Essilor is constantly searching for better ways to meet the needs expressed by independent eyecare professionals. Anne Guethoff, Marketing Manager at Essilor states “We acknowledge that practice needs range from a complete, clear product offer, consistent service, business and marketing support and education to contemporary practice management tools.”

Essilor is now launching “Essilor Solutions”, the sum of Essilor’s business and support offer integrating the manufacturer’s product, service, business, education and practice management solutions. “With Essilor Solutions independent optometrists gain access to a unique and complete offer which addresses many of their needs – beyond just lenses.” summarises Anne Guethoff. The goal of the lens manufacturer is to be a true partner for independent practices of today – with a solution for every aspect of the daily business challenges.

PRODUCT SOLUTION

The solution to optimum vision centers around choosing and recommending the right lens product, based on the patient’s individual needs. “Ideally a spectacle lens supplier should offer a complete range of

lens designs, materials and coatings to meet all my patients’ needs. This should include single vision, progressive and extended focus lenses with an extensive power range. Also, lenses at different price levels would be beneficial.” says Ray Fortescue Optometrist, Ramsgate, NSW.

To meet this product need, there is a complete portfolio of Essilor lenses available, with a convincing range of brands such as Varilux, Crizal, Nikon and Xperio, in single vision, progressive, extended focus and stock lenses. “At Essilor we provide our customers with the largest branded product portfolio available in the market. This includes the availability of high quality lens designs at different price levels, a wide range of materials and coatings as well as an extensive power range.” summarises Anissa O’Connor, Account Manager at Essilor Victoria.

SERVICE SOLUTION

“I rely on consistent service and support from my supplier to make the experience for my patient as smooth as possible. That includes excellent quality and on-time delivery of products plus the special care taken by a good local customer service team.” underlines Richard Watt Optometrist, Hervey Bay, Qld.

Around the world manufacturing plants, prescription laboratories and professional customer service teams guarantee the manufacturing and delivery of lenses in the shortest possible time, with the best quality execution for each lens. Essilor acknowledges that on-time and quality services as well as communication with the local supplier team are the number one requirements of practices, as stated by customers in Essilor’s yearly customer survey. "Essilor Australia offers local customer service teams within each state. This allows for a more personalised level of service and a direct line of communication with our local laboratories. Our Customer Service Consultants are highly trained, in both product and technical knowledge, and are committed to on-time service delivery.” summarises Jordan Booth, Customer Service Manager at Essilor proudly.

EDUCATION SOLUTION

“Maintaining practice efficiency and improving growth requires keeping myself and my team trained in the latest available technology. To stay on top of my game I look for outside assistance.” Helen Summers Optometrist, Darwin, NT

Continuous education and training are very important for any practice, especially for independent practices as they often don’t have access to an organised training facility. Essilor addresses educational needs regarding product technology, sales skills, practice management and commercial topics. “For a modern practice Essilor covers a lot of the educational needs, from technical to commercial topics. Sessions, created by either Essilor experts or partners who are experts in their field, are designed to be hands-on, relevant and practical.” states Tim Thurn, Director of Professional Services Asia-Pacific at Essilor.

BUSINESS SOLUTION

“Especially in today’s market conditions, everyone needs to think a lot more about how to keep growing and building value in their business.” says Craig Cameron Optometrist, Ulladulla, NSW. Understanding patient demographics, core business drivers and the competitive environment are key to maintaining an agile and effective practice. Essilor can provide independent practices with expertise and experience in the areas of business analysis, KPI benchmarking as well as marketing and promotional initiatives which help drive businesses. “Essilor has a very extensive portfolio to support independent businesses which covers business analysis through to marketing services – a true advantage for practices that want to drive their business forward.” summarises Simon Lewis, National Sales Director at Essilor.

PRACTICE MANAGEMENT SOLUTION

”To run a seamless practice process, I truly rely on technology to manage and run my business efficiently.” summarises Nick Hansen Optometrist, Orange, NSW.

Essilor can provide eyecare professionals with multiple tools to run a seamless and efficient practice process. Visioffice, Essilor’s integrated dispensing terminal, combines sales support, prescription measurement and a frame selection interface. With Essilor you also have access to a modern remote edging system and online ordering. These components can be connected to the main practice management software to provide a fully integrated practice process for greater efficiency. Sunix Vision is also part of Essilor Solutions.

Today’s market place will continue to be challenging on multiple levels. Essilor encourages independent practices to express their needs concerning lenses and beyond to Essilor’s team and start a conversation about Essilor Solutions.