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.

Which brands and products stand out in your store? What are the main factors influencing your customers’ preferences for these brands?
Our store offers a variety of brands. We select products based on the demographics we serve. We provide both locally produced and imported frames. We diversify our eyewear and optical products according to customer demand and closely follow current trends. During the summer months, our district attracts tourists, and they also choose us. As Çetin Optik, we offer a wide range of brands and products with superior service quality.

Could you tell us about the services you offer before and after sales?
What sets us apart from others is our dedication to our work and our customer-oriented approach. We understand the importance of knowing our customers and their needs, so we focus on effective communication. We provide information about brands and products across all segments during the sales process and offer critical recommendations for selections. We take extra care in guiding first-time eyeglass users in choosing lenses and frames. Additionally, we always inform our customers about product warranty periods. Receiving positive feedback from our customers as they use our products is our greatest motivation because customer satisfaction is always our priority. Not only during sales but also after-sales, we provide the best service through warranty support, repairs, spare parts, and ergonomic adjustments. By maintaining quality and reliability, we always prioritize our customers’ eye health and comfort.

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 is your pricing strategy for your products? How do you manage competition with your peers?
Our pricing varies according to the products we offer. There are price differences among our colleagues in our location. A significant issue is the very low reimbursement rates provided by the Social Security Institution, which often disappoints our customers. In our store, we prioritize only the brands and products we trust in terms of quality and craftsmanship while ensuring affordability for a wide range of budgets.

As opticians, how do you assess awareness of eyewear usage in Turkey?
I believe there needs to be greater awareness, especially regarding lenses. People should understand that eyewear lenses are not limited to correcting refractive errors; with advancements in technology, many protective lenses have been developed. We need to spread awareness of these lenses to a broader audience. Everyone exposed to digital screens and harmful UV rays should be more informed about these lenses to better protect their eye health.

Do you follow international optical fairs and industry developments?
Yes, we make an effort to attend optical fairs almost every year. It’s not just about purchasing products; following the latest trends, brands, and models, and simply experiencing the atmosphere of the fairs is beneficial for us. Since our profession and business are open to growth and development, visiting international fairs and staying informed about new innovations keeps our excitement alive.

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 key features that distinguish Riva Optik from other boutique stores?
Our store is designed as a four-story boutique concept, catering to all customers and budgets. We have a children’s section on the upper floor, where families with children can enjoy a play area that makes shopping a pleasant experience for both kids and parents. For our high-end clientele, we have created a private area on the lower floor, offering a more personalized and prestigious service. Meanwhile, our mid-range customers are welcomed on the ground floor, which has a carefully curated, aesthetic, warm, and inviting atmosphere. This setup allows us to serve every customer segment and make shopping more enjoyable and comfortable. Additionally, we customize lenses and frames by adding small touches to well-known brands, a service we showcase on our website. As a result, we receive significant interest not only from our local area but also from customers outside the city, to whom we also offer services.

What were your key considerations when choosing the store’s location? Are there any aspects you were unwilling to compromise on?
Riva Optik is a street-level store. Although shopping malls are often associated with modernity and innovation, I do not feel the same way. For me, warmth and sincerity are essential to retail. I wanted a store where I could establish strong, long-term relationships with customers-not just a place for transactions. That’s why I chose a street location instead of a shopping mall. I firmly believe that street stores suit Gaziantep’s shopping culture better than malls. My goal was to build lasting customer relationships at Riva Optik, and I am proud to say that we have achieved this.

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.

Do you follow international optical fairs and industry trends?
Yes, I try to attend the Mido Fair in Italy and the Silmo Paris Fair every year. In addition to these fairs, I visit other countries before and after the events to explore new innovations and trends in the optical sector, and striving to bring new and different ideas to the my business. I can proudly say that I have not missed an international fair in recent years. Each of these fairs broadens my perspective, and I strive to implement the innovations I discover in my store.

The 11th edition of the Silmo Istanbul Optical Fair took place last November. What are your thoughts on this event?
Silmo Istanbul Optical Fair is strengthening its international identity each year. With a growing number of international exhibitors and visitors, I believe it plays a crucial role in promoting both Turkey and Turkey’s optical industry. Besides being an excellent platform for networking, it contributes significantly to our national economy. This fair connects industry leaders, creates opportunities for growth and renewal, and allows us to see the latest innovations firsthand. It also enables us to introduce new brands into our stores, making it an invaluable event for industry professionals.

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.

