“Adapting rapidly and effectively to the evolving optical world, Silmo Istanbul keeps its finger on the pulse of the Turkish and regional markets.”

Let’s begin by getting to know you. Could you tell us about yourself and share the story of how you entered the optical industry?
Fatih Aslan: Our journey, which first started in 1996 in a watch and optical store, brought us to today with the participation of my brother in 2010. Of course, whole process was not easy. Over time, we faced both industry-specific and economic challenges; however, we stayed true to our goals, made the right investments at the right time, and took steady steps forward. For many years, I worked in the workshop — the heart of the business — and later in sales and supply. By identifying and improving the industry’s shortcomings, I actually laid the groundwork for the corporate structure we have today. I trained my brother to take part in the infrastructure of the corporate retail sector in 2006, and after he completed his military service, I brought him into our business in 2010.

Yusuf Aslan: As my brother mentioned, under his guidance I gained four years of experience starting in 2006 before completing my military service. I began working with my brother, the Founder of Ceylan Optik in Söke, Aydın, in 2010. In our business, the division of work is split into two parts. I currently serve as the operator of our stores. I am responsible for product distribution to stores, post-sales communication, departments, and infrastructure.

Can we say that with your first store in Söke district in 2008, the foundations of Galaxy Optik were laid? How was the process of opening your first store?
Absolutely. Even when opening Ceylan Optik, I shared the same vision regarding the services we would provide. I have always been in favor of corporateness, because being corporate reflects the importance and respect we show to our customers. After all, we have been serving in this sector for many years now. For this reason, we have never adopted a working system that lacks planning, order, transparency, or trust. Conducting our work with seriousness and precision is a reflection of the respect we have for both ourselves and our customers.

Can you tell us about the target audience, concept, and interior design of your new mall store?
With Galaxy Optik, our goal was to create a boutique store in our precious city, Aydın that features the top segment of brands. We wanted high-end products and brands to meet our customers in a visually aesthetic environment. Through our boutique retail concept, we enable our target audience to access world-famous brands easily and trustfully. We designed the store with great care and an elegant aesthetic approach that would instantly capture our customers’ curiosity. We are happy to receive positive feedback and to offer our customers high-quality service.

Do you only feature high-end products in your stores? Which optical and sunglasses brands do you sell the most?
To be honest, yes, we mostly prefer to sell top-segment products. We are selective in terms of brands, and we continue our path by offering up-to-date and trendsetting models. Many premium brands are easily accessible in our stores. For us, it has always been a priority to maintain the right balance between health and fashion. We aim to offer our customers both sophistication and eye health together.

What methods do you use to respond to changing customer expectations in recent years?
People no longer decide on the eyewear they will buy only by seeing them in optical stores. Especially among younger generations who use digital channels more actively, awareness and expectations about brands have evolved and become more informed. Meanwhile, social media has become a stronger promotional tool than ever before. Therefore, as Galaxy Optik, we identify our target audience primarily through social media and carry out our promotional and advertising activities accordingly. By speaking the same language as our customers, we take steps that align with their expectations and move forward together.

What are your thoughts on the contributions of Silmo Istanbul Optical Fair to the optical industry?
As someone who has attended leading international optical fairs and industry events for years, it is very important for me to learn about innovations and technological developments and to reflect them in our business through discussions with my colleagues. For this reason, visiting the Silmo İstanbul Optical Fair every year is always an exciting experience. Silmo Istanbul manages to surprise us in a good way each year with its innovations and fresh perspectives. Adapting rapidly and effectively to the evolving optical world, Silmo Istanbul keeps its finger on the pulse of the Turkish and regional markets. I believe Silmo Istanbul plays a crucial role in shaping the future of the optical industry.

Thank you for this valuable interview. Finally, could you share your thoughts about 4 your eyes Optical Magazine?
I can say that I haven’t missed a single issue of 4 your eyes for many years. With your carefully curated, rich content, you provide every kind of information, news, innovation, trend, and technology that optical professionals need. By presenting detailed information about brands, companies, and their innovative steps, you actually open a window of opportunity for all optical professionals. We wish continued success to your entire team.

November 2025

“The educational sessions and workshops within Silmo Istanbul play a critical role in enhancing the knowledge and expertise of industry professionals.”

Hello Mr. Doğanay, could you let us get to know you a little better? How did you enter the optical industry?
Hello, I am Mehmet Akif Doğanay. I was born in Istanbul in 1984. In 1997, at a relatively young age, I began working at Dural Optik in Sirkeci under my mentor and also my uncle, Alaaddin Karabulun. By working in different areas of the optical sector, I gained a broad perspective on the industry. I experienced every aspect of the field, from watch and eyewear production to pharmacy-based optical services, and from Sirkeci’s small-scale retail culture to shopping mall stores. I also had the opportunity to closely observe the traditional “licensed optician” system that existed in Turkey before foreign investment entered the retail sector, as well as the operations of corporate international firms that later entered the market. These experiences gave me the chance to identify gaps in the sector and develop innovative solutions to address them. With this purpose, I embraced adding value to our industry as a personal mission.

