Zorlu Gözlük

Posted on 30 May 202630 May 2026 by Emre Özden

Zorlu Gözlük

Going Global with Porto Romana

“We believe Silmo Istanbul plays an important role in strengthening industry communication, creating new commercial connections and supporting the long-term development of brands.”

Hello Mr. Ömer, could you share the founding story of Zorlu Gözlük and the company’s growth journey within the optical industry with our readers?
Zorlu Gözlük was founded in 2018 with the aim of transforming our many years of retail and design experience in the optical sector into a more corporate and sustainable structure. From the very beginning, our primary goal was to establish a strong and lasting position in the industry by combining quality, accessible products that respond to user expectations with a modern design approach. In line with this vision, we aimed to bring our industry experience to a broader audience by building a more systematic and structured organization together with our founding partners. The need to bring together our accumulated know-how and sector experience under a stronger, more sustainable and competitive brand structure formed the foundation of this journey. Through this transformation, we gained the ability to manage our production operations more efficiently under our own corporate structure. At the same time, our branding process accelerated and our growth targets evolved into a much clearer strategy. In addition, by strengthening our international expansion efforts, we continue to move forward toward becoming a more visible brand on a global scale.

You embrace an innovative and forward-thinking vision. How does this approach shape your business model and collection development processes?
Our innovative approach is directly reflected in our business processes through trend analysis, rapid collection development and a production model shaped by customer feedback. We closely follow changing consumer expectations within the industry and, while developing our collections, we focus not only on aesthetics but also on usage habits, comfort expectations and market dynamics. For this reason, we strive to manage our design processes within a more flexible, dynamic and up-to-date structure. While closely monitoring global trends during the collection development stage, we also place great importance on preserving our own brand identity. For us, innovation is not only about creating new models, but also about improving production processes, maintaining sustainable quality standards and delivering faster solutions to our customers. In addition, the relationships and collaborations we have established with major international players continue to play an important role in expanding our vision.

How is Porto Romana positioned as a brand? Could you tell us about its design Dna and collection structure?
Porto Romana is positioned as a brand that appeals to a broad audience with its modern, sophisticated and timeless designs. While developing our collections, we place great importance on combining aesthetic appeal with everyday comfort. Thanks to the diversity of our collections across women’s, men’s, unisex and children’s categories, we are able to address different age groups and a wide range of style preferences. Collections such as our clip-on models, which offer practical advantages for daily use, have also attracted significant interest from consumers. Beyond style, quality and functionality, we also care about the emotional impact our products leave on the user. We aim to build a brand identity that speaks to individuals who want to feel confident and comfortably express their personal style.

Could you share Porto Romana’s international growth journey and your export approach?
Our international distributor network not only strengthens Porto Romana’s global visibility, but also plays a major role in supporting our sustainable export growth. In our export operations, we adopt an approach based not simply on product sales, but on building long-term and strong business partnerships. Today, exporting to 17 countries stands as a significant result of this strategy. By closely monitoring consumer expectations and market dynamics in different regions, we strive to develop structures tailored to the needs of each market. We also continue to expand our distributor network and establish new partnerships in strategic regions. In addition, we attach great importance to international fairs and industry events in order to further strengthen our brand’s global visibility. For us, export is not solely about commercial growth; it is also about representing our brand accurately and sustainably across international markets. For this reason, we continue to move forward with a growth model built on consistent quality, sustainability and trust.

What do you believe have been the key dynamics behind Zorlu Gözlük’s rapid growth?
Accurate product positioning, fast production capabilities, standardized manufacturing processes, efficiency, traceability, measurability and our structured planning approach have formed the foundation of this growth and development. At the same time, being able to adapt quickly to changing industry dynamics and accurately analyze consumer expectations has also been extremely important for us. From production to after-sales service, we strive to maintain a sustainable understanding of quality throughout every stage of the process. We believe that controlled and consistent growth ultimately leads brands toward a stronger and more lasting position in the long term.

