Eyewear and contact lenses are vital to the optometry field. Keeping this in mind, doctors should be aware of the purchase costs of these goods to boost their revenue. Frame reps make commissions on sales, so they’re incentivized to sell as much as possible, but are they offering products that will result in the best profits for eye doctors? To answer this question, eye doctors in Tulsa, OK, and nationwide must explore how to get discounts on frames and discontinued lines.
Typically, the lead optician or manager schedules to meet with the reps to discuss inventory and frames, but it is also important for doctors to learn their patient demographics. Keeping up with patients’ fashion and practical needs to ensure appropriate frame inventory drives frame purchases. The following section will explore how to get discounts on eyewear.
Less is more
Focusing on working with fewer vendors is crucial. Instead of shopping around, doctors should think about concentrating their buying power on fewer vendors. Spending a lot in one order enables more negotiation power for larger discounts.
Having a large account with a vendor can provide more bargaining power, including negotiating important issues, like payment terms. Doctors often find that successful mediators can build relationships with regional frame managers to get the best deals. Some vendors offer consignment options, which are a great way to build inventory without tying up funds.
Sales rep connections
Buying in bulk is also important. Eye doctors in Tulsa, OK, and beyond, should monitor the annual Eyewear Trade Show and possibly schedule an appointment with the local frame rep to place a bulk order. Ordering large quantities is an ideal time to ask for a special discount.
Doctors shouldn’t forget small independent eyewear manufacturers, either. Typically, they will offer high-quality designs that other practices don’t have—and at a reduced cost. Purchasing frames that are discontinued or close-out can also present a decent deal.
When meeting with a sales rep to update stock inventory, order the newest/latest first and, at the end of the meeting, don’t hesitate to inquire about non-current or discontinued items to get better prices.
Advantages of practice alliances and buying groups
Practice alliances and buying groups help smaller practices pool together resources and knowledge to gain leverage in pricing and deals. This provides some leveling of the playing field between large companies and independent ones to keep private practices thriving and able to provide exceptional patient care.
Buying groups and alliances offer significant discounts on frames and lenses purchased by the group members. This enables the group to be more competitive in their product pricing. The savings can be passed along to customers or put into practice by enhancing staff salaries or adding new technology.
Another group advantage is direct access to industry leaders and professionals through networking, meetings, and seminars. These can provide valuable opportunities to learn management and new technologies from the best in the industry.
For these tips and more, please feel free to contact Vision Care Direct of Oklahoma and Nationwide.
