VOL. XXVI NO. 11 NOVEMBER 2011

DEAR MEMBERS

THE MONTHLY NEWSLETTER OF THE BLOCK BUYING GROUP

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

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

customerservice@blockbg.com

those not quite as wealthy. High quality products with demonstrated value – offered by top-notch, caring professionals – have an important place in the dispensary even during these uncertain economic times.

Not everyone can afford the highest end luxury products, but based on recent reports and surveys, clearly some Americans can. If they’re in your neck of the woods, keep them in mind when you consider your product mix and promotional efforts.

And for those customers and patients whose budgets don’t allow for the most premium of products, a gentle reminder that good vision is not a luxury but a necessity can pave the way for an appreciation of the quality of your products and services. They’ll thank you for your help.

With Thanksgiving coming up, we’d like to thank you, too, for your loyalty and support – and to wish you a Happy Thanksgiving.

Sincerely,Michael Block

Nordstrom is thinking about doing it. Hiring more holiday workers, that is – which means that luxury sales predictions just got an optimistic nod. It seems that Nordstrom’s sales have been building in momentum, leading to this estimation.

According to the National Retail Federation, the 2011 holiday season will show growth over last year. And the International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC) expects that, in addition to holiday sales increasing this year, luxury retailers will per-form the best. “Luxury spending continues to be strong and consistent,” was the way the ICSC’s chief economist, Michael P. Niemira, explained it. He expects luxury retailers to perform best, and although discounters will also see growth, it will be more modest.

“Rich Americans Spend More on Luxury Goods” was the headline on a CNBC online report recently, explaining that wealthy Americans are expected to increase their spending on luxury items by 8 percent – and are no longer embarrassed about spending, despite the economic slowdown. In 2010 the luxury car market including Maserati, Lamborghini and Aston Martin saw growth of about 60 percent, according to the Robb Report, a luxury magazine that targets affluent US consumers. This group, the magazine says, continues to spend money, buy planes, cars and jewelry. “There certainly doesn’t seem to be any slowdown in their attitude or appetite for consumption,” the publisher said.

The luxury hotel industry sees the same thing. “Luxury hotels are alive and well,” reported a prominent travel research company recently, noting that the industry had weathered the 2009 recession and was now seeing renewed interest in upscale hotels.

And an American Express Publishing and Harrison Group survey found that spending on luxuries among families with a discretionary income of more than $100,000 was set to rise 8% over 2010. So it seems that the wealthy continue to splurge, but the survey also noted that these families are more careful than they were before the recession. They’re expected to seek more “value, quality and service for their money.”

What does this mean to the optical industry? With the holidays approaching, luxury products should be factored into optical inventories. Pre-mium eyewear, sunwear and optical accessories can be in demand for holiday vacations and gifts among affluent consumers – and even among

There are two schools of thought when it comes to luxury products. Draw people in with the appeal of their exclusivity and premium tier quality – or with discounts.

Saks Inc tried slashing prices on their upscale merchandise several years ago and the strategy backfired. So now they’re taking the opposite approach and have found that luxury consumers respond well to the attraction of special products and exclusivity.

On the other hand, name brand discount outlets entice customers with high-end merchandise at a discount, and many of them are thriving.

Entrepreneur magazine recently ran an article entitled “Why You Don’t Want to Be the Low-Cost Leader.” The article warns that pricing is not a sustainable competitive advantage. Any competi-tive advantage you may gain temporarily with low pricing cannot be sustained because your com-petitors will match or beat your price. Especially today, when big warehouse stores and chains are bombarding the public with low-cost promotions, independent eyewear and eyecare professionals need to come up with a better competitive strategy.So what’s an optical dispenser to do?

Product Mix DecisionsBased on your clientele, you can determine the price points for your frame boards and displays. It’s possible that your inventory will be skewed toward either high or low end merchandise, though many dispensers carry a range of price points. But don’t assume that premium products are out of reach for your patients. There’s still a strong de-sire among a segment of the population for luxury products, especially when they’re presented well. This idea holds true for frames, lenses, sunwear, and accessory items.

Promotional StrategiesIt goes beyond the full-price/discount conundrum. The sale of luxury products needs a particular approach. According to the American Express Luxury Summit 2011, there are several trends that characterize luxury consumer spending in 2011:

• “Wealthy consumers look for immediate benefit in their value equation.” In other words, the prod-uct has to give them pleasure and value right away.• “The affluent will insist on extraordinary quality, service and craftsmanship at a discounted price.” This concept means that the product fills a need; the person can justify the splurge at a good price. This doesn’t mean slashing the price, but a bit of a discount adds value to the purchase.

