
“Right to Sight” campaign (www.righttosight.ca), which was
launched in January to encourage Canadians to ask the CDR to
support the treatment, has received overwhelming support, he
says.
32
“Without a recommendation for Lucentis, tens of
thousands of Canadians will not be able to afford the first and
only clinically proven treatment that in many cases can
actually restore vision lost to wet AMD. People shouldn’t be
forced to sell their houses or go blind because they can’t
afford this breakthrough drug.”
ISI
33_vis03:8
04/03/08
13:55
Page 1
11/03/08
13:23
Page 34
| COMPANY PROFILE |
_vis03:7
4.
2.
3.
1.
Alternative Eyewear and Plan B:
By Paddy Kamen
| Paul Storace doesn’t want to miss out on any of the good things in life: including Italian ice cream and fresh deep snow
at high elevations. He’s a family man, skier and risk-taking business person who keeps moving into new territory and
making his mark with flair.
Many in the industry will know Paul
Storace from his role as president of
Elite Eyewear, the ‘little company that could’ in
the very competitive and legally-challenged
magnetic eyewear industry.
“Elite has succeeded in a market where the
competition does a brilliant job and yes, the
majority of customers embrace them,” Storace
notes. “Despite this, we’ve built a very
successful business in the field and enjoy great
relationships with our clients.”
A major transition is underway for Elite,
with the original owners dividing the assets.
One of those partners, Phil Langley, has formed
a partnership with Storace. Together they will
facilitate the sale of eyewear in the USA. The
company is undergoing a name change and will
soon be known as Alternative Eyewear. They
will continue to operate out the Ajax,
Ontario-based distribution centre that Storace
has operated for the last seven years.
Not one to rest on his success in the
magnetic eyewear field, Storace started a new
company, Plan B, two years ago. The name is a
bit tongue in cheek, because he has been
operating Elite for so many years. On taking the
risk of creating a new company Storace
observes: “One might reasonably have said that
the last thing the Canadian market needed was
another wholesaler, but I can confirm that we
have done extremely well. In fact, according to
34
statistics from the buying groups we’re probably
the single fastest growing company in the
industry today. But we still consider our
company grass roots and personal. I insist that
a live person answer the phone and we have no
voice mail. And most of our sales people have
been with me since the beginning.”
The Bellagio brand was Plan B’s first
collection and talking about it gives Storace a
chance to comment on risk in the industry.
“Some distributors might be afraid to bring in
a collection like Bellagio. When you throw
yourself out there and buy eclectic shapes and
far out colours you’re taking a bit of a chance.
Bellagio is on the saleable side of edgy and we
have a few impractical pieces, which keeps it
interesting. But it’s the customers who buy the
edgy stuff that keep the industry moving
forward, and unless there’s a domestic
distributor to serve them they have to buy it
elsewhere.”
There is no shortage of clients for Bellagio,
even if many of them stick with the less risky
models. As Storace explains: “All of our
customers from the Elite division in Canada
jumped on board and we were able to open
hundreds of new accounts with the new line.”
It was at the Mido trade show in Milan,
Italy, that Storace came up with his next
collection. “I had seen these amazing samples
at the show. Then a friend and I were out for
Ne
11/03/08
13:23
Page 35
6.
8.
5.
B:
7.
| COMPANY PROFILE |
_vis03:7
New and Newer Still
dinner and we had a few bottles of wonderful
wine. I had a craving for Italian ice cream so we
had that too. It was a great evening, and I just
couldn’t get those samples off my mind. So I
bought the product and came up with the
branding concept around ice cream. The colors
are very vibrant and sexy. The style is for those
that want to be noticed.”
Men also needed something stunning from
Plan B, so Storace developed the Headlines
brand. “This brand is focused on the metro
sexual marketplace. These are for guys that
aren’t afraid to look interesting and the frames
are great. With up to 60 styles, it’s a big
collection.”
Ice cream comes in 50 styles, exclusively
for women. Storace says they’re so gorgeous
that even the most beautiful women may want
to keep them on all the time – even in bed!
Ice Cream and Headlines are distinguishing
themselves as exceedingly competent complements
to Bellagio. “I just pushed it that much further,”
says Storace. “I am bringing to the
medium-high market what the high-end and
ultra-high-end market is offering. My products
are the same or very close to those products
but offered at a fair price. They are definitely
priced to sell.”
Storace is an aggressive product developer,
releasing 220 styles between Plan B and
Alternative Eyewear in the last 14 months.
“I love what’s new and like the idea that my
reps can say without exception, ‘I have 12 or 15
or even 36 new styles in my bag.’ I’m not just
a marketer and manager, I am a frame
salesman. I always have been and I love the
process of showing clients what is hot and new.
We don’t get emotionally attached to what was.
The market is moving forward and I want to be
leading the way.”
At the Plan B/Alternative Eyewear
warehouse in Ajax, Storace manages 17 staff in
administration, customer service and shipping.
He’s not above emptying a trash can or helping
to unload a truck, while also managing sales
reps in two countries and making selections for
the latest styles and colours for four brands.
How does he keep it up?
“I’ve been in the business for over 20
years and it’s always cool to see my stuff on
people’s faces when I’m at the ski hill, airport or
grocery store. A couple of months ago I was in
Starbucks and the young lady serving me was
wearing an Ice Cream frame. I love being able
to say ‘that looks fantastic on you.’ I think a lot
of people get into the optical business to make
money and I don’t blame them because I did
too. But I really love what I do.”
Speaking of the end customer, Storace
observes that once someone has worn
something spectacular that garners lots of
complements she is simply unwilling to go back
to ordinary frames. “And as a wholesaler you
can tell how good or bad your collection is by
how many complimentary frames sales reps
give away for staff. There are lots of professionals wearing our product and when they
want to wear it I know that it’s great!”
ISI
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
Mod 4416
Mod. 4418
Mod. 4426
Mod. HL-15
Mod. HL-22
Mod. HL-23
Mod. HL-24
Mod. HL-41
35
_vis03:7
11/03/08
13:24
Page 36
| Practice Trends |
OAC Surveys Opticians
By Mary Field
| One of the most important concerns of Canadian opticians is that they receive a fair wage for their services and skills.
