Discover Transitions® SignatureTM graphite green lenses

Laurence Leboeuf

Discover Transitions® SignatureTM graphite green lenses

See more at IconicGreen.ca

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ADVERTISING

JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2015

Iconic Green.Transitions® Signature™ lenses are available in an iconic graphite

green tint inspired by the 1950s. These everyday lenses

automatically adjust from completely clear indoors to dark green

tint outdoors so patients see life in the best light while showing

off their individual style.

The molecular breakthrough of Chromea7™ technology.This exclusive dye formulation makes the lenses more responsive

in more lighting conditions across all temperatures.

To learn more, visit IconicGreen.ca

Signature VIITM

Iconic Green.

Transitions and the swirl are registered trademarks and Transitions Signature and Chromea7 are trademarks of Transitions Optical, Inc. ©2015 Transitions Optical, Inc. Photochromic performance is influenced by temperature, UV exposure and lens material.


Iconic Green.Transitions® Signature™ lenses are available in an iconic graphite

green tint inspired by the 1950s. These everyday lenses

automatically adjust from completely clear indoors to dark green

tint outdoors so patients see life in the best light while showing

off their individual style.

The molecular breakthrough of Chromea7™ technology.This exclusive dye formulation makes the lenses more responsive

in more lighting conditions across all temperatures.

To learn more, visit IconicGreen.ca

Signature VIITM

Iconic Green.

Transitions and the swirl are registered trademarks and Transitions Signature and Chromea7 are trademarks of Transitions Optical, Inc. ©2015 Transitions Optical, Inc. Photochromic performance is influenced by temperature, UV exposure and lens material.


SPORTS EYEWEAR:

JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2015

ECPs!REAL

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4 Envision: seeing beyond | january - february 2015

what’s inside

in the next issue

january - february 2015

march – april 2015

MENIt’s no secret: men are driven by fashion, and eyewear gives them a significant way to claim an identity. Designers and manufacturers are speaking to this market with new collections that appeal to the risk-taker, the nerd, the jock and the C-suite executive. Let’s check them out!

DON’T LET SPORTS EYEWEAR PASS YOU BY: YOUR PATIENTS NEED IT! The focus on fitness products in the retail world creates an excellent business opportunity for eyecare professionals because ever-cooler and more technologically advanced equipment is the name of the game. Both amateur and professional athletes need eye protection and you are the perfect retailer to provide it.

10Cover Story

6 20 Years of Success

8 Our View

Legal Angle 22 Focus on Ebola: Managing the Ocular Effects of the Disease

Lens Focus 24 Good Sports

Portrait of a Designer 28 Richard Mewha Designs Unique Luxury for Bevel

Eye on Health 30 A New Frontier in Cataract Surgery

Event 32 The Magic Mixing Formula: Optifair Does it Again

Making Contact 34 Bandage It Up!

36 In the News

44 Classifieds

planbeyewear.com

Envision: seeing beyond | january - february 20156

Here at Breton Communications, we’re very excited to be celebrating our 20th anniversary in 2015. What a fascinating journey it has been, as we’ve developed new products and technology to keep pace with the evolution of the publishing industry and Canada’s optical market.

Back in 1995, our contributions consisted of Coup d’Oeil magazine and the print version of Opti-Guide, the Canadian Optical suppliers’ guide where everything from trade shows to store locations, owners and products can be found. As of 2015, in response to user demand, the publication is now fully digital with 1.7 million page views annually.In 1997, we began publishing the predecessor of Envision: seeing beyond magazine, and over time built it from a niche publication serving only opticians into a larger and stronger magazine designed to meet the information needs of optometrists, ophthalmologists and opticians. We’re proud to have a broader mandate and a new perspective on the Canadian industry, and feedback from our readers confirms the wisdom of this decision.Over the years, we added several new products to our portfolio. Way back in 2004, we launched the Canadian optical industry’s first bi-weekly digital newsletter Opti-News. Since then, we’ve grown our subscribers’ membership from 1,200 email addresses to 8,000.In mid-2011 we were the first to launch digital versions of our magazines Envision: seeing beyond and EnVue: voir plus loin. In 2012 we conducted the first-ever online survey of the Canadian optical industry and presented the comprehensive ECP data under our Opti-Stats. And in 2014 we implemented the BretonJobs.com job portal for the Canadian optical industry. We could not have accomplished all of this without the help and support of many people.Thank you to our advertisers and sponsors, some of whom have been with us since the beginning. We are so grateful to all of you for your commitment and support of professional optical industry journalism. We’re delighted to have provided you with a platform from which to effectively address your customers – our readers. Success builds on success and together we have created a powerful synergy which benefits everyone.Our appreciation also goes to the industry experts – company sales reps, academics, industry CEOs, marketing directors, store owners and eyecare professionals – who have so generously given of their time in interviews for our articles. Without you, we would not have been able to present the facts, opinions, issues and other useful information that our readers need and want.We also owe a debt of gratitude to our wonderful team, including the Breton Communications office staff, our editorial teams and all of the magazines’ contributors. We are very fortunate to have this tremendous group of dedicated professionals working with us.Canada’s optical industry is unique and as such it is best served by Canadians who understand its needs. At Breton Communications we are proud to fulfill that role.You can look forward to a number of surprises in the coming year as we celebrate our 20th anniversary. And as we look ahead to our third decade, we’re filled with optimism.So much has changed since 1995. But one thing that remains constant is our commitment to you, our readers. You can count on us to continue providing you with a visually beautiful magazine that features stimulating, inspirational and useful content that will help you grow your business.After two decades in the eyecare field, we can assure you of our ongoing commitment to the Canadian optical industry. We know you share this commitment. Let’s go forward together! n

Special EditorialMartine Breton

Publisher

COMING SPRING 2015


I recently drove past a big box sports store that had the word ‘Optics’ in big, bold letters on its exterior signage. It got me wondering why

we don’t see more licensed optical professionals proclaiming ‘Sports Eyewear’ on their signage. Might you be letting this growing segment of the industry get away from you?Research from Liberty Optical finds that if you make the effort by carrying sports eyewear and training your staff in procedures to educate your patients and customers, you can easily upsell from these sports collections to at least three per cent of your current customers. How much more could you sell if you actually let your customers know from your store exterior that they can find eyewear for golf, sailing, skiing, racquet sports and cycling within?Laying claim to your expertise in eye and vision protection is key to establishing credibility as a first-stop purveyor of sports-specific eyewear. Consumers need to be educated about the risks involved in sporting activities and also the enhanced performance that comes from using eyewear designed with their sport in mind.The risks of sports-related eye injuries are significant. According to the CNIB, of 720,000 emergency room visits for eye injuries annually, 100,800 are sports-related1. And emergency rooms in the U.S. see a sports-related eye injury every 16 minutes2. An estimated one in 18 American college athletes will sustain an eye injury each season3. But are athletic consumers aware of the potential risks? It appears not. According

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to the 2008 U.S. National Health Interview Survey, 81.8 per cent of children do not wear protective eyewear in situations that pose risk of eye injury4.Safety considerations aside, an additional way to enlist your patients in the concept of purchasing sports-specific eyewear is to appeal to their desire for improved athletic performance. Manufacturers make that a breeze with a variety of fantastic lenses that enhance contrast and provide a wider field of clear vision. Interchangeable lens designs are widely available and are becoming easier for consumers to use. Here, endorsements from professional athletes augment the perception that performance will be enhanced.Don’t let your clients confuse sports-styled streetwear or sunwear with protective eyewear. Dr. Michael Easterbrook, a prominent Toronto-based ophthalmologist who was the eye surgeon for the Toronto Maple Leafs hockey team for 25 years, and who writes and speaks widely on the prevention of sports-related eye injuries, advises wearing ASTM F803-approved protective eye gear, made specifically for the sport one is playing. He says hockey and racquet sports cause the most eye injuries in Canada5.Our feature in this issue can help you decide which of the many superb sports-specific products you want to carry. They are so cool looking that even patients who are sedentary just might decide to take up a sport! n

Breton Communications Inc.202-495 St-Martin Blvd. W. Laval, Quebec H7M 1Y9

Tel.: 450 629-6005Fax: 450 629-6044

www.bretoncom.com

PRESIDENT/PUBLISHERMartine Breton

[email protected]

