Starting Your Own Optical Store in Canada: Expanding Your Business

Adding New Products and Services

One way to expand your optical business is to add new services and offerings. By diversifying your offerings, you can attract new customers and increase revenue. Some services and offerings to consider include:

1. Eye Exams – If you do not currently offer eye exams, consider adding them to your list of services. Many customers prefer to have their eyes examined and glasses prescribed at the same location, so offering eye exams can help you retain customers and attract new ones.
2. Contact Lenses – Adding contact lenses to your offerings can help you appeal to a wider range of customers, especially those who prefer contact lenses over glasses.
3. Designer Frames – Carrying a selection of designer frames can help you appeal to customers who are willing to pay more for high-end eyewear.
4. Specialty Products – Consider offering products are services which other stores shy away from. Custom Clip-ons, Safety Glasses, Prescription Sports, Swimming and Ski Goggles and Dental Loupes are some of the items which have specific demand yet many optical stores do not offer them. Find a reliable supplier like Lens Shapers who can help you set up these products and services for your customers in a seamless way.

Opening New Locations

Another way to expand your optical business is to open new locations. By opening multiple stores, you can increase your customer base and revenue. However, opening new locations requires significant planning and investment. Here are some things to consider:

1. Location – Choose a location that is easily accessible and has a high volume of foot traffic. Look for areas with a high concentration of potential customers, such as shopping malls or busy commercial districts.
2. Financing – Opening a new location requires a significant investment. Consider financing options such as loans, grants, or partnerships to help cover the costs.
3. Staffing – Make sure you have enough staff to manage the new location. Consider hiring a manager to oversee the new store and train new staff members.

Franchising

If you are interested in expanding your optical business but do not want to take on the risks and costs of opening new locations yourself, franchising may be a good option. Franchising allows you to expand your brand and reach new customers without having to invest in new locations or manage them yourself. Here are some things to consider when franchising your optical business:

1. Branding – Make sure your brand is strong and recognizable before franchising. Your brand should have a unique value proposition and a clear target market.
2. Legal – Franchising involves legal agreements and obligations. Consult with a lawyer to ensure that you understand the legal requirements and obligations of franchising.
3. Training – Provide comprehensive training and support to your franchisees to ensure they are able to operate their stores effectively and represent your brand well.