Which optical and sunglasses brands do you sell the most in your store? What are the aspects of these brands that impress your customers?
Among the most preferred high-end brands in our store are global brands such as Burberry, Prada, Versace, Guess and Miu Miu. These luxury brands impress our customers because of their popularity, quality materials, stylish designs and user-friendliness. In addition, their combination of fashionability and durability is also a major factor in their preference. In the more affordable product category, we offer brands such as Osse, Mustang and Zen Milano. These brands appeal to a wide customer base by combining quality designs with affordable prices.

What are the contributions of offering products in various segments and at different price scales to your sales and customer satisfaction?
Yes, we offer a wide range of products for every budget and need in our store. This diversity enables our customers to find the most suitable product for them and increases customer satisfaction. We also appeal to a wider customer base by offering products in different segments. This approach not only increases sales, but also strengthens our customers’ loyalty to our store.

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.

Competition among optical stores is increasing day by day. Could you tell us about your approach to this issue?
We adopt a quality and service-oriented approach against price competition. We make a difference with the durability, design and after-sales services we offer to our customers. We also aim to create a sustainable competitive environment in the sector by acting in cooperation and respect with our colleagues.

Do you follow international optical fairs and could you evaluate their contribution to the global optical industry?
Yes, I follow international optical fairs in order to closely observe the sectoral developments taking place around the world. Such events enable us to learn about new technologies and observe global design trends. With the information we gain from such fairs, we are able to offer more innovative and quality products to our customers.

What are your thoughts on the development of Silmo Istanbul Optical Fair, which took place for the 11th time last November, and the values it adds to the sector?
Silmo Istanbul Optical Fair is an organization of great importance for our industry. Silmo Istanbul offers the opportunity to share information and experience with participants from every regions of Turkey and abroad. In addition to offering the opportunity to examine the latest collections of a wide range of brands, Silmo Istanbul enables us to closely follow the innovations and technological developments in the sector. I believe that Silmo Istanbul increases sectoral awareness and strengthens collaborations.

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

Silmo Istanbul inspires us by showcasing all the innovations in the industry and guiding us toward providing better service to our customers.

Hello, Mr. Emre Poyraz Could you start by introducing yourself and sharing how your career in the optical industry began?
Hello, I’m Emre Poyraz I was born in 1998 in Muğla, Fethiye. After considering the advice and guidance from some close acquaintances, I decided to step into the optical industry. In 2020, I graduated with honors from Istanbul Medipol University’s Opticianry Program.

You are a young entrepreneur who has recently joined the optical sector. How was Poyraz Optik established?
After completing my degree in opticianry, I worked as a responsible manager in the private sector for about six months. In 2021, I began working in a retail optical store in Fethiye. After three years of experience, I decided to open my own store to provide high-quality optical and sunglasses products in Fethiye. Thus, in January 2024, Poyraz Optik began serving the optical sector and our valued customers.

Does your store offer products with a wide range of features and price points? How do you evaluate the impact of variety on sales and customer satisfaction?
We believe in the importance of offering products across all segments and ensure that this diversity is prioritized in our store. At Poyraz Optik, you can easily find products with varying features and price ranges. We are aware that offering a wide range of products and meeting diverse customer needs are critical for ensuring customer satisfaction and positively impacting our sales.

With current trends, we see an increasing interest in designer brands in Turkey. Which brands are particularly popular in your store?
Unfortunately, the accessibility of many premium brands, including designer labels, has become more challenging due to the economic difficulties our country faces. As a store that hasn’t yet completed its first year, it’s been a little bit difficult to showcase designer brands in our displays. Nevertheless, we strive to meet our customers’ demands for these brands. In our store, the most sought-after sunglasses brands include Tom Ford, Papary, Oakley, Mykita, Prada, Miu Miu and Bottegaro Paris. For optical glasses Silhouette, Tom Ford, Alexander Wintsch, Vogue, and Dolce & Gabbana are in high demand.

Could you tell us about the after-sales services you offer? What steps do you take to build customer loyalty and trust?
After-sales service is just as important to us as the sale itself. We continue to support our customers even after the purchase. In addition to providing spare parts, we also repair and maintain damaged frames, even if they weren’t purchased from us.

To what extent do you benefit from training and sales briefings on the latest trends, developments, and technological innovations in the optical industry?
We actively utilize information and news from various online sources to stay informed about industry developments. We participate in trade fairs and training programs organized by companies throughout the year. Additionally, we request representatives from optical lens companies to visit our store periodically to provide presentations on lens technologies. This helps us keep our knowledge fresh and stay updated with the latest technological advancements.