You founded Everest Optik in 2023. How did you decide to open your store, and what was your main motivation?
In our industry, the ultimate goal for everyone who completes their apprenticeship and journeyman period is to open a store and become the owner of their own business. However, I realized that in a globalized world, the mindset of “better a small business of your own than nothing” is no longer sufficient. I observed that those who do not grow are forced to shrink, and small businesses cannot compete alone with large companies. The same situation applied to the watch market. Therefore, as Doğanay Group, we applied the franchise model, which we successfully implemented in the watch sector, to the eyewear industry. We built upon our experience in the watch industry to establish a new structure in the optical sector. The choice was simple: grow or fade away. We chose to grow.

Could you share with our readers the process behind the name and brand identity of Everest Optik?
The name Everest Optik and our brand identity were carefully chosen to best reflect our goals and vision. Everest represents the peak we aim to reach in the optical sector. The name was created not only as a brand but also as a symbol of our commitment to excellence, innovation, and trust. Everest Optik is positioned as a representation of both quality and an innovative approach in the eyewear industry. Our brand aims to be recognized and trusted not only in Turkey but also internationally. The name Everest encompasses clarity and excellence in the vision experience as well as our constant desire to reach higher. We aim to meet and excel at the peak together with those who join us.

Do your stores carry products across all segments? What are the most preferred products and brands among your customers?
We offer a wide range of products in our stores to meet the needs and expectations of our customers. Prominent brands include both domestic and internationally recognized names. Our products balance quality, style, and affordability, appealing to all ages and tastes. Among our most popular products are frames that provide comfort for daily use as well as sunglasses. Additionally, eyeglass frames noted for their ergonomic design and lightweight feel are also highly favored. With our diverse product and brand portfolio, we strive to provide solutions that satisfy every customer. We deliver our service not in a mass-produced manner but with a tailored, almost bespoke approach. This goes beyond meeting expectations, offering a service that directly connects with customers and prioritizes their satisfaction.

You are an experienced figure in the optical sector. Could you share your thoughts on the changes and transformations in the industry?
First and foremost, technological advances have been at the heart of the transformation. Innovations such as customized eyewear design, digital measurement devices, and high-quality lens production have brought great dynamism to the sector. These technological advances have enabled us to offer solutions that enhance customer satisfaction. Customers today are not only seeking solutions to vision problems but are also looking for aesthetics, comfort, and quality. This has pushed the industry to offer fashionable and innovative designs. The entry of international brands has encouraged local companies to become more innovative and customer-focused. The increase in online sales channels has greatly changed accessibility to sunglasses. Within the framework of European Union compliance laws, standards such as the requirement for store managers, minimum store area, and restrictions on combining with other business types have also played a critical role in the transformation. While these standards bring quality and discipline to the sector, allowing foreign investment has left small businesses exposed against large capital. Adapting to all these changes and maintaining a customer-focused service approach to continue adding value to the industry has been both a responsibility and an opportunity for us.

Do you have any advice for newcomers to the sector or those who want to start their own business?
Those who are entering the sector or want to open a new store should first thoroughly assess their own situation. If it is not possible to create a sustainable competitive environment on their own in their chosen location, it may be best to join an established network and become part of a larger structure. We are always ready to provide support in this regard. We are happy to guide those who contact us and help them take the right steps. With this spirit of solidarity, we work to grow and strengthen our sector.

Could you share your thoughts on the upcoming 12th Silmo Istanbul Optical Fair in November and its contributions to the sector?
The Silmo Istanbul Optical Fair brings optical professionals together to share knowledge, establish collaborations, and explore new markets. Additionally, the educational sessions and workshops within Silmo Istanbul play a critical role in increasing sector knowledge. Silmo Istanbul has become an important meeting point not only for Turkey but also for neighboring countries. This contributes to positioning Türkiye as a regional leader in the optical industry. Silmo Istanbul creates new business opportunities for both manufacturers and retailers while leading the way in raising industry standards.

Thank you for this valuable interview. Lastly, what are your thoughts on our magazine, 4 your eyes?
Thank you for giving me the opportunity for this interview. 4 your eyes is a highly valuable platform that effectively conveys industry developments and innovations. While increasing knowledge sharing, it also contributes to the development of the sector. Your content, offering different perspectives, serves as an important resource for everyone interested in the optical industry. I wish you continued success.

October 2025

“As someone who has been attending Silmo Istanbul for many years, it won’t surprise me at all to see the 12th edition once again organized with professionalism and an exceptional atmosphere.”

