WRENTHAM, Mass.--Dave “Ike” Eichelberger, a 30-year industry veteran, has launched North American Vision Associates, a totally integrated practice management company focused on growing the independents’ optical business through employee training, proper partnering with vendors, and improved business acumen.

“Unlike consulting companies, we are hands on working with the independent to produce and execute a yearly business plan. We focus on better business acumen, offering higher end differentiated products, multiple pair sales, and proper partnering with vendors,” said Eichelberger.

He also added that by truly partnering with a select group of vendors, and working closely with the vendor/partner relationship, a more thorough knowledge of the best products for vision will be accomplished.

“Helping with vendor relationships, marketing, advertising, positioning of the business, and most important helping to teach the dispensers how to offer the best technology and products for vision. This results in better profit for the business owner, a better work environment for the employees and the best eyewear experience for the patients.

For the independent to compete, remain strong and to even survive against not only the big players but even their own over competitive marketplace they will need some “professional” help, according to Eichelberger.

NAVA is unique in that it takes a hands-on approach through a minimum of 15 on-site visits per year supplemented by vendor visits that are controlled by NAVA, Eichelberger said. “By reviewing the clients business plan with the selected vendors there is buy in form all parties.”

Eichelberger started in the industry with Univis a frame and lens manufacturer and has also worked for companies such as Essilor and Hoya North America. North American Vision Associates will be working with a limited number of clients during the early stages focusing their efforts in the Northeast, but expansion to other areas is planned in the future. For more information call: (508) 384-5733 or e-mail deichelberger@navaus.com. ■