The Vision Council recently named Black Optical as the OPTImum Retail Award winner at the Vision Expo 2022. This is the third year Black Optical has been nominated and the first year it has won.
“This recognition is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the Black Optical team, their passionate and innovative approach to eyewear, client service and personal style,” said Gary Black, Black Optical founder and president.
Black Optical was announced as the OPTImum Retail Award winner during a celebratory event at Vision Expo East 2022, the industry’s complete trade event for ophthalmic professionals. The other finalists – Eyes on Sheppard (North York, Ontario); Ocean Optometry (Halifax, Nova Scotia); and OPTYX New York (New York, NY) – were recognized at the event, as well.
To determine the finalists, a committee of industry leaders deliberated and voted based on the categories of pivoting post-pandemic, community and aesthetics. Voting then opened up to the vision community; these votes factored into the judges scores to decide the winner.
To stay engaged with staff and customers during the pandemic, Black Optical created “Black Optical TV,” a resource for both clients and fellow opticians, and enlisted leading eyewear designers to share music they found comforting during quarantine in a Spotify series called “Lockdown Sound.” Virtual stylings, an integrated payment app and investment in contactless technologies via Optikam and Smart Vision Labs also played a part in positioning Black Optical as an industry leader.
Additionally, Black Optical donated frames to homeless centers and underprivileged students, hosting fundraising initiatives to raise money for those affected by HIV, AIDS & Hepatitis C, campaigning against racial injustice and donating to culture centers, supporting local coffee shops and promoting neighboring businesses, Black Optical is an integral facet in its community.
“Through its creative virtual solutions, devotion to better its community and keep its customers safe and engaged, Black Optical has defined itself as a global leader in eyecare, education, fashion and customer service,” said 20/20 Editor-in-Chief James Spina. “It is a privilege to recognize and celebrate Gary Black and the Black Optical team for creating and cultivating such an inspiring brand. Gary has set the bar high. This well-deserved recognition has been a long time coming for the Black Optical family.”