Previously the OAC has attempted to do wage surveys with some limited success. For one thing, many people are
reluctant to reveal what they earn. Even if the survey is anonymous you will find some who will not answer the wage
question. Secondly, because it is anonymous, a person could put down any figure and there is no way of validating it.
Another limiting factor, as one of our members pointed out is the data have no value and, in fact, can give a wrong
impression unless they are seen in context. Just as there are regional disparities in the Canadian economy there are wage
disparities from one province to another.
There really is no data available on the
‘average’ wage paid to Canadian opticians.
To get a true average we would have to get
wage information from every single optician,
find a sum and then divide by the number of
opticians. That would be a true average. That
is not going to happen. So the best we can
do is try to discover some guidelines based
on surveys. This gives us a place to start.
RELIABILITY OF SURVEYS
Before posting some of the results of
our most recent survey of Canadian
opticians, we should learn something about
the limitations of applying data collected
from surveys. Questions such as “How many
people did you poll?” and “How many
people responded?” have a direct bearing on
reliability. In order to have confidence in
results it is not necessary to survey every
optician. Instead, you can develop information
using a randomly selected group of people.
Within that group there should be as wide a
demographic as possible. For our purposes
we wanted responses from people in every
region of Canada and we wanted responses
from people who practice in a variety of
settings.
When using a random sample you can
draw conclusions about how the entire
population would respond. There is naturally
a margin of error that is related to the total
number of surveys sent out and the total
number of surveys returned. This is why
when political pollsters do surveys they
qualify the statistics by indicating a margin
of error, which is usually expressed as a
percentage of confidence with a percentage
of error.
36
THE OAC ELECTRONIC SURVEY
The OAC electronic survey polled 1,400
opticians across Canada representing the
entire population of 6,000. Compare that
with a recent Environics survey that polled
2,005 Canadians representing an entire
population of over 33,000,000. Based on the
number of responses we can have 93%
confidence and a margin of error of about
+/- 5%. What this means is that if we were to
conduct the same survey multiple times we
would reasonably expect to find the same
results within +/-5% points. So the results
represent a reasonably accurate picture of
Canadian opticians. For individual provinces
the results are less reliable due to the
smaller number of respondents in the
survey. There were no respondents from
Saskatchewan or Prince Edward Island. The
greatest number of respondents came from
Ontario (39%) with the next greatest
number from British Columbia (30%). The
percentages for all other provinces were in
the single digit.
OVERALL RESULTS
Here’s what we found as an overall.
• 45% of the opticians polled work for
independent dispensaries while 34% work
for large chains;
• 30% of opticians work in enclosed malls,
21% work in storefront retail dispensaries,
14% work in optometric practices;
• 61% of opticians retail both eyeglasses
and contact lenses, 29% retail eyeglasses
exclusively, 2% retail contact lenses
exclusively, 1% do low vision work and 1%
perform refractions;
VISE08-Scarf-Ad 8.375x10.875:Layout 1
2/13/08
4:18 PM
Page 1
U N I Q U E LY
D E F I N E D
N E W
Y O R K
CONFERENCE: APRIL 10 – 13, 2008 | EXHIBITION: APRIL 11 – 13, 2008 | JACOB K. JAVITS CONVENTION CENTER, NEW YORK
To Register Today: Call 1-800-811-7151
International Calls 1-203-840-5610
www.visionexpoeast.com
_vis03:7
11/03/08
13:24
Page 38
| Practice Trends |
• 21% have been licensed for between 1 and 5
years, 14% have been licensed in each of the
following categories: 6-10 years, 11-15 years
and 16 – 20 years;
• 7% intend to retire within the next 5 years,
22% within the next 10 years and 64% within
the next 15 years;
• The population of opticians seems to be pretty
evenly distributed over large, medium and
small cities as well as rural and remote areas;
• 57% of respondents were female, 40% were
male (for whatever reason the remainder
chose not to identify their gender).
We believe these figures are fairly representative regardless of the number polled and
the number of respondents. Likewise we believe
the data collected as an overall statement of
wages in Canada is reasonably accurate.
• 23% earn between $41,000 and $50,000 per
year
• 15% earn between $36,000 and $40,000
• 12% earn $66,000 nad over
• 11% earn between $51,000 and $55,000
• 7% earn under $25,000
• 6% earn from $26,000 to $30,000
• 6% earn from $31,000 to $35,000
SURVEY RESULTS FOR B.C., AB, MB AND ON
But when regions are taken into
consideration the data is quite different. The
responses received from New Brunswick,
Newfoundland and Nova Scotia could not be
British Colombia
Under $25,000
16%
$26,000-$30,000
8%
$31,000-$35,000
10%
$36,000-$40,000
20%
$41,000-$50,000
22%
$51,000-$55,000
8%
$56,000-$60,000
2%
$61,0000$65,000
1%
$66,000 and over
9%
38
considered representative of the province since
so few responded. Consequently we are not
posting those results. As previously stated, no
opticians from Saskatchewan or PEI responded
to the survey.
If you choose to use any of these figures as
a guideline for wages, remember there is also a
reasonable expectation by employers of value
for money paid. If you believe you should be
paid more, that belief should be based not only
on what you believe to be fair wages paid to
other opticians but also on your demonstrable
value to the practice. There may be non-monetary
environmental benefits you get that others
earning a higher wage may not get. An example
of this would be a flexible work schedule, not
having to work nights or being able to go home
to look after a sick child in spite of the fact
you’ve used up all your sick days. You might
expect a higher-than-average salary if you
assume more responsibility by serving as
manager or if you offer specialty practice such
as low vision.
Hopefully, we now have you interested in
augmenting our data by taking the opportunity
to participate. Initially we sent our survey to
only those individuals for whom we had e-mail
addresses. We are now posting the survey on
our website at www.opticians.ca. It will be open
until April 31st, 2008 at which time we will close
it and post the revised results.
ISI
Alberta
0%
21%
4%
13%
17%
4%
4%
4%
26%
Manitoba
9%
0%
33%
19%
9%
14%
4%
4%
0%
Ontario
5%
1%
2%
7%
29%
16%
11%
6%
16%
21_vis11:7
31/10/07
12:51
Page 1
_vis03:7
11/03/08
13:59
Page 40
| Motivate yourself |
Lead Your Customers
to Multiple Sales
is not the main thing in influencing others.
“Example
It is the only thing.