SENIOR EDITORJoAnne SommersTel. 250 448-6564

[email protected]

EDITOR-IN-CHIEFPaddy Kamen

Tel. : 250 [email protected]

ASSOCIATE EDITORSNetan ChoudhryBrian P. DunleavyJennifer George

Shirley HaEvra Taylor

SPECIAL ADVISOR, CONTACT LENSESJoshua Josephson, B.Sc, OD, FAAO, FACLP

ASSISTANT PUBLISHERNicky Fambios

[email protected]

COPY EDITOR/RESEARCHERIsabelle Groulx

[email protected]

ADVERTISING COORDINATOR/COPY EDITOR

Aurélie [email protected]

CIRCULATION ASSISTANT Louise Chalifoux

[email protected]

SUBSCRIPTION [email protected]

GRAPHIC DESIGNMarco Gagnon.com

ADVERTISINGMartine Breton

[email protected] Groulx

[email protected]élie Vasseur

[email protected] 888 462-2112

Tel.: 450 629-6005Fax: 450 629-6044

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISINGAurélie Vasseur

[email protected]

PRINTINGImpart Litho

Published six times a year

Legal depositNational Library of Canada

ISSN 1925-8801 (Print) | ISSN 1925-881X (Online)

Canadian Publication Mail ProductConvention NO 40052210Postage Paid in Quebec

Any reproduction, in whole or in part, of the herein publication, is strictly forbidden, without the written

authorization of the publisher.

Printed in CanadaPlease recycle

Our View Paddy Kamen

Editor-in-Chief

www.envisionmagazine.ca

1 http://www.cnib.ca/en/Pages/Most_eye_injuries_can_be_prevented.aspx2, 3, 4 Liberty Sports brochure: WHY and HOW to Protect your Patients Who Play Sports, www.libertysport.com5 http://www.cnib.ca/en/your-eyes/safety/at-play/Pages/eyesafety_atsport.aspx


NEED IT!

SportsEYEWEAR

Don’t Let

Pass You By:

Physical fitness rules in western pop culture, where

professional athletes are superstars and the girth of

film actors is under constant scrutiny. Do these

cultural values translate into increased physical activity

for the average person? It’s hard to know, but there

are definitely more sports-equipment stores

in Canada than ever before.

YOUR PATIENTS

11january - february 2015 | Envision: seeing beyond

Cover StoryBy Paddy Kamen

Cover StorySports Eyewear

The focus on fitness products in the retail world creates an excellent business opportunity for eyecare professionals because ever-cooler and more technologically advanced equipment is the name of the game. Both amateur and professional athletes need eye protection and you are the perfect retailer to provide it.

You’d best start out by asking your patients if they play sports. According to Pat Salamat, Canadian vice president of sales for Liberty Sport, this is the first of the Three I’s: Inquire, Inform and Introduce. After you ask ‘Do you play any sports or engage in solo fitness activities?’ it becomes almost a duty of practice to inform patients of the risks to vision inherent in their sport, and/or the path to better performance through improved optics. The reason this becomes a duty is that over 100,800 Canadians end up in emergency rooms each year as a result of sports-related eye injuries. You sure don’t want tennis-playing patients claiming that you didn’t let them know that the second-leading cause of sports eye injuries in Canada is racquet sports. Not only should you inform them, you can also introduce the solution if you carry a good selection of sports-specific eyewear.

This feature gives you an overview of the best of the best in sports-protection eyewear. And the cool factor leads the way: just look at this stuff – it’s gorgeous!

www.optimaninc.comDistributed by Optiman Group Inc., Style shown BCH268

The reason this becomes a duty is that over 100,800 Canadians end up in

emergency rooms each year as a result of sports-related eye injuries.

“”


Olympic gold medal ski champion, Jean Vuarnet, lends his name to the famous Vuarnet brand, known for superior eyewear and mineral lenses for all sporting activities.

“Our bestselling lens, Skilynx, was created in 1960 and used by Jean Vuarnet when he won the Olympics in 1960,” says Marketing Director Kristin Wells-Kelly. “This lens is ideal for all winter sports. We also offer the PX 5000 lens in limited sport frames for mountain climbing and all sports executed in extreme light conditions.”

All Vuarnet mineral lenses are manufactured in their factory in Meaux, France, just outside Paris. Mineral lenses are known for exceptional optical quality: “The optics are much better than polycarbonate and they have a very hard surface, making them resistant to scratching. The 16-hour chemical plating process guarantees that they are shock-resistant as well.” says Wells-Kelly.

Vuarnet has released an updated version of the aviator-style GLACIER sports sunwear made of Mazzucchelli acetate and ultra-light metal with inserted rubber. The leather side shields with a magnetic metal structure allow the shields to be adjusted for better eye protection. The side shields are also removable to meet the needs of city life. Combine the GLACIER with the SKILYNX mineral lenses and you have a match made in heaven.

The Louis Garneau company, founded by renowned Canadian cyclist Louis Garneau (with over 150 racing victories globally), knows a thing or two about sports eyewear. Perfect for winter sports, their Nordic Shield, with lift-up lenses that are also interchangeable, offers tremendous versatility, depending on the activity chosen and the prevailing light conditions. The nylon frame resists impact and varied temperatures.

The Course Kit from Louis Garneau is another example of versatile sports eyewear for the all-round athlete. Worn by Quebec-city-based, 2014 Ironman Kona, Hawaii winner, Pierre-Yves Gigou, the Course Kit is extremely lightweight, with vented lenses and a frame that helps to prevent fogging. This amazing eyewear works in every light condition and at all temperatures. Cyclists, cross-country skiers and triathletes find it indispensible.

Designer Sven Götti, who hails from Switzerland (another land of snow), turns his keen design aesthetic to light, flexible snow goggles in white, black and yellow, each featuring coloured, mirrored, double-glazed lenses. An anti-fog design for optimum ventilation make these helmet-compatible goggles consistent with their sophisticated finish and dynamic look. We wouldn’t expect anything less than perfection from this prominent Swiss company.

Because not everyone can invest in prescription goggles for winter sports, Live Eyewear presents their stylish Cocoons® fitover snow goggles. “It was time for us to bring our experience in the fitover sunwear category and attention to detail to the table,” says Kieran Hardy, Live Eyewear president. “The public trusts in the Cocoons brand as a global leader in fitover eyewear. Because we consistently deliver the best in fitover performance, quality and value, our new goggles will reward loyalty to the brand.”

Cocoons goggles come in a wide variety of styles, each featuring a dual layer, anti-fog lens system with air apertures to eliminate condensation on the internal lens surface. The high-contrast orange lenses offer a glare-blocking silver mirror finish, delivering superior visual acuity.

“These Cocoons retail at a great price point, so there’ll be no question that you’re equipping your customer with the best in technology combined with unparalleled value,” adds Hardy.


{ Louis Garneau mod. Course II Kit }

{ Cocoon Fitover (OTG) }

{ Götti mod. Goggle }

{ Vuarnet mod. VL1315 }


Sundog Eyewear is leading the pack with TrueBlue™ lens technology, as worn by world ultramarathon champion Ellie Greenwood and LPGA superstar Paula Creamer. This blue light-filtering technology is based on the research of physicist and inventor Dr. James Gallas, whose company, Photo Protective Technologies (PPT), is a leading innovator in photoprotection using melanin. Sundog has signed an exclusive global

agreement with PPT for the next generation of melanin lenses.

TrueBlue lenses have demonstrated proven results in golf, running and fishing. Athletes will appreciate superior glare reduction, maximum visual clarity, enhanced definition and improved performance. The eyewear frames that hold this lens technology include Bolt, Clutch and Prime. All frames are made with Max Flex RILSAN® and use Megol temple tips and adjustable Megol nose pads to provide non-slip comfort. Check out Sundog for guaranteed performance at a price point that won’t break the bank.

Spy has the ultimate outdoor package for people who enjoy fishing, made of Grilamid® with polycarbonate toric lenses. The new Angler shows up with Trident™ polarization, Hytrel™ nose pads and temple tips, and small temple openings handy for attaching a cord. This virtually indestructible eyewear is oversize, and definitely masculine.

