Optician wanting to open new business

[strings]

Hello my fellow Opticians in Canada

I'm wanting to get a little advise on opening a new optical store. If I can get some input from anyone that has opened a store. Wanted to find out how a business plan is done and where to get finances.
I look forward to talking to the more experienced opticians( I have been in the optical business for over 20 years)

Thanks

[idispense]

First , what do you know about wholesale prices for lenses and frames ? 2nd do you have a location in mind and how many competitors are in that area?

[n711]

I look forward to talking to the more experienced opticians( I have been in the optical business for over 20 years)

Thanks

I would think any help would be welcome..... though it doesn't look that way. I guess I will keep all of my best ideas to myself!

[idispense]

Oregon I will listen , lets hear your ideas .

[Golfnorth]

So how much money have you saved up for your new venture?

Regards,
Golfnorth

[strings]

I have enough to cover my salary for 1.5 years, I thank you idespense for you information. I have sold optical lens for Essilor, Hoya, sold frames Allison and have managed many different optical store and optometry practices, I have done some advertising and marketing in the pass. Any helpful hints would be great no matter how small.

Thanks

[ex-optician]

Getting advice from fellow opticians who have gone through the process can be a good source of information. A good accountant can also be of assisstance in developing a business plan for financing. My best advice is to take a few small business courses at your local community college. There is just too much information to be discussed on this forum, one to one and in person is best. Best of luck in your new venture. I believe that a quality small independant optician can take care of a clients needs the best.

[n711]

I would think any help would be welcome..... though it doesn't look that way. I guess I will keep all of my best ideas to myself!

Nah, I don't want to "push" anything on you.... I will keep all my opinions to myself.

[LandLord]

Strings:

The first order of business is filling a need. Is there a real need for another new optical in your part of the world?

[chip anderson]

If you can find an "ethical" eye doctor out there that doesn't dispense and you can get along with your success is virtually assured. Without this you can hang on a while with advertising gimmicks but you better either make a lot of people happy or sell very cheap.

Chip

[uncut]

Hello my fellow Opticians in Canada

I'm wanting to get a little advise on opening a new optical store. If I can get some input from anyone that has opened a store. Wanted to find out how a business plan is done and where to get finances.
I look forward to talking to the more experienced opticians( I have been in the optical business for over 20 years)

Thanks

I commend you on your adventure in self employment. I wish you success.

Uncut's top 10 titillating tidbits of tacticals for ....you know......
1) Never regret.
2) Remain flexible in all financial respects(never deal at one institution, exclusively).
3) Exude confidence.........play one bank against the other for the "opportunity" to assist you.
4) Take a course in business admin at a local community college. At least be currently enrolled.
5) Bring donuts.
6) A round of golf doesn't hurt.
7) Bank of Mommy and Daddy can't hurt on the resume..........
7) Remember that banks have "quotas" of risk that they carrry..........find out first, before applying, if they have any money available for the part of your requirements to lend. They may not have any funds available for your adventure.
8) A referring doc's letter is helpful......especially if it glows about your skill, expertise, and required presence in the community.
9) Banks want you to succeed...it makes them look good. Show examples of financial skill, fulfillment of debt repayment, and you're good to go!
10) Never blink!