”
Albert Schweitzer (1875-1965)
By James Ahola
|
I received a call the other day from a person wanting me to donate to
a charity that I have supported in the past. He asked me very glibly for
a $200.00 donation for the month. I thought he was rather generous
with my money, so I responded with a simple question: “Have you
supported this charity with $200 this month?” “No” was his response,
and so I said “I’ll do the same”. Now I have supported them in the past
and I will in the future but I found it very upsetting that someone would
ask me to do something, with such an attitude, that they themselves are
not willing to do.
One of the lessons I was taught early by my father
and that was subsequently emphasized by other sales
managers and coaches is: “The best way to lead
people, is to go there first.” Or more succinctly:
“Monkey see… Monkey do.” Now this is not the only
way, but it is the best and most effective way. This is as
true for leading people to go sky diving as it is to
selling “different looking” frames, new types of lenses
or multiple pairs of glasses. A sales pitch for a person
to buy or do something can sound good, look good,
smell good and have all indicators showing that it is
good. But a person may still be left with the deep
question, “Is it really good?” This question can only be
answered by either taking the leap or listening to the
testimony of another live individual (stranger or friend)
who has bought it or done it before. Being that
individual is priceless.
I remember an incredible optician who told me
that over 80% of her patients had at least two
complete pairs of eyewear, paid for at full price, and
happily kept returning to her store. How did she do
this? Well, she personally paid for and owned over
24 pairs of current glasses, all with her current
prescription, and every style was less than two years
old. She had a frame board in her bedroom so she
could coordinate her outfits with her frames as she got
dressed each morning. She was a living example of
what life would be like if you had a different pair of
glasses for every outfit or occasion. When her clients
would have a tough time making a decision she would
smile and sweetly say, “Honey, who told you, you were
only allowed to buy one pair?” She admitted she spent
far more personally than anyone she knew. She added
that her sales were also way beyond what anybody else
was enjoying.
40
Literature can be exaggerated, studies can be
misleading and sales pitches can be inspiring but
examples never lie. Be the example.
I SI
23_vis09:7
18/09/07
16:51
Page 1
_vis03:7
11/03/08
13:25
Page 42
| OAC News |
Nation-wide
Activities and
Standards
Issues
| Continuing education is in the air right across the country, and there is lots
of activity planned.
The OAC is joining with its
Corporate Fellow Member, Transitions
Optical, for their 2008 City Tour. The
tour is starting in Alberta in March
and travels to British Columbia and
Manitoba over the next several
weeks. The tour picks up again in
the East this coming fall.
across the country have for a long
time counted on fitting advice from
Dootjes who is a skilled contact lens
inventor and manufacturer.
Following close on the heels of
the two Douglas College events, the
OBC organized a full-day of continuing
education on March 2nd in Richmond
During these sessions, Transitions B.C. The day was loaded with parallel
will play host to vision care profes- learning opportunities. Some of the
sionals at an informal evening of featured speakers included opticians
socializing and learning. Transitions Stephen Sanger and Brian Lorimer
and the OAC are giving every opti- along with Mary Anne Elias of Eyelogic
cian who attends a CD containing 12 and Marcia Zaganas from the CNIB.
Transitions scientific papers that the The overall theme of the day was
OAC has had accredited for continuing "The Optician and Vision Health".
education in each province. OAC
By Mary Field
members will be able to submit their
learning module post-tests for
marking and certification at no
charge. Non-members are welcome
to use the modules as well but will
pay the non-member fee for marking
and certification.
The Opticians of British Columbia
(OBC), along with the OAC, have
several continuing education events
happening in the first quarter of this
year. In a repeat of their collaboration
of last year, the OBC and Douglas
College are welcoming B.C. opticians
to both the New Westminster and
David Lam campuses of Douglas
College for evenings focusing on
rigid gas permeable lenses. Prominent
B.C. opticians Ted Littlewood and Tony
Viani – both instructors at Douglas
College – will be demonstrating and
speaking on the use of corneal
topography in the modern contact
lens practice.
Alberta Opticians are having
their convention in May and as usual
they do things with flair. The
convention is taking place on
Saturday May 24th - Sunday May 25th
at the Delta Calgary South. The
Saturday night festivities include live
entertainment provided by The Hot
Tamales. On the second day of the
event, the Alberta Opticians
Association will be holding a Mock
Discipline Hearing. This will be a
terrific way for Alberta opticians to
find out exactly what the process of
regulatory discipline is and the work
their regulatory body does in
holding the profession in that
province to a high standard of
performance.
NEW NOVA SCOTIA COLLEGE
The College of Opticians of
Nova Scotia (NSCDO), proclaimed on
August 17, 2007, will have its
first-ever annual general meeting
(AGM) and election in conjunction
Of special interest is the with the Nova Scotia Society of
state-of-the-art teaching topography Dispensing Opticians (NSSDO) AGM
instrument that allows participants on May 4, 2008 in Stellerton, N.S.
to see the corneal topography of the
test subject while the practitioner's
The newly formed College
measurement is ongoing. Following attended a conference on "Regulation
Littlewood and Viani will be Rikke in the 21 Century: Interdisciplinary
Dootjes from Viscon Optical. Opticians Team Accountability," held at the
42
43_vis03:8
04/03/08
15:37
Page 1
_vis03:7
11/03/08
13:25
Page 44
| OAC News |
Park Place Hotel- Ramada Plaza in the Ontario Opticians Association (OOA)
Dartmouth, N.S.
submitted commentary and challenge to
the draft regulation. Although it is certainly
The College is also one of the newest a step forward for the College to lift the ban
members of the "Nova Scotia Health it imposed many years ago, both the OAC
Professions Regulatory Body Network" and the OOA believe they’ll continue to be
which meets quarterly with officials from serious flaws with the document and will
the Department of Health (DOH) to discuss continue to press for changes.
issues of common interest amongst the
The most egregious of these flaws is
health profession regulators. The DOH
the clause that requires opticians who
provides updates on Acts and Regulations
perform refraction and subsequently dispense
working their way through the legislative
eyewear based on the results, to send the
process with details on which will be
eyeglass and/or contact lens specifications
proclaimed in the near future or what red
to the client’s original prescriber. It is our
tape is holding up their proclamation. The
belief that the original prescriber is entitled
DOH was advised by the College that their
to receive any information about prescription
recent strategic planning included seeking
updates but is not entitled to receive data
an increase in scope of practice to include
on the name, colour and size of the frame,
sight testing by qualified opticians.
the type of lenses and coatings or about
the diameter, thickness and/or brand of the
STANDARDS OF PRACTICE ISSUES
Reviewing standards of practice seem contact lens. This requirement does nothing
to be a common theme amongst regulatory to protect the public and since optometrists
bodies this year. It is important to update are direct competitors with opticians in the
standards from time to time so that they area of dispensing, it regulates the surrender
accurately reflect the reality of the of business information to marketplace
workplace and of available technology. The rivals.
