VOL. XXVII NO. 03 MARCH 2012

DEAR MEMBERSto customers how a specific brand offers just the right combination of factors to enhance their image and provide the comfort and quality they desire. Brand names in our marketplace are essential for success. Not that you don’t have other options as well – house brands and private label, for example. But the appeal of recognized, respected names – each with its own distinctive qualities – has been the backbone of the industry for years. And it continues to make its mark.

Sincerely,Michael Block

Why focus on brand names in your dispensary? Market research from some of our top vendors has shown how important key brand names are to a broad cross section of the population. Here are insights and suggestions they share:

ClearVisionBranded products can create a strong imagefor your customers and can be a visual state-ment for your office. Consumers are very brand savvy and often look to their favorite design-ers when selecting their eyewear. By studyingyour practice demographics and deciding what image you want to put forth, you can usebrands to create an inviting product mix, tailored to your specific patient base. Careful selection of, not only which brands to carry, but the overall product mix, can have a huge impact on thesell-through of your inventory.

ClearVision provides you with top brands for a variety of consumers, from our premium brands like Cole Hahn and BCBG to our house brands like Junction City and ClearVision. The full collection of brands allows you to provide a wide range of products at a variety of price points.

You want to have the right mix of branded and non-branded products at the right price points to fill your customers’ needs and to have a diverse and productive inventory mix. It is also important to regularly review your frame boards and evaluate which products really work in your office.

Mary Rose Jaszczynski,Business Development ManagerClearVision Optical

If you’ve walked into a department store lately, I’m sure you’ve noticed how merchandising has changed. Where arethe racks and racks of sweaters, slacks, and dresses? They’re set aside in separate boutique areas – each devoted to

a fashion designer’s collection.

It’s a trend that has caught on in large part due to the power of brand names.

One of the newest converts is J.C. Penney, which recently unveiled plans to transform its floor spaces into clearly marked branded shops-within-shops. Ron Johnson, the new CEO there, was quoted as explaining the change because “customers like to buy in edited, curated assortments.” It’s a great way to streamline and enhance the shopping experience for consumers.

Clearly, the various images that brand names convey can help consumers simplify their shop-ping decisions. And when a store carries brands that appeal to their local market base, it invites their patronage.

The concept spans a range of price points and images. Target jumped into the mini-shop concept shortly before J.C. Penney. Saks Fifth Avenue,Neiman Marcus, Bloomingdales and Macy’s have embraced it for years.

From adult and children’s apparel to toys, cosmet-ics, perfumes and sporting goods, brand names are merchandised and promoted for maximum retail effect. In much the same way, they can transform an optical dispensary.

We all know that licensed brand name products have been an integral part of the optical industry for years. Brand name frames and sunwear, in every price point and appealing to men, women, and children of every age, dominate the offerings of most of our most valued vendors.

And there’s a reason for that. The names create a shorthand for a particular fashion image. For value. For exclusivity. For quality. They provide a comfort level that consumers seek when they’re overwhelmed by a sea of frames.

Of course, no brand name carries its weight with-out help from you. You’re the professional who helps patients discern why a particular collection is right for them. You’re the expert who explains

LuxotticaBrand names, especially those associated with luxury, are synonymous with quality and value. Today’s consumers recognize the importance of brand names and associate themselves and their lifestyle with the spirit of the brand.

Consumers today have a very strong emotional connection to brands they identify with and eye-wear is an important expression of who they are. Luxottica’s portfolio is incredibly diverse and ap-peals to a wide range of consumers tastes, styling and lifestyle needs - whether it’s history, heritage, culture, music, film, high fashion or luxury.

Holly Rush, Senior VP SalesLuxottica USA

SafiloBrand names provide positioning, which helps consumers differentiate among our various prod-uct lines and helps to choose eyewear based on a connection to a brand’s aesthetic. Additionally, brand names provide added value or a “guarantee” that the product is of certain quality, design and style, which makes the consumer feel good about his or her purchase.

It’s important to explain to consumers that “eye-wear is an extension of who you are, and select-ing the brand that you most identify with or best reflects the look and personality you are trying to convey is essential because eyewear is worn on the face every day. While fragrance and eyewear are the most affordable entry points into the de-signer world, there’s no way to convey the luxury aspect of a Gucci or Dior fragrance, for example, the way you can with a pair of Safilo’s Gucci or Dior frames. People see that you’ve aligned yourself with the positioning of a particular brand and the eyewear becomes the personification of who you are or want to be.”

Robin Scheer Ettinger, VP of MarketingSafilo Americas

Brand Names

Industry WATCH

THE MONTHLY NEWSLETTER OF THE BLOCK BUYING GROUP

P.O. Box 310720 Boca Raton, FL 33431-0720

(800) 524-1480 • Fax (561) 893-9231www.blockbg.com

customerservice@blockbg.com

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CHARMANT introduces the Puma Optical Col-lection for Spring / Summer 2012. True to Puma’s dynamic and joyful attitude towards everyday life and fashion, the collection is vigorous and racy, because life is a game worth playing! The release consists of 4 men’s and 3 ladies styles. Strongly inspired by light, both in terms of weight and composition, all styles feature trendy and ultra-slender frames, fashionably sports-inspired with aerodynamic design and bright colors. Perfect for all social occasions, each style is high on comfort thanks to its ex-cellent fit, cutting-edge materials, anti-slip rubber tips and precision molding. Featured from top to bot-tom are models PU15351 (men’s metal), PU15352 (men’s acetate) a n d P U 1 5 3 5 5 (girl’s acetate). For more information please call 800-645-2121 or visit www.charmant.com.