What are the main criteria you prioritize throughout your design and production processes?
In our design processes, aesthetics, functionality and user expectations are among our main priorities. We believe that a product should not only stand out visually, but also provide comfort and long-lasting performance in everyday use. For this reason, while following current trends, we also strive to maintain a timeless design approach within our collections. On the production side, quality, durability and sustainability remain among the most important aspects of our operations. From material selection to manufacturing stages, we carefully plan and monitor every step of the process. We believe sustainable success is achieved not only through production capacity, but also through maintaining a consistent quality standard. Working with experienced and highly specialized teams also contributes significantly to our overall process. Through the balanced structure we have established between design and production, we aim to create collections that are both aesthetically strong and highly satisfying for consumers.

Could you tell us about the materials you prefer in your products and the production standards you follow?
We place great importance on using high-quality raw materials and maintaining a structure aligned with international production standards throughout our manufacturing processes. For us, quality control is not simply one stage of production, but a core philosophy integrated into the entire process. Durability, comfort and long-lasting performance are among our top priorities for every product we develop. At the same time, we carefully monitor all operational stages in order to maintain a sustainable quality standard. We also value being accessible to our customers after purchase and adopt a fast, solution-oriented approach throughout warranty-related processes.

Could you tell us about Zorlu Gözlük’s future direction and upcoming plans?
In the short term, our priorities include further improving product quality, continuously enhancing our design processes and expanding the diversity of our collections. Especially in a market where consumer expectations evolve rapidly, we believe it is essential to build a more dynamic structure in both design and production. At the same time, strengthening our existing brand position and maintaining sustainable customer satisfaction remain among our key objectives. In the medium term, we aim to increase our export volume, take a more active role in new markets and further strengthen our international visibility. We are also continuing to work on new product groups and brand structures that appeal to different consumer profiles. In order to become a lasting and strong brand within the industry, we strive to manage our growth process through a controlled, strategic and sustainable approach.

How do you evaluate the growth of Silmo Istanbul Optical Fair and its contributions to the industry?
It is very clear that Silmo Istanbul Optical Fair has become one of the most important meeting points for our industry. We believe it is an extremely valuable organization, bringing together industry professionals from Türkiye as well as many different countries. The fair provides significant opportunities for establishing new business partnerships, closely following industry developments and allowing brands to express themselves more effectively. At the same time, participating in the fair strengthens brand visibility and reinforces companies’ positions within the market. As Zorlu Gözlük, we believe Silmo Istanbul plays an important role in strengthening industry communication, creating new commercial connections and supporting the long-term development of brands.

Thank you very much for taking the time to speak with us. Finally, what would you like to say about 4 your eyes?
In a constantly evolving and rapidly changing industry such as optics, it is extremely important for companies to express themselves accurately and effectively. In this regard, 4 your eyes serves as an important bridge between brands and industry professionals. At the same time, the magazine makes a valuable contribution by helping industry developments, innovations and brand stories reach a much wider audience. We appreciate the contribution that 4 your eyes has made to the sector over the years and would like to thank everyone involved.

Mayıs 2026

Wholesaler Interview

Göz-Lüks Optik

Posted on 10 May 202610 May 2026 by Emre Özden

Göz-Lüks Optik

Driven by a Passion for the Profession

“Silmo Istanbul is a very valuable platform, especially in terms of enabling national manufacturers to establish direct contact with international visitors.”

Hello Mr. Aydoğan, could you share with our readers the founding story of Göz-Lüks Optik and the point it has reached today?
Hello, I am Erol Aydoğan. The foundation of Göz-Lüks Optik is built on the accumulation of nearly 40 years of experience in retail, manufacturing, and nonprofit organizations. Throughout this period, being part of the optical profession has not only been a job for me but also a great source of pride. Being able to touch people’s eye health and to be part of a process that contributes to their quality of life has always made my profession more meaningful. I can say that I have never done a job I did not enjoy throughout my professional life. By placing commercial concerns in the background most of the time, I have tried to carry out this work primarily with a love for the profession. For this reason, I have always seen my identity as a retailer as the most valuable aspect of my professional journey. During this process, I had the opportunity to closely understand almost every aspect of the sector. In the past 10 years, we have carried this experience into a more corporate structure with a focus on branding and exports. Today, we continue our journey as a company that delivers products manufactured in Turkey to different markets, serves as the distributor of valuable brands we select from countries such as France and Italy, and aims to grow with its own brand.