Alberta Opticians Association has just
completed its development and review of
its standard of practice and the
Saskatchewan Ophthalmic Dispensers
Association is in the draft stages of their
standard of practice.
Sometimes, standards of practice or
regulations of one profession have a
negative impact on allied professions. This
is when you need to support an association that is totally focused on your best
interest as opposed to supporting a group
that has divided loyalties.
Conflict of Interest Regulation prohibits
optometrists in Ontario from working with
or for (being employed by or employing)
opticians. This regulation flies in the face
of recent recommendations from the
Competition Bureau that there be more
flexibility in the relationship between vision
care professionals. Readers may be aware
that the College of Optometrists of Ontario
has recently contacted some of its
members whom it believes to be practicing
in defiance of the Conflict of Interest
Regulation. It is our understanding that a
breech of this regulation could end up in
disciplinary proceedings.
The Opticians Association of Canada
has consistently taken the position that
optometric regulations that in any way
constrict a free association between
optometrists and opticians is a restrictive
trade practice. We could not press the
debate forward if our membership profile
expanded to include allied professionals.
There would then be a true conflict of
interest. How could we advocate for one
segment of our members against another
segment of our members?
In many of the provinces, spring is
association membership renewal time.
Education, legislation, regulation and
standards of practice are fundamental to
the growth of our profession. The Opticians
Association of Canada and your provincial
The new College of Opticians of
Ontario standard of practice for refractometry
Here is a good example of where association deserve your support. You can
is a good example of the regulatory body narrowly focused advocacy is important. demonstrate that support by taking out or
responding to change. Both the OAC and The College of Optometrists of Ontario renewing your membership.
I SI
44
45_vis03:8
04/03/08
14:01
Page 1
_vis03:7
11/03/08
13:26
Page 46
| What’s New |
Captivating and Timeless
The
Next Wave
in Contact Lens
Technology
Oxygen and water: two of nature’s
most essential elements. And they are
also two key elements of healthy,
comfortable lens wear. With its new
biofinity contact lens, CooperVision has
optimized the relationship between
these two vital elements, delivering an
excellent level of comfort, health and
performance.
GUESS by Marciano Eyewear,
distributed by Viva International
Group, introduces a new women’s
optical grouping offering an eclectic
blend of dramatic details and
intelligent styling in each of its
designs. These qualities are expressed
in its latest collection featuring
engraved metal plaques that convey a
sense of playful originality. The refined
GU 1511 delivers a sharp innovative
silhouette with modified rectangular
metal fronts and open end pieces.
Deep marbleized colours, including
burgundy and cream, enhance the
lustrous aesthetic of the handmade
temples.
GU 1512 and GU 1513 feature
engraved metal logo plaques that are
fully integrated with the richness of its
handmade frame design. The sleek
modified rectangular front of GU 1512
creates a captivating look for this
spring release. GU 1513 presents a
deeper rectangular front that offers
timeless appeal. Both GU 1512 and
GU 1513 are available in black with
black marble temples, as well as the
alluring colours of burgundy, grey
and tortoise.
All three styles will debut at
Vision Expo East.
Thanks to patented Aquaform™
technology, biofinity’s unique lens
material has created a new standard for
the silicone hydrogel category, offering
a lens with higher water content of
48%, a lower modulus of 0.75 MPa, a
lower wetting angle at 30°, and high
oxygen transmissibility (Dk/t of 160).
Biofinity is now available in
extended sphere powers: -0.25 to
-10.00 (in 0.50D steps after -6.00).
| GU 1511, 1512 and 1513 |
Expanded Sphere Powers
Furthermore, CooperVision
announces new expanded sphere
powers for Proclear®
EP and Proclear® Multifocal. They
are now available with the following
parameters:
Westlab Optical and Essilor Sign a
Partnership Agreement
PROCLEAR EP:
• Base Curve (mm): 8.7
• Diameter (mm): 14.4
• Sphere Powers: +6.00 to -8.00
(in 0.50D steps after -6.50)
PROCLEAR MULTIFOCAL:
• Base Curve (mm): 8.7
• Diameter (mm): 14.4
• Sphere Powers: +6.00 to -8.00
(in 0.50D steps after -6.50)
• ADD Powers: +1.00, +1.50, +2.00,
+2.50
• Lens System: Dominant (D),
Non-Dominant (N)
46
Westlab Optical, formerly a division
in Westgroupe, has entered into a
partnership agreement with Essilor
Canada. The agreement demonstrates
the shared desire of both organizations
to work synergistically to provide
Westlab customers with the widest
product range, the latest technologies
and the best level of service.
“We are delighted about the
union between Westlab Optical and
Essilor Canada, who are global leaders
in the industry” announced Rodney
Suliteanu, president of Westgroupe.
“Essilor’s commitment to quality
products and focus on customer
service mirrors our own, and we felt it
was a perfect fit. We look forward to
gaining access to new technologies
through this alliance, building on our
success in the frame and lens package
segment of the market, and further
enhancing the potential of Westlab
Optical.” No managing changes are
expected.
Westlab Optical was one of three
subdivisions of Westgroupe. The full
service laboratory is located in
Montreal and in addition to providing
full laboratory services, it focused on
providing frame and lens packages
nationwide. In addition to Westlab,
Westgroupe also operates two frame
divisions: Western Optical and
Wescan Optical. The frame divisions
are not part of the partnership and
will continue to be owned and run
exclusively by Westgroupe.