Luxury Institute LLC, a luxury product market-ing firm, notes that luxury retailers find that subtle strategies work best. Consider private sale events and invitation-only deals. They add to the exclusivity of the products and of the invited guests.

But most of al l , i t ’s the experience that counts. Luxury consumers want consummate professionals helping them find the best products for them. Solicitous, gracious customer service from knowledgeable staff members fitting them with distinctive premium products that enhance their vision and their appearance – all within an atmosphere of comfort and style – is the best strategy of all.

How to Sell Luxury

Industry WATCH

137910_BlockBuying.indd 1 10/18/11 5:16 PM

Frame Company UPDATE

FROM MOREL: The Koali designer has taken inspiration from the full-bodied and multi-hued Alpinia flowers to create a sun concept. The col-lection reworks the spirit of the same prescription eyewear grouping, with its wide, openwork temple decorated with the Alpinia flower or leaf pattern. Cut from stainless steel, the 2 stylized patterns are finished in 3 colors and available in contrasting and vibrant tones combined with a pure stainless steel or acetate front. Alpinia has a 60’s feel, boasting 3 generous round acetate shapes and 2 semi-rimless metal shapes. Produced in base 6, Alpinia Sun can be fitted with prescription lenses and features a “Stop Hinge” to prevent deteriora-tion of the lens and its anti-reflective coating at the temple contact point. All models are fitted with excellent category 3 graduated lenses (CR39 or polycarbonate) as well as an inside AR coating. Please call 800-526-8838 to order.

FROM NEW YORK EYE / HART SPECIALTIES: Marc Hunter Eyewear offers retro-inspired styl-ing and fine craftsman- ship combining classic clean cut styling in stain-less steel, handmade zyl, and 100% nickel free titanium. This is the col-lection accessory for the well-dressed male profes-sional. Marc Hunter 7279 is featured below. Please call 800-221-6966 to order.

PRECISION OPTICAL GROUP offers “secret sales” on their eBay store often so check out www.http://stores.ebay.com/P-O-G-Labs on a regular basis. Do you have items you would like to sell? You can sell them on the P.O.G. eBay store. Don’t have an eBay account? P.O.G. can help you out with that too! “I had no idea that I could find such great deals on P.O.G.’s eBay store! I have bought sunglasses, designer frames, scratch coatings, hand tools and eyeglass cases to name a few. All at low prices!” -- P.O.G. Customer. And, Block members can bill their P.O.G. eBay store purchases through Block Buying Group. For more information please call 800-497-9239.

FROM CLARITI EYEWEAR: SMART S7108 (top) is affordably priced without compro-mising its intricate and bold style. The S7108 is made of plastic and comes in three crystal ac-cented colors - burgundy/pink, champagne, and brown/honey. This frame is sure to make you look like a million bucks without denting your wal-let. Mens’ frame S7100 (bottom) is a sharp and confident look, made in plastic with commanding colors of dark grey, black and tortoise. S7100 is affordably priced and gives a man the look of a PhD for less than the price of health insurance! Please call 800-372-6372 to order.

FROM MARCHON: This Fall, Emilio Pucci revitalizes the eyewear collection through the in-novative incorporation and mastering of shapes and lines. Iconic prints from the Pucci Palazzo archives highlight frame end pieces, strong brows and sleek temples. Depth and dimension is dis-played with translucent patterned temples. Fluid lines curve to hug female silhouettes and frame shapes range from full rounds to modified cat-eyes. Model EP688S is featured below. Please call 800-645-1300 to order.

FROM MODO EYEWEAR: This season Phillip Lim pushes his innovative spirit further pulling inspiration from decades ago with 3 new optical styles and 4 new sun shapes. Lim says his guiding principle is “sophisticated youth.” Styles such as MOUJIK and LOU LOU channel the classic clubmaster and keyhole bridge trends of the 1950’s with a modern interpretation. EMILE and EMILE SOLEIL are versions of a unique “shield-like” plastic with unusual angles. The classic metal shield construction is redefined sportiness such as the JEAN MARIE A tribute to the timeless aviator style NONNO utilizes a mix of plastic and metal to update this classic shape. Colors include milky pinks, dusty grays, a r ich Tokyo tortoise and honey amber. Featured from top to bot-tom are LOU LOU, EMILE, EMILE SOLEIL, JEAN MARIE and NONNO. Please call 800-223-7610 to order.