What kind of advantages has your strong experience in retail provided in managing your manufacturing and export activities?
Retail is the foundation of this business because it allows direct insight into the end consumer, the product usage process, and the needs of optical stores. This experience, extending from the laboratory to frame production, has contributed to making the right decisions in import and export processes. One of the main motivations behind our establishment was to carry this accumulated knowledge from retail into international markets. Today, we believe that we have successfully integrated this experience into our commercial structure. Knowledge gained in the field provides us with a significant advantage in anticipating which products will find a response in which markets. For this reason, we see the perspective coming from retail not only as our past but also as the main reference point for all the planning we carry out today.

Could we get to know more closely the brands for which you hold the distributorship in Turkey?
We currently bring Nemezis Paris, Renaissance Lunette, Mango and Pull & Bear brands to the Turkish market. When selecting the brands for which we take on distributorship, we pay attention to choosing brands that have reached a certain level of recognition in their own countries and have established a clear collection identity. We know that branding in the eyewear sector is a long term and costly process. For this reason, we attach importance to positioning both the brands we distribute and our own brand correctly through optical stores. Rather than advertising, we prefer to grow through direct communication and visits in the field. Since our approach is based on establishing a lasting presence rather than achieving quick results, we aim to grow our brands step by step through direct communication with stores. In this process, we carefully follow the feedback of optical stores and continuously improve our collection management accordingly.

Could you tell us about your collaborations with optical frame manufacturers producing in Turkey?
One of the main areas of activity of our company is to deliver optical frames manufactured in Turkey to different countries, especially in the Balkans and North Africa. Increasing the presence of domestic production in international markets is an important source of motivation for us. In this direction, by developing sustainable collaborations with manufacturing companies, we aim to increase the recognition of both our brands and the products manufactured in our country. This process requires effort and patience, but we are moving forward with determination. We believe that products manufactured in Turkey have strong potential in terms of quality, and we are working to make this more visible in different markets. In the long term, we attach importance to building a structure that will contribute to the position of both our manufacturers and our country in the optical sector.

Could you provide information about your export activities to North Africa and the Balkan countries?
For many companies manufacturing in Turkey, North Africa and the Balkan countries are among the first and most important markets for entering export activities. These regions contribute to the development of brands both in terms of competition and accessibility. We also aim to carry the experience we have gained in these markets to broader geographies. In the upcoming period, we plan to be more active in Europe and in different regions as well. We believe that export is a gradual process, and for this reason, we prefer to move forward step by step by evaluating each market within its own dynamics. By strengthening the relationships we have established in the countries we have reached so far, we aim to continue increasing the recognition of both our brand and the products manufactured in Turkey.

What criteria and values do you take into consideration when selecting your dealers?
In dealer selection, our priority is always to work with business partners with whom we can establish clear and healthy communication. Trust is just as important to us as commercial planning. We do not believe that it is healthy to build long term collaborations without references and mutual alignment of intent. For this reason, while building our dealer network, we pay attention to establishing sustainable relationships based on mutual trust. In our approach, trade does not only mean selling products but also moving forward together. Therefore, we always prioritize creating a long term, mutually developing, and healthy communication ground with the companies we work with.

Your after sales services are known to be at high standards within the sector. What kind of approach do you adopt in this process?
One of the strong aspects of the optical sector in Turkey is the quality of after sales services. We believe that this approach plays an important role in the preference for domestic production. Within our company, we closely monitor after sales processes and prioritize the satisfaction of both our business partners and end users. We believe that mutual satisfaction forms the foundation of sustainable business relationships. We also strive to maintain this approach with the same level of care in the markets where we export. Because we believe that the quality of after sales services is one of the most important factors that directly affect trust in a brand.