Hello Mr. Calay. Could you briefly introduce yourself and tell us how your career in the optical industry started?
Hello, I’m Ozan Calay. I was born in Istanbul in 1998. I took my first step into the profession in 2015, when I left high school and began working at an optical store. My interest in the optical field started to take shape during those early days of apprenticeship and journeyman training. Until 2021, I worked at an optical store that had become a well-established brand in the sector. During that time, I also resumed my education, which I had previously left unfinished. In 2021, I left my job to complete my mandatory military service, and right after returning, I began working on opening my own store. In April 2022, I founded my brand, Lacivert Optik & Lens®, and opened my first store in Istanbul that June. For over three years now, I have been proudly working under the Lacivert Optik & Lens® name.

As a young entrepreneur in the optical sector, what inspired the birth of Lacivert Optik, and what are your core goals?
The motivation behind establishing Lacivert Optik & Lens® came from a deep desire to serve the industry with integrity and excellence. My primary goal is to become a trustworthy and accessible local optical brand recognized throughout Istanbul. To reach this goal, we treat customer trust and satisfaction as our guiding principles, and we consistently aim to raise our standards of service. With a mindset that embraces growth, expansion and innovation, I plan to open more stores in convenient, high-accessibility locations across Istanbul. However, I believe in growing in a controlled and thoughtful way, with a clear focus on maintaining high quality standards. Each day, we work with the same level of dedication and motivation, always prioritizing 100% customer satisfaction.

How does offering a wide product variety impact your sales and customer satisfaction?
We strongly believe in the importance of offering products across all segments, and at Lacivert Optik, we put great care into maintaining this variety. To provide our customers with a diverse selection, we make sure to stock products with different features and price points. This wide assortment gives customers greater flexibility in choosing the right eyewear for their needs, and we see firsthand how it contributes to both satisfaction and convenience.

Could you tell us about your after-sales services? What approach do you take to build customer loyalty?
We believe that maintaining high service quality is just as important after the sale as it is during. That’s why we place extra care on after-sales service. Helping customers with their post-purchase needs in a fast and hassle-free way has greatly contributed to building loyalty. We’re happy to offer assistance with repairs, adjustments, replacements, maintenance, and spare parts—whatever is needed. Keeping our service standards high at every step ensures that our customers leave happy, and their satisfaction is what fuels our daily commitment to the job.

Do you follow international optical fairs and industry trends?
I don’t believe it’s possible to grow or move forward without staying up to date on industry trends. That’s why I think international optical fairs and ophthalmology events play a critical role in professional development. I also really appreciate how the digital expansion of trade shows has made participation much more accessible. For example, even if I can’t attend an eyewear fair in Italy in person, I can follow it closely through online updates and livestreams. The same goes for ophthalmology events held in Europe and Asia—I can stay informed through digital articles and visual presentations.

What are your thoughts on the growth and contribution of Silmo Istanbul Optical Fair, which will be held for the 12th time this November?
As someone who has been attending Silmo Istanbul Optical Fair for many years, it won’t surprise me at all to see the 12th edition once again organized with professionalism and an exceptional atmosphere. As with every year, attendance was high at 11th edition. I believe Silmo Istanbul Optical Fair is extremely valuable for our industry and continues to grow into a more comprehensive event each year. Being under the same roof with my colleagues and seeing their shared interest and support for Silmo Istanbul is something I deeply appreciate. I look forward to reconnecting with many local and international colleagues at the next Silmo Istanbul.

Thank you for this wonderful interview. Lastly, could you share your thoughts about our magazine, 4 your eyes?
Thank you for featuring Lacivert Optik in your magazine. 4 your eyes offers thorough and thoughtful coverage of everything from sector news and innovations to trends, new brands and eyewear design. I find the digital format especially valuable, as it allows for easy access from anywhere in the world. My heartfelt thanks go out to everyone involved in creating the magazine. Wishing you continued success and many exciting issues to come.

September 2025

“Silmo Istanbul offers us much more than a wide product selection. It allows us to explore new technologies, production trends, and design philosophies firsthand. I don’t see it as a showcase. I see it as a school.”

Hello Ms. Havvanur. Could you briefly introduce yourself and share how your professional journey began?
Hello, I’m Havvanur Çoban. I’m 26 years old. Although I’m originally from Ankara, I was born and raised in Bolu. My professional journey began during my final year of high school, thanks to my mother’s encouragement. A close family friend had just opened an optical store, and I started working alongside him. During that period, I had my first experiences in the optical retail world. I was deeply influenced by everything I learned about enhancing visual comfort, the technical and aesthetic aspects of eyewear, and the warm, personal connections built with customers. Over time, I came to realize that optical retailing is not just about technical knowledge. It is also a profession that requires empathy and trust.