25_vis01:8
04/01/08
11:24
Page 1
_vis03:7
11/03/08
13:27
Page 48
| What’s New |
Trident Optics Introduces a
New Laboratory Equipment Line
in Canada
Trident Optics’ search for a product line based on quality while
keeping the cost factor in mind, led them to the Takubo Dia
products. Trident is now the exclusive distributor of one of the
pioneers in producing precision optical lens edging systems.
Takubo has been in the market for over 50 years.
Trident Optics offers the E 900 series of patternless lens
edgers based on Takubo’s original technology. These machines
offer state-of-the-art vertical wheel technology with a rugged
construction that withstands the demands of a tough environment
with very few maintenance issues. The compact design allows the
machine to fit on most lab counters. It produces lenses with high
accuracy and is very user friendly.
No need to worry about lenses getting scratched during the
edging process. The edger has a fully sealed chamber using
different water flow patterns, depending on the lens material and a
back water flow that removes debris. There is an adjustable head
pressure, a feature that avoids indents on soft materials. The E 900
employs 3D-controlled multi-axis processing technology that
automatically grooves back and front safety bevels, and polishes.
Trident Optics offers a one week trial on the E 900 series.
40 Players. 10 Days.
One Goal.
Dr. Brent Saik, Alberta Sport Vision Institute,
and friends hold the Guinness World Record
for Marathon Ice Hockey during 241 hours of
continuous play. Brent and some of his pals
have decided to play the world’s longest
hockey game once again. The 40 players, who
participated in the frosty marathon to raise
money for cancer research, broke their 240
hours previous record. The hardest part came
during the first few days when temperatures
sank below -40°C.
All together had nothing but one goal in
mind: raise as much money as possible for
Pediatric Cancer Research Equipment and
Care at Edmonton's Cross Cancer Institute.
Because the players were all directly or
indirectly touched by cancer, they devoted
themselves to the cause; some have played
before, and some more than once.
The project was spearheaded by
optometrist Brent Saik and played on a
regulation-size rink in his backyard in
48
Sherwood Par. The idea began when Saik’s
father died of cancer in 1991, which led to the
first record setting game – 82 hours in 2003
raising $130,000 for cancer research. The 2005
edition was spurred both by the death of Saik’s
wife from cancer, and the fact that a team in
Sudbury, Ont., had beated their 2003 record.
That year, their goal was to raise enough funds
to purchase a machine for early cancer
detection for the pediatrics ward. They
achieved their goal and so far 11 children’s
lives were saved.
The record-breaking effort involved a
cast of hundreds, with volunteers working to
provide medical treatment, massage therapy,
food and hot drinks to keep the players going.
This edition was supported by more than 70
sponsors from which CIBA Vision and Nikon.
On his part Nikon donated jerseys, gift
baskets, water bottles and a camera.
This year, the team have raised about
$300,000 for pediatric cancer research. Hip
Hip Brent Saik and friends!
35_vis01:8
04/01/08
10:38
Page 1
_vis03:7
11/03/08
13:27
Page 50
| What’s New |
Replace a Spring Hinge Screw
in SECONDS
McCray Optical Supply introduces their new spring hinge tool.
The designer of the instrument, Raymond Mo, says in a few easy
steps the tool will allow anyone to effortlessly insert a screw into
virtually any spring hinge temple.
The tool has two components, the plier and the arm.
The arm fully draws the spring hinge from its sheath while the
clamping plier holds open the hinge at its base. Simply align the
temple barrel with the frame barrel and insert the screw. With
this easy to use tool anyone can replace and repair a spring
hinge temple in seconds.
Fixx
Launches
Lockable
Display
System
Fixx Design Solutions has launched
the first lockable display system in the
Canadian market with no need for
keys, wires, or AC power. “The system
offers the ultimate in flexibility” says
Lisa Begg, president of Fixx. “It’s
available in two sizes and allows
dispensers to display either sunglasses
or ophthalmic frames in their best
light – creating a perception of fashion
and security.”
When a customer comes into the
store and wants to try on a pair of
glasses, the sales attendant doesn’t have
to hunt around to find the right key or
fumble with a lock to release the glasses
from the display. He or she merely
points a device – similar to a small
television remote – at the particular
display rod and it’s unlocked. There is
no interruption in the flow of the
buying experience and the attendant
can concentrate on the needs of the
customer.
“The physical design of a store is
critical to the buying experience” says
Lisa Begg, “and having attractive,
well-positioned displays is an important
contributor to that experience. The new
display units that we’re introducing to
the Canadian market complement
nicely with our other devices such as
our patented Protekt® rod system
which allows frames to be displayed by
either the temple tip or bridge.”
HANDMADE IN BERLIN
50
Fixx Design Solutions provides a
truly unique approach aimed at helping
optical and optometric dispensers
improve their store environments. The
company is based in Maple Ridge, BC,
with associates across the country.
51_vis03:8
04/03/08
15:12
Page 1
_vis03:7
11/03/08
13:27
Page 52
| What’s New |
Optika Eyewear Distributes
Oscar de La Renta
Oscar de la Renta has been widely
recognised over four decades for his
delicate and opulent designs, made with
the finest of materials. In 1977 he made
another mark on the fashion world with
the introduction of a distinct perfume
collection. Since then his talent spread
out from ladies accessories to men’s
apparel, including sunglasses and
ophthalmic frames that are now
distributed in Canada by Optika
Eyewear.
| ODLR 374 |
The Oscar de la Renta eyewear
collection consists of ten optical frames
and five sunglasses models, each available
in two colours.
Through his eyewear collection de
la Renta truly expresses his creativity by
designing elegant fronts, complemented
by innovative ornamental temples, which
have both an elegant and classical look.
His line also focuses on the baby boomer
generation, by incorporating adequate
bifocal height in his designs.
For his sunwear collection he
utilizes only the highest quality acetates,
available in rich browns and blacks, and
the best quality lenses for UV protection.
In terms of temple design, he has focused
on laser etching and metal accents,
making his collection very distinct.
Kodak and
Signet Armorlite
Extend
Agreement
Signet Armorlite announces that
its brand licensing agreement with
Eastman Kodak Company has been
extended.
Under the Kodak brand name, SA
manufactures several high-end eyewear
progressive lenses, such as the
award-winning KODAK Precise® Lens,
and the new KODAK UNIQUE Lenses
that embrace the latest digital backside
lens technology. SA also offers two
anti-reflective coating options under the
well-known Kodak banner – the
award-winning KODAK CleAR™ Lens
Coating and the newly introduced
premier KODAK Clean’N’CleAR Lens
Coating that offers a slicker, yet edgeable
coating with anti-static properties.