EVP details: Purchase $12,000 and receive a 4% rebate. Return rate cannot exceed 25%.

CLEARVISION has the looks your customers want! Visit ClearVision at Vision Expo East at booth 1017 and witness their most fashion-forward, on-trend collection ever, featuring many of their amazing brands. New styles from BCBGMAXAZ-RIA, Ellen Tracy, Cole Haan, Op, IZOD, Jessica McClintock, and Marc Ecko Cut & Sew - a look for every customer! Visit the ClearVision booth on Friday, March 23 from 1 pm to 3 pm and meet Marc Ecko during ClearVision’s exclusive in-booth event! Receive a signed copy of Marc’s 20/20 Magazine feature article and a limited edition cleaning cloth set while supplies last! Show specials - place a qualifying order at Vision Expo and receive beautiful designer gifts - from chic, fashionable accessories to timeless leather goods. Purchase 36 pieces and receive a 2012 ClearVision Eco Tote, ClearVision T-shirt, and leather Cole Haan credit card wallet! Pur-chase 60 pieces and receive a BGBG watch (retail value $225). Show stopper: purchase 150 pieces and receive an exclusive bag from Cole Haan with retail value of $498! Become a customer during Vision Expo and receive up to 50% off your initial order, plus a $100 gift card on the spot! Featured below top left is Dani and Turin from Ellen Tracy; top right is the Marc Ecko Navigator; bottom left is Cole Haan 221. For more information please visit www.cvoptical.com/vee12 or call 800-645-3733.

EVP details: Purchase $8,500 and receive a 5% rebate.

LUXOTTICA launches Versace’s Étoile De La Mer (Star of the Sea) eyewear collection. Designed for the ideal Versace siren in the city during a hot summer, Étoile De La Mer eyewear captures the sensuality and strength of their muse. The collection features two sun and one optical styles designed by Donatella Versace to reflect the same mood as the house’s prét-a-porter collection showcased at the Spring / Summer 2012 women’s show in Milan. The advertising campaign, featuring Gisele Bundchen was shot by fashion photographers Mert Alas and Marcus Piggott at an abandoned pool in a California desert that captures the essence of the eyewear. Featured is Gisele Bundchen wearing VE2131, with models VE2131, VE4233 and VE3167 to the right. Please call 800-422-2020 or visit www.luxottica.com for more information.

EVP details: Contact your Luxottica sales rep for details or log onto www.blockbg.com.

PRODESIGN introduces new 4th Dimension models 4660-62…Art in layers! The art of making an acetate frame can seem too easy at times. Be-hind this special collection lies hours of perfecting the pressing and cutting process. To obtain the 3D effect of the transition between the temple and the front, the acetate material must be cut very precisely so when you bend it, the upperside will still look smooth. The temple itself is a study in cutting and assembling the acetate layers correctly - best seen in the transparent acetate layer which is added last, but is still a seamless part of the entire temple. The color com-binations range from exclusive and classic to vibrant and dramatic! Some of these f rames are not for the faint h e a r t e d ! T h r e e shapes are avail- able, one of them in two s izes , in s ix co lors each. Please visit www.prodesigndenmark.com or call 800-654-6099 for more information. EVP details: Purchase $9,000 and receive a 3% rebate.

ASPEX EYEWEAR launches its new e-com-merce site for eye care professionals. Completely re-engineered, the site showcases all Aspex brand lines, including EasyClip, Manhattan Design Stu-dio and Takumi Magnetic Eyewear and offers a host of new features. An online experience designed to reflect Aspex’ commitment to fashion, quality and innovation, the site features the company’s brand collections and offers users the opportunity to view new styles and products on the day of the release as well as place orders at any time of the day throughout the entire year. Additional features include a zoom capability providing viewing options for visitors, the ability to order parts such as clips, temples, fronts and a “wish list.” Users can also check on the avail-ability of products and colors on a “live” basis, view point-of-purchase material and display products to consumers with or without prices. “Establishing a new e-commerce platform for our eye care profes-sionals enables Aspex to reinvent our online environ-ment through the addition of many new features while creating a more user-friendly, reliable experience,” said Yael Ifergan, Director of Marketing for Aspex Eyewear. “With our new site we are in a better posi-tion to satisfy the users’ needs for critical product and style information delivered in an efficient and timely manner.” Visitors to http://myaspexeyewear.com will discover a new look and feel with every click and quite a few advancements including:•Fresh design and layout with bold graphics and detailed product photos•Improved search and navigation, consistent and clear product information, improved security, and streamlined ordering options•Intuitive product categorization to find products quickly and easily•Point-of-purchase section which includes counter display material and other items

EVP details: Pur-chase $10,000 and receive a 3% rebate (excludes emPower! frames). Return rate cannot exceed 20%.