WILEY X® EYEWEAR has unveiled a new Sample Case specially designed for professionals in the optical and safety eyewear markets. Fash-ioned from soft, yet durable fabric and featuring a handle and comfortable shoulder strap, this new case is the ideal way for optical professionals to “show and sell” the Wiley X performance sunwear and safety message to commercial and industrial employers. This case is part of a comprehensive effort by Wiley X to promote the importance of proven eye protection and minimizing on-the-job eye injuries that cost companies millions in down time and medical expenses. Tools like this and Wi-ley X’s recently launched “Blue Print for Success” program are not only spreading the word about eye safety, they are helping eyecare profession-als increase profits by serving a largely untapped market. Each sample case features two removable product trays with each tray capable of holding 12 pairs of Wiley X glasses (24 pairs total). The trays are designed to stand up on a table at a 45 degree angle to enable clear viewing of the unique safety features of these premium glasses. Wiley X is the only premium performance sunwear manufacturer whose entire line meets ANSI Z87.1-2003 high velocity and high mass impact safety and optical standards. Some models also meet the military’s stringent Ballistic VO Impact Standards; a key reason Wiley X is a leading provider of protective eyewear to elite U.S. Special Forces units around the world. Despite their OSHA-grade protection and rugged reputation, each pair of Wiley X glasses is designed to be comfortable, lightweight and stylish. For more information please call 800-776-7842 or visit www.wileyx.com.

DYNAMIC LABS products selected as nominees for OLA Awards of Excellence!�ProEdge™...one blocking pad for all materi-als and coatings. (Nominated in the Finishing Processing Materials & Tools category.) Dynamic Labs has engineered a revolutionary Green foam combined with a specially designed adhesive to create one pad that works equally as well on AR coated and uncoated lenses. The adhesive has been tested on most of today’s toughest AR coatings with excellent results. It has eliminated the need for costly anti-slip discs saving both time and money. With Dynamic Lab’s unconditional 30 day guarantee there is no risk and all the reward to try them today.�Poly AR Stripper...AR stripping that is quick, easy and safe. (Nominated in the Lens Treat-ments category.) Dynamic Labs created an AR stripper that is safe for all lens materials including polycarbonate. This solution comes premixed in a wide mouth jar for ease of use. Just dip your lenses right in the jar for 30-45 seconds and the AR coatings are com-pletely gone with no mess or trouble. Works equally well on all of today’s AR coatings. For more information please call 888-339-6264 or visit www.dynamiclabs.net.

Supplier NEWS

137910_BlockBuying.indd 2 10/18/11 5:16 PM

LUXOTTICA introduces the Prada Illusion Sunglasses Collection. Strong identity and char-acter are at the heart of Prada’s Fall/Winter 2011 eyewear collections. With plays on silhouettes ranging from rounded and cat’s eye to square-shapes, the collection is a must-have for men and women this season. Whatever the model, all temples and fronts are the result of research on thicknesses and in-depth studies aimed at creating new style icons, which have been en-riched with new themes and logos. The FW’11 Prada collection explores the glamourous and sexy obsessions of women and turns them into something modern, fresh and fun. The end result is modern, almost eccentric. In this context, the glamourous ILLUSION Sunglasses collection was born. Illusion is “not what it is but what it seems it is.” The Prada Illusion Sunglass style PR 05OS is an iconic and glamorous piece that highlights the Phard & Cammeo colors of the Fall Winter 2011 season. It’s large wrap style is reminiscent of the real sky goggle with its important volumes. PR 05OS also features an APX lens fixed with a hidden screw on the top side of the frame, and the Prada cut-around logo is placed on the outside of each temple. The sunglass is also Rx-able. Wholesale priced at $116, with retail at $290. For more information please call 800-422-2020 or visit www.luxottica.com.

Supplier NEWS (cont.)

BLOCK BUYING GROUP WELCOMES...

As an independent laboratory, Expert Optics provides an unmatched level of modern tech-nology and industry experience to produce superior optical products for your patients. Expert Optics recently took a big technological leap forward when it became the first lab in the world to install a Satisloh On Block Manufactur-ing (OBM) lab. The lab is touted by Satisloh as the first true “no-touch” Rx manufacturing line in the industry. Equipped with digital surfacing, AR coating and edging capabilities, the lab uses an automated backside surfacing process involving a proprietary, machinable block to produce a pair of lenses in only eight steps versus 50 steps required in conventional manufacturing. Expert Optics is pleased to be a supplier of the Block Buying Group. Block members receive a 20% discount on laboratory services. For more information please call 800-892-0097 (Illinois), 800-287-9778 (Indiana), or visit www.expertoptics.net.

