Diary of a Spectacle Designer

Next month my brand will turn 21 years old. Perhaps I’ll buy myself a nice watch to celebrate. However, what I really need to think about is how my now grown-up company can thrive and mature in a rapidly changing optical landscape.

This question has really dominated my thoughts these past 12 months and I’ve been busy preparing a long-term strategic plan, which will kick off in 2024. 

Let’s address the basics first. Eyewear is a relationship business. You might say all businesses are, but not to the extent of eyewear. I think that’s because, at its core, it is about providing a product that is both extremely personal and helps people see. This must be done in person, starting with the eye examination and then the selection and fitting of frames.