How do you build Göz-Lüks Optik’s structure that adapts quickly to innovations in the sector?
In order to remain active in the sector, we have to closely follow innovations. We regularly visit international fairs, take part as participants, and examine developments on site. In addition, we continue to learn constantly about production techniques and collection structures. We believe that change is a necessity for our sector and we act accordingly. Following global developments on site contributes to shaping both our product approach and our market strategy in a healthier way. For this reason, we see staying open to learning and closely monitoring the transformation in the sector as a natural part of our working culture.

What kind of contributions does operating within the structure of Via And Optik Grup provide to your company?
Via And Optik is not only a group structure for us but also the starting point of our experience coming from retail. Many years of field experience form the basis of the steps we take today. Progressing with a strong team structure has been one of our most important advantages in this process. The synergy created by this unity contributes to both our commercial and corporate development. Thanks to the perspective gained from retail experience, we are able to read the sector more closely and shape our decisions on a stronger foundation. I believe that the corporate memory provided by this structure is also an important guide for our future steps.

What are the short and medium term goals of Göz-Lüks Optik? Are new markets or new brands on your agenda?
As a developing company, new markets and new product groups are always on our agenda. Expanding our current export network and increasing the visibility of our brand in more countries are among our primary goals. In addition, we attach importance to continuing to learn from the sector and moving forward with more solid steps. In particular, we aim to continue our efforts to ensure that products manufactured in Turkey take place in more markets. In the upcoming period, we want to both strengthen our existing collaborations and increase the international visibility of our brand by expanding into new markets.

What are your views on Silmo Istanbul Optical Fair? How do you evaluate the fair’s contributions to the sector?
I believe that Silmo Istanbul plays an important role in terms of the international visibility of the Turkish optical sector. I believe that the attention our manufacturers give to details is a determining factor in the branding process. Such organizations both strengthen communication within the sector and offer an opportunity to introduce Turkey’s manufacturing strength to the world. I think the fair is a very valuable platform, especially in terms of enabling domestic manufacturers to establish direct contact with international visitors. I believe that such organizations will continue to make significant contributions to the development of our sector and its expansion to global markets.

Thank you for this valuable interview. Lastly, what would you like to say about 4 your eyes magazine?
The optical magazine, 4 your eyes, fulfills an important need for both manufacturers and optical stores by making developments in the sector accessible through a consistent and high quality publishing approach. At a time when digitalization is accelerating, I believe that maintaining both print and digital publishing together provides an important contribution to the sector. It undertakes a valuable role in bringing new products and developments together with its readers. On this occasion, I congratulate the entire team for their efforts and wish them continued success in their work.

April 2026

Wholesaler Interview

Arma Optik

Posted on 4 April 20264 April 2026 by Emre Özden

ARMA OPTİK

High Quality Born from Experience

” I believe Silmo Istanbul plays a major role in raising quality standards within the industry and increasing Turkey’s visibility in the global optical sector.”

Hello Mr. Hikmet Doruk Could you tell our readers when you first entered the optical industry and how the journey of founding Arma Optik began?
First of all, I would like to extend my greetings to all 4 your eyes readers. I founded the Arma brand in 2015, however my introduction to the optical industry dates back much earlier. My professional journey began in 1983 with Doruk Optik in Denizli, marking the start of a long and educational path that allowed me to understand the sector from multiple perspectives. In the following years, I established Sistem Optik and Gozlukevi in Istanbul, operating in both wholesale and retail segments. This process taught me not only how to sell products, but also the importance of branding, building trust, and creating sustainable business relationships. The experience I gained at every stage enabled me to accurately interpret the changes within the industry. The Arma brand emerged as the culmination of all these years of experience, something I personally consider my masterpiece. Today, we believe we have built not only a commercial structure but also a brand culture shaped by family values. Working together with my wife and daughters and sharing the same enthusiasm adds a deeper meaning to what we do.