As both companies have embraced
the move into the digital age in terms of
technology, the technical synergies
between Signet Armorlite and Eastman
Kodak are complementary.
“SA has enjoyed our long
relationship with Kodak,” remarked
Bruno Salvadori, SA CEO and president.
“We are pleased to offer a diversity of
quality Kodak branded products that
incorporate cutting-edge technology.
And, of course, our products benefit from
the Kodak name which is respected
worldwide as a leader in imaging
innovation.”
52
53_vis03.qxd:Layout 1
11/03/08
14:57
Page 1
THE OPTICIANS ASSOCIATION OF CANADA IS PLEASED
TO PARTNER WITH ITS CORPORATE FELLOW MEMBER TRANSITIONS OPTICAL - BY GIVING A CD CONTAINING
10 CONTINUING EDUCATION MODULES TO EVERYBODY
WHO ATTENDS THE TRANSITIONS EXPERIENCE CITY TOUR.
IF YOU ARE AN OAC MEMBER, MARKING AND
PROCESSING OF THESE MODULES IS COMPLIMENTARY.
Announcing
Transitions 2008
City Tour
Join in the Excitement
of the EXPERIENCE
Transitions VI Tour
®
See the most advanced photochromic
performance for healthy sight unveiled!
March 4
Edmonton, Alberta
March 25
Toronto East, Ontario
March 5
Calgary, Alberta
March 26
Toronto West, Ontario
March 12
Vancouver, British Columbia
Come out for a celebration and EXPERIENCE
something new from Transitions.
Plus, enjoy entertainment, food,
refreshments and the chance to win prizes!
RSVP Today. 1-877-254-2590 ext 2202
Transitions and the swirl are registered trademarks and Healthy sight in every light is a trademark of Transitions Optical, Inc.
© 2008 Transitions Optical, Inc. Photochromic performance is influenced by temperature, UV exposure, and lens material.
_vis03:7
11/03/08
13:28
Page 54
| What’s New |
McCray Optical Supply and briot/Weco Canada,
have launched a co-operation program, pooling their
resources to assist customers starting a new business,
laboratory or upgrading equipment.
Specialists in their respective fields, they will
provide the most complete selection of products
and services with the best quality and customer
service available.
“We are happy to cooperate with briot/Weco
Canada,” says Raymond Mo, owner of McCray
Optical Supply. “Our customers will benefit from
tailor-made offers.”
“To work with McCray Optical Supply
increases our product range and the values we
can offer to our customers. We share the same
focus and our product lines complement each
other,” adds Tom Pfleging, GM of briot/Weco.
| Advertisers Index |
Allison Canada ___________________5
Audace Lunettes __________________6
Bausch & Lomb__________________33
Briot/Weco Canada _______________41
Canadian Optical Supply Co. ____11, 44
Centennial _____________________45
Chantilli Canada _________________40
CIBA Vision _____________________23
Essilor _________49, Inside Back Cover
Fashion Excellent ________________48
Hongli __________________________31
Zodiac by Neostyle:
Focus on Extravagance
and Prestige
Neostyle’s latest Zodiac line demonstrates that
eccentric design can fit with elegance.
It’s all a matter of balance.
With 21 models, including six new ones,
Neostyle offers a wide variety of shapes and materials
such as nylon and titanium. Colours consist of
discreet tones like gold and silver as well as more
striking combinations like red and black.
The Zodiac line targets women and men from
40 upwards, who appreciate an exclusive but at the
same time modern look. All styles are suited for
progressive lenses.
Extreme H2O 54% Toric LC and MC
Now Available
Extreme H2O 54% contact lenses
are now available in both Toric LC
(low cylinder) and Toric MC (mid
cylinder) to meet the requirements of
up to 85% of astigmatic patients. The
Extreme H2O 54% Hioxiflcon D
material provides a very comfortable
option for patients who may have
issues with end of day comfort due to
dryness or environmental factors.
Toric LC is designed for the 55%
of astigmatic patients requiring a
cylinder correction between -0.50D
and -1.25D. This lens will correct the
low cylinder and provide patients with
noticeably improved vision over a
regular spherical or aspheric lens.
Toric MC is designed for the 30%
of astigmatic patients requiring a
cylinder correction between -1.25D
and -1.75D. The combination of a
stable design and stable material
provides exceptional on-eye stability.
Extreme H2O 54% soft contact
lenses provide excellent all-day
comfort, maintaining a water balance
that is four times that of normal
HEMA lens materials. The Group 2
non-ionic material provides excellent
deposit resistance for improved ocular
health.
Extreme H2O 54% contact
lenses, distributed by Centennial
Optical and Leis Vision, also provide
crisp, clear visual acuity due to the
highly stable GMA material.
Luxottica _________Inside Front Cover
Mc Cray Optical Supply ___________38
Mido ___________________________47
Mormaii Eyewear Canada __________13
Mykita North America _____________50
Rodenstock Announces New Addition to
its Lens Division Sales Team
Nikon Optical Canada_____________39
OAC/Transitions Optical ___________53
Opticaset ____________________18, 19
Optika Eyewear __________________21
Perfect Optical ____________________7
Plan ''B'' Eyewear ________Back Cover
Reed Exhibitions _________________37
Ronor __________________________27
Rudy Project_____________________51
The Optical Group________________32
Topcon Canada _________________52
Transitions___________________28, 29
Tura ____________________________17
Vision Canada ___________________22
Viva International Group _______15, 43
Wescan _______________False Cover, 3
Younger Optics __________________55
54
Rodenstock is pleased to welcome to its lens
division Yvan Bertrand as the territory manager
for Ontario. Recognized for his commitment to
customers and strong product support, Yvan
brings over 20 years of sales experience to the
company. He previously held the position of lens
division manager at Rodenstock for nine years
dating back to 1988.
Yvan’s work experience includes five years
as country manager – Canada, for Transitions
Optical Inc. and four years as an account
executive in the US for major national retailers.
Earlier in his career, Yvan spent one year as a
technical consultant in the fitting of front, back
and bitoric gas permeable contact lenses with
Sola-Syntex.
