Optical salon aims to ease price pain
THE increase in technology use with people spending more and more time on computer screens, iPhones and iPads has led to the dramatic prevalence of uncomfortable eye-related symptoms such as eyestrain, dry eyes, headache, fatigue, difficulty focusing and blurred vision.
Now, more than ever, it has become vital for people to have regular optometry checks to ensure that the eyes remain in good health and are working at an optimal level.
As the cost of private health cover continues to rise, so too does all other associated costs with health.
One way that Highton’s Eyegallery is hoping to ease that financial burden to individuals and families is through establishing its own cost-saving customer reward program.
Owner Mandy Lovett has more than 20 years’ experience as an optical stylist and has seen the increased need for greater eye care and hopes the program can create less out of pocket costs to her customers.
“We’ve decided to do something a bit different and create our own system we have called the Optical Health Fund,” Ms Lovett said.
“Plenty of people already have private health cover and this is something on top of that, but is also open for people who don’t already have health cover.
“It’s something a bit like a loyalty fund where people are able to claim $100 off their glasses after a visit.”
Ms Lovett’s expertise as an optical stylist led her to create the vibrant optical salon space where she interacts closely with the community and offers her special brand of caring customer service.
It was through her close customer relationships that she was able to gain a greater understanding of her clients’ needs and, in turn, established the fund.
Eyegallery’s program is free for anyone to join, both for existing and new customers. It is for those who do have private health insurance as well as those who do not.
The discount will not apply to first-time visits, but is claimable on secondary visits and beyond.
In addition to getting her customers the greatest savings and deals possible, Ms Lovett is also passionate about helping them to find the perfect frame to enhance their own personal style. The salon stocks the latest in well-known brands including Tag Heuer, Nina Ricci, Givenchy, Guess, Calvin Klein, Sass & Bide, Charlie Brown and Paul Taylor and more.
Eye testing by a professional Geelong optometrist is available by appointment and can be bulk billed.
Ms Lovett said that people need to understand how important it is to invest in eye health, particularly in today’s technology-driven culture.
“Studies show on average people are spending six hours plus a day on screens,” Ms Lovett said.
“We are seeing such a big increase in people with eyestrain problems.
“People’s vision is changing because they are spending a lot more time looking close up instead of at a distance.
“If anyone is ever unsure my advice would be to go and see an optometrist immediately.”