Bravo is another first for Spy, a mid-size snow goggle that rocks the slopes with high-performance features like a one-handed lens changing system, a free bonus lens, scoop venting and anti-fog coating, along with silicone ribbing on the strap to keep the goggle in place on the helmet.

Both the Angler and Bravo are available with Spy’s new Happy Lens™ technology. In addition to enhancing colour and contrast, the Happy Lens induces positive physiological and psychological changes by blocking short-wave blue light and UV rays, while allowing in the sun’s long-wave blue light. Exposure to long-wave blue light is associated with increased alertness and positive mood. Spy has a patent pending on the technology behind Happy Lens. As one of the oldest independent eyewear brands in North America they are proud to be constantly innovating.


Rudy Project shines with their new ImpactX-2 lenses in Clear to Laser Red and Clear to Laser Brown. These photochromic lenses light your way with 65 per cent better photochromic performance, 25 per cent faster activation and activation behind car windshields. Best of all: they are unbreakable and so protect the eyes in the event of falls or other impacts.

Comfort and perfect vision are aligned in the new high-performance Proflow™ Carbonium from Rudy Project. Developed with input from professional athletes and biometric engineers, this eyewear gives cutting-edge advantages to athletes, including a patented ‘flying’ temple design, which permits minute adjustments for maximum comfort and works together with the all-new Dorsal Stabilizers™, a system which ensures perfect alignment and directional stability for most head shapes, thus preventing the glasses from pitching down and placing excess pressure on the nose and ears.

Also from Rudy Project, the Agon is an ultra-technical glass, worn by the 2013 Tour de France® Green Jersey winner, Peter Sagan. Available with interchangeable lenses, the Agon features adjustable temple tips and nose pieces that secure the glasses with a precise and custom fit. An aerospace alloy is used in their manufacture. The half-rim structure guarantees a broad field of vision and air circulation is ensured by adjustable ventilation slits on the lenses.

Both the Proflow Carbonium and the Agon are Rx-able, via digital backside surfacing and can be made with no-line bifocals. Congrats to Rudy Project for constantly pushing the envelope in favour of athletes.

{ Rudy Project mod. Proflow Golf Big }

{ Sundog mod. Prime }

{ Spy mod. Angler }

{ Spy mod. Bravo }

{ Rudy Project mod. Agon Graphite Red }

ENGINEERED TO MOVE.

INTRODUCING THE NIKE FLEXON HYPER COLLECTION

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NIKE FLEXON HYPER: STYLE, STRENGTH, AND FLEXIBILITY FOR YOUR DYNAMIC LIFE.

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Hardcore fishermen started Costa back in 1983 in order to create sports sunwear that truly met their needs. Today, the company they founded is going strong, making the clearest sunwear for fishing, boating, biking and running.

The Hamlin model from Costa was named after esteemed Captain Ron Hamlin, who is known for releasing more than 25,000 billfish in his career. These co-molded Hydrolite frames, designed in his honour, offer a lightweight but durable fit.

The Inlet, also from Costa, is made from durable nylon, with spring hinges for a snug, custom fit. Both the Inlet and the Hamlin perform best with Costa’s patented 580™ lens technology, which blocks yellow light from entering the eye, creating razor-sharp colour enhancement and achieving the highest polarization level

possible. The lenses eliminate reflective glare and protect against harmful UV rays. Available in 580G (glass) or 580P (plastic), lens colours include gray, copper, blue mirror, green mirror and silver mirror. Costa also offers a specialty sunrise lens colour, ideal for low light situations.


Maui Jim’s PureAir styles have been extremely well received by everyone who has tried them for climbing, fishing, racquet sports and running. They also work well for more rugged sports, especially those that require undistorted views through ultra-clear lenses or need the great visual definition and depth perception that comes from the use of three rare earth elements in the PolarizedPlus2 lens technology. The Grilamid TR90LX frames are light, thin, flexible, durable and easily fit under helmets. The frames have performance features like embedded rubber in the temples and adjustable rubber nose pads that enhance stability and performance.

Also from Maui Jim, the Switchback full-wrap eyewear is receiving stellar reviews from cyclists around the globe. This is Maui Jim’s first style with easily interchangeable lenses. Superior ventilation and incredible comfort are augmented by the gripping fit that make the frames stable for both cyclists and runners. The Switchback comes with a PolarizedPlus2 coloured lens and a clear lens, with other lenses available.

Liberty Sport Eyewear is a name well known to both professional and amateur athletes in a wide variety of sports. Pat Salamat, says they focus on sports protection and sports performance sunglasses. “With the number of sports-related eye injuries increasing, we offer the widest range of sports protective goggles that surpass ASTM (formerly known as American Society for Testing and Materials) standards. From hockey to baseball and soccer, we have them all covered. Not only are they safe, but they are now considered cool gear.”

Liberty’s performance eyewear for motorcycling has been very positively reviewed in the biking press. “We use technology which includes Dry Eye cups for bikers who suffer from this condition. They prevent wind and debris from irritating the eyes,” notes Salamat.

Switch Vision, another offering from Liberty, is an interchangable lens model that comes with both polarized and low-light amber lenses, which are attached to the frame with magnets. Salamat says these are perfect for the varied light conditions one encounters in outdoor sports, including hiking, rafting and biking. Replacement lenses for specific sports such as skiing and golf are also available and can be purchased separately. Switch was very well reviewed by the Colarado Mountain School, which offers courses including rock climbing and ski mountaineering.

Every frame that is sold by Liberty is Rx-able.

{ Maui Jim mod. Switchback }

{ Costa mod. Hamlin }

{ Liberty mod. Snowboarder Morpheus }



Marchon brings two exciting brands to the sports-specific eyewear category with Dragon and Nike. Dragon’s optical collection is inspired by athletes and designed for the sophisticated consumer with a passion for action sports. Their sponsorship roster has grown to include some of the best surfers, snowboarders, moto riders, and wakeboarders in the world. For surfers like Shane Dorian, there’s nothing to compare to Dragon’s Made in Italy, floatable sunglass collection, specially formulated from lightweight, low-density, injection-molded, thermoplastic material.

“Dragon’s floatable shades are designed to stay afloat in the ocean, pool or lake,” says Kristina Simeone, marketing manager for Marchon Canada. “Complete with Performance Polar and oleophobic and hydrophobic lens coatings, Dragon’s H20 Floatable sunglasses are the answer to never losing your shades in the water again.” The collection features three styles, in 10 colour-options.

Also from Marchon, Nike’s Young Athlete Suns offer the same quality and performance expected from Nike Vision but in kid-sized versions of the most-coveted adult styles. The collection features Carl Zeiss optics with an advanced lens technology developed specifically to protect young eyes from damaging sun rays. The frame technology focuses on durability, grip, coverage, adjustability and ventilation, making this eyewear perfect for the young soccer, baseball, tennis or basketball players in the family. Models include Spirit and Mercurial.

{ Nike mod. 5572 }

{ Dragon mod. The Jam – Polar }


C2 Rx sports goggles from Hilco take the prize for eye protection on the field or the court. Offering an expanded field of vision – up to 20 per cent better, thanks to their V-Port technology – the goggles also provide superior ventilation and comfort. Athletes must be able to depend on visual clarity and comfort, both of which are found in spades in the C2 Rx, but the important extra bonus is protection for those sports where balls are flying fast and hard: baseball, lacrosse, tennis, basketball, soccer, squash and racquetball. The Hilco C2 Rx is approved by ASTM for ball speeds of up to 60 mph.

The C2 Rx is available in a wide choice of colours, sizes and wearing options, with fully adjustable temples with an interlocking strap. Hilco says they ‘think wide’ and they have certainly covered all the bases with this sports goggle.

A well-known sporting goods company once said, ‘Just do it!’ Putting aside any brand reference, I suggest that you ‘do it’ by making sports-specific eyewear part of your commitment to patient safety, comfort and satisfaction. This strategy will also strengthen your relationships with your patients and their understanding that you ‘get’ eyewear in a way the sports equipment retailers do not. n

{ Hilco mod. C2 Rx }

A well-known sporting goods company once said, ‘Just do it!’ Putting aside any brand reference, I suggest that you ‘do it’ by making

sports-specific eyewear part of your commitment to patient safety, comfort and

satisfaction.