When comparing street-level and mall-based retailing, what is your preference as Poyraz Optik?
Both have their advantages and disadvantages. Poyraz Optik is currently a street-level store. We believe street-level locations are more advantageous in terms of foot traffic. However, we think mall-based stores have the edge during winter months since people prefer warm, sheltered locations in cold and rainy weather. If we decide to open a second branch, our preference will still be a street-level store.

What is your priority when it comes to pricing your products? How do you handle competition with your peers?
We consider the recommended retail prices set by companies and aim to provide quality service without undervaluing our products. We’ve noticed significant price discrepancies for eyewear sold online. We believe in selling products at their true value. Our commitment to honest and high-quality service sets us apart from our competitors.

Do you visit international trade fairs? How important is it to follow these events?
I’ve been following reputable international trade fairs since I started my career. Starting in 2025, I plan to attend to an esteemed fairs in abroud as well. At Poyraz Optik, we prioritize closely monitoring every new development in the global optical industry. Trade fairs allow us to foresee the future of the optical sector and maintain our focus on quality by learning about the latest technological innovations, trends, the newest collections from global brands, and current industry developments.

What are your thoughts on the development and contributions of International Silmo Istanbul Optical Fair, which has been held in Turkey for the 11th time?
I have been visiting Silmo Istanbul Optical Fair since my first year in the industry. My most recent visit was last November, and it was my third time attending. I’ve observed that the fair continues to grow with an increasing number of exhibitors each year. Silmo Istanbul inspires us by showcasing all the innovations in the industry and guiding us to provide better service to our customers. We will see together that the fair grow and evolve even more in the future.

Thank you for this valuable interview. Lastly, could you share your comments about our magazine, 4 your eyes?
We thank 4 your eyes for featuring Poyraz Optik. It’s an essential resource for the industry. We highly value the digital publication of your magazine, as it allows easy access for anyone passionate about the optical industry, regardless of country, language, or age. While we miss the printed editions, which we can only acsess during international fairs like Silmo Istanbul, Silmo Paris, and Mido, we respect your adaptation to the requirements of the digital age and wish you continued success.

January 2025

The fact that Silmo Istanbul took place for the 11th time shows that its increasing influence in the sector. I find important the factors such as the exhibitor profile, the activities it offers, and the diversity in the products and services of the fair.

Hello Mr. Resul Şahin. Could you introduce yourself to our readers and tell us about how your path crossed with the optical sector?
Hello there. I am Resul Şahin. I was born in 1987 in Tokat. I completed my primary, secondary and high school education in Gebze. I studied Medical Electronics in high school. Within the scope of the Leonardo Da Vinci project, I completed my high school internship training in the field of biomedicine at Charité University, the largest hospital affiliated to the University of Berlin. Through the health professionals and optometrists I met here, my interest in the optical sector started with my curiosity about eye health and eyewear technologies. For this reason, I decided to study opticianry. I graduated from Muğla University Opticianry Department in 2009. I have been serving the sector for about 15 years. Based on my experience of working in optical stores for eight years, we opened our own street store with my wife in Gebze / Mutlukent in 2017.

Could you tell us about the establishment phase of Mutlukent Optik?
During the establishment phase of Mutlukent Optik, our priority steps were; creating a business plan, choosing a suitable location, making agreements with suppliers, obtaining licenses and permits, hiring staff and providing the necessary equipment. Since the day we were founded, we continue to provide professional services for the needs of our patients and customers with our ‘Health-Quality-Trust’ slogan, together with our optician colleagues.

What are the best-selling optical and sunglasses brands in your store?
Our best-selling optical and sunglasses brands in our store generally include Prada, Guess, Zeiss, Ermenilgo Zegna, Ray-Ban, Lacoste, Silhouette, Morel, Dolce&Gabbana, Burberry, Emporio Armani, Mustang, Vogue, U.S Polo, Persol, Adidas, Osse, Calvin Klein, Jaguar, Motivum, Gigi Milano. Of course, preferences may vary depending on the region, customer profile and fashion trends.

Do you have products from every segment in your store? How do you think having different product groups reflects on your sales?
We usually include products from different segments in our store. Thus, we are able to meet the different preferences of customers. We offer a variety of options ranging from affordable entry-level products to the mid-range and luxury segments. This allows us to better adapt to customers’ budgets and preferences. Having products from different segments usually reflects positively on sales. This is because it allows customers to look for options to suit a variety of budgets and styles. In addition, a wide range of products increases customer satisfaction and emphasizes the diversity of the store. This can increase customer loyalty and encourage repeat visits.