Could you tell us about the founding of Bal Optik? What motivated you to open your own store?
The founding of Bal Optik wasn’t just the start of a business for me. It was the realization of a dream. Three key factors led me to choose this profession. First, my mother, who has always been by my side and supported me wholeheartedly. Her love and trust gave me the courage to take this step. Second, having a close friend in this field helped me understand from a young age how special and human-centered this profession is. And third, I’ve had the dream of running my own business since childhood. The idea of creating something with my own values and efforts has always inspired me. When I opened Bal Optik, my goal wasn’t simply to launch a store. I wanted to create a space where people felt heard, supported, and cared for in terms of eye health. Realizing this dream in a warm and friendly neighborhood like Kılıçarslan made it even more meaningful. Here, every customer is also a neighbor, someone familiar. This sense of connection makes our work unique and keeps my excitement alive every day.

Now that you’ve completed your fifth year as an optical retailer, what are your upcoming plans and goals?
Reaching our fifth year is both a proud achievement and a moment that deepens our sense of responsibility. With the experience we’ve gained, we’re now thinking beyond daily operations and focusing on strategic steps for the future. One of my main goals is to reach more people with Bal Optik. To do this, I plan to strengthen our digital presence. Through online appointments, product showcases, and informative content, I want to offer guidance and connection via social media and our website. I also aim to expand our product range with new collections and give more space to youth-focused designs. One goal I’m especially excited about is launching my own eyewear brand. The collection will be called “Honey” and will focus on standing out in both style and quality. I plan to offer it not only in my store but also online and in different cities in the future. In the long term, I dream of opening new locations. But throughout this process, my priority is to protect the sincerity, trust, and quality we’ve built. I want to grow without losing who we are. By keeping our customers’ needs and expectations at the center, we’ll continue moving forward with purpose.

How important is it to offer products in different price segments? How does this impact your sales?
Offering a wide range of products at different price points is essential for us. Every customer has different needs, expectations, and budgets. You can’t expect a student and a retiree, or a corporate employee and a homemaker, to choose the same product. That’s why we carry a broad selection, from affordable to premium. This approach increases customer satisfaction and positively reflects on our sales. When someone finds something that fits them, they leave happy. That strengthens their loyalty. It also helps prevent people from seeing us as a store that only sells either high-end or budget items. Our aim is to cater to all budgets while maintaining the same standard of quality and trust in every product. At Bal Optik, prices may vary, but the customer experience and service quality always stay the same.

As a young entrepreneur, how do you see the Turkish optical industry? What do you think could support its growth?
The optical sector in Turkey has seen great progress in recent years. As consumer awareness grows, so do expectations for quality and service. This has helped the industry become more professional and more focused on customer needs. At the same time, technology, personalized solutions, and digital tools have opened up new possibilities. Still, there’s room for improvement. I believe we need to strengthen vocational training, clarify standards, and support domestic production. I also think optical stores should be seen not just as sales points but as centers for eye health consultation. Growth in this industry depends on working together, sharing knowledge, and pushing our vision forward as a collective.

Did you attend the 11th edition of Silmo Istanbul Optical Fair? How do you view its contributions to the industry?
Yes, I visited the 11th Silmo Istanbul Optical Fair last November. As in previous years, it was a valuable event that brought together professionals and offered the chance to explore new ideas and innovations. Both local and international brands were present, and we were able to take the pulse of the optical world. What I appreciate most about Silmo Istanbul is that it offers more than product variety. It’s a place where you can explore new technologies, production trends, and design philosophies firsthand. For retailers like us, these fairs are key to both sourcing and vision development. This year, I also found inspiring ideas for my own brand, Honey. Observing design trends, material choices, and consumer expectations up close gave me a clearer direction. In short, I see Silmo Istanbul not just as a trade show but as a school that supports industry growth.

Thank you for this insightful interview. Lastly, is there anything you’d like to say about 4 your eyes?
Thank you. I’m truly happy to have had this opportunity to share my journey and my passion for this profession. I’ve been following 4 your eyes for a long time and really appreciate the value it brings to the industry. Its forward-looking approach and the inspiration it provides to retailers like me are incredibly meaningful. With every issue, we gain a new perspective on our profession. It keeps us informed, highlights innovations, and gives a voice to local businesses like mine. I’m proud to be featured in such a publication. Many thanks to the entire team. I hope we’ll meet again in future editions filled with great content.

August 2025

We endorse the contribution of the Silmo Istanbul Optical Fair to our industry’s growth, transformation, and its powerful impact on forging new business connections.

Hello Fatma, would you introduce yourself for our readers and share how you came to the optical industry?
Hello. I was born in Trabzon in 1964. I’m new to the optical field, but I’ve been in healthcare for many years-I’m a retired nurse with 35 years of service in public health. After retiring, I moved to İzmir. My daughter has been a pharmacist for many years and when she decided to relocate her pharmacy to Çiğli, she noticed an empty space next door. I actually first encountered the industry back in 2014, when my son was choosing his university-he studied opticianry, so I was already familiar with the field. I thought: why not? With my daughter’s support nearby and believing I could stay active despite being retired, I decided to open the store. With the help of our Responsible Manager and optician, Nermin Akman, we’re doing great work and really enjoying it.