What product categories does the Arma brand offer today and how does your production process operate?
Under the Arma brand, we operate in colored contact lenses, optical frames, and sunglasses categories. While building our product portfolio, our primary goal has been to combine user comfort with the highest quality standards. For this reason, we implement a highly meticulous production control system. Our contact lenses and eyewear are manufactured in technologically advanced facilities located in different parts of the world, each specializing in its field. We closely monitor quality control processes at every stage and conduct detailed evaluations before products are introduced to the market. Since sensitivity is especially critical in the contact lens category, we carried out extensive research when selecting our production partners. Our contact lenses are produced in an award winning manufacturing facility in South Korea. Additionally, this year we are launching the production of a contact lens solution in Italy under our All In Sol brand, featuring one of the most advanced formulations in the world. This investment represents not only an expansion of our product range but also our vision of approaching user experience in a holistic way.

Could you tell us more about your contact lens brands Arma Color and Mood Color?
Arma represents our main collection. Under the Arma collection, we offer annual colored contact lenses, while the Mood collection presents quarterly replacement options to users. Both collections are developed according to the highest standards of quality, safety, and comfort. Although the main difference between the two lies in their usage duration, they essentially provide solutions tailored to different user habits. Users who prefer long term use tend to choose the Arma collection, while those who enjoy more frequent changes or experimenting with different colors often prefer Mood. During the design process, we prioritize not only aesthetics but also eye health and wearing comfort. We focus particularly on natural color transitions, the visual effect on the eye, and everyday usability. Our goal is to provide a natural appearance where users hardly feel they are wearing contact lenses.

Your colored contact lens collections feature a strong color palette. How do you determine your colors?
We do not rely on a single source when defining our color selections. Customer feedback obtained from our retail store in Bakirkoy, Istanbul provides extremely valuable data. Users’ direct experiences, expectations, and requests play a significant role in shaping new collections. In addition, insights shared by our international distributors and observations from our dealers across Turkey further support this process. By analyzing user habits across different regions, we gain a broader perspective. We also closely follow color tendencies in fashion, makeup, and styling trends. Customer requests regarding colors and patterns are carefully evaluated, and in many cases, new collections originate directly from user feedback.

Bünyenizdeki Janie Hills markasının konumunu nasıl tanımlıyorsunuz? Koleksiyonun öne çıkan özellikleri nelerdir?
İthalatını gerçekleştirdiğimiz Janie Hills, zamansız tasarım anlayışı ve zarif çizgileriyle premium segmentte konumlanan güçlü bir markadır. Marka, modaya bağımlı kalmak yerine uzun yıllar kullanılabilecek zamansız tasarımlar üretmeyi hedefliyor. Üst düzey malzeme kalitesi özellikle dikkat çeken unsurlardan biridir. Üstün kaliteli asetat ve metal kullanımı hem dayanıklılığı hem de konforu artırıyor. Tasarım detaylarında sadelik ön planda tutulurken, incelikli işçilik sayesinde ürünler güçlü bir karakter kazanıyor. Yetişkinler ve çocuklar için geniş bir optik çerçeve koleksiyonuna sahip olması da markayı farklılaştırıyor. Böylece farklı yaş gruplarına hitap eden bütüncül bir koleksiyon yapısı oluşuyor. Janie Hills’i premium segmentte değerli kılan unsur, estetik ile fonksiyonelliği dengeli biçimde bir araya getirmesidir.

Jacobson markasının minimalist çizgisi nasıl ortaya çıktı? Bu markayla ulaşmak istediğiniz müşteri profili kim?
Jacobson güneş gözlükleri, sade ama güçlü bir tasarım anlayışıyla ortaya çıktı. Minimalist çizgileriyle zamansızlık kavramını merkeze alıyor. Yıllar geçse bile rahatlıkla kullanılabilecek modellere yer veriyor. Koleksiyonun en önemli özelliklerinden biri üst düzey metal işçiliğidir. Özellikle metal bölümlerde uygulanan el işçiliği detayları, ürünü yalnızca bir aksesuar olmaktan çıkararak değerli bir tasarım objesine dönüştürüyor. Bu detaylar gözlüğe karakter kazandırıyor. Jacobson ile hedeflediğimiz kullanıcı profili, stiline önem veren ancak gösterişten uzak bir şıklık arayan kişilerden oluşuyor. Kalite, sadelik ve rafine tasarım anlayışını bir arada isteyen kullanıcılar için güçlü bir alternatif sunduğumuzu düşünüyoruz.

