From optometry graduate to franchise owner, Daniel Tu is embracing challenges and building success.
As an optometrist, I’ve always believed in the importance of continuous growth and taking ownership of one’s future. Early in my career, I realised that working as an employee within an optometry practice had its limitations. The earning potential was capped, and there was a ceiling to how much influence I could have over the patient experience and the overall business model. That’s when I decided that the best way forward was to open my own practice.
However, moving from employee to business owner wasn’t without its challenges. One of the biggest obstacles I faced was financial capacity. Starting a business requires significant upfront investment, and finding ways to save up while navigating personal and professional expenses seemed like a daunting task. In addition to this, there was the fear of the unknown. Would the business be profitable? Would I have the knowledge and support to handle the complexities of leasing, taxes, and daily operations? It was a classic case of ‘what if?’ – what if I fail? What if I lose money?
In hindsight, these challenges were not just obstacles – they were important milestones that prepared me for success. By partnering with Zoom Optics, I found the guidance and support that helped me navigate this new landscape. Zoom Optics provided a framework that allowed me to focus on the clinical aspects of optometry while benefiting from tried-and-tested business strategies. From location selection to operations planning, their hands-on support ensured I was never left in the dark. When it came to financing, for example, John (Nguyen) – Zoom Optics’ business leader – offered strategies that allowed me to overcome hurdles and manage my financial obligations effectively.
The essential need for personalised care means that optometry will always require skilled professionals
What drew me to Zoom Optics wasn’t just the practical support the group provided; it was also its alignment with my values. Zoom Optics values independent practice, allowing me to manage my patients in the way I believe is best for their health. This freedom to practice independently, combined with the resources of a larger network, was crucial in my decision.
Now that my practice, Zoom Optics Liverpool, has opened, I’ve been able to see firsthand the benefits of combining a personal approach with the strength of a franchise. Located in bustling Westfield Liverpool, our practice serves as a one-stop shop for comprehensive eye care. We offer everything from general eye exams to specialised services, and one of the standout features of our practice is our commitment to same-day service for glasses – a convenience that many larger competitors are unable to offer.
As for the future, in the next five years, I aim to expand the business to meet the growing demand in Sydney’s southwest region. My goal is to make our practice the leading independent provider of optometry services in the area while also building a strong online presence to serve patients nationwide. While growth is important, I never lose sight of the core values that make our practice unique: providing personal, high-quality care, and ensuring patient satisfaction is at the heart of everything we do.
Running my own practice has also given me the opportunity to reflect on the broader trends in optometry. The rise in myopia and digital eye strain, especially among younger patients, highlights the increasing importance of niche services. Meanwhile, workforce changes driven by artificial intelligence and automation are affecting many industries, but optometry remains a human-centred field. The essential need for personalised care means that optometry will always require skilled professionals, and I see this as a stable and growing sector, even as other industries evolve.
For those considering opening their own optometry practice or transitioning from employee to business owner, my advice is simple: align yourself with a network that supports your vision while giving you the freedom to practise independently. The challenges of running a business are real, but with the right guidance, they become manageable stepping stones towards success. I can confidently say that partnering with Zoom Optics has made all the difference in my journey, and I’m excited about the future – not just for my business, but for the patients I serve.
Daniel Tu graduated in 2020 from the University of New South Wales. He joined Zoom Optics in 2021 and became the franchise owner of Zoom Optics Liverpool in 2023.