Could you share the opening story of Kübra Karaca Optik? How did you choose the store’s name?
I can say that the number of private hospitals in Izmir is relatively low compared to other big cities, so I thought that the new hospital to be opened might have potential. We rented the shop in April last year. However, it took us until November 2024 to open, both for decoration works and licensing procedures. In fact, I can say that we are a blossoming business that has been in operation for about six months. When choosing the brand name, I preferred to use my daughter’s name. The main reason for this was that she has been a pharmacy for many years, serving the people in the neighborhood with a smiling face and gaining their trust. I gave my daughter’s name because I thought it would provide convenience when promoting our store.

What sets Kübra Karaca Optik apart from other optical stores in Çiğli?
Our optical store has brought a breath of fresh air to our region with its design and location. Our carefully selected décor, our selection of optical and sunglasses from trendy brands, our warm and friendly approach have received positive reactions from our environment. Our explanatory narrative and sincere information during and after sales made it easier for us to gain the trust of our customers despite being a new store.

What are your top priorities for customer satisfaction? Could you tell us about your after-sales services?
We increase customer satisfaction by offering gifts, discounts and advantages for our customers. Our events such as campaigns on special occasions, new product launches and seasonal discounts attract great interest. In these events, we aim to keep our customer satisfaction at the highest level with opportunities such as gift vouchers and discount coupons. In case of any problems with our products, we offer spare parts support, as well as repair and maintenance services for all kinds of glasses, even if they are not purchased from our store.

How do you view the development and value that Silmo Istanbul Optical Fair brought to the industry?
First of all, we would like to state that Silmo Istanbul Optical Fair had a very important place in the establishment phase of our store. Thanks to Silmo Istanbul, we had the opportunity to examine many products on site during the process of opening our store. In particular, we procured the devices and tools we use in our workshop from Silmo Istanbul. The opportunity to compare and examine all the features of all products at the same time made a great contribution to drawing our sectoral path. Moreover, just by issuing our entrance card to Silmo Istanbul Optical Fair online, our business also won a gift in the draws of the fair. We find the thoughtfulness of gifts that increase our motivation and enthusiasm valuable and thank you on behalf of our store. Beyond that, we think that Silmo Istanbul Optical Fair has a very important place for the growth and development of our sector. The fair brings together many brands and professionals in their fields and offers us the latest trends and technology. It provides environments such as new product discoveries, new technologies and information sharing. We support the contribution of Silmo Istanbul Optical Fair to the growth and transformation of our industry and its strong impact on establishing new business connections.

Thank you for this valuable interview. Finally, may we ask your views on 4 your eyes?
In today’s world of technology, digital publishing reaches much wider audiences and offers easy access. By expanding innovative content and technologies, these experiences can become richer and more varied. We thank you for providing this interview opportunity and wish success to your entire team.

July 2025

Silmo Istanbul Optical Fair offers industry professionals the chance to connect, draw inspiration from innovations on display, and seize valuable collaboration opportunities.

Hello Mr. Hikmet. Could you introduce yourself to our readers and share how you got started in the optical industry?
Hello! I’m Hikmet İnci, born in Istanbul in 1983. I graduated from the Business Administration Department at Eskişehir University. I was introduced to the optical industry at a very young age thanks to my father, Hasan İnci, who was a pioneer in this field. In a way, you could say I was born into the profession. I also completed my opticianry education at Muğla University.

İnci Optik is a well-established store with over 40 years of history. How would you describe founder Hasan İnci’s approach to the industry and retail? How do you carry this legacy forward today?
My father’s approach to the optical industry was built on customer satisfaction and high-quality service. These are valuable principles not just for optical retailers, but for all retailers in general. Thanks to him, I learned the true importance of putting these ideals into practice. For him, it was never just about making a sale. He believed that truly satisfying customers meant helping them find products that allowed them to express their style, accessorize, and feel fashionable. This required understanding their needs and building strong, sincere relationships. I’d say this approach is the most important legacy he passed on to me.

What qualities do you look for when selecting employees? Does the master-apprentice relationship still exist in your store’s culture?
The master-apprentice relationship is invaluable in many professions, and I’d say it’s absolutely essential in ours. We’ve had many interns and trainees grow alongside us. Honestly, I prefer to approach my employees as friends, within a framework of mutual respect, rather than from a traditional boss-employee dynamic. And I expect the same from them. I believe in fostering a supportive, collaborative environment where we help each other. That’s why I choose employees who align with these values—people who are eager to learn, willing to grow, and easy to communicate with.

