Global Optics, an optical lens distributor based in Wisconsin, is now opening its doors to associate member labs to benefit from Global’s logistics expertise, including those in Canada.

The company, now co-owned by eight non-aligned independent wholesale laboratories, was originally formed in 1971 to consolidate the purchasing power with multi-national lens suppliers. Global’s mission has been steadfast in its support of independent wholesale labs even through the challenges of its various owners being acquired by major multi-national lens companies including Essilor and Hoya.

While the original mission was to supply their owner-members, a new “Associate Member” level allows acquired labs to continue to purchase lenses from the company.

In the past, when a lab member was acquired by a lens manufacturer, they were no longer able to purchase from Global, and were required to divest their interests.

Barbara Vitchus, President of Global Optics, told VuePoint that Global’s investment in logistics systems, including a fully computerized 34,000 sq. ft. state-of-the art distribution center and its 1million piece lens inventory of over 150,000 individual products, will ensure its competitive advantage regardless of ongoing consolidation within the industry.

Global is also expanding its product offering through distribution agreements with overseas lens companies including Thai Optical Group, which supply Tribid lenses, a line of safety glasses and, soon to come, lab processing materials.

All though the company is not actively pursuing a Canadian strategy, Vitchus indicated, “we’ve had Canadian members before, and there’s no reason why we wouldn’t do that again.” Currently GlobalOptics processes over 30,000 lenses per day to over 200 locations.