Yvan is a certified dispensing optician and
contact lens fitter. He is an ophthalmic dispensing
program graduate from Georgian College.
| Zodiac 11 |
Co-operation
between McCray
and briot/Weco
DriveWear
®
AVAILABLE IN SFSV, IMAGE AND NEW FT-28
High contrast green/yellow
colour designed to minimize
glare and maximize useful
light information reaching
the eye.
Copper colour highlights reds
and greens for good traffic
signal recognition; reduces
glare and excess visual light;
DARKENS BEHIND THE
WINDSHIELD OF A CAR.
OVERCAST
BEHIND
WINDSHIELD
Dark reddish-brown colour
provides maximum comfort
by filtering out excess light;
blocks blinding glare and
100% UVA/UVB rays.
BRIGHT LIGHT OUTSIDE
DRIVEWEAR® LENSES UNIQUELY COMBINE TWO OF THE MOST ADVANCED TECHNOLOGIES FOUND IN THE EYEGLASS INDUSTRY TODAY:
TRANSITIONS™ PHOTOCHROMIC TECHNOLOGY AND NUPOLAR® POLARIZATION.
FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TECHNICAL DETAILS, VISIT
or call: (800) 863-7390 • (450)689-1342
DRIVEWEAR, IMAGE and NUPOLAR are trademarks of Younger Optics and are registered in the U.S.A. ACTIVATED BY TRANSITIONS is a trademark, and TRANSITIONS is a registered trademark of Transitions Optical, Inc.
11/03/08
14:33
Page 56
| BUSINESS
OPPORTUNITY |
Excellent opportunity is Victoria,
BC. Optical dispensary for sale
complete with eyelogic and
finishing lab. Sixteen years at
the same location and located
next door to Starbucks.
Excellent lease in place and
located only two blocks from
non-dispensing optometrist.
For information please contact
[email protected].
__________________________
For Sale: 32 year old optical
dispensary [one hour drive
west of Toronto] with doctors
office and equipment. It is a
mall location with short hours.
[9.30-6.p.m.] Saturdays optional.
excellent five year lease, with
option of additional five.
Optometrist with one day a
week can make salary of 40k.
Excellent opportunity for a
newly graduate. For further
information please contact
[email protected]
__________________________
Josephson Opticians, is hiring
registered opticians and
student opticians. A fantastic
opportunity to work with
great people and exclusive
custom-crafted products. All
6 locations in the GTA are
closed Sundays, and open
late only one night per
week.
Please fax your résumé in
confidence to Bosco Lau at
(416) 968-2477 or e-mail it
to [email protected]
LASIK MD, Canada’s leader in
laser
eye
correction
is
presently seeking full-time and
part-time Opticians for its
Montreal location. Generous
remuneration will be offered to
suitable candidates. If you are
interested in working in the
exciting field of refractive
surgery, please send your
résumé immediately to Jennifer
Tapp at [email protected] or
by fax at: (514) 933-4408.
Please indicate reference
# MTLRT04 in the subject of
your job application.
__________________________
New Optical store in Mission,
BC for sale. Total gross rent
$500. Almost 800 sqft. Good
business response and busy
road.
Please
contact:
[email protected]
__________________________ LASIK MD, Canada’s leader in
laser eye correction is presently
Optical store for sale located in
the heart of Burnaby, BC. Right seeking full-time and part-time
across from Metrotown Centre. Optometrists for its Montreal,
Beautiful decor with finishing Laval, Brossard and St-Foy
lab, sight testing lab and locations. Generous remuneration
contact lens room. Motivated will be offered to suitable canseller. Contact Elisa at didates. If you are interested in
(604) 435-5736
working in the exciting field of
__________________________ refractive surgery, please send
your résumé immediately to
TORONTO Optical store space Genevieve Pilon at hrresumes@
for rent in busy 24/7 plaza lasikmd.com or by fax at:
close to Scarborough General (514) 904-1199. Please indicate
Hospital and Bochner Eye
reference # PQOD03 in the
Institute. (416)730-1369.
__________________________ subject of your job application.
__________________________
Wholesale optical lab for sale.
Southwestern Ontario, well Look At Me Kiosks Ltd.,
established and profitable. Canada’s most innovative
Serious inquires only. Please manufacturer of self-service
phone (519) 682-1925 for optometric kiosks is searching
e-mail [email protected].
for distributors and sales
representatives. If you are
knowledgeable of the optometry
field and are enthusiastic
about the new cutting-edge
Full-time optician required for sales product, contact us at
busy store in Scarborough. (905) 763-2092,
Large dispensary in medical www.lookatmekiosks.com or
building - no weekends and [email protected].
few nights. Lab experience an __________________________
asset as some edging done
onsite. Please fax resume to
(416) 299-6792 or e-mail to Looking for sale representatives
with experience throughout
[email protected].
__________________________ Ontario for two creator lines
(Ziggy and Jean Reno By
Great commission and bonuses Cendrine O.). Tel: (450) 227-7964
paid: Funky new line in or 1-877-944-4676. E-mail:
Ontario. Never seen before. [email protected]
Gorgeous updated modern __________________________
styles that will give your
customers great opportunities Marcolin Canada is currently
to make money. Incentives to looking for experienced sales
your customers to buy one and
get one free. Incentives for you representatives for Manitoba,
and
the
to sell-trips every year with Saskatchewan
modest sales record. Looking Maritimes. Please send your
for reps in Eastern and C.V. by fax at 1-866-672-3932
Northern Ontario. Call Arthur at or by e-mail to Marcolin(416) 633-9365 or 1-866-405-3937. [email protected].
__________________________ __________________________
| EMPLOYMENT |
Markham – Optician or dispenser
needed. Optometry office
requires a friendly, outgoing
person to join our team. Some
reception and administrative
duties will also be required.
Please email résumé to
[email protected] or fax
to (905) 948-8915.
__________________________
Mormaii Eyewear, one of the
fast growing brands in the
world is actively seeking
outside sales representatives
for its Canadian branch. We
are currently looking for
sunglasses and optical frame
representatives
for
all
provinces. Candidates will
ideally have 2+ years of
experience, strong cold calling
skills and the ability to form
and maintain long term
relationships. All interested
candidates
may
e-mail
copies o f t h e i r r é s u m é t o
[email protected] or
fax them to Attention Mormaii
(780) 455-4015.