Which eyewear and lens brands are the top sellers at İnci Optik?
At İnci Optik, products from the EssilorLuxottica Group stand out among our top-selling eyewear brands. Ray-Ban, Vogue, Prada, and Versace are particularly popular with our customers. When it comes to lenses, Hoya and Essilor are leading choices thanks to their quality and customer satisfaction. The personalized solutions these lens brands offer make it easier for us to meet our customers’ specific needs.

Do you think industry training programs and company briefings are sufficient? What are your suggestions for improving awareness and development?
I don’t think the current level of industry training programs is sufficient. I believe we need more meetings and events, and that information about innovations and developments should be shared with us more effectively. In previous years, I participated in seminars organized by companies like Essilor and Zeiss. I think such seminars should be held regularly and more frequently. These programs would be highly beneficial not just for us, but also for newcomers to the industry.

Could you share your thoughts on the Silmo Istanbul Optical Fair and its contributions to the industry?
Silmo Istanbul Optical Fair holds a very important place in our industry. It provides an environment where all innovations and developments come together, allowing us optical store owners to experience them firsthand. The fair also offers opportunities to meet other professionals, draw inspiration from the brands, collections, technologies, and trends on display, and explore new collaborations.

Thank you for this valuable interview. Lastly, what are your thoughts on our magazine, 4 your eyes?
Thank you for featuring us in your magazine. I truly believe 4 your eyes is a valuable publication with its high-quality, up-to-date content that contributes to the industry. Thanks to your magazine, we can stay informed about developments, innovations, and different perspectives in the sector. It also helps us connect with our colleagues and find inspiration. I’m grateful for your work and wish you continued success.

June 2025

While Silmo Istanbul significantly contributes to the global recognition of the Turkish optical industry, it also facilitates the establishment of business connections.

Hello Mr. Burak. Could you briefly introduce yourself to our readers and share how you were first introduced to the optical industry?
I was introduced to the optical sector thanks to my father. Öztürk Optik, the first optical store in Bakırköy, was founded by my father in 1968. I started working in the eyewear business by spending my school holidays with him. Having started at a young age, I decided to continue my father’s profession by opening my own store in 2021.

You’ve been in the industry for quite a long time. What led you to open B&B Optik? Are you planning to expand with new branches?
I received a lot of support and positive feedback from my surroundings about opening a store. People told me I was born for this job and that it suited me perfectly. Frankly, I embraced this idea myself and took my first entrepreneurial step in the industry by founding B&B Optik. Even before opening the store, my initial goals included branching out. I still feel the same and believe I will achieve this in the future. As you know, the pandemic entered our lives in 2020. Despite the challenges of that period, I decided to open the store within a year. I was fully aware of the risks involved in starting a business during such an economically turbulent time. However, I wanted to turn this risk into an opportunity with my determination and enthusiasm-and I did. I firmly believe in the philosophy, “Life always favors the brave.”

Competition among optical stores is growing every day. Could you tell us about your pricing approach for B&B Optik products?
Yes, unfortunately, our sector faces increasing competition, and it’s becoming harder to compete with online prices. However, what we do is not just about selling a fashion accessory-it involves one of the most sensitive aspects of health: eye care. So, our customers don’t just come to buy world-famous sunglasses brands; they also seek essential optical support and information for their eye health. At B&B Optik, we prioritize and value their eye health to the highest degree. Our main goal is to address their needs through the most accurate and sincere communication. Therefore, we continue to uphold our right product, right pricing principle without compromise.

What are your priorities in customer satisfaction? What are your after-sales services that you offer to customers?
For B&B Optik, ‘Your trust is our happiness’ is much more than a slogan. Our top priority is the trust our patients place in us. At B&B Optik, we are aware that our work doesn’t end with a sale. We always have a backup plan (Plan B) in place for possible scenarios after a sale. It is our mission to offer the most accurate and realistic solutions to our patients and customers, both during and after the sales process.

The 11th Silmo Istanbul Optical Fair was held last November. What would you like to share about its development and contribution to the industry?
As the B&B Optik family, we visited the 11th Silmo Istanbul Optical Fair, just as we do every year. Since its early years, I have believed that it provides a valuable platform for our sector. Even after a major pandemic like Covid-19, I’m pleased to observe that the fair has continued to improve each year. With Silmo Istanbul’s development, its contributions and support for our industry have also increased. Its growing strength and ever-improving atmosphere have had a highly positive impact on our industry. Silmo Istanbul significantly enhances the global recognition of the Turkish optical industry and makes it easier for us to establish business connections.

Thank you for this valuable interview. Lastly, what would you like to share about our magazine, 4 your eyes?
We follow your magazine regularly every month. We highly value the insightful content and up-to-date information you provide for the industry. On behalf of B&B Optik, I’d like to thank you for featuring us in 4 your eyes. We wish you continued success with your work, which keeps a pulse on the sector and serves as a guide for all of us.

May 2025

Silmo Istanbul Optical Fair has helped us develop professionally since our university years and continues to contribute to our growth.