Designer brands are very popular in recent years.  Do you also receive this kind of demand from your customers?
Yes, definitely. The demand for designer brands is increasing, especially for sunglasses. Especially the young segment of our customer portfolio prefers these brands in terms of both appearance and quality. For this reason, we definitely include designer brands in our store.

What are your after sales services?
Since we want to gain the satisfaction of our customers and establish long-term relationships with them, we first of all contact our patients or customers whom we make qualified sales to about the product and service they have purchased. Within two months, we ask them to visit our store for maintenance and frame adjustments. We also take care to explain to them how to use their frames, lenses, contact lenses and solutions in the most ideal way. We also remind them of the time of their eye examinations and give them the medical information they should pay attention to before and during their eye examinations. Of course, we also provide after-sales services such as eyeglass adjustment and adaptation, maintenance and repair services, spare parts supply if needed, and warranty repairs for the purchased product during the warranty period.

Do you think the sales and training information provided within the sector is sufficient?
Sales and training briefings within the sector are very important. However, whether it is sufficient or not depends on the company’s goals, customer expectations and market dynamics. In a sector that is constantly changing, it is important for personnel to stay up-to-date and adapt to new technologies. In-sector trainings can increase staff knowledge on the introduction of new products, sales techniques, customer relationship management and eye health. However, training programs may need to be constantly reviewed and improved, taking into account customer feedback and sales data.

Mutlukent Optik is a street store. Based on which factors did you make this choice? How would you evaluate shopping mall retailing?
Street stores and being located in a shopping mall both have their advantages and disadvantages. Preferences may change depending on the characteristics of the business, target audience and market dynamics. Street stores are usually located in city centers or on busy shopping streets and may be more exposed to local customer traffic. Such stores may be preferred to reinforce brand image and offer a more intimate experience to local customers. I would like to emphasize that the intimacy here is the understanding of family, neighbors, shopkeepers. Depending on the goals and strategies of the business, we chose to be a high street store as we wanted to emphasize brand identity and focus on local customers.

As a retailer, what are your views on price competition between you and your colleague?
Price competition is common in the retail industry and is a natural consequence of offering a variety of choices for customers. However, instead of focusing only on price competition, a more sustainable approach may be to improve customer experience, enhance product quality and pursue differentiation strategies. Along with competitive prices, the quality of service provided to customers, product diversity, after-sales support, etc. are also important.

How do you evaluate the Silmo Istanbul Optical Fair, which took place for the 11th time with its new and larger service area?
The fact that Silmo Istanbul Optical Fair was held for the 11th time shows that its importance and influence in the optical sector has increased. The growth of the fair and its wider service area provides an important meeting and cooperation opportunity for industry professionals. I also find factors such as the exhibitor profile, the activities offered and the diversity in the products and services on display important. Such fairs provide an important platform to discover the latest trends and technologies in the industry, make new business contacts and share information with other professionals in the industry.

Thank you very much for this valuable interview. Finally, could you tell us about the transition of our magazine 4 your eyes to digital publishing?
The transition of 4 your eyes to digital publishing can often provide access to a wider readership and enable your content to be shared more quickly and easily. Digital platforms allow readers to access your content anytime and anywhere, while interactive features can enrich the reader experience. We also thank you for this valuable interview.

December 2024

The 11th edition of Silmo Istanbul is an important milestone for the growth and development of the Turkish optical industry.

Hello Ms. Aslı. Could you tell us about yourself and your story of meeting the optical industry?

Hello, I am Aslı Akyol. My story in the optical industry started with my choice of Opticianry at university. I realized the importance of eye health and how glasses can improve people’s quality of life. After graduating from university, I had the opportunity to work in an old and well-established optical store for many years. Here I undertook various tasks such as assembling glasses, customer consultancy and interpreting eye examination results. Then I decided to continue my career in the optical sector by opening my own store. We opened Çengelköy Cadde Optik in November 2023.

How did you decide to open your store? Could you tell us about the establishment phase?

The decision to open our store was made because I aim to improve people’s vision experience and bring an innovative perspective to the optical retail industry. During the establishment process, we created a detailed planning and strategy to realize this vision. I also took steps to offer a unique customer experience by collaborating with leading suppliers in the sector.

What do you pay attention to when determining the products you sell in your store?

In our store, where we adopt the principle of keeping customer satisfaction at the highest level, we act carefully when choosing the brands of optics and sunglasses. We carry a variety of brands so that our customers can choose from a wide range of products that appeal to a variety of styles and needs. The product portfolio of our store was determined as a result of meticulous segmentation and market analysis. We offer high quality products to our customers through strategic collaborations with well-known and trusted brands in the sector, especially in the field of frames.