MJ OPTICAL GROUP is proud to announce that they have recently received the distinguished designation of “Authorized Varilux Distribu-tor Lab” from Essilor of America, Inc. This achievement is a result of MJ Optical’s continued dedication to bring you and your patients the latest technology in premium progressive lenses to help make your practice a success. All Varilux tradition-al lenses and Digital lenses are now available from MJ Optical Group. For more information please call 800-634-9461 or visit www.mjoptical.com.

Log onto the STATEMENT VIEW orONLINE PAYMENTS page of our website www.blockbg.com, and look for the box featured below. Just click onto the box,

and we’ll take care of the rest!

GO PaPERLESS aNd RECEIvE a $5 CREdIt!!

BLOCK BUYING GROUP WELCOMES...

MYBBGCLUB by DirectLab is a new “one stop shopping” web ordering platform for Block Buying Group members a la carte with:� All Major ophthalmic lens brands� Outstanding customer service� Best pricing on HD lenses� Fax ordering available� Warranty programMYBBGCLUB enables eye care profession-als to grow their business by improving their profit margins. Introductory promotion - open your account online for FREE and your first 10 orders with any kind of Digital surfacing / HD (including customized/free-form) will be produced with FREE AR! For more information and to open your account Please visit MYBBGCLUB.com. You can also speak to a customer service rep at 888-274-6705.

BLOCK BUYING GROUP WELCOMES...

Phoenix Group is a new player in the US Opti-cal market. Having been distributing eyewear globally for the last 16 years, Phoenix Group has entered the U.S. boasting 4 distinct lines that are sure to please. From the colorful and sassy to the conservatively stylish, Phoenix Group has the styles that your customers demand with service and pricing that you and your practice deserve. Brands available include ARTST, IELTS, DIGEL and CAPRIO. Block Buying Group members receive a 30% discount off list price. No opening order ap-plies. For more information please visit www.uspgo.com or call 855-250-6797.

BLOCK BUYING GROUP WELCOMES...

Block Buying Group is committed to providing our members with programs and savings that help increase sales and optimize profitability. That’s why we’re excited to announce a special partnership agreement with CareCredit. You may have already heard of CareCredit. It’s a revolving line of credit specifically for out-of-pocket healthcare expenses not covered by insurance including optical exams and products. CareCredit is a part of GE Capital and is offered at more than 150,000 health-care practices nationwide, across professions such as optometry, ophthalmology, dentistry, cosmetic surgery, dermatology, audiology and veterinary medicine. Within optical practices, CareCredit has been proven to more than double the average sale price when patients pay with CareCredit. Plus, because CareCredit is a revolving line of credit, your patients and their entire families can use it again and again for designer frames, premium lenses, and ex-ams -- enhancing patient loyalty. Incorporating CareCredit into your practice is simple. It only takes a few minutes to apply and credit deci-sions are provided instantly. Once approved, patients can immediately use CareCredit for their purchases. Not only is CareCredit good for your practice, it is well appreciated by your patients. With CareCredit, they don’t have to compromise based upon cost. They can purchase what you recommend or they truly want and pay for it over time at no interest compared to using a credit card that requires payment in full the following month. The best news is that when you use CareCredit as your preferred and primary source of financing, you will enjoy a 20% discount on merchant rates. If you already use CareCredit to increase sales, your 20% discount will automatically be pro-vided at time of transaction effective November 1st, 2011. The new merchant rates are: 6 Month No Interest at 4.72% and 12 Month No Interest at 7.92%You can add CareCredit at no cost and are only charged when you actually use it. Give your patients an easy way to get the vision care, premium lenses and designer frames they want -- without having to discount your prices. Call 866-853-8432 to speak with a CareCredit Specialist today. You can also visit CareCredit at www.carecredit.com.