Hello, Mr. Bilal. Could we get to know you a little bit? Could you tell us about your entry into the optical sector?
Hello, I am Bilal Çetin. We operate our store Çetin Optik with my wife, Mrs. Saliha, with our many years of experience in the optical sector. After graduating from Mersin Toros University Optician program, we aimed to implement our experience in the sector in our own business and opened our store in Erdemli district of Mersin. My wife and I continue our services without interruption in order to reflect our passion and knowledge of the optical sector to our customers in the best way possible.

You established Çetin Optik in 2019. How did you make this decision, and what are your founding values?
It was always an idea in our minds, and in 2019, we found the right time to bring it to life. Trusting in our years of experience and expertise, we decided to start our own business. We love what we do and continuously strive to improve ourselves to offer the best service possible. We recognize that the optical industry is ever-evolving and open to innovations. Keeping up with these changes, we aim to provide the most up-to-date and high-quality services. Our goal is to go beyond being just an optical store and become a trusted address for our customers. In this direction, by following innovations in our profession and working with passion, we aim to contribute to the industry for many years to come.

With the influence of trends, there is a growing interest in designer brands. Which brands are particularly popular in your store?
Access to designer brands has become more challenging, especially given the ongoing economic difficulties in our country. However, there is still demand for these brands. Despite the disadvantages of our location, we try to offer such brands in our store. Among the globally renowned brands we sell the most at Çetin Optik, both for optical and sunglasses, are Armani Exchange, Burberry, Bvlgari, Dolce&Gabbana, Emporio Armani, Oakley, Persol, Prada, Ray-Ban, Versace, and Vogue.

What factors did you consider when selecting your store’s location? What are the advantages of being a street-level store?
When choosing our location, we preferred a busy area with high customer traffic. One of the main reasons for this was that the clientele we target is concentrated in such areas. The advantage of street-level stores is the ability to establish direct and personal interactions with customers, offering them a more intimate shopping experience.

What are your thoughts on the contributions of the International Silmo Istanbul Optical Fair to the Turkish optical industry?
The first thing we should say about Silmo Istanbul Optical Fair is that it brings innovation to the optical industry. I personally benefited greatly from Silmo Istanbul during my university years. It served as an ideal platform for me to get acquainted with companies, brands, and their products. It significantly contributed to my knowledge and awareness of both frames and optical lenses, and its impact continues today. In fact, through the fair, I established strong relationships with manufacturers and had the opportunity to visit their factories. In short, Silmo Istanbul Optical Fair has helped us develop professionally since our university years and continues to contribute to our growth. Thanks to Silmo Istanbul, which expands its scope every year, we have the opportunity to closely follow current models, spare parts, the machinery and equipment we use in our workshop, and contact lenses.

Thank you for your valuable interview. Finally, could you share your thoughts on 4 your eyes?
As Çetin Optik, we sincerely thank 4 your eyes Optical Magazine for featuring us. We believe that 4 your eyes is a vital resource for the industry. We highly appreciate its transition to digital publishing, as it allows optical professionals worldwide to access content easily, regardless of country, language, or age. We also take pleasure in the fact that you still publish print editions for international fairs while embracing digitalization. We wish your entire team continued success.

April 2025

Thanks to Silmo Istanbul, which brings together the leaders of the industry, we can easily seize opportunities for growth, progress, and renewal.

Hello, Mr. Erkan. Could you introduce yourself a little? How did your path cross with the optical industry?
Hello, I was born in 1985 in Gaziantep. I am married and have three children. My parents are also originally from Gaziantep, and since I had a father who came from a merchant background, I grew up both studying and working from a young age. This allowed me to gain experience in different sectors. My introduction to the optical industry dates back to 2004. That year, I started working with Mrs. Arzu, whom I am still proud to call my first mentor. She helped me learn the trade from its very core. I crowned this valuable journey by earning my Opticianry Diploma in 2020. After dedicating 17 years to the optical industry, I established my own store, Riva Optik, in 2021.

You opened the first concept store in Gaziantep. What vision led to the birth of Riva Optik?
Gaziantep is a unique city, but I observed for years that the retail approach in the optical sector was far from innovative. I did not want to adopt a uniform and conventional store model. My vision for Riva Optik was to create a store that stands out from the ordinary-one that is innovative and open to change. With this goal in mind, I opened Gaziantep’s first concept store in 2021. As a boutique store, our objectives revolve around answering key questions: How can we advance further in the industry? How can we provide quality products to all budgets and customers? This mindset keeps us motivated and open to new innovations.

What are the most popular optical and sunglasses brands in your store? What factors influence their popularity?
The most preferred optical and sunglasses brands in our store include: Tom Ford, Zilli, Silhouette, Flair, Maybach, Prada, Versace, Dolce & Gabbana, Lacoste, Alexander Wintsch, Burberry, Modo, and Fisher-Price In lens brands, we offer brands such as Essilor, Hoya, Zeiss, and Rodenstock. The main reason customers prioritize these brands is their high quality and durability, which make them stand out in the industry.