“

”

Insatiably curious, utterly genuine, and a bit audacious,

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With the continuing Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) crisis in West Africa, all

eyes are focused on survival, as they should be. As of October 2014, the disease had already claimed the lives of more than 3,000 people, according to the World Health Organization.

Legal AngleBy Evra Taylor

EVD was first identified in 1976 but there have been more cases and deaths in this outbreak than in all the others combined. In fact, this Ebola crisis is reported to be the worst the world has ever seen. Approximately half of those who contract the disease die from it.

Some of the symptoms of EVD, such as body aches, fever, vomiting and cough, are the same as those of the flu. However, patients may present with more serious symptoms like chest pain and bleeding, both internally and externally, including bleeding from the eyes.

Moreover, optometrists travelling abroad to provide healthcare support for those afflicted face the possibility of contracting the disease. In terms of transmission through tears or contact lenses, the information is inconclusive. It is not yet known whether tears or tear fluid on a contact lens can carry the EVD virus.

MANAGING the OCULAR EFFECTS

FOCUS

DISEASEEBOLA

of the

on


Legal Angle

REASONABLE AND RESPONSIBLE PRECAUTIONS

One mode of transmission is direct contact with the body or bodily fluids of an infected person, whether living or deceased. Additionally, EVD can be transmitted through indirect contact, through objects, surfaces, clothing or bedding contaminated by the body fluids of a live or deceased infected person.

Healthcare workers have frequently been infected while treating patients with suspected or confirmed EVD. This has occurred through close contact with patients when infection control precautions are not strictly practiced. Careful adherence to health guidelines is essential in addressing the challenges posed by Ebola and helping to minimize the spread of the virus. The World Health Organization’s guidance for care of patients with Ebola, published in September 2014, states: “Strengthen and carefully apply standard precautions when providing care to ALL patients, regardless of the signs and symptoms they present with. This is especially important because the initial manifestations of hemorrhagic fever may be non-specific. Hand hygiene is the most important measure. Gloves should be worn for any contact with blood or body fluid. Medical mask and goggles or a face shield should be used if there is any potential for splashes of blood or body fluids to the face, and cleaning of contaminated surfaces is paramount.”

The federal government reports that there have been no cases of Ebola in Canada and that the risk to Canadians remains very low. Canada’s new Chief Public Health Officer, Dr. Gregory Taylor, has stated that this country has been preparing for the possibility of Ebola cases emerging as the result of overseas travel.

“Canada is well prepared with a number of systems in place to identify and prevent the spread of serious infectious diseases like Ebola, such as working closely with our international partners to gather and assess information and administering the Quarantine Act at all points of entry into Canada,” Dr. Taylor said in a statement.

“The Public Health Agency of Canada is working closely with its provincial and territorial partners and the agency’s National Microbiology Laboratory is well connected with its network of provincial labs to ensure Canada is ready to detect and respond quickly.”

Canadian ECPs are justified in reassuring their patients about the low risk of contracting Ebola. However, in light of the disease’s 21-day incubation period, the importance of high-level precautions cannot be overestimated. n

DOING IT RIGHT &

ON TIME FOR 25 YEARS!

WWW.MODULAR-DESIGN

.COM

Strengthen and carefully apply standard precautions when providing care to

ALL patients, regardless of the signs and symptoms they present with.

“”


Most healthcare professionals see the Internet as a source of misinformation

and/or disinformation for patients seeking answers to their medical needs. However, for opticians and optometrists trying to meet the increasingly specialized visual needs of sports enthusiasts visiting their dispensaries, the World Wide Web may provide some keys to success. Many ECPs have been forced to turn there to learn about the latest in spectacle lens products and treatments for sports ranging from hunting and fishing to skiing and snowboarding. (See the feature on page 10 of this issue to learn more about the latest in sports eyewear.)

“Most of the knowledge we have in lenses for sports comes from self-education and experience,” explains Gina Kay, optician and co-manager of the Toronto location of Cristall Opticians, a three-location, family-owned optical shop. “In many cases, the patients are so well-educated about their sports and the vision needs related to them that they teach us a lot.”

Where to go for vital information on this application for spectacle lenses has long been the question. ECPs estimate that as many as 10 per cent of the lenses they dispense are used by wearers for a sports-related activity, most commonly hunting and fishing, although a growing number of patients participate in so-called “action” sports, including snowboarding, biking and racing (both running and auto/ motorbike). Despite this, education programs are often lacking in curriculum devoted to sports lenses.

If you’re wondering what lenses and/or lens treatments will work for the sports enthusiasts in your client base, there are places to go before getting lost on Google.

READ ALL ABOUT IT

The proliferation of sports specialty magazines in response to the increased consumer interest in outdoor activities can help opticians and optometrists as well. According to Kay, many of these magazines publish feature articles that describe the “visual environments” specific sports participants experience; some include advice columns on eyewear needs. Many of these publications are online now, with searchable article archives. Sport-specific online chat rooms and web sites are also excellent resources.

GET EQUIPPED

Erin Clarke, an optician at Aurora Eye Care in Grande Prairie, AB and an active outdoor sports enthusiast, says local sporting goods retailers have been an excellent source of information on different sports for Aurora’s optical staff. “They can explain some of the visual conditions and challenges with different sports because they deal with them all the time,” she says.

Lens FocusBy Brian P. Dunleavy

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Lens Focus

PARTNER UP

Vendors who manufacture sport-specific products often provide plano sunwear or other eyewear for their respective customer bases. Kay says Cristall has partnered with a company that specializes in gear for motorcyclists to market prescription sunwear designed for optimal vision on the road. Clarke adds that she and her team at Aurora have researched the best prescription lens inserts for ski goggles and other sports specialty eyewear products to ensure the dispensary and its supplier partners offer them.

HISTORY LESSON

It may seem clichéd, but a thorough patient/client history makes identifying the right lens products easier. According to Kay, “asking the right questions and communicating with your clients allows them to tell you in their own words what they need.” While she emphasizes that they won’t necessarily tell you what lens tint will help them see better in the woods while hunting, they may describe visual problems they’ve had.

“Then it’s up to you, with your expertise and the resources you have – your supplier partners, for example – and maybe a little trial and error, to find the right products for them. Ultimately, the best way to make sure you are providing the best lens options for sports enthusiasts is combining your knowledge of lens tints and lens design technology with your clients’ knowledge of what they do. With all the technology we have now, there are lenses that will work for what they need. As opticians, we need to position ourselves as the experts who will help to find them.” n

Ultimately, the best way to make sure you are providing the best lens options for sports enthusiasts

is combining your knowledge of lens tints and lens design technology with your clients’ knowledge of

what they do.

“”

Model: SH VIN-24


Portrait of a Designer By Paddy Kamen

Anyone who wants to look more handsome or beautiful will be thrilled to encounter Bevel frames, designed by president and head designer Richard Mewha.

Mewha is a designer who can’t draw, a visionary of gorgeous eyewear who works with design partners

to bring his ideas to life. His aesthetic philosophy is simple: “We design eyewear to enhance the face, complexion and hair colour. I see a lot of frames, especially at the trade shows that make the wearer look like she is dressed up for Halloween. I’m not conservative, nor am I looking to create something bizarre just so it will be noticed. Our frames are creative and interesting and made to enhance the appearance of the wearer.”

RICHARD MEWHADESIGNS UNIQUE

F O R B E V E LLUXURY

{ Richard Mewha }


Mewha didn’t set out to become a designer but instead came upon it gradually, starting with musical-cultural influences. Growing up in punk rock-era England, he was into music and the fashion that went along with it. “Then I decided to go to business school, with the aim of working for a design or fashion company,” he says.

Landing a job with Alain Mikli in 1986 marked the beginning of Mewha’s fascination with eyewear. Hired as a sales rep for Paris, he was moved to New York City in short order, where he was promoted to North American sales manager by the time he was 25. Mewha was attracted to Mikli’s high-fashion eyewear (“bordering on bizarre,” he says) and thrilled that he, personally, no longer had to endure boring frames: “I had been wearing horrible eyeglasses that I was ashamed of, before I started working with Mikli,” he admits.

