In a perfect world...

As an independent, have you ever considered investing into a lab co-operative with shared ownership?

You can be based anywhere in Canada and is open to both Optometrists and Opticians.

As a shared owner, you would receive full access to most major lens brands and coatings, full lab services, plus private labeled products at a highly discounted rate, with profits distributed back to its owners (invested members) at year end based on usage commitment.

Plus, as a member of the board, you get a say and make your own decisions via a voting process.

This is a much better business model than a buying group where they have limited offerings, consume your additional vendor discounts as their service charge and make the decisions for you.

Any thoughts and opinions?