137910_BlockBuyingInsert.indd 1 10/18/11 5:14 PM

Supplier NEWS (cont.)VIVA INTERNATIONAL introduces three new William Rast ophthalmic styles for women for the Fall/Winter season. The collection features a variety of soft neutral and translucent colorations, which reflect the brand’s current color palette, in-cluding shades of grey, olive, tortoise and brown. The styling is a modern interpretation of classic silhouettes with subtle design elements. Cat-eyes remain an influential look in today’s women’s eyewear collections, as seen in style WR 1012 (top), which features a softened version of this iconic shape. A custom t-gap flex hinge serves as a functional, yet decorative detail, which reflects the utilitarian embellishments found in the brand’s garments. Handcrafted in acetate, WR 1012 is available in black, brown and purple. WR 1039 (middle) delivers vintage styling with a contempo-rary focus. The frame’s clean design, handcrafted in acetate, features a modified rectangle front and sleek temples. WR 1039 is available in translucent grey and crystal clear, black, olive and tortoise. WR 1040 (bottom), also handcrafted in acetate, features a deeper rectangular front shape and a tapered temple design. Warm colorations include brown, smoke, tortoise, and contrasting color combinations, such as black and white horn. Each style features metal insets of the William Rast New America flag on the inside of the right temple tip as well as the William Rast “dub” logo on the exterior left temple. Merchandising materials are available. The new styles are dispenser priced at $63. For more information please call 800-345-VIVA or visit www.vivagroup.com/williamrast.

MONDOTTICA USA introduces new Hackett London and Anna Sui models. New is the Larger Fit Collection by Hackett London, a classic men’s eyewear collection which caters to men of all ages who wish to dress stylishly. In order to accommodate all Hackett gentlemen, the Hackett London eyewear collection offers a range of larger eye sizes on select models from size 58 to 62 with 150 temple length. The Hackett London Fall Collection features style HEK1054 (top), a double laminate acetatefront with metal temples available in black, brown and tortoise in sizes 58/17/150 and 60/17/150. New for Fall is Anna Sui Eyewear style AS177 (bottom), a semi-rimless front with acetate temples available in red, brown and black. The Anna Sui eyewear collection is on trend and reflects the designer’s interest in distinctive, mod-ern interpretations of ret ro shapes. Included are cat-eye, butterfly, oval, rectangular and mask-like frames accented with her s ignature sty le. Please call 866-666-3662 or visit www.mondotticausa.com for more information.

LEGACIE introduces the Obsolete Chic group from Betsey Johnson. Inspired by vintage glam-our, think Marilyn Monroe, finger waves and pearls, Obsolete Chic embodies that old Hollywood feel that fuses sophistication with desire. Each opti-cal frame is crafted from a new handmade spotty tortoise with hints of pop colors including pink, violet and olive. Betsey O’Hare, a rectangle frame, and Betsey Era, an antique cat-eye style, are both fully swathed in the spotty tortoise while Downtown Vintage, a wayfarer, boasts a flat, satin-brushed stainless steel front in complementary colors. For more information please visit www.legacie.com or call 866-534-2243.

SAFILO introduces Alexander McQueen sunglass model AMQ4191/S. The new Alexander McQueen sunglasses collection has a classic individuality and a non-conformist spirit, combin-ing vintage inspirations in a contemporary and unmistakable luxe style. This feminine acetate sunglass has a vertical eye-catching grained metal detail on the front which echoes details from many Alexander McQueen accessories. Suitable for use with graduated lenses, these glasses are avail-able in strong sultry colors, such as black, deep olive/old gold, and havana horn/shiny brown. For more information please call 800-631-1188 or visit www.safilousa.com.

SAFILO CELEBRITY SIGHTINGAnna Kournikova is seen wearing Carrera sunglasses, model Champion.

REM EYEWEAR announces partnership with Tumi, the premium brand known for its innova-tive, high-quality and stylish travel and business accessories, to expand the product range of this global leader to include a complete collection of sunglasses and optical. The Tumi Eyewear col-lection consists of 12 Traverso sunglass styles launching in January, followed by 10 optical styles and the Compatto reader in March 2012. The components of the eyewear collection support the core foundation of the Tumi brand: superior technology that translates to elevated innovation, functional superiority, and unparalleled quality for the Tumi consumer including: �The temples feature silicone “rings of Saturn” temple tips: cast metal with two silicone rings for style and grip, inspired by Tumi zipper pulls�Genuine Tumi leather wrapped temples �Lightweight, strong and resilient carbon-fiber temples featuring Tumi red epoxy tips for added comfort�Custom flex double hinges�Acid-etched designs on stainless steel, inspired by Tumi’s ballistic pattern �Japanese craftsmanshipRenowned lens manufacturer Carl Zeiss Vision has developed a new polarized lens exclusively for the Tumi sun collection, TUMI ZR3™. This CR-39 Polarized lens offers superior optical and visual performance while delivering outstanding sun protection and glare reduction. Tumi ZR3™ is a triple coated Zeiss lens that allows dirt, water (hydrophobic), oil and dust to slip off the surface of the lens. Further innovations are included in the reading glasses and case design. Tumi’s Compatto reading glasses are constructed with a carbon graphite front paired with beta titanium temples, providing feather-light weight and re-markable comfort. The reading glass lenses are photochromic, changing from clear inside to a sunglass tint outside. The patent-pending locking nosepiece allows for the temples to fold and lock inside the bridge, creating a thin profile that slips seamlessly into one’s pocket. A creative triangular case made of ballistic nylon folds completely flat when not needed to protect the product. Tumi sunwear will retail for $225 - $295; Optical for $225 - $275. For more information please visit www.remeyewear.com or call 800-423-3023.