LAFONT launches its Spring / Summer 2012 Optical and Sunglass collection “La Parisienne”. Inspired by the sophisticated, independent and chic Parisian woman’s mindset, Thomas Lafont has de-signed a collection which mixes new acetate colors with a bright and contrasted lining which are “very Lafont” and uses sophisticated and subtle outside colors which are easy to wear. This Spring / Sum-mer collection is also the start for the new Lafont for men’s product concept, the Carbon line. Lafont is launching three new mod-els which combine acetate or titanium with exclusive carbon temples. The car-bon color is matched with the front color. It is a true masculine, high tech con-cept. This Lafont collection also includes the ISSY & LA segment, the “jeans” collection, with the new ultra trendy styles HYPE & HIT PARADE, which introduce new acetate colors with sparkle effects. Visit Lafont at Vision Expo East at booth G410 in the Galleria. For more information please visit www.lafont.com or call 800-832-8233.

EVP details: Purchase $15,000 and receive a 3% rebate. Return rate cannot exceed 25%.

ELITE VENDOR PROGRAM... The Potential for More Savings

Effective January 1, 2012, the following ven-dors have agreed to provide rebates to Block Buying Group members for achieving required volume levels. These rebates are in addition to our published discounts that you already receive. The program is based on sales vol-ume from January 1, 2012 through December 31, 2012. Rebates will be provided on your Block Buying Group statement in Q1 2013. Provided on pages 2 and 3 are the participat-ing companies and the program details. Please contact Block Buying Group at 800-524-1480 or customerservice@blockbg.com for more information.

Elite Vendor Program Company News continued on next page…

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MARCHON introduces the Valentino Spring / Summer 2012 eyewear collection. Contrast is an essence of modern life and style is its synthesis. Keeping today’s women in mind, Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pierpaolo Piccioli, the creative directors of Valentino, blend delicacy and strength, past and present. The Maison’s proverbial romanticism and spirit have found a new balance - a dimension that is both ethereal and resolute. The launch of the Valentino Eyewear reflects this plan to create a system of strong elements that convey a message. As always, craftsman attention and couture savoir faire are prominent aspects. Aesthetics and tech-nique go hand in hand, because innovation cannot exist without acknowledgment of the past. Vintage shapes, distinctive silhouettes, and striking con-trasts characterize the collection. It features iconic elements of Valentino style interpreted by Chiuri and Piccioli - lace, precise yet feminine lines, and studs. Lace subtly appears on transparent acetate, shadow-like with a hint of color. Metal studs and inserts accent the shape of the lens. The striking, iconic Val-entino “V” becomes a functional element or distinctive detail. Frames are oversized, with curvy silhouettes or sharp architectural shapes. A sublime ex-pression of design and craftsmanship, the col-lection offers endless possibilities. Featured from top to bottom are models V611S, V606S, V102S and V603S. For more information please call 800-645-1300 or visit www.marchon.com.

EVP details: Purchase $20,000 and receive a 3% rebate. Return rate cannot exceed 20%.

MARCOLIN and Balenciaga, considered one of the most influential brands in ready-to-wear luxury and men’s and women’s accessories, have reached a general agreement paving the way to signing an exclusive license contract for the design, production and distribution worldwide of sunglasses and prescription eyewear collections with the Balenciaga brand for a period of 5 years renewable for an additional 10. The first collection will be presented during 2013. Both parties are committed to continuing the negotiations underway to define all aspects of the contract that is expected to be finalized within March 31, 2012. Maurizio Marcolin, the Marcolin Group’s Style & Licensing Officer said: “We are especially proud and excited to announce this agreement and to be able to work with Maison Balenciaga and its Creative Director, Nicolas Ghesquière - one of the top fashion names in the PPR Group. This new license will reinforce our mission: to create, produce and market products with unique, unmistakeable and top-quality design. We are a successful partner who knows how to interpret the values and exalt the DNA of this brand through their eyewear. Balenciaga is a perfect fit for our brand portfolio and broadens the luxury market that we target.” For more information please call 800-527-9265 or visit www.marcolin.com.

EVP details: Purchase $5,000 and receive a 5% rebate; or $3,000 for a 3% rebate.

SAFILO announces that Carrera “Champion” sunglasses keep Travie McCoy shaded in style in Gym Class Heroes newest music video. Sleeping on buses and in hotel rooms in different cities every night, the documentary style video showcases the hard, taxing lifestyle of an artist while on tour. For-tunately, for lead singer Travie McCoy, his distinctive CARRERA “Champion” sunglasses keep him stylish and charismatic during even the most trying times w h i l e o n t h e road. The CAR-RERA “Cham-pion” sunglass model is inspired by the original design first intro-duced in the early Eighties and produced in Optyl, an extremely lightweight and hypoal-lergenic patented material that is proprietary to Safilo Group. For more information please call 800-631-1188 or visit www.safilousa.com.