__________________________
Need a refractionist. Toronto or
GTA. Please call (416) 316-2857.
__________________________
Opening soon: Optical store in
Newmarket, Ontario is looking
for a licensed optician and
contact lenses fitter for a full
time position. Monday to
Friday. No weekends, no
holidays.
We pay good salary and high
commission. Please e-mail your
resume to: [email protected]
__________________________
Optical dispenser / frame
specialist required full time for
busy 3 doctor optometric
practice in Newmarket, Ontario.
Large dispensary, edging lab in
professional building. E-mail
your résumé in confidence to :
[email protected].
__________________________
Very
good
compensation
packages. Send your résumé in
confidence to (450) 979-0546
or e-mail to: prismeoptic@
videotron.ca.
__________________________
Sales Manager required: Safilo
Canada, a leader in high
fashion eyewear is seeking an
experienced Sales Manager
(3 years minimum) for the
Province of Ontario. Looking for
a highly motivated individual
with leadership and communication
skills. Industry experience is an
asset. Interested candidates
may apply by sending their
résumé to Mrs Linda Romani at
[email protected]
__________________________
Equipment for sale: Frastema
Hydralic Chair and stand, Canon
R-50 auto refractor, Tomey
TL-900 Auto
Lensometer:
$7000 firm. Will deliver within
100 km of Toronto. Also available
Hoya remote Phoropter: $1000.
All like new. Please contact
Marc
White
by
e-mail
[email protected].
__________________________
| SERVICE |
Titanium Eyeglass Repair! Our
laser welding technique creates
a seamless result on all metal
frames. Please send $40
payment with each frame which
includes : laser repairing, return
priority shipping and one year
guarantee to: Laserfix Ltd., 13
Mission Ave., St. Albert, AB,
T8N 1H6 or call Darrel at
(780) 460-2943 to set up a
For sale: automatic chair and commercial account.
__________________________
stand with projector. excellent
working order. Stand able to
accommodate slit lamp or
keratometer. Asking price:
$1400 for everything. Please
call Arthur Kochberg at
(416) 633-9365.
Our classified ad section
__________________________
is a free service for all
✍
Sales Rep. BC and Alberta
territory established for two
product lines needed. Send For sale: 4000 frames. All sellable.
resume to [email protected] Some spring hinges and some
retro frames. If interested in the
__________________________
whole lot, the price per frame
is 3 dollars. Let's talk.
Call Arthur Kochberg at
(416) 633-9365 or e-mail me at
[email protected].
• Autorefractor Canon R10:
__________________________
$2100
• Essilor Gamma Fully
For
sale: Weco C90 pattern
reconditioned: $15,000
edger in good shape low
• Dispensing table: $300
• AO Slit lamp11666 and
usage. Inexpensive way to start
hydraulic stand: $1,400
your own edging and save
• Portable lensometer
lab costs. $ 1000 or BO.
electric Topcon: $300
Phone (705) 325-1257 or fax
• New Trial lens set: $525
(705) 726-3102 for details.
• Foldable counter: $300
__________________________
• Track for track light holder
includes 24 holders and 8
Wanted:
Full
refracting
tracks: $150
equipment, including chair, stand,
• Magnetic tool holder 2
sets: $25 each new in box autorefractor / keratometer, slit
lamp, lens meter etc. Please
Please contact:
e-mail details to musadik@
[email protected]
tanzacan.com
__________________________ __________________________
| EQUIPMENT |
| PLEASE NOTE |
| classified ads |
_vis03:7
optical practitioners,
in the canadian optical
industry.
All submitted
classified ads will be
included on the
Breton Communications
Web site :
www.bretoncom.com/cla
ssified
PLEASE SEND YOUR
CLASSIFIED AD
BEFORE APRIL 23, 2008
TO:
c/o Vision Magazine
Breton Communications
Inc.
495 St-Martin Blvd.
West, #202
Laval, Québec H7M 1Y9
Fax: (450) 629-6044
E-mail:
[email protected]
Optometrist – Kashin Optometric
Group. Winnipeg. Come join
our group. We provide you
with a turn-key optometric
office inside Hakim Optical.
Pre-testing, billing, patient
management, scheduling,
marketing and reception are
provided. Send your confidential
e-mail to: [email protected]
or
call
Dr. Kashin at (204) 955-2980.
__________________________
Perfect Optical Inc. is currently
looking for an experienced optical salesperson in Manitoba/Saskatchewan. Lacoste,
Nodoka, Charmant Titanium,
Aristar, and Cube represent a
fantastic opportunity for the
right candidate. Kindly fax C.Vs
to (514) 270-6974 or e-mail to
[email protected]
__________________________
Prisme Optical Group, a distributor
of high-end frames is looking
to expand its sales force in the
following territories: BC, Alberta,
Prairies and the Maritimes
provinces. Candidates must be
highly
motivated,
hard
working, dynamic, have good
communication skills and
preferably have experience.
VISION +
$499.00
Comprehensive software at a reasonable price.
Point-of-Sale Software, Inventory Control, Automatic order pricing,
Patient Invoicing, Marketing Tools, Sales Reports, Demographics
Ability to submit orders electronically to various labs
(519) 749-0374
MSF Computing Inc.
www.visionplus.cc
OPTICIANS ASSOCIATION OF CANADA
To become a member of the Opticians Association of Canada and take
advantage of its many membership benefits please call
1-800-847-3155 • [email protected]
OPTICIANS ASSOCIATION OF CANADA : 2706-83 Garry Street, Winnipeg, Manitoba, R3C 4J9 • www.opticians.ca
56
53_vis01:Layout 1
11/01/08
09:39
Page 1
54_vis01:8
04/01/08
11:47
Page 1

ENV O IS DEPUB LIC A TIO NS CA NA D IENNES • NO .DECO NV

Transcription

Similar documents

a new state-of-the-art eyewear in our practice

Optical Prism

Optical Prism

Track Frame Catalog.indd

Portatile e senza fili, per uno screening di qualità Portatile e senza

Back to school - RIDGWAY Optical Supplies Ltd

MixoLoGy - VisionMonday.com

TRUPIX Info Sheet - TRUPIX Video Scaler

Provider network: there`s always a provider in sight