What role do you think the window layout and interior design of an optical store play in sales?

The window layout and interior design of an optical store play a very important role in sales because these elements are used to attract customers’ interest in the store, strengthen the brand image and improve the shopping experience. We created the design of our store in the light of these ideas. We would like to state that we are very lucky in this regard because our father was our biggest supporter in the creation of the design of our store. We would like to thank our father, the architect of our decor, once again through you for sharing all the meticulousness of his profession with us. Our main goal is to make every customer feel at home in a cozy and comfortable space.

Do you organize events or special campaigns to increase customer satisfaction?

We aim to increase the satisfaction of our regular customers and encourage them by offering special discounts, gifts or advantages to our customers. We organize special events in our store to celebrate occasions such as new product launches, seasonal sales or special occasions. At these events, we aim to increase customer satisfaction by offering them special discounts, gift vouchers or trial opportunities

Could you tell us about your after sales support services?

We offer free service and repair services for purchased products during the warranty period. In case of any malfunction or problem with the products, our customers can come to our store and benefit from free repair or replacement services. We also adopt an environmentally friendly approach by offering our customers the opportunity to bring back and renew their old products. In this way, our customers can recycle or refurbish their old products in a convenient way.

How would you evaluate the 11th Silmo Istanbul Optical Fair, which will be held for the 11th time with its new and larger service area?

The 11th edition of Silmo Istanbul Optical Fair is an important milestone for the growth and development of the Turkish optical industry. This fair brings together the leading brands and professionals of the international optical industry, providing an opportunity to showcase the latest trends and technologies in the industry. The exhibition offers industry professionals the opportunity to make new business contacts, discover new products and share industry knowledge. It also creates a valuable platform to see the innovations and developments in the optical industry in Turkey. We expect Silmo Istanbul Optics Fair to increase its impact in the sector in the coming years, reinforcing Turkey’s leading position in the optical industry and contributing to the growth of the sector.

Thank you very much for this valuable interview. Finally, could you tell us about the transition of our magazine 4 your eyes to digital publishing?

We believe that your transition to digital publishing will enable the content to reach a wider audience and provide readers with easier access. In addition, innovative features such as interactive content, video content and user interaction can offer readers a richer experience. Thank you for this opportunity and we wish your team success.

 November 2024

Silmo Istanbul inspires us by bringing together innovations in the sector and guides us to provide a better service to customers.

Hello… Could you briefly introduce yourself to our readers and tell us about how your path met with the sector?

Tuğba Doğan: Hello, I was born in Tokat in 1985. My husband and I graduated from Ege University Opticianry Department with a degree. Immediately after our graduation, I started working in a retail optical store in Şişli district of Istanbul in 2005. After 6 years of gaining a good professional experience in Istanbul, we got married and I changed cities. I continued my professional life in the city where I settled. After I had twin children, I quit my job. In 2019, we opened our first store in Antalya and immediately after that we opened our second branch in Edirne in the same year. In 2021, we opened our third branch in Istanbul and we aim to grow even more over the years with our boutique retailing system.

Onur Doğan: Hello, I was born in Artvin in 1984. As my wife mentioned, we graduated from Ege University Opticianry Department. I started my retailing life in Antalya.

What is the foundation story of Lotus Optik?

Shortly after opening our first store with my wife in Antalya in 2019, we brought our second store to our customers in Edirne. In 2021, we opened our third store in Istanbul Kanyon Shopping Mall. We have a boutique retail approach from the very beginning and we aim to grow even more with this approach. Our store was specially designed by successful interior architects and furniture decoration companies. We have created a valuable boutique product portfolio by realizing our desire to work with the world’s leading optical and sunglasses brands. We accept our customers as members of our own family with our goal of preserving the sincere and artisanal understanding that is disappearing in our country.

We understand that you open your stores in different cities. What were the factors you considered while choosing these locations?

When choosing the location of our stores, of course, we pay attention to being a lively place. We differentiate ourselves from the nearby chain stores by displaying different brands and offering a superior service to our customers. We think that being a company that does its job properly, attaches importance to store decoration, and can provide good service to its customers with its knowledge should always be your most basic value.

What are the most sold optical and sunglasses brands in your stores?

We can say that brands such as Tavat, Mykita, L.G.R, Saint Laurent, Prada, Miu Miu, Tom Ford in sunglasses, and Lunor, Tom Ford, Linderberg and Silhouette in optical glasses stand out in our sales.

We know that you pay attention to product diversity in your stores. How does having different product segments affect your sales?