EVP details: Purchase $16,000 of House or Fashion Collection brands and receive a 5% rebate. Return rate cannot exceed 25%.

EASTERN STATES EYEWEAR launches Thierry Mugler Sunglasses. Consisting of a half dozen styles, each caters to women seeking the eclectic, colorful, French inspired designs which the brand is world famous for. Angular, high fashion plas-tic shapes are complimented with a variety of metal and leather accents. Pizzazz is created from several themes; for instance, a metal, lattice inspired overlay covering the plastic front of the TM10207. A series of sleek metal studs comprise the endpieces in models TM10211 and TM10214. Leather bands provide a material and color contrast to the plastic temples of model TM10198. Colors of the collection include black, tortoise, burgundy, purple, and a variety of marbleized finishes. “Launching a Thierry Mugler Sunglass collection was a natural outgrowth from increased demand not only for the brand’s eyewear, but also the increased exposure of the brand itself,” explained ESE President Paul Shyer. “The popular-ity of the fragrances (most notably Angel Perfume) is at an all time high and the visibility of the couture has expanded to new levels thanks to the direction of Creative Director Nicola Formichetti (also Lady Gaga’s stylist). Increased promotion and advertis-ing along with the recent endorsement of celebrities such as Eva Mendes, Beyonce, and of course Lady Gaga have fur-ther increased brand visibility. In summary, Thierry Mugler has once again emerged as an important force in today’s fashion landscape - some-thing that demands a sunglass collection following in the spirit of the world renowned couture.” Please call 800-645-3710 or visit www.eseyewear.com for more information.

EVP details: Purchase $6,000 and receive a 3% rebate. Return rate cannot exceed 20%.

ALTAIR EYEWEAR introduces the latest JOE Joseph Abboud Collection with new JOE POP materials. This collection features five new models that are anything but average. JOE Joseph Abboud is the perfect balance of style, substance and value. Sophisticated yet accessible, JOE has character, style, smarts and confidence. JOE understands that style and quality come first from within. The eyewear collection features trendy youthful styling and modern materials designed to appeal to a fashion-focused patient. JOE4010 “Sporty JOE” style offers an em-bossed rubber coated metal inlay featuring an argyle pattern that reflects the retro-sport (varsity) style popu-lar in young men’s fashion today). JOE4011 “Classic JOE” features an angular combination endpiece with inlaid metal JOE logo plaque that gives this style a unique, modern appearance and bold brand details, perfect for men looking for modern styling and JOE branding details. JOE4012 “Urban JOE” features an embossed metal inlay that highlights the JOE logo and a repeating lin-ear pattern inspired by urban architecture and cityscapes. JOE4012 is perfect for men looking for modern styling with bold, architectural details. JOE4013 “Urban JOE” is an ultra-trendy, geek-chic acetate combination design with rich gradient colors and embossed two- tone temples, perfect for men looking for a modern take on retro-styling and bold colorations. Models fea-tured from top to bottom. For more information please visit www.altaireyewear.com or call 800-505-5557.

EVP details: Purchase $5,000 and receive a 3% rebate. Return rate cannot exceed 20%.

REM EYEWEAR introduces the John Varvatos Eyewear Spring 2012 collection. Casual luxury and rock ‘n’ roll come together in this new optical and sun collection. Renowned for its fastidious attention to detail, fine craftsmanship and killer design, John Varvatos Eyewear is created for the man of style and substance. Look for the signature hallmarks on every pair, and the subtle double V for Varvatos engraved on the lens of each pair of sunglasses. Six new models of sunglasses allow the John Varvatos man to face the sun with 100% UV protection and an impeccable look. There are five optical options this season, from fine three-piece mounts to vintage inspired acetates, thought-ful ly hand-crafted in Japan for optical qual i ty. For more information please call 800-423-3023 or visit www.remeyewear.com.

EVP details: EVP details: Purchase $10,000 and receive a 10% rebate. Return rate cannot exceed 20%. New Rem Eyewear customers will receive an additional 10% net invoice credit on their first order only.

ELITE VENDOR PROGRAM cont.

For more information on Silhouette please visit www.silhouette.com or call 800-223-0180.

EVP details: Pur-chase 100 - 199 units per year and receive a 2% rebate; 200+ units per year re-ceives a 4% rebate. Return rate cannot exceed 20%.

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BLOCK BUYING GROUP WELCOMES...

Since its founding in 1995, OnO Optical has grown into one of the most experienced manufacturers of quality eyewear and eyewear accessories. The staff of OnO Optical dedicate themselves to produce the best quality eyewear offered at factory direct prices. Their team of desingers is constantly working toward de-veloping the newest and most fashion-able styles. OnO Optical offers high quality frames made from stainless steel, memory alloys, tita-nium, acetate, and more. Block mem-bers receive a 20% discount on OnO Eyewear, Benelli, Valenciaga, Sakari, C u t e O n O a n d E s s e n t i a l s . O p e n i n g o r d e r r e q u i r e d . F o r more information please call 888-458-3716 or visit www.onooptical.com

BLOCK BUYING GROUP WELCOMES...