Arma Optik’in bayileriyle kurduğu iş ortaklığı anlayışı hangi temel prensiplere dayanıyor?
Bayilerimizle ilişkimizi klasik tedarikçi-satıcı ilişkisinden ziyade bir iş ortaklığı olarak görüyoruz. Kendimizi büyük bir ailenin parçası gibi hissediyoruz ve bu yaklaşım iş süreçlerimize de yansıyor. Bayilerimizin kazandığı bir yapı kurmanın uzun vadede herkes için daha sağlıklı olduğuna inanıyoruz. Seçilmiş bayilerle çalışarak rekabet baskısını azaltan, sürdürülebilir bir ticaret modeli oluşturduk. Böylece iş ortaklarımız ürünlerimizi güvenle temsil edebiliyor. Satış sonrası süreçte ise bayilerimizi hiçbir zaman zor durumda bırakmamaya özellikle dikkat ediyoruz. Ürünlerimizin her zaman arkasında duruyor, hızlı çözüm üretmeye odaklanıyoruz. Sosyal medya gücümüzü de yalnızca marka bilinirliği için değil, bayilerimizin satışlarını destekleyecek şekilde aktif olarak kullanıyoruz. Başarıyı birlikte büyütmenin en doğru yol olduğuna inanıyoruz.

Türkiye genelindeki iş ağınızı oluştururken nasıl bir büyüme ve iletişim modeli benimsiyorsunuz?
Sınırlı ve seçkin sayıda bayi ile çalışmamız iletişim kalitemizi artıran önemli bir unsurdur. Ekibimle birlikte süreçlerin başında bizzat bulunuyor ve bayilerimizle sürekli temas halinde olmaya özen gösteriyoruz. İletişimi güçlü tutmak, sorunları büyümeden çözmemizi sağlıyor. Whatsapp ve Telegram grupları üzerinden anlık iletişim kurabiliyor, kampanya ve yenilikleri hızlı şekilde paylaşabiliyoruz. Bu yapı hem operasyonel hız sağlıyor hem de iş ortaklarımızın kendilerini sürecin içinde hissetmelerine katkı sunuyor. Yeni bayilikler verirken mevcut bayilerimizin ticari dengelerini korumaya özellikle dikkat ediyoruz. Bölgesel planlama yaparak herkes için sürdürülebilir bir satış ağı oluşturmayı hedefliyoruz. Uzun vadeli başarıyı ancak dengeli büyüme ile mümkün görüyoruz.

Koleksiyonlarınızı oluştururken global pazarlar ve aldığınız geri bildirimler tasarım sürecinizi nasıl şekillendiriyor?
Yurt dışındaki distribütörlerimizin paylaştığı bilgiler koleksiyon oluşturma sürecinde önemli bir rehber oluyor. Her ülkenin estetik anlayışı ve kullanıcı beklentisi farklı olduğu için pazar bazlı analizler yapıyoruz. Bazı koleksiyonlarımızı belirli ülkelerin zevklerine göre özel olarak üretiyoruz. Bu yaklaşım markanın uluslararası pazarlarda daha doğru konumlanmasını sağlıyor. Global trendleri takip ederken yerel beklentileri de göz ardı etmiyoruz. Dünyadaki birçok kontakt lens markasının renk ve tasarımlarımızı referans alması bizim için ayrıca gurur vericidir. Hatta bazı markaların renk isimlerine kadar ürünlerimize benzer çalışmalar yapma gayretinde olması da doğru ve yüksek standartlarda ürünler oluşturduğumuzu gösteriyor.