As you said, we take the utmost care to include products from every segment. For this reason, you can easily come across every segment product in our stores. Because as Lotus Optik, we are aware that appealing to different customer needs by offering a wide range of products has important advantages in terms of both gaining customer satisfaction and positive reflections on our sales.

What are your after sales services?

After-sales service is as important as sales for us. We continue to support our customers after sales as well. In addition to our spare parts support, we also offer services for the repair and maintenance of broken eyeglass frames, even if they did not buy them from us.

How do you inform your customers about the changes and campaigns in your stores?

As Lotus Optik, we mainly announce the changes and campaigns in our store to our customers via social media. Because with the transition to the digital age, we are aware that social media is a powerful and effective communication platform when used correctly.

As someone who does not avoid investing in the aesthetic and stylish appearance of your stores, what do you think the interior and exterior design of an optical store contributes to your business?

We try to display every product that is wanted, desired to be seen, and wondered. We organize our shelves in such a way that our guests can easily try and leave them. Thus, we ensure that they can easily access the products they like and make comfortable and enjoyable shopping. Since we have this understanding, we believe that in order to offer all these elements to our customers, it is necessary to use aesthetic, highly visible and at the same time functional design elements in the store.

As a retailer, what are your views on the price competition between you and your colleagues?

Considering the sales prices recommended by the companies, we are in favor of providing quality service without reducing the value of the products in market conditions. We see that the prices of glasses offered for sale especially on the internet are quite different. We believe that a product should be sold according to its value. The factor that distinguishes us from our competitors is our service quality.

Silmo Istanbul, which we look forward to every year with great excitement, is a very important organization for us to come together with our colleagues and follow the sector.

Hello Ms. Elif. First of all, could you introduce yourself a little and tell us about how you started in the optical sector?

Hello, I was born in Bursa in 1999. I graduated from health vocational high school as a nurse in 2017. After working as an operating room nurse in the private sector for a while, I resigned and took the university exam and won the Bilgi University Opticianry department in 2019. I graduated two years later and started working as an intern in a store in Bursa. I learned the job in a very short time with the responsibilities given by my boss and colleagues. I would like to thank my boss Ergün Karaçanak, President of the Turkish Optician-Glasses Association, and his colleagues for teaching me our profession in the most accurate way and for their support.

When did you open Elay Optik? Could you briefly talk about the establishment story of your store?

We opened our first store, Elay Optik, in Nilüfer district of Bursa towards the end of 2022. The location of our store is on a busy street and close to the hospital. In our store, the most important point we have attached importance to since the installation phase has been that our customers feel safe, feel in a friendly environment and receive quality service.

What are the most sold optical and sunglasses brands in your store?

It is not an appropriate approach for us to make a distinction between the most sold brands in our store. Due to our location, we aim to reach the model and brand that is suitable for every budget, suitable for the person’s daily life, suitable for their own style, suitable for their face and comfortable, regardless of the brand. Therefore, we try to offer a wide range of lenses, contact lenses, optical frames and sunglasses.

Designer brands are very popular in recent years. Do you also receive such requests from your customers?

Yes, we also receive requests in this direction. Nowadays, designer brands have become quite popular. We try to keep design-oriented brands in our store as much as we can according to the demands of our customers.

What are your after sales services?

As a company, we always value after-sales service and work completely customer satisfaction-oriented. Regardless of the product our customers buy, we offer all necessary services such as replacement and repair in case of damage.

Do you think the sales and training information provided within the sector is sufficient?

Frankly speaking, we do not find sectoral trainings sufficient. For this reason, we take care to closely follow the innovations in the optical sector. In this context, we constantly improve ourselves by participating in various online trainings and events.

Street stores or being located in a shopping mall? What is your preference and what are the reasons?

Our preference is of course the high street stores. Due to its location, our store is in a situation where everyone can easily reach by public transportation or personal vehicles without parking problems. Our aim is to create our own customer base and take our growth steps.

As one of the retailers, what are your views on the price competition between you and your colleagues?

As in every sector, price competition has an important place in the optical sector. As Elay Optik, we manage this situation by making a difference in our pre and after sales services. We ensure that our customers have a pleasant shopping experience by providing quality service.

Do you follow international optical fairs and sectoral developments abroad?

Yes, we follow and research the optical fairs organized abroad, especially on social media. In this way, we have the opportunity to see many different brands and models. It enables us to always offer the most up-to-date and trendy products to our customers. It is among our plans to participate in international fairs in the future.