His next position was with Optical Shop of Aspen, a high-end west coast American retailer. “They were just starting as an importer of Matsuda and developing a wholesale business. Over time I became involved in production meetings with the factory. I learned how the design side and the product side work together to create saleable eyewear. My experiences there helped me to establish contacts with the top manufacturers in Japan.”

Mewha is a self-proclaimed ‘Japan-snob’ and has never considered making his frames anywhere else. His Japanese design partners understand what he wants to achieve and the quality is unparalleled.

The other key to realizing Mewha’s vision is Rick Nelson, an optician of 40 years, with whom he founded New York City-based Bevel in 1999. “Rick understands frames and lenses

like no one else and together we find the balance between aesthetics, comfort and excellent vision.”

The Bevel brand is distinguished by minimalist design, luxury materials and, especially, colour. “I love combining colours and follow my instincts, rather than fashion trends. In titanium, I have an affinity for pastels on the inside of the frame and an exterior colour that contrasts with the complexion of the wearer. In acetates I gravitate to deep, rich colours and multiple granular effects that have an earthy, three-dimensional feel to them.”

Always innovating, Mewha believes in the value of reaching for, and realizing new levels of design and craftsmanship, confident that discerning customers will appreciate superior products.

In recognition of their commitment to the technical side of eyewear production, Bevel was recently awarded a U.S. patent on a hinge they developed for titanium frames in 2009. A second hinge with strong visual design ele-ments was invented for acetate frames in 2012. “The original hinge was designed to better tailor the fit of the temple to the wearer,” says Mewha. “The second hinge adds flex and a dis-tinctive design detail.”

Another technical innovation from Bevel is 3-mm molded titanium frames, launched in spring 2014. Mewha wanted to create a chunkier look while preserving the lightness, comfort and balance that are hallmarks of Bevel frames. The manufacturing process is complex and uses a total of six dies. Mewha explains: “We start with a block of titanium, which is punched out from a titanium sheet using the cutting dies, and then pressed twice using the other two stamping dies. The burrs

left after stamping are trimmed using the trimming dies and then milled using a milling machine to smooth the edges.

“Once we have the frame, we polish it very thoroughly, and then it is coloured using electroplating for the shiny colouring. We then mask a part of the frame and hand spray the rest to get the matte finish on the other part. It’s been a huge commitment and we’re thrilled with the result.”

Bevel continues to innovate with materials, aesthetics and technology, drawing ever more consumers to the retailers who are selected to carry their collections. Mewha still can’t draw, but clearly he has everything he needs to bring his visions to life, making women more beautiful and men more handsome with the addition of très chic Bevel frames. n

{ mod. Azzurri }

{ mod. False 9 }

{ mod. Jeremy }

{ mod. Roxanne }

{ mod. Tiki-Taka }

I love combining colours and follow my

instincts, rather than fashion trends.

“”


Eye on HealthBy Netan Choudhry, M.D, FRCS

and Jennifer GeorgeThe earliest cataract surgeries date back 4,000 years. Since it was first performed in

ancient Egypt, India and Japan, cataract surgery has undergone a long process of evolution, leading to today’s modern procedures.

A New

The need for cataract surgery has only increased over time. Cataracts are now one of the leading causes of vision loss in adults aged 55 and older. Over 2.5 million Canadians currently suffer from cataracts and this number is expected to double to five million by 2031. Fortunately, it is also one of the most treatable causes of blindness.

The lens of a healthy eye is circular and biconvex, bulging outward like the surface of a magnifying glass. It is also transparent, allowing light rays to pass through it. This transparency is integral to the proper functioning of the lens. Like the lens of a camera, the passage of light through the eye’s lens determines the clarity of one’s vision. In a healthy eye, light can travel through the transparent lens to the retina, where it is converted into neural signals delivered to the brain. These signals become the images one sees. In patients with cataracts, however, a

clouding of the eye’s lens occurs, resulting in blurred and out-of-focus vision. For the retina to capture a sharp image, the lens must be clear, whereas having a cataract could be likened to seeing the world through a window covered in petroleum jelly.

Though cataracts can severely impair vision, treatment has greatly advanced in the last decade. Cataract surgery has become routine in Canada, with more than 250,000 procedures performed annually. It is also one of the most successful surgeries, with over 95 per cent of patients reporting improved vision afterwards. Until recently, the preferred method of removing cataracts in the developed world has been phacoemulsification. This technique utilizes ultrasonic energy to soften the dense lens material of the cataract, which is then extracted from the eye with suction and irrigation. In this traditional surgery, handheld blades are used to create incisions within the

in

Cataracts are now one of the leading

causes of vision loss in adults aged

55 and older.

“”

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Eye on Health

cornea to access the cataract. A surgical instrument is then used to manually create an opening in the lens capsule that holds the cataract. The goal is to make the incisions precise and the openings in the lens capsule as circular as possible, in the right location, and the correct size to accommodate the lens.

Recently these manual procedures have been performed in an automated fashion with the use of the femtosecond laser (FSL). FSL technology has been widely used in various refractive surgery applications in recent years. The approach utilizes photodistruption, which results from a focused beam of pulsed light energy. The focused pulse creates optical breakdown with significantly low pulse energy, thereby minimizing damage to the eye. Studies have examined the potential advantages of more precise corneal incisions and capsulotomy formation. The precision of FSL can allow a surgeon to create the circular opening with the exact intended size, shape and location, and clinical studies indicate that the opening is almost 10 times more accurate than the manual alternative.

With FSL, surgery is highly customizable. Patients will receive more precise treatment with gentler and easier cataract removal. And because FSL is less invasive, the procedure results in little to no discomfort. The added low-energy approach of FSL also results in faster recovery times, placing this new approach on the cutting edge of cataract treatment. With bladeless surgery offering individual precision, FSL can now provide patients with results that were hitherto unattainable. n

Cataract surgery has become routine in

Canada, with more than 250,000

procedures performed annually. It is also one of the most successful

surgeries, with over 95 per cent of

patients reporting improved vision

afterwards.

“

”


Who knew that it was possible for everyone to enjoy a continuing

education (CE) and trade show event that serves both optometrists and opticians? Ali Khan thought it just might work, back in the days when the two professions seldom interacted. Now, 20 years later, the Optifair model, delivered twice yearly by Khan’s Academy of Ophthalmic Education (AOE), has proven itself a resounding success.

The most recent conference and show took place Oct. 19, 2014 at the Embassy Grand Convention Centre in Brampton, ON. The formula worked its usual magic, with optometrists and opticians showing up on the trade show floor at staggered times, with 30-minute interludes in between. This format serves exhibitors well by controlling the flow of traffic to their booths. The interlude promotes cross talk between the professions, which Khan says was more evident last year because of the regulatory changes in Ontario that now allow opticians to work for optometrists without losing their licences. “The professions are now more interested in connecting and exploring how they can work together,” he points out. “These changes have broken down barriers for both groups and Optifair provides a great networking forum for them.”

One of the reasons for the success of Optifair is the high quality of the CE. Khan and his team continually keep abreast of the issues, listening to the education needs of the professions and

responding with fresh and relevant topics, delivered by top notch international speakers. Optifair is also on track with the latest technologies for the CE experience. The April 2014 conference featured a special two-hour grand rounds session for optometrists, with a panel of six ophthalmic doctors representing different specialties, who were presented with challenging cases. Delegates asked questions from the floor via their smartphones, rendering the need to stand up at a mike and ask questions obsolete. “They just loved it and participation was so good that the panel couldn’t even get to all the questions,” notes Khan. “With changes to their scope of practice, one of the key needs of optometrists is to discuss dispensing of medication and this session really helped.”

The AOE also offers CE opportunities combined with travel and recreation. A 2014 summer cruise from Venice to Istanbul was a great success. The next such event takes place next summer at Deerhurst Resort in Muskoka. To learn more, visit: www.aoece.com. n

EventBy Paddy Kamen

EYEWEAR WITH BACKBONE

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“”

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The main function of BCLs is to protect the compromised corneal surface from external hazards while the cornea is healing from injuries such as corneal laceration, chemical burns and epithelial defect due to mechanical trauma; from ocular surface diseases such as recurrent corneal erosion (RCE), Sjogren’s syndrome and filamentary keratopathy; and from surgeries such as pterygium removal, penetrating keratoplasty and keratectomies, including photo refractive keratectomy and biopsies.