MARCHON launched Calvin Klein Jeans at Vision Expo West. Calvin Klein Jeans launches their new sunglass collection, using design ele-ments and colorations that evoke confidence and pronounce self-expression. Edgy graffiti extends down the temples of modern aviators available in translucent zyl or crafted in thin, sleek metal. A recognizable detail throughout the collection is the dog tags created of polished metal that are embedded at end pieces and the vintage and military inspired shapes that present youthful and forward styling. For more information please call 800-645-1300 or visit www.marchon.com.

137910_BlockBuyingInsert.indd 2 10/18/11 5:14 PM

CLEARVISION OPTICAL provides styling tips for men. Happy MensDay! Each Wednesday is MensDay, where ClearVision will provide an insider’s view of style and fashion tips - just for men! Visit ClearVision on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/clearvisionoptical every “MensDay” to see popular trends for men and easy ways to “get the look” with the latest and greatest frames from ClearVision. According to Lollie Shop-ping, designers and apparel brands are building the modern man’s wardrobe from the outside in. Stylish jackets and coats are taking center stage. This season, look beyond the basic parka or navy blazer, and choose outerwear (and eyewear!) that plays off of the fall 2011 fashion trends. One of today’s hottest looks, Military, is easy to pull off with a few basic pieces...and a great pair of eyeglasses... Jeans, check. A basic tee, check. A great military-inspired coat, check. Together, it’s a look that’s both masculine and chic. Complete the outfit with Marc Ecko Showdown, a modern optical style that screams sexy and stealth. Showdown is a metal frame fea-turing a perforated lasered texture on the acetate tem-ple, available in brown, black and gunmetal. For more in forma-tion please call 800-645-3733.

BEST IMAGE OPTICAL introduces new Plume Paris frames for Fall/Winter 2011. Plume Paris frames, inspired by European fashion is bringing distinctive design eyewear into the eyewear fashion industry. New models Trist and Yves are distinguished by their round stainless steel frames that will remind the wearer of Old Century London. Yves (left) is made of stainless steel and is available in olive/lime, black/silver, and brown/bronze with size 46/21/135. Trist (right) is available in the same colors as Yves with size 41/22/135. Plume Paris frames are produced keeping the wearer’s comfort in mind without sacri-ficing creative design and premium materials. The Plume Paris collection features different styles in order to satisfy whatever look you desire to have. Some frames take inspiration from 1940-1960’s while others keep a more modern edge. One of the most significant factors while designing Plume Paris frames is their unique temple designs. Each temple is designed to create a different element and color in order to achieve uniqueness in each frame. Please visit www.bestimageoptical.com or call 800-688-7661 for more information.

REVOLUTION EYEWEAR introduces new Ed Hardy collection, more vivid than ever due to a new technology. HDA™ Technology excels in displaying patterns and graphics more sharply and vividly than ever before. Furthermore, the HDA™ Technology can be combined with cre-ative BMT technique. The BMT technique marks one more step forward in overcoming rules and limitations to creativity. BMT allows ultra-sharp cutting for all patterns with strong metallic touch, making the realization of any imaginable pattern possible. The BMT can perfectly match with the HDA™ pattern, the main elements of the graphic are clearly defined because of the elegant color-blocking. This extraordinary technology allows the transformation of textures and colors into crisp high definition images, giving eyewear designers an entirely new level of creativity. For more infor-mation please call 800-986-0010 or visit www.revolutioneyewear.com.

PRODESIGN EYEWEAR introduces Iris models 5613-15, a clean look with a few feminine details. A smooth and even frame, with striking details such as the feminine drops shape on the temple and the beautiful lines in the material. In keeping with the rest of the Iris collection, these frames are very feminine, but the classic shapes take them in a more unisex direction, creating a modern and classic look. The acetate material itself has a lot of effects, when you take a closer look. The inside of the frames reveal a pearl material, mixed from different tones of pearly acetate. The lines on the frames were created by milling d o w n t o t h e second l aye r. T h i s d e l i c a t e and t ime-con- suming process was done after the frames were cut and assem-bled. The mod-els are available in three shapes with four colors each. Please cal l 800-654-6099 or visit www.prodesigndenmark.com for more information.