I think that Silmo Istanbul has made a great contribution in terms of raising awareness in the sector and the growth of the sector by bringing together all segments of suppliers, retailers and employees.

Hello Mr. Ufuk. First of all, could you introduce yourself a little bit and tell us about how your path crossed with the optical sector?

Hello Mr. Ufuk. I was born in 2000 in Alanya. I completed my primary, secondary and high school education at TED Alanya College and Yaşam Tasarım Educational Institution. I graduated as an Optician from Mekteb-i Tıbbiye-i Şahane, the most established university in the health sector in Turkey, the current name of the University of Health Sciences. Since I had a dream of product marketing and branding since a young age, I decided to operate in this sector. Another factor is that my family serves in the health sector and sunglasses are a necessity in our region, especially in summer. Since the optical sector goes in parallel with sectors such as fashion and magazine, the opportunity to offer imported brands excited me even more. I entered this sector to improve myself in this field and to serve our country and the region we live in.

Could you tell us about the establishment phase of Alsun Optik?

In 2021, after graduating, I started working in a corporate optical company in order to develop myself in this sector and experience the big city spirit and corporate identity. In this process, I had the opportunity to improve myself by receiving many trainings such as glass companies, frame companies, contact lenses and product marketing, product support. As a result of these trainings, I first worked as a senior optician and then as an assistant manager in the company I worked for in a short time. As a result of my experiences and observations in this process, I provided the same service to our customers in our Alanya.

What are the most popular brands of optical and sunglasses sold in your store?

There are many imported and domestic collections in parallel with fashion in our store. In addition to this, we provide service by combining the brands that have been in fashion in recent years, which our guests frequently demand, with technology. The brands we sell the most in sunglasses and optical glasses are popular brands such as Prada, Miu Miu, Burberry, Kilian. I can say that having a product option for every taste and style is very important for us both in terms of customer satisfaction and to increase our competitiveness in the sector. Due to our position, I think that increasing our domestic and foreign customer volume, expanding our loyal customer volume and maintaining our quality-oriented line will contribute to our country in terms of economic and development.

Designer brands have become very popular in recent years. Do you also receive demand from your customers in this direction?

Yes, designer brands are in demand from our customers. Since we are in the age of technology, we can instantly access any information on the internet from seven to seventy. Since our sector moves in parallel with fashion, designer brands and collections are very popular. Since we supply trend products and current products in our store, we have a high level of customer satisfaction.

What are your after sales services?

The basic procedure of our company and our uncompromising principle is to ensure one hundred percent customer satisfaction. In line with this principle, elements such as the warranty process and product follow-up in the orders prepared for our guests and after the order, as well as storing information in line with customer confidentiality, are among the most indispensable after-sales boards for us as Alsun Optik.

How do you inform your customers about changes and campaigns in your store?

We inform our local and foreign guests about the changes and campaigns in our store in different languages, social media, local newspapers, posters in certain regions and local organizations. In addition, we also share our new collections with professional shots and advertising elements on our social media accounts. We utilize all possible means of communication because we attach great importance to keeping our customers’ bond with Alsun Optik strong at all times.

Are in-sector sales and training briefings sufficient? Do you organize training programs for your store employees?

Since we are in the health sector, I believe that marketing the right product to the right person with the right information is the golden rule. If we convey the right information to our guests and present their choices in parallel, it will be a plus point for us in terms of customer satisfaction. Among this information, trainings on eye health and the products we sell are of course very important. I and my team work sensitively on this issue. We receive trainings about products from both glass companies and frame companies, and we attach importance to attending conferences.

Street stores or being located in a shopping mall? What is your preference and what are the reasons?

First of all, if I need to give an example from our own store, I can say that our store location and décor are as important as the service we offer and customer satisfaction. This decision should be based on the demand and shopping habits of the audience in your region. Our store is located in one of the oldest streets of Alanya and in a location with many shopping opportunities. Our preference was the street location. In the future, we plan to branch out in shopping centers in different regions with the same service and product stock.

As one of the retailers, what are your views on the price competition between you and your colleagues?

The market is moving in parallel with the current exchange rate and inflation. Accordingly, the competitive pressure is increasing considerably. Our advantage is our large product stock and high service quality. For this reason, we have the advantage of long-term customer loyalty and continuous service to our foreign guests. Since our product stock is diversified based on the needs of the customer and we combine service with technology, our competitiveness is one step ahead. We aim to make this process continuous with our campaigns and advertising power.

Silmo Istanbul is valuable in bringing together international exhibitors to introduce new products, share sectoral innovations and strengthen business relationships.