MedOp Inc. is a dietary supplement manufac-turer dedicated to developing progressive, cut-ting edge, natural products for ocular health and overall well-being. In early 1997, Dr. Rodney Hor-ton started developing the MAXIVISION® line of products. MedOp Inc. is committed to providing products that represent the latest research and developments in nutraceutical understanding based on recent published medical studies. All of MedOp Inc.’s products are manufactured with the finest natural ingredients at elemental concentrations for maximum health benefits. The company’s mission is to provide eye care profes-sionals with a complete selection of eye care products of the highest quality and standards. Call Block Buying Group for discounted pricing. For more information please visit www.medop.com or call 888-290-6294.

MONDOTTICA invites you to visit them at Vision Expo East at the Galleria Booth #G350. Call Mondottica at 866-666-3662 to schedule an ap-pointment or just stop in and say hel-lo and enjoy some delicious Mama-Mancini’s Meat-balls! For more information and to view their Hack-ett London and Anna Sui Eyewear collections please visit www.mondotticausa.com.

MODO and 7 For All Mankind present 6 new optical and 7 new sun styles. In-line with the ef-fortless, relaxed sophistication of 7 For All Mankind, the eyewear collection combines style drive with wearability. The collection features triple gradient handmade acetates in tones reminiscent of a des-ert sunset and irresistible clear crystal and matte finishes in muted ocean shades as well as stainless steel frames with brushed antique finishes. The Op-tical collection reflects retro-inspired shapes but with modern sil-houettes. The Sun collection features oversized yet thin ac-etates, punch-out met-als and metal/acetate combinations. Men’s shapes are timeless navigator shapes or unique/acetate con-struction. For more information please visit www.modo.com or call 800-223-7610.

REVOLUTION EYEWEAR’S Affliction Eyewear has been recognized around the world for its unique design aesthetic. Affliction has become a household name with some of the world’s biggest celebrities, band members, and athletes wearing the many different products now available under the Affliction name. Affliction Eyewear gains its at-titude through the cutting edge styling incorporated in each frame. The hardware, the detail, the overall vibe is di-rected toward main-taining the balance between good and evil that their apparel line evokes. Featured is model Lizette. For more information please visit www.revolutioneyewear.com or call call 800-986-0010.

BLOCK BUYING GROUP WELCOMES...

North American Vision AssociatesBlock Buying Group members can now purchase NFL logo reading glasses at discounted pric-ing! All 32 NFL teams are available in either a black front with black temple, or the front and temple colors in team colors. All teams are availabe in powers +1.00 to +3.00. A 2-piece display is provided with opening order of 12 NFL readers. MSRP is $19.95 with Block member pricing at $11.95 each. For more information please call 508-695-3283

BLOCK BUYING GROUP WELCOMES...

Based in Southern California, friezeframes is the premier retro-chic eyewear company focused on re-inventing vintage style into a hip contemporary look. They seek to capture the glamour of a bygone era, while striving to bring bold, trend-setting fashion to your life. Owners Marc Franchi and Jason Stanley have a clas-sic aesthetic, but with a fun and inspired twist. These two cousins, who design every frame and name many pairs after family members, believe the core concepts of running a successful company are: customers first, honest value & unbending integrity. Currently available in five countries, friezeframes continues to grow its retail coverage while still being selective on where the frames are sold. friezeframes will never sacrifice quality over quantity, and demand every pair of crafted frames meet their exacting standards. With over 150 style and color varieties, there is a perfect pair for anyone wanting a playful and sexy new look. Block members receive a 5% discount. Opening order required. Please call 888-496-1688 or visit www.friezeframes.com for more information.

ZYLOWARE will handle distribution of Inspecs USA NASCAR® Optical collection in the US, Canada and Latin America. NASCAR Optical is both stylish and robust, targeted towards men ages 20s – 40s. Made with high-quality materials, the collection is a great value in the eyewear market. Drawing inspira-tion from race cars, the NASCAR Optical collection is comprised of 8 new styles in 2 colors each, reflecting the history and integrity of the NASCAR brand. List price of each style is $54.95. The collection is com-prised of 4 full rim and 4 semi-rimless styles featur-ing metal fronts and anti-slip double injection TR90 temples, providing a minimalist, sporty look with the comfort and flexibility of lightweight engineering. Car-bon fiber trim inserts on the temple as well as a laser engraved logo on the outside temple provide sleek and modern detailing and instant brand recognition. With over 75 million fans, NASCAR is the number one spectator sport in the country, and boasts the most brand loyal fans in all sport and it is estimated that 1 in 3 US adults are NASCAR fans. With 89% of fans proclaiming, “When Isee the NASCAR logo on something, I know it will be a quality product”, NASCAR Optical has a clear position in the market. Please call 800-765-3700 or visit www.zyloware.com for more information.

SIGNATURE EYEWEAR introduces Shady from the Rough Justice collection. Ladies, keep your cool in this style that makes you an officially shady character. Fabulous matte finish metal tones have a pop of col-or with the hues in the back. Protecting your eyes from harmful rays has never been so sexy. 100% protection. For more information please visit www.sigeye.com or call 800-967-2020.

