A special event hosted by ProVision CEO Tony Jones and the senior leadership team has brought together the optical industry’s top suppliers for a day of strategy and planning.
The 400+ member network said it was a unique opportunity for suppliers to connect with industry leaders and identify growth opportunities, with 65 representatives from 30 suppliers gathering at ProVision’s head office for the event in March.
VMD Eyewear general manager Mr Philip Crabtree said the ProVision annual supplier events are a highlight of the industry calendar.
“They not only offer an opportunity to learn about ProVision’s achievements and future direction for the next 12 months but serve as a reminder of the tremendous support their members receive,” he said.
ProOptics owner and co-founder Ms Jacque Katsieris attended for the first time.
“This was my first supplier event and I found the content very interesting with regards to the research on practices and the buying habits of individuals. It was also great to catch up with the ProVision team, including business coaches, to talk about customers and how and where we can grow together,” she said.
ProVision chair Ms Rowena Beckenham opened proceedings, recognising the critical role of ProVision’s supply partners in the ongoing success of the independent ecosystem.
Alongside networking and strategy sessions, attendees were briefed on the latest consumer research commissioned by ProVision.
“A special presentation reported key insights into consumer sentiment, needs, and purchasing power with a focus on how these might be leveraged to drive deeper value for our members,” the company said.
“Findings highlighted the role of online research in in-store purchasing and the continued need for staff education. Nine out of 10 consumers reported a dependency on staff expertise for optical purchases.”
ProVision also presented the results of its recent member research, which was equally illuminating.
“Buying power continues to be a significant value driver for our membership, with business coach and operations support being the other top reasons for joining,” ProVision reported.
Its Supplier Partners settlement discount – which rewards members for paying on time through the ProVision centralised billing platform – was highlighted as one of the most highly used and valued ProVision services.
“ProAccounts continues to be a dominant force for member value. This has been amplified by a recent update which enabled direct integration with Optomate Touch, dramatically streamlining stock management and invoicing,” it said.
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