Hello Mrs. Dilhun. Could you introduce yourself a little bit and tell us about how your path crossed with the optical sector?

Hello, I started my education at Işık University in 2013. After two years of education, although I am from Izmir, I stayed in Istanbul and continued my business life here. I first started working at Etiler Optik in Etiler. With the support of Mr. Ufuk and Mrs. Seda, I gained 5 years of experience. Then I returned to Izmir, my hometown. Here, of course, I continued in the sector and started working at Atölye Gözlük Optik in Alsancak. I spent about another 5 years at Atölye Gözlük with the support of Mr. Esen and Mr. Kaan. Now, with more than 10 years of experience, my husband Aykut and I decided to open Anda, our dream.

Could you tell us about the establishment phase of Anda Optik?

Before establishing our optical store, we paid attention to researching the market and understanding the needs and preferences of potential customers. Analyzing the competition and examining the competitors in the local market helped us to make strategic decisions. We also took care to create a business plan, setting out our business goals, strategies, operational plans and financial forecasts. We had to provide a roadmap for the long-term success of our business, and we had to choose a suitable location for our store, taking into account factors such as accessibility, traffic density, demographic factors and even rental costs.

So what did you pay attention to while determining the location of Anda Optik?

We considered the target audience of our store and the segments of our potential customers. It was important that the store was easily accessible and located in a high-traffic area. For this reason, we also considered factors such as its proximity to main roads and public transportation. We had to make a strategic location choice by considering the locations of competing stores. Being far away from competitors or choosing a special location that would provide a competitive advantage was important at this stage. Demographic data in the region also played an important role in determining the target audience’s interest in the store. Visibility and visual appeal of the store were important. We believe that being located on the main streets will provide advantages in terms of reaching potential customers more easily and strengthening the brand’s image.

What are the most popular brands of optical and sunglasses sold in your store?

It is important to offer high quality products to customers. We consider factors such as the quality of acetate and metal frames used in optical and sunglasses. Our customers’ loyalty and perception of certain brands certainly influences the store’s brand choices. It is important for us to follow fashion trends and choose products that are in line with current fashion trends. While the majority prefers world-famous fashion brands, there is a segment that is now turning towards special designs with more boutique and different features. For this reason, in order to appeal to both sides, we have both fashion brands and boutique design brands in our store and obviously boutique products are more demanded.

Do you have products from every segment in your store?

Having different product segments increases the chance to appeal to different customer groups. Creating a broad customer base plays an important role in increasing potential sales. In addition, having different product segments allows us to meet the different needs of customers and often generates additional sales. Especially if competition is intense in a certain product segment, we believe that diversifying into different segments can provide a competitive advantage. I think we are a store that offers quality and diverse products, which can create a reliable image in the eyes of customers and increase the brand value of the store.

Designer brands are very popular in recent years. Do you also receive demand from your customers in this direction?

There is definitely a demand. The demand for designer, boutique brands has been increasing in recent years. Designer brands are generally known for their quality materials, original designs and brand prestige and therefore become a priority for many customers. In line with these demands, we are turning more towards designer brands and we sell them with pleasure. Our customers are usually looking for quality, prestige and uniqueness when they prefer designer brands and they can find them all in these products.

Street stores or being located in a shopping mall? What is your preference and what are the reasons?

Frankly speaking, I have always liked the high street stores more. For this reason, every process of my business life has been in street stores. This is also why I preferred a high street store for Anda Optik. Because high street stores are usually located on main roads or busy streets, they are open to more pedestrian traffic and potential customers. The street can have more visibility compared to shopping centers. The use of shop windows, signage and outdoor advertising can help the store stand out. The feeling of discovering and exploring a random store on the street is a more pleasant option for some customers.

What do you think about the necessity of in-sector sales and training briefings?

In-sector trainings can of course increase the product knowledge of store employees. It can help them learn about new trends and technologies and help us provide better service to the customer. These trainings can strengthen the brand image of our store and increase customer loyalty. It is of course important that store employees are regularly trained and informed, but I think that these trainings have decreased compared to the past. Organizing regular training programs on the introduction of new products, current sales techniques and customer relations can ensure the continuous development of employees. Nowadays, thanks to technology, we can find many useful training opportunities.

What do you think about the rate and awareness of eyeglass use in our country? What can be done to increase eyeglass use and who has a role to play?

It is important to increase the level of knowledge about the importance of eyeglass use and eye health in society. Eye health campaigns, seminars and communication channels, especially social media, can certainly be used to raise public awareness about the use of glasses. Regular eye examinations are important for early detection of visual impairments and prescription of appropriate glasses.