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VIVA INTERNATIONAL debuts i ts Catherine Deneuve Lunettes premier sunglass collection for Spring/Summer 2012, consisting of six prescription-ready sunglass styles, inspired by the collection’s timeless beauty and Ms. Deneuve’s own sense of style. The new sun- glasses are perfect for the 55 and older woman who is trend aware, yet not trend-driven, and is seeking classic elegance. The new sunglasses are crafted in handmade acetate and feature stone and metal accents. High quality CR-39 lenses are used in all of the sunglasses, providing optimum sun protection. A rich color palette of soft muted tones, including burgundy, brown horn, raspberry and tortoise, as well as two-toned and pearl finished colorations add a dramatic touch to these distinct styles. The brand’s iconic logo subtlety highlights the frame’s temple treatments and the end-pieces of select styles. Models CD-604 (top) and CD-602 (bottom) are featured below. Merchan-dising materials are available. All six styles are dispenser priced at $39.95 and include a hard case and a cleaning cloth. For more infor-mation, please call 800-345-8482 or visit www.vivagroup.com.

PAWS N CLAWS EYEWEAR introduces new models. Paws 610 is a semi-rimless frame with embossed paw temple available in pink/purple, brown/lavender and black/gold. Paws 611 features Swarovski paws on the temples and is available in plum, brown and black. Paws 612 features animal print temples and comes in plum, brown and black. Paws 614 features SEEING / SUPPORTING / SAVING on the butter-fly cut-out temple with metal frame and small paw, and is available in pink/purple, brown and black. Frames fea-tured from top to bot-tom. For every frame or sunglass sold, Paws N Claws donates 5% of the net sale to the ASPCA. For more information please call 800-223-0167 or visit www.paw- snclawseyewear.com.

DYNAMIC LABS March Promotions...•HD Silicone Nosepads...high density silicone nosepads that last longer than conventional nose-pads. Dynamic Lab’s HD technology makes pads that are more resistant to facial oils that normally cause nosepads to discolor. Promo pricing: 1,000 at 29¢ per pair; 500 at 36¢ per pair; 100 at 42¢ per pair. In teardrop, oval, round, D-shape, snap, screw, mushroom and primadonna.•Velvet Dispensing Trays...make a great presenta-tion! Velvet pad set in black tray for a regal look. $15.95 each or $12.95 for 6 or more. Available in black, royal blue and burgundy.•Purity Lens Cleaner...$34.95 per gallon; $24.95 per gallon min. 4 gallons; $19.95 per gallon min. 12 gallons. For more informa-tion please call 888-339-6264 or visit www.dynami-clabs.net.

NEW YORK EYE / HART SPECIALTIES introduces Dale Jr.™ brand eyewear. Dale Jr . TM brand eyewear ref lects the sty le of this third-generation member of race royalty. The collection has the cool look of spirited all-American style and work hard/play hard sensibili-ties rooted in the groove of its namesake. Fresh aerodynamic contours blending performance and s ty le round out t h e c o l l e c t i o n . F o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n please cal l 800-221-6966 or visit www.newyorkeye.net for details.

OGI releases new Seraphin Eyewear styles. To-day’s urbane gentleman is faced with more choices than ever regarding everyday eyewear. To create a look that combines simplicity with a splash of intrigue, Seraphin has launched eight new models into their Neoclassic Collection that define a distinct class of timeless eyewear. Carefully chosen eyewear tells the world that you’re well put together, organized, faultlessly groomed, reliable, capable of independent thought and have great taste. It’s important for men to exude class and to look at eyewear as a source of pride rather than an everyday necessity. A quietly powerful style, the Washington (top) is an intriguing model that features a front crafted from a layered premium Italian acetate. Soft curves contrasted by hard edges give the Washington a sustaining dose of sophistication. The Harrison (middle) is an essential everyday style that blends simplicity with a shot of inventive character. The thick, contemporary shape complements a variety of personalities and will be a mainstay in the Men’s Neoclassic collection for many years to come. True to Seraphin fundamentals, the Quincy’s (bottom) intellectual facade reflects the vintage inspiration behind its design. Quincy ignites a modern reconstruction of an old-world favorite. Smaller dimensions and the application

of dual rivets bring this classic style to the fore-front of men’s vintage eyewear. All Seraphin eyewear styles come with a leather hardcase and micro-fiber cleaning cloth. POP materials are available. Please call 888-560-1060 or visit www.ogiframes.com for more information.

MIYAGI EYEWEAR is showcasing their new collection at Vision Expo East at Galleria Booth #G387. Attendees will have the opportunity to take advantage of the exclusive show promotion of “Buy 12 pairs, Get 1 additional pair free.” A sneak peek into this collection includes Tomas (featured here), with chiseled front detailing, and Charlie, where turquoise crystal makes a vibrant stand. With roots in Los Angeles, Miyagi Eyewear is renowned for its ultra comfortable, high fashion style. Ryan Phil-lippe, Paul Giamatti, Olivia Wilde, Ryan Reynolds and Seth Rogan are among the many celebrities wearing Miyagi’s glamorous yet practical frames. For more information please call 800-678-9244 or visit www.miyagieyewear .com.