Patients requiring BCLs have symptoms of redness, tearing, photophobia and blurred vision and they experience pain, from mild to excruciating. BCLs are part of the armamentarium, together with topical anaesthetics and topical non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs); they are used to help manage and control pain by shielding the loose and regenerating epithelium from the constant rubbing action of the eyelids during blink, such as in RCE cases and in painful bullous keratopathy when blisters at the epithelium rupture.

For challenging cases where BCLs have failed, such as in chemical burns, neurotrophic corneas, persistent epithelial defects and Stevens-Johnson Syndrome, some eye surgeons are using the FDA-approved cryopreserved amniotic membrane products, AmnioGraft® and PROKERA® biologic corneal bandage that can be inserted in the clinic. These tissue products are processed by Bio-Tissue® and are indicated for corneal and conjunctival healing. AmnioGraft® is currently being distributed by Labtician Ophthalmics in Canada. PROKERA® is expected to be approved by Health Canada some time in 2015.

Making ContactBy Shirley Ha, HBSc., O.D.

Therapeutic bandage contact lenses (BCLs) have been around since

the 1970s, yet emergency room doctors and nurses are still patching eyes with antibiotic ointment for non-penetrating injuries. When used appropriately, BCLs are safe and effective, and should be the first treatment option, rather than the last, for many corneal injuries, ocular surface diseases/disorders and post-operative conditions. BCLs typically do not have prescriptions in them and are available in hydrogels, silicone hydrogels, scleral lenses and collagen shields.

{ Prokera corneal bandage }

UpBANDAGE it


ECPs are choosing extended wear (EW) silicone hydrogels for their BCLs because of their high oxygen permeability, flexibility, availability, ease of fit and comfort. Their disadvantages are their lipophilic properties, decreased wettability and fixed lens diameter. For safeguarding near and/or beyond the limbus, larger-diameter scleral lenses or larger-diameter bandage soft contact lenses (BSCLs) are more suitable.

For soft BCLs, the steepest base curve that will allow minimum lens movement without it adhering to the eye should be chosen as the initial trial lens. Instilling a drop of anesthetic will help make the insertion hassle-free for the ECP and pain-free for the patient. After the analgesic effect has worn off, patient comfort should be assessed and the BCL fit re-evaluated to ensure that it is centered, has good corneal coverage, is tighter than a conventional contact lens fit and is moving just a little.

With the right training about personal hygiene, lens insertion/ removal, a lens care regime that includes digital rubbing and timely replacement, accidental decentration and loss of the BCL are unlikely. If the BCL falls out, it should be cleaned thoroughly and re-inserted or thrown out and a new BCL inserted. The patient should be encouraged not to touch/rub the eye or reposition the lens, except to protect it with ocular lubricants. An aerated eye shield can be worn at night if the patient has nocturnal lagophthalmos and sunglasses can be worn during the day for light-sensitivity symptoms.

The patient should be counselled that they need to be seen frequently by their ECP because the eye that requires the BCL is already compromised and wearing a BCL is not without risk. The risk of microbial infection or even ulceration is higher than normal so consider using an initial supportive collagen shield soaked in antibiotic and steroid medication that dissolves within 12 hours, then covered by a BCL, for example. Alternatively, a stand-alone BCL that allows for adjunct therapies such as delivery of drugs and ocular lubricants is equally as effective.

Patients should use their BCLs for as long as required for the basement membrane to regenerate and for the tight junctions in the epithelium to restore adhesion. They must also use antibiotics due to the increased risk of infection with extended wear contact lenses (EWCLs) for as long as they are wearing BCLs.

In easy cases, it might take as little as one day for the cornea to completely heal, as in mild RCE. On the other hand, it might take as long as several years in complicated, chronic cases - persistent epithelial defects or bullous keratopathy, for example. Patients with longstanding BCLs can be monitored regularly, every one to three months, with a change in antibiotics every three months to prevent drug resistance.

In summary, BCLs are effective and can safely be used, with topical antibiotic coverage when necessary, to protect the ocular surface when it is healing from diseases and after injuries and surgeries. When applied early in the treatment plan, a permanent reduction in visual acuity is unlikely. Patients also benefit and appreciate the pain relief they inherently bestow. BCLs are rewarding and patients will love you for them! n

Making Contact


In the News

Oakley Launches New Lens Technology That Enhances Snow Visibility

Oakley Canada announced the release of PrizmTM, a revolutionary lens technology that dramatically enhances contrast and visibility over a wide range of light conditions.The groundbreaking technology improves the eye’s ability to perceive detail in the snow, such as contours and texture, improving visibility so one can see clearly and ski or ride with more confidence.“If there’s a product out there that can better your performance and technology that legitimately helps you, you need to have it. Prizm is solid for any kind of light. It’s at the forefront of what lens technology has to offer,” said slopestyle Olympic medalist Mark McMorris.Prizm also works over a much wider range of light conditions than a traditional snow lens, so there is no need to switch lenses as conditions vary through the day. The human eye is extremely sensitive to detail in certain colours, but that detail is lost in flat, low contrast white snow. Like an equalizer would boost treble or bass to enhance sound, Prizm lenses boost the sensitive colours and filter the rest, leaving vision with crisp detail that is not washed out by the flat light.“This new technology takes the same approach as noise-cancelling headphones. It tunes down the irrelevant colours and lets you focus completely on the colours that are most important to your sport,” said Ryan Saylor, Oakley’s director of advanced product development. “This means that you won’t be distracted by background colours, and you can see all the contours and textures of the snow more clearly. You really won’t see snow the same way again.”Prizm lens technology is on sale in the 2014 Oakley Snow Goggle Collection and is available in three different lens options: black iridium, jade iridium and rose, giving consumers the perfect lens for any light condition.

Rodenstock Transfers its Canada

Business to Distribution Partner Plastic Plus

Rodenstock, Germany’s leading manufacturer of spectacle lenses and frames, will hand over its Canadian business to Plastic Plus Ltd., Canada’s leading optical lab and lens supplier.Effective January 1st, 2015, Plastic Plus will act as exclusive production and distribution partner of the German based Rodenstock group and will serve the Canadian market through a central production lab in Toronto. “We are pleased to have found a reliable and experienced business partner in Canada, who will market our superior product portfolio and deliver excellent services to our clients,” confirms Oliver Kastalio, CEO of Rodenstock Group. “With Plastic Plus, we will sustainably strengthen our position in the Canadian market.”Plastic Plus is Canada’s largest independent lens manufacturer. With one of the most highly advanced labs in the industry and the most state-of-the-art technology, the family run business sets high quality standards for its lenses. “We are very pleased to partner with Rodenstock – a company which is renowned for its unique family of products and brands,” says Paul Faibish, CEO of Plastic Plus. “Our local production clients will benefit from a wider product choice, individual service options and even shorter delivery times in the future.”All existing Rodenstock business partners in Canada have been officially informed over the past days and can expect a smooth transition.

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In the News

Sàfilo Group and Jimmy Choo have extended their licensing agreement until December 31, 2018, for the design, production and distribution of the Jimmy Choo eyewear collections of sunglasses and optical frames. According to the Italian distributor, this reflects the outstanding growth of the brand’s eyewear business across all major countries, especially in Europe and North America. “We are proud to count Jimmy Choo among our leading luxury fashion and top-growth eyewear brands,” commented Luisa Delgado, CEO of Sàfilo Group. “The brand’s uniquely glamorous and confidently iconic style inspires us to create distinctive eyewear that has exceptional appeal in the markets where it is distributed via premium quality channels. We see great potential for accelerated growth, particularly in Asia Pacific, China, and Latin America, enabled by our new commercial leadership capability.” “We are very pleased to prolong our partnership with Sàfilo,” said Pierre Denis, CEO of Jimmy Choo. “We enjoy a strong and collaborative partnership producing designs that reflect the personality of the Jimmy Choo brand and the design vision of our Creative Director, Sandra Choi. Sàfilo’s expertise in commercial execution enhances the quality of our brand in the highest points of sales across the world. We look forward to further expanding our eyewear presence globally.”

