A franchise optometry model, borne in Western Australia (WA) 11 years ago is set to roll out nationwide.
Options Optometrists Kodak Lens currently comprises two corporate optometry practices and six franchises located in super regional shopping centres across WA.
Lance Schaffer
The model was originally established in South Africa in 2006 by Lance and Natalie Schaffer, and was then launched in Australia in late 2006.
Mr Schaffer says he developed the model to deliver “the correct blend of independence and structure to its franchisees to enable them to become successful business owners in their own right.
“We’re very focussed on people – on staff and patients – with strong training programs, an emphasis on educating as opposed to selling to patients, and designated 30 minute appointments means quality time with he optometrist.”
Having tested and refined the model in South Africa and then WA, he hopes to attract business people and optometrists who are eager to open greenfield practices around the country or convert to the Options Optometrists banner.
Favourable Financial Model
The model enables a greenfields franchise to be opened under sole ownership or in partnership. The all-inclusive turnkey cost includes stock and consumables as well as all the necessary equipment (including visual field analyser and retinal camera), although optometrists are welcome to add or upgrade equipment to suit their needs.
Options Optometrists assists with lease negotiation but leaves lease ownership in the hands of the franchisee and any landlord contribution negotiated in the lease is given back to the business owner, which can be as much as $100,000. To support the start-up, a guaranteed income of $1,000 per week, regardless of turnover, is paid to the business owner for the first 12 months of operation. Every new staff member receives three weeks training and there is significant support for administration etc.
“Having opened, run, owned and managed optical stores on two continents for a combined 40 years, our management team is well positioned to offer strong ongoing support and guidance to help ensure our franchisees’ long term success,” Mr Schaffer said.
As well as stocking major brands, Options Optometrists practices have access to 600 unique optical frames and 200 unique sun frames. Most importantly, Mr Schaffer says since 2021, Options Optometrists has held an exclusive retail brand licence to market and sell Kodak Lenses throughout Australia. As one of the world’s top 50 most recognised brands, he believes this provides instant credibility and awareness to new optometry practices. “Kodak lenses are backed and manufactured by Essilor, ensuring substance, longevity, strong supply chains and logistics as well as ensuring that only the best lens quality and technology will be offered to the consumer,” he explained.
“Our fee structure we’ve set compares favourably in the market – our philosophy is to leave as much money as possible with the franchisee – we want them to do well, and we want them to be happy.
Evidence of Success
Mr Schaffer is looking for both business people and optometrists to enter into franchise agreements.
“We’ve really tried to listen to what business owners want and give it to them. We’ve managed to differentiate ourselves by giving control back to the owner – they’re free to make decisions and control their revenue. As evidence of the success of our model, all of the practices that have come to the end of their initial five year franchise agreement have renewed.”
He concluded, “Now we are really looking forward to bring this model to optometrists around Australia.”
To find out more or to have a confidential discussion, contact information@optionsoptometrists.com.au or visit optionsoptometrists.com.au/kodak.