BEST IMAGE introduces new Plume Paris Eyewear model. ‘Ringo’ in M. Olive/Purple is inspired by vintage, made in stainless steel metal. The colors chosen of olive and purple were inspired by how nature intended it, beau-tiful lilac sunset skies, and deep purple and fresh green flora and fruits. All vintage con-cepts were kept in mind - round lens, round shields, thick bridge, and old-style temple patterns. For more information please call 800-688-7661 or visit www.bestimageoptical.com.

NC EYEWEAR introduces Fysh UK model F-3460, a funky semi-rimless combination frame with eclectic styling. The tribal inspired pattern on the TR-90 temples is a fun way for frame wearers to achieve that exotic look this season. This rock-ing model comes in a variety of colors such as brown, red, purple and teal with size 54/18/135. Please visit www.nceyewearinc.com or call 800-361-6220 for more information.

MOREL EYEWEAR in t roduces ÖGA Copenhül . . .ÖGA screw-assembly r imless frames. ÖGA Copenhül adopts an architectural approach to eyewear with its taut, fluid and sleek lines. This rimless concept has an assertive style, using discreet colors combined with matte and shiny contrasting materials on the temple. Extended by an injected long endtip, the hollow-milled metal end-piece reveals a spring-hinge that is an integral part of the product’s beauty. The flex function is provided by a visible spring blade and is truly a decorative ele-ment in its own right. A Morel patent has been filed for this spring-hinge with cam return and anti-rocking effect. The frame has a traditional screw assembly system. Sizes range from 52 to 55 and can be fitted with progressive lenses. Four color combinations are available for each style. ÖGA is for relaxed and confident men looking for frames with a creative

difference. For more information please visit www.morel-france.com or call 800-526-8838.

SOUNDOFFHOW IMPORTANT ARE BRAND NAMES

IN YOUR DISPENSARY? B E N J A M I N H E R M A N , D U P O N T OPTICAL, WASHINGTON DC: “Most people like to know they’re getting a brand name frame, but they don’t want to advertise it with the name on the frame. They appreciate the quality of brand names, but avoid splashy logos. “Ours is a clientele that is drawn to brand names because they know they’re getting something special and of the best quality, but they definitely avoid name identification on the frame. For that reason, we order more understated styles. But brands are important and we use them in our advertising as well as our inventory.”

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Supplier NEWS (cont.)Equipment for Sale

Nidek patternless edger Santinelli model LE-7070SX. Features easy one-cut operation for poly, high index and plastic and high gloss automatic polishing. Use circulation pump system or direct connection to tap. Comes with blocks, deblocker, tracing kit, and manual. Set up and cut in no time! $7,900. Humphrey Lens Analyzer, off white color, model 360-2675 $3,150. American Optical Corporation Phoropter, model 11625, $2,500. (2) AO Non-Contact II tonometers, off white color, model 12415 by Riechert, $1,200 ea. Dr. Paul Difiore 856-234-7881.

Lombart slit lamp: AO projector, Burton stand, chair & lamp; Marco trial lens set; Reichert phoropter; Tangent screen. Reasonable offer accepted. 718-238-3937 or 732-446-2944.

A large inventory of stock lenses for sale in both plas-tic and polycarbonate. For more information contact Dennis at oceye2@gmail.com.

Practice for Sale Very busy optometry practice for sale in North Ber-gen, NJ. located in a small shopping mall for over 31 years. Up-to-date equipment and a very large stock of frames. There is an edging lab and an inventory of lenses. Doctor is retiring. This is a great opportunity for a young energetic doctor. Call 201-861-0815 or e-mail rfreed59@aol.com. 71 year old high end optometry - opticianry practice for sale in Syracuse, NY with large active patient base. Excellent revenue with only 20 O.D. hours / week. Serious replies please. Ask for Rob (personal call) 315-422-6089.

Well-established optometric practice for sale in a his-toric 100 year old office building in Somerville, NJ. Near the main street, dining, shops and in the county seat. Annual gross revenue $300,000+. Newer equipment and low cost lease. Doctor is retiring, but will aid in tran-sition. Call 908-725-2915 or e-mail eyes@kempler.org.

Emplotment OpportunityOptometrist wanted 2 - 3 days per week, Saturday a must (9 am - 1 pm). Upscale retail / professional environment. Well established practice located in Union County, NJ. Contact susra@verizon.net or 908-233-5177.

Boutique optical store in Westchester County, NY seek-ing full or part-time optometrist, contact lenses exams, and comprehensive eye exams. Great opportunity, high volume. Practice has been established for the past 10 years and has all up-to-date equipment. Terry 914-948-1700.

GDI Optical seeks experienced independent sales reps for our Miyagi and Cobi frame brands. Also for our Go Green Readers. Many territories still available. Please e-mail resumes in confidence to gdioptical@comcast.net or fax to 561-434-1264.