CHARMANT introduces new ELLE ophthalmic models for Autumn 2011. Accessorizing is quint-essential of the ELLE style. The new collection highlights several exquisite new trends, neatly applying them to an eclectic selection of alluring frame styles. Pared down looks are defined by new season fashion innovations such as vivid color blocking, while key shades of purple, blue and autumnal browns coat soft acetates and metals. Frame forms are distinctively classic and smartly adorned by beguiling ELLE logos. Upbeat optical style EL13320 (top) is pretty and refined for day and evening, whatever the occasion. A feminine frame front in milling metal flows into a plain or printed acetate temple adorned with a bewitching ELLE logo. Fresh new season color choices add the final note of polish. A curvy ELLE logo ups the style ante on bold acetate frame style EL13321 (middle), bestowing the wearer with instant stylish-ness. Featuring slightly transparent frame fronts or marble-effect inner temples, one of four chic color selections can be beautifully combined with matching high-heeled loafers or leather clutch for the ultimate in new season accessorizing. Cleverly color blocked frame style EL13322 (bottom) in the latest autumn hues features an intense frame front offset by vivaciously shaded temples. A classic black number ensures double takes with its grey marble temples. An understated ELLE logo completes this perfect autumn look. For more information please visit www.charmant-usa.com or call 800-645-2121.

Supplier NEWS (cont.)

SOUNDOFFHOW DO YOU SELL LUXURY PRODUCTS?

SUSAN AUER, BRUNNER OPTICIANS, WESTFIELD, NJ: “We’re lucky because we’re in an area where high end products sell, and we offer many designer lines that attract our customers. We also participate in special promotions such as “Girls Night Out”, which is a town-wide event that is held for one evening throughout the town. Last year 800 women attended. We’re having a designer name trunk show, offering hors d’oeuvres and discounts on our products for the event. Otherwise, we don’t discount products. Price is rarely an issue, but the styles, brand names, and our reputation draw people in.”

Block Buying Group is the only buying group providing its members with discounts and re-bates on the purchase of Oakley products. If you are already an authorized Oakley dealer, or would like information on becoming an au-thorized dealer, please call Carolyn Walsh at 800-524-1480 ext. 205.

GO GREEN!! Save Time, Pay online at

www.blockbg.com! It’s fast...it’s easy...it’s safe...it’s free!! Save paper, postage and gas for a trip to the post office. It’s simple to use…just log on www.blockbg.com and click onto “Payments Online.” If you don’t have a user name and password, contact us and we’ll help you register.

137910_BlockBuying.indd 3 10/18/11 5:16 PM

SWITCH VISION™ is proud to announce the endorsement of the H-wall Sweptback on behalf of the NTOA (National Tactical Officers Associa-tion). This prestigious accolade cements Switch as a leader in tactical performance eyewear for the respected nationwide Law Enforcement com-munity. The world’s first eyewear solution utilizing the Magnetic Interchange Lens System®, Switch product is known for its unparalleled convenience, speed and ease of use by utilizing magnets em-bedded in the lens and frame to enable users to swap lenses quickly and easily as light conditions and activities change. The H-wall Sweptback’s face-form chassis and 8-base lenses prevent light leakage while also minimizing lens fogging. Just take a look at some of the comments testers provided direct from the field: “It only took me a few seconds to snap out the current lens and snap in the new set. No struggling, no cracked lenses and no bent frames” -- California Tactical Police Officer. “Overall I was very impressed with the frame and lenses and think the product stacks up better than the average set of shooting glasses” -- Colorado Tactical Police Officer. For more information please visit www.switchvision.com or call 877-733-7948.

MARCOLIN, one of the world’s leaders in the eyewear industry and Montblanc, one of the leading international brands in the luxury segment, announce the renewal of the licensing agreement for design, production and worldwide distribution of Montblanc optical frames and sunglasses. The new license agreement is a multi-year through December 2016 and contains terms and condi-tions which are in line with Marcolin’s Fashion & Luxury Division portfolio. With this renewal Marcolin consolidates the excellent relationship with the Richemont Group, started in 2001 and further strengthens Marcolin’s position as one of the world leaders in the luxury eyewear business. Maurizio Marcolin, Style & Licensing Officer stated: “We are extremely proud to continue the partner-ship with Montblanc, an exclusive brand that combines class and tradition, refinement, quality and innovation. More importantly, this marks the extension of an already long-term relationship between our two companies seeking to capture additional opportunities for growth that exist for this highly-exclusive and iconic luxury brand.” Lutz Bethge, CEO Montblanc International stated: “With the help of our friends from Marcolin we developed Montblanc Eyewear to another success story in the brands product portfolio. We thank our partner for 10 years of passion, creativity and commitment for the brand and the business. We are pleased and proud to continue this excellent relationship also in future.” For more information please call 800-527-9265 or visit www.marcolin.com.

