I have followed the tightening competition in the optical industry for over 30 years. Stores are being closed, customer service staff is being reduced, there is a constant rush, and set profit targets must be met. I do not believe that they can get anywhere near Revenio’s current margin levels.
You are right, customers are loyal to a good optician just as they are to a good doctor. An optician’s work in fitting frames and lenses is more important than the amount of money spent on the glasses; even expensive lenses won’t work if the fitting is done sloppily, while a functional result can be achieved even with cheap solutions.
First came laser treatments—distance vision corrected without glasses, and reading glasses (+2€) from the supermarket. Then came lens surgeries, where a multifocal IOL (intraocular lens) replaces one’s own crystalline lens, often allowing people to get by without any glasses at all, with no fear of cataracts in old age. All of this also affects optical sales.
When I invested family funds into Done/Revenio over 15 years ago, I was able to understand the potential of iCare. Now, unfortunately, I don’t see the potential for high-margin returns in this “optical nonsense,” though revenue and administrative costs will certainly grow. Please explain, if you understand the matter better. I truly hope I am wrong. Have a peaceful holiday.