Digital ECP launches in Canada, with a mission to help independent eyecare professionals (ECPs) compete with large chains and online retailers. “Digital ECP Inc. has been built around the needs of Canadian eyecare professionals”, says President and co-founder Grant Larsen. For years, buying groups have focused primarily on discounts and consolidated billing to help smaller businesses compete with chains and corporate optical retailers, the company reports.According to the presidents and co-founders, Karen Ouellette and Grant Larsen, with the emergence of online retail and the ensuing changes in consumer buying habits, independent ECPs

need more than better pricing to survive. Digital ECP not only delivers billing efficiency and discounts, but the latest in online technology, digital marketing expertise and turnkey promotions to help Canadian eyecare professionals grow, they say. “Our select digital tools, extensive industry experience and hands-on business support will provide our members the ability to compete with sophisticated online marketers and attract new optical consumers,” adds Karen Ouellette.Digital ECP’s co-founders have a combined 35 years of optical industry experience in Canada. The company provides discounts, billing and business services entirely through digital technology, with personalized consulting and customer service.

Sàfilo and Jimmy Choo Extend Their Licensing Agreement

New Buying Group in Canada

Classic LookPlan “B” Eyewear has added a bright new model to its Headlines collection. This acetate frame turns classic male style on its head, utilizing the square acetate frame we all know and love and giving it new life through an injection of bold, unusual colour. These dynamic colour techniques catch light and create a sense of movement and depth. They are the perfect frame for the man who wants a classic look with an edge. Colour options include blue, green and brown.

[ mod. HL 260 ]


In the News

WestGroupe U.S.A. Welcomes a New Vice President of Sales

WestGroupe announces the appointment of Dennis Davis as the new vice-president of sales for WestGroupe U.S.A. He will report to the vice president of North American sales, Mike Debono.“I am excited to be able to share my 20-plus years of experience, knowledge, and insight in the optical industry with the WestGroupe team,” said Davis. “I’m looking forward to joining such a progressive and forward-thinking organization, and can’t wait to get started.”

Metal Is BackOptika Eyewear is very excited about introducing the 2015 Nat and Coco collection with 15 new styles for both men and women.The collection will feature 10 new styles for ladies that offer the comfort of super light stainless steel optical frames. “All our models focus on being both stylish and comfortable,” says Optika Eyewear VP Sales Richard Allan. “With our extensive research, we have developed a stainless steel composition that is durable and extremely light. “As well, following the same trend in acetates, for metal frames the company has concentrated on “Colour Cut-outs”. “As you can see in the Nat and Coco NC1192 model, we have a black on grey frame, where we cut out the beneath grey colour the top of the front,” explains Allan.Optika Eyewear has also updated their website www.optikaeyewear.com to include an online catalogue, where clients can place orders directly online.

[ mod. NC1192 ]

Davis began his career in the optical industry in 1991, as a sales representative with Optyl/Carrera. For the last 10 years, he had held the position of vice-president of sales at Charmant Group U.S.A. He brings a great deal of knowledge and established relationships that he has built over the years with an outstanding network of people throughout the industry. “I am confident that Dennis’s contribution to our organization and to our customers will be tremendous,” added WestGroupe President Michael Suliteanu. “He will surely help the company in continuing our servicing of the optical market globally.”WestGroupe offers a premium selection of international brands in over 40 countries, including KLiiK denmark, FYSH UK, EVATIK and Superflex.


Centennial Optical Launches Spine Eyewear and Announces a Strategic Partnership for Revo

In the News

Elegant Cat Eye StyleDesigned with elegance and simplicity in mind, Seraphin debuts the Aspen, an unforgettable sophisticated titanium model. With the delicate use of Japanese titanium, the Aspen embodies the long-established cat eye shape with updated intricacy. The model is offered in four rich hues of black, white, burgundy and blue. Seraphin Eyewear counter cards, logo blocks, and large window banners are available upon request.

Introducing a revolution in performance, Centennial Optical debuts Spine – a game-changing product line in which design, function and aesthetics are driven by the need to create a cohesive solution for consumers. Inspired by the interaction between vertebrae, Spine transcends age-old hinge limitations. Constructed with micro-injected metal (MiM) hinges, Spine Eyewear will morph to fit any face shape or head size with the lightest touch, gripping all day long. Due to its dual springs and spun-wire cable, the temples also automatically retract when removed from the face – heightening their preservation capabilities. Designed for everyday wear, Spine is a modern collection that features classic, minimal shapes packed with elements that create comfortable, durable eyewear with flexibility in all directions. Simply put, the fit, feel and functioning of Spine Eyewear is unparalleled. “Spine brings a new level of functional technology to eyewear that leads to remarkable fit and performance. We are proud to collaborate with the teams at Mondottica and Rem Eyewear for the worldwide distribution of this patented technology,” said Allen Nightingale, VP of Centennial Optical.

The introduction of this line is a unique global collaboration between Centennial Optical, REM Eyewear and Mondotticca, combining teams with a remarkable cache of talent, and decades of experience in every aspect of the eyewear industry. Through this seamless international partnership, Spine will be fully supported to achieve success in the Canadian, U.S., and global markets, demonstrating all parties’ dedication to serving the needs of customers everywhere.Morevover, Revo, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Sequential Brands Group, announced that it has entered into a long-term distribution agreement with

Centennial Optical for distribution of its performance eyewear in Canada for both optical and non-optical markets.“We are thrilled to be working with Centennial Optical as they bring incredible expertise and insight to the Canadian market,” stated Cliff Robinson, co-president of B. Robinson Optical of New York, which manufactures Revo sunglasses under an exclusive license agreement with Sequential. “We look forward to partnering with them to bring an iconic performance eyewear brand like Revo to optometrists, opticians and independent sport/specialty retailers across Canada.” “Revo essentially invented performance eyewear and our intention is to build upon this great heritage to help grow the brand throughout Canada. Our company will work closely with Revo and we are very excited to have this opportunity to bring such an innovative sunglass brand to optical market and retailers,” added Centennial Optical VP Allen Nightingale.Founded in 1985, Revo quickly became a global performance eyewear brand known as the leader in polarized lens technology, the company reports. Revo sunglasses were first created by utilizing lens technology developed by NASA as solar protection for satellites.


Partnership Between De Rigo USA and Importlux

In the News

The prestigious Chopard, Givenchy and Police brands will be distributed in Canada by Importlux, thanks to an agreement between the company and De Rigo Vision USA.A sales team specifically dedicated to these lines will ensure an exclusive service. De Rigo’s reputation is based on high-quality frames designed in Italy and Japan and distributed in about 80 countries worldwide, specifically in Europe, Asia and the U.S. Thirteen companies with 18 business divisions and over 100 independent distributors reach 50,000 customers around the world.Luxury, quality and creativity define Chopard eyewear perfectly. The models are all made in Italy, using precious materials, and are hand-assembled by highly trained craftsmen. Materials include

Swarovski crystal, gold, precious wood, unique cellulose acetates from Mazzuchelli, composite rubber and stunning finishing such as palladium, pink and bronze gold. Each Chopard frame is covered by an international guarantee of 24 months against manufacturer defects.The fashion conscious and distinctive Givenchy eyewear line is designed 70 per cent for women and 30 per cent for men. Quality Mazzuchelli acetate and stainless steel are cleverly worked out for this collection, revealing refined details, like integrated hinges. Police, the third line distributed by Importlux, features a refined design and a strong personality, which pays attention to current fashion trends. The brand’s style is trendy, with a distinctive urban feel.

[ Chopard mod. SCHA04 ]

[ Police mod. V1941 ]


In the News

Two years after launching its house brand, Canadian Optical

Supply Company (COS) has introduced its Fitson & You line’s

website http://fitsonandyou.com.Fitson & You finds its essence in Montreal. Inspired by the animated and relaxed character of the city, COS wanted to create a collection that would allow everyone to express their personality while ensuring wearing comfort and durability for all.Made in South Korea, Fitson & You frames are mostly designed in ultem, an ultra-light and flexible shape-memory material. “The model’s elasticity and ultra-light weight are advantages that will surely impress the most discerning wearers,” said Jonah Baumann, optician at Fitson & You.Chic but never over the top, eye-catching and original, the eyewear styles are classic with a modern twist, perfect for capturing the individuality of each person who wears them.Fitson & You joins the brand portfolio distributed by COS, with one difference: this time, the brand belongs to the distributor whose reputation is well-established in the Canadian market.