What kind of services do you offer to enhance the customer experience after the sale?
For customers who purchase from our store, we provide monthly maintenance and repair services free of charge. We also track the lifespan of their lenses and send reminders when replacements are needed. Additionally, we offer exclusive accessories and personalized storage cases to make sure customers remember us fondly. We even design custom accessories featuring their names and our store’s branding, ensuring that both the accessories and our store remain popular within their social circles.

As an experienced industry professional, what are your thoughts on the Turkish optical industry?
Both lens and frame companies in Turkey are slightly behind the international market, mainly due to our dependence on imported raw materials. Since most raw materials come from abroad, we often work with semi-finished products, which unfortunately slows down progress in the sector. However, in recent years, local companies have been making more conscious investments, leading to a revival of domestic production. This has helped reduce our dependency on imports, proving that Turkey is gaining strength in the optical industry.

Thank you for this valuable interview. We would also like to know your thoughts on our magazine, 4 your eyes?
I have been a loyal reader of 4 Your Eyes for years, and now I am even more delighted to be featured with my store, Riva Optik. Your magazine is an essential resource for the entire optical industry-not just for retailers like us, but also for manufacturers, wholesalers, suppliers, students, designers, and artisans. You also provide invaluable content for those who cannot attend fairs and industry events, keeping them informed. Thank you for your contributions to the sector, and I wish you continued success for many years to come.

March 2025

I believe that the Silmo Istanbul Optical Fair raises industry awareness and strengthens collaborations.

Hello Mr. Hakan. You have been in the sector from an early age. Could you share with our readers how your career was shaped?
My involvement in the optical industry dates back to my middle school years. During this period, I stepped into the sector by working in an optical store and started to gain experience in the sector from a very young age. Throughout my career, I focused on learning innovations in the optical world, understanding customer needs and adopting the best practices in the sector. This early start gave me both professional knowledge and an advantage in providing better service to my customers. Today, I clearly feel the impact of these experiences and my passion for the industry. I aim to offer my customers not only products, but also trust and satisfaction.

We would like to learn about your establishment story? What were your main goals and motivation when opening your store?
Ottaş Optik was founded based on quality, trust and customer satisfaction. My biggest motivation while establishing my store was to sign an initiative that could make a difference in the sector. I aimed to create a unique brand by combining the knowledge and experience I have gained over many years in the optical sector with my vision. Responding to both the health and aesthetic needs of people has been the main purpose of our organization. I believed that it was possible to differentiate in the sector by acting with an innovative and customer-oriented approach. Today, Ottaş Optik continues to be not only a store but also a living space that offers a warm and reliable experience to its customers in line with these goals.

In recent years, interest in designer brands has increased considerably. Do you also feature these brands in your store?
Considering the increasing popularity of designer brands, we offer special collections of such brands in our store. We communicate with our customers one-to-one and try to understand their needs and expectations. We also organize special campaigns for designer brands and offer more attractive options to our customers. Thus, we meet the demands of our customers who seek both quality and aesthetics in the best way possible.

How would you evaluate the advantages and disadvantages when you compare street and shopping mall retailing? What was your choice for Ottaş Optik?
Street stores have the advantage of providing a customer relationship based on intimate and one-to-one communication, while shopping mall stores attract attention with their heavy visitor traffic and modern infrastructure facilities. As Ottaş Optik, we prefer to be located in a street store. Because this location allows us to establish a more personal communication with our customers. At the same time, we can offer a warm atmosphere to our customers by adapting to the neighborhood texture.

Could you tell us about the after-sales services you provide at Ottaş Optik?
Our unwavering sensitivity towards after-sales services ideally reflects the value we give to our customers. From product maintenance to repair services and warranty support, we stand by our customers after sales. In addition, our loyalty programs and regular information campaigns strengthen our customers’ loyalty to us, and we are constantly connecting with them. I would like to emphasize that making them feel that each of them is special is the source of our loyalty-based relationships.

Do you find in-sector training and company briefings sufficient? What do you think needs to be improved in this area?
Although the existing sales and training programs contribute to the sector, I think there is a need for more comprehensive content, especially on digitalization and customer experience management. In this period of rapid technological development, it would be of great benefit if the trainings are presented in a more interactive and innovative way. I also think that practical trainings that will increase the knowledge of those working in the optical sector are also very important and necessary.

Thank you for this valuable interview. Finally, we would like to learn your views on our magazine, 4 your eyes?
4 your eyes magazine stands out as a medium that keeps the pulse of our industry and offers important content. I think you add value to both professionals and consumers in the sector with the quality content you provide. I would like to thank you for this interview opportunity and wish you continued success.

February 2025