Supplier NEWS (cont.)

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.

CLASSIFIED AdsEquipment for Sale

Keratron Piccolo topographer. Instrument has been used less than 50 times, and is easy to use and very accurate. Orig $9,125, asking $7,750. In original box, ready to go. Merging of two offices has created duplicate instruments, anxious to liquidate. Jim 631-751-4840 or e-mail jmetz43@optonline.net.

Nidek patternless edger - Santinelli model LE-7070SX. Features easy one-cut operation for poly, high index and plastic and high gloss au-tomatic 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. Please call 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.

Ready to retire! Small complete finishing lab with current accounts located in Glen Burnie, MD. For the price of an edger you can have everything - including a large inventory of stock lenses in plastic and polycarbonate, furniture, copier, printer, computer and more! E-mail Den-nis at oceye2@gmail.com or call 410-590-2111.

Complete finishing lab - CMV edger with com-pressor; CMV diamond hand edger; polishing wheel. Plastic edge polisher; UV spectrometer; drop ball tester groover; Novamatic pattern maker; AIT blocker; Kirk heat treater; BPI tinter with auto gradient; Project-O-Marker. All in good condition. Complete. Call 561-276-2800 Florida.

Santinelli LE9000SX patternless edger, very good condition. One for $5,900, one for $4,900. Also some Briots patternless edgers. Please call Sam 845-783-6315.

Practice for SalePalm Beach County, FL optical business for sale. In the same location for 26 years. High traffic area, reasonable rent/lease, lots of frames and display racks. Owner retiring. Call 561-969-1444.

Well established optometric practice for sale in a historic 100 year old office building in Somer-ville, 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 transition. Call 908-725-2915 or e-mail to eyes@kempler.org for any additional information or questions.

71 year old high end optometry - opticianry practice for sale in Syracuse, NY with large ac-tive patient base. Excellent revenue with only 20 O.D. hours / week. Serious replies please. Ask for Rob (personal call) 315-422-6089.

OGI introduces new styles to its Seraphin men’s collection. Today’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 6 new models into their Neoclassic Collection that defines a distinct class of timeless eyewear. Care-fully 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. Seraphin appeals to the romantic hero who yearns for sophisticated luxury, precision handcrafting and comfortable price points. Featured below from top to bottom are the Sumter, the Minnetonka, and the Adams. All Seraphin eyewear comes with a leather hard case and micro-fi-ber cleaning cloth. P.O.P. materials include a Seraph-in logo p laque, counter cards and large window ban-ners. For more information please v i s i t www.og i -f rames.com o r call 888-560-1060.

TURA introduces new product groupings for the Ted Baker eyewear collection, each with their own unique theme. DeconstrucTED...Ted’s end-less passion of pushing fashion limits and setting the bar of expectations just a little bit higher. The collection focuses on unique material combina-tions and manipulations of materials. Just when you thought you knew everything there was to know about Ted, DeconstrucTED applies a little twist. EducaTED...schooled by the likes of Ted Baker. The EducaTED collection focuses on the popular trend of Geek Chic. Designs will call out to those that are trend conscious, or simply nerds at heart with easy to wear retro inspired designs and shapes. The EducaTED collection

includes Ted’s special “twisted” touches to the classics such as round P3 shapes and chunky to thin square fronts. Featured below from top to bottom are B844, B842, and B840. Please call 800-242-8872 or visit www.tura.com for more information.

CLASSIFIED AdsEmployment Opportunity

Optometrist / ophthalmologist needed for high end optical boutique in Center City, Philadel-phia. Great opportunity for young aggressive doctor. E-mail mriballs@aol.com or call Mark 215-351-9111.

Need an O.D for vacation coverage 2012 between January-April (about 20 days total). Professional, relaxed practice - 2 days/week, 6½ hour day, 1½ hour lunch, start 9-9:30, rx’s q 30 min. (8-10/day). Upscale 72 year practice in Galleria bldg. Syracuse, NY 315-422-6088.

137910_BlockBuying.indd 4 10/18/11 5:16 PM