[ mod. Cut ]

A Website Dedicated to Fitson & You

Now Available in Canada

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Costa Sunglasses has been producing performance sunwear since the early ‘80s, after a group of fervent fisherman who spent their days exploring the globe and battling extreme elements came to realize that the sunglasses they were relying on weren’t as hardcore as their adventures.Costa’s reputation and DNA is designed around providing the clearest vision for the outdoor enthusiast 365 days a year, regardless of the season.Available in a number of different materials and coatings they all deliver amazing colour, contrast and clarity. Patented technology blocks blue and yellow light for better clarity and colour. Costa Canada is excited to announce that these 100 per cent polarized, and 100 per cent UV protection sport performance sunglasses are now available in Canada.Costa’s performance product line up includes a selection of plano sun and a vast series of Rx-sun choices, offering a variety of lens, design and mirror options.To find out more about Costa, please contact: Dion Williams at 613 314-8211 or by email at [email protected].

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In the News

Cocoons are the world’s most recognized brand of fitover sunglasses. The brand is already firmly entrenched in the Canadian market and is carried by thousands of Canadian eye care professionals. We are seeking qualified, well proven independent sales representatives to carry the Cocoons and Vistana brands of fitover products. Excellent commissions and marketing support.

INDEPENDENT SALES REPS WANTED

Live Eyewear has come to Canada!

Email your resume and cover letter to: Morgan [email protected]

Mido InnovatesThe Bestore project is one of the many new projects announced by Mido, a not-to-be missed international trade show in Milano, slated for February 28 to March 2, 2015.The organizers have decided to offer attendees the best innovative shopping experience in an engaging atmosphere by kicking off Bestore, an international award for the best eyewear display. Interior design, product display concept, interaction with the customer, communication and visual merchandising are the criteria that will be assessed. Store, concept store or retail outlet owners can directly apply for the competition on the Mido website, uploading photos of their space and describing their strengths and qualities. An international jury of experts, not only from the eyewear industry but also from the marketing and visual merchandising sectors, will choose the winner who will receive the award at the Mido exhibition on Sunday, March 1.The Bestore project stems from the increasing attention being given by the optical sector to retail marketing, which encompasses all communication and promotional strategies for stores. The goal of retail marketing strategies is to win over a larger and more diversified public and maximize the company’s brand awarness and profit. One of the most effective levers of retail marketing is to engage the customer by providing a welcoming space that can also offer a host of ideas and creative stimuli.


Classifieds • Classifieds • Classifieds • Classifieds •

BUSINESSOPPORTUNITY

Optical business for sale in SE Oakville. $160,000+ in sales for 2013. 1500 sq./ft. All equipment including OD’s equipment and Kappa edging system are included. $100,000 + inventory. Business is very successful and completely turnkey. Perfect opportunity for large scale optical or OD’s office. Take over lease at $3,000/month. Owner leaving due to personal reasons. Great investment opportunity. Please call 416 278-0273 for more information.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Optical store for sale in Oakville. Beautiful high end store in quality unit for sale off of Ford drive in Oakville. Store only in business for 3 years. 1,200 square feet with doctor’s office. Nice lab on premises. Doctor comes in once a week. All files and equipment included. Please call Arthur at 416 529-0336 or email at [email protected].. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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Optical sale of business assets in Vaughan. Located in a busy plaza next to medical clinics and offices this rare opportunity to purchase an Optical business assets in prime locations. Sale includes: fixtures, display cabinets, inventory of designer frames and patient file database. Buyers must assume equipment lease and existing monthly rental sublease Priced to Sell at $149,000.00 or negotiable. Please contact Ida Vivacqua at 416 557-4321 or [email protected].. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Optical sale of business assets. Located in Brampton Inside mall near Seasons Foodmart this rare opportunity to purchase an Optical business assets in prime locations. Motivated Seller. Ideal for a Student or Optician to take over. Sale includes: fixtures, inventory of designer frames, display cabinets, equipment and patient file database. Existing Monthly Lease and Lease options available. Priced to Sell at $40,000.00 or negotiable. Please contact Ida Vivacqua at 416 557-4321 or [email protected].. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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Well established optical store in the east end of the greater Toronto area for sale. Please call 647 687-3711 or go to www.glassesrepair.ca for more information.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

EQUIPMENTAmerican Optical 11580 Slit Lamp. Excellent condition. Burnaby/Vancouver area. $500. Please call 604 420-1000 or email at [email protected].. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Fast Sale: Make An Offer. 18 frame display wall mounted units (30 frames each), 260 frames (France, Italy manufactured), Topcon keratometer, ocular counter-balanced table (for 2 instruments), 16 waiting room chairs (quality fabric covered), 4 cinema style lighting fixtures (300w each) including tracks. Various examination charts. Ask for complete list: please send email for list, pictures, prices, to [email protected].. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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Swing 3 by Activisu for sale. Great condition, looks like new. Was purchased from Essilor about 3 years ago. Great dispensing tool, easy to use. Package includes: Swing 3 mirror with USB, 2 power adaptors, box with frame clip, and PC-screen. Please contact Fahima at [email protected] for more details.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

PLEASE SEND US YOUR CLASSIFIED AD* BY EMAIL BEFORE FEBRUARY 10, 2015 TO: [email protected]

Envision: seeing beyondBreton Communications Inc. 202-495 St-Martin Blvd. W. Laval, Quebec H7M 1Y9Fax: 450 629-6044

[email protected] TO REQUEST OUR CATALOG & DESIGN

SERVICES 610.489.7620FREE GIFT for the first 25 people to

contact us. Ref code: EC0215 exp. 01/31/15

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To advertise in the Market Place, contact [email protected] or 1 800 462-2112Market Place

*Only the Business Opportunity, Equipment and Service Offer sections are available in our publication and online at :

www.bretoncom.com/classified.

Please note that job postings are available at www.bretonjobs.com

BC College of Optics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

BretonJobs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Cenoco . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Centennial Optical . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Concept Eyewear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Costa Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Essilor Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Götti . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Hilco . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Live Eyewear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

Marchon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Match Eyewear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20-21

MIDO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Cover 2

Modular Design Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Ocuco . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

OGI Eyewear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Ontario Association of Optometrists . . . . . .41

Opti-Guide.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Optika Eyewear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Optiman Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Plan B Eyewear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Plastic Plus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Ronor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Sàfilo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Back Cover

The Academy of Ophthalmic Education . .26

Transitions Optical . . . . . . . . . . . . . False Cover

Vision Expo East (VEE) . . . . . . . . . . . . . Cover 3

WestGroupe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Zig Eyewear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Advertising Index

Gold Level Employer

Classifieds • Classifieds • Classifieds • Classifieds •

International Vision Expo is a highly anticipated international marketplace, welcoming more than 23,000 visitors from over 90 countries around the world.

See what’s trending from the hottest designers and manufacturers. Shop the newest product launches, lines and licenses from renowned brands and emerging designers, and materials you won’t find anywhere else.

Get hands-on product demonstrations and compare new technology side-by-side. Preview advances in spectacle lens technology and medical equipment debuted by the world’s leading manufacturers.

Immerse yourself in this visionary combination of education, fashion and technology, the largest collection of high-fashion eyewear and accessories, sportswear, sunwear, wearables, lens technology, contact lens and leading-edge medical equipment. You’ll find everything essential to grow your practice and business.

INTERNATIONAL VISION EXPO 2015EDUCATION: THURSDAY, MARCH 19–SUNDAY, MARCH 22EXHIBITION: FRIDAY, MARCH 20–SUNDAY, MARCH 22JAVITS CENTER | NEW YORK, NY

VisionExpoEast.com | #VisionExpoPROUD SUPPORTER OF:

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Discover Transitions® SignatureTM graphite green lenses

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Transcript of Discover Transitions® SignatureTM graphite green lenses