Today we’d like to introduce you to Scott Shaw.
Scott, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
A few years back we felt there was an unfulfilled need in optical. There were plenty of low price point options and if you wanted an exceptional, high dollar experience you could go to a boutique. In our minds that left a large middle ground and an opportunity–a phenomenal experience at a price that would make it affordable for everyone. Optical has a reputation for bait and switch advertising and nickel and diming consumers to death. At Lumen we built the experience around our guests and bells and whistles come without cost. For example, our comprehensive eye exam (just $79) includes a contact lens fitting and retinal imaging for free. All of our lenses already come with all of the coatings you want and need–you just don’t have to pay for them. We have over 1200 frames to choose from anywhere from $49 up to $799. We invested significant dollars into building our own lab in Elmhurst and we are able to turn most contact lenses and glasses within two days. Our 5 Star Yelp reviews help us know our guests they appreciate our approach. They consistently comment on how aesthetically pleasing the stores are, how friendly the staff and doctor are, how they are blown away by the technology and how we help save them money.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
As is the case with most start-ups it has not always been smooth. We have learned a lot of things that don’t work 🙂 I think we have done as much or more to generate traffic than any other optical shop has when you try so many things several of them are bound to fail. Of course we have learned some tough lessons operationally as well, but the nice thing is because we empower our team to take great care of our guests these challenges have had a minimal impact.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Lumen Optical – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
We are a full service optical shop. In addition to selling glasses, sunglasses and contact lenses we provide state of the art eye exams. Our doctors and equipment are also able to diagnose and treat many medical conditions related to eyes. More than anything we are known for providing best in class customer experience. I think we are most proud of the fact that we are providing a better way for consumers to meet their eye/eye wear needs and that we are making a positive impact to our guest’s lives. What sets up apart: guest experience, all of the items/services that we include, selection, pricing, simplicity, quick turnaround on glasses/contacts.
So, what’s next? Any big plans?
We want to grow our four stores and look for additional growth opportunities in the area.
Pricing:
- $79 comprehensive eye exam (includes contact lens fitting and retinal imaging $100-$200 value)
- $79 polycarbonate lenses with anti-reflective coating
Contact Info:
- Website: lumenoptical.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lumenoptical/
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/lumen-optical-chicago?osq=lumen+optical
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