Optometrist needed, Long Island, NY 2-3 days / wk. Upscale practice, no unions. Future ownership an-ticipated. captreeopticians@aol.com or 631-587-2020.

SMILEN EYEWEAR has signed a trade-mark licensing agreement with the U.S. Army, a global brand licensing agency and consul-tancy, to produce eyewear, sports frames and ready-made readers with the use of the U.S. Army trademark(s). Proceeds from sales of U.S.

Army licensed products provide support to the U.S. Army licensing pro-gram, and by federal law, all net revenue must be devoted to the U.S. Army Morale, Welfare and Rec-reation programs. Please call 800-887-5675 or visit www.smileneyewear.com for more information.

MARCATI offers Cameleon® Photochro-mic lenses…brilliant color outdoors, ultra clear indoors…•Polycarbonate p h o t o c h r o m i c g r ay w i t h A / R (SPH: -6 .00 t o +4.00 CYL: -.25 to -2.00) $27 per pair.•1.56 Mid-Index p h o t o c h r o m i c gray (SPH: -4.00 to +4.00 CYL: -.25 to -2.00) $18 per pair. For more information please call 866-MARCATI.

LIBERTY SPORT is pleased to announce that Army Green (color #550) has been added to the top selling sunglass styles of Chopper, Torque and Trailblazer (featured from top to bottom). “We previewed the color on a new motorcycle style introduced last year, the Free Spirit, and the sales really took off,” says Carmine DiChiara, VP of Product Development, “We are pleased to see that

men are venturing out past the traditional black and tortoise colorations. The color is very wear-able and a nice comple-ment to our performance sunglass collection.” For more information please call 800-444-5010 or visit www.libertysport.com.

A&A OPTICAL releases two new styles from the Alexander Collection™. The collection is designed to compliment women of all face shapes in eye sizes 47 mm to 57 mm. Timeless style Charlotte (top) radiates classic elegance with a dropped oval shape and rich hues. The combi-nation frame features clean, graceful laminate temples accented by a hint of sparkle. Swarovski crystals define the temple end pieces. Available in black, brown and gold (with plum colored temples), with sizes 50/17/130 and 52/17/135. Gradated in-side temples add a layer of effort-less sophistica-tion and class. Taking note from t h e b e a u t i f u l and captivating string instrument, Harper (bottom) performs with orderly shape featuring a flat metal front and raised metal end piece. The mix of shiny acetate and matte metal plays with light in rich colors of black, brown and sand, and size 49/18/135. Please call 800-492-4465 or visit www.aaopticalco.com for more information.

Doesn’t Everyone Want ToMake more Moey?

As independents, we all look for ways to save money, to make more in profit without increasing our prices to the point we scare away business. If you are reading this, then obviously you have seen the value in receiving the BBG discount, and having your entire month of bills reconciled on one statement - saving money and time.

Recently BBG launched the EVP program, the Elite Vendor Program. And the Block Buying Group members are the only accounts that can take advantage of this innovative idea. The larg-est frame manufacturers in the industry, the ones you already do business with, have come together with BBG to give you additional discounts. As a Block member you are already enrolled in this program. All you have to do is what you already are doing: purchase products.

I’ve discussed in past articles the need to com-mit to vendors whose products sell successfully in your practice. It’s a good idea to establish a strong relationship with those suppliers whose products tend to do well in your office. This is essentially what the EVP program is designed to help you accomplish. The following companies are participating in the program: Altair, Aspex Eyewear, Charmant, ClearVision, Eastern States, Lafont, Luxottica, Marchon, Marcolin, ProDesign, Rem Eyewear, Safilo and Silhouette.

The EVP program simply takes that concept one step further. When you buy from the participating companies, they will give you an attainable goal to achieve. The goal is based on sales volume throughout this entire year, ending on December 31. You will receive a rebate on your BBG state-ment in the first quarter of 2013 if you reach this goal. It’s that easy.

With the New Year only a month old, you still have time to begin to evaluate your purchasing habits. Determine what lines you carry that dupli-cate each other. This allows you to spend more effectively, with companies that have agreed to giving you additional discounts, all thanks to the foresight and continued partnership Block Buying Group and you, the member.

Nikki DiBacco, ABO/NCLE is a writer, educator, and the owner of DnD Consult-ing & Design, a full ser-vice optical / optometric c o n s u l t i n g c o m p a n y . She can be reached at 850-258-4777. Please visit www.dndconsulting.net for more information.

PRECISION OPTICAL GROUP wants to host your annual convention or trade show! Are you involved in a state or local optical o r g a n i z a t i o n ? P . O . G . L a b s wou ld love to s p o n s o r y o u r event. Receive a $500 gi f t to your group! For more information please call Kate at 800-497-9239 ext. 135 or e-mail kate@precopt.com.

CLASSIFIED Ads

Please submit your typed ad by the 10th of the month for publication the following month. Ads appear for one month unless otherwise requested. E-mail ads to cwalsh@blockbg.com or fax to 561-893-9256. You can also post your ad online in the BLOCKBOARD CLASSIFIED ADS/PRODUCT EXCHANGE feature of our website.

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