Kısa ve orta vadede Arma Optik için hedefleriniz neler? Yeni markalar, seriler veya yeni pazarlar gündemde mi?
Temel hedefimiz renkli kontak lens ve kontakt lens solüsyonu kategorilerinde dünya çapında kalite algısı en yüksek markalar arasında yer almaktır. Bu doğrultuda üretim standartlarımızı sürekli geliştiriyor ve Ar-Ge çalışmalarına önem veriyoruz. Özellikle Amerika ve Avrupa pazarında büyümeyi hedefliyoruz. Uluslararası pazarlarda kalıcı olmak için yalnızca ürün kalitesinin değil, marka güvenilirliğinin de önemli olduğunun bilincindeyiz. Bu nedenle distribütör ağımızı güçlendirmek, marka bilinirliğimizi artırmak ve sürdürülebilir büyüme sağlamak adına çalışmalarımızı planlı bir şekilde sürdürüyoruz.

Silmo İstanbul Optik Fuarı hakkındaki görüşleriniz nelerdir? Fuarın sektöre katkılarını nasıl değerlendirirsiniz?
Silmo İstanbul Optik Fuarı’nı Türkiye optik sektörünün uluslararası vitrine çıktığı en güçlü organizasyon olarak görüyorum. Fuar, sektör profesyonellerini bir araya getirerek bilgi ve deneyim paylaşımına önemli katkı sağlıyor. Bu platform sayesinde yurt dışındaki firmalarla tanışma, markamızı tanıtma ve yeni işbirlikleri geliştirme fırsatı yakaladık. Aynı zamanda global trendleri yakından gözlemleme imkanı sunması açısından da oldukça değerli bir fuardır. Silmo İstanbul’un sektörde kalite standartlarının yükselmesine ve Türkiye’nin optik alanındaki görünürlüğünün artmasına ciddi katkı sağladığını düşünüyorum.

Bize zaman ayırdığınız için çok teşekkür ederiz. Son olarak 4 your eyes ile ilgili neler söylemek istersiniz?
Her sayısında yayın kalitesini koruyan, sektördeki yenilikleri ve gelişmeleri okurlarla buluşturan önemli bir yayın olduğunu düşünüyorum. Optik dünyasına dair güncel bilgileri profesyonel bir bakış açısıyla aktarması sektöre değer katıyor. Arma Optik adına sizlere teşekkür ediyor, yayın hayatınızda başarılarınızın artarak devam etmesini diliyorum.

Mart 2026

Wholesaler Interview

Ck Grup Optik

Posted on 28 February 202628 February 2026 by Emre Özden

CK GRUP OPTİK

Trusted Manufacturer of Ninoflex Kids’ Eyewear

“Thanks to Silmo Istanbul, we have the opportunity to present our products to opticians and opticianry students in a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere.”

Hello Mr. Keleş. Could you introduce yourself to our readers and share your journey into the optical industry?
Hello, my name is Can Keleş. I represent the third generation of a family of opticians. Our optical stores began operating in the mid-1990s. When my older brothers, who belong to the second generation, were running the business at the beginning of the new millennium, I was still in middle school. During that period and throughout my high school years, I became familiar with the profession by spending my free time at our stores. After graduating from high school, I officially entered the industry by working as a full-time store manager.

Could you share the story behind Ninoflex Glasses, its defining features, and where the brand is today?
The story behind the creation of the brand is based on the lack of sufficiently suitable frame models for babies and children in Turkey. While more than 200 brands could be found in adult eyewear, there were only four or five brands available for children. In order to fill this gap, preliminary research was conducted in 2018, and production began under the Ninoflex brand in 2019. The most significant advantages of our products are that they can be orthopedically adjusted according to children’s facial structure, ear distance, and nasal width, and that they are delivered to families together with spare parts included in the box. This provides a highly beneficial solution for children undergoing vision correction treatments. Today, Ninoflex has become a widely accessible brand for many families, with more than 600 sales points across Turkey.

How did your retail heritage influence your move into manufacturing and the growth of Ninoflex Glasses?
The experience we gained in retail allowed us to better understand the end consumer and enabled us to adopt a more solution-oriented approach to potential issues. As a result, the satisfaction we create through our after-sales services greatly pleases our dealers as well. Our goal is to support both sides under fair conditions. By protecting our dealers’ interests while offering solutions that do not disappoint consumers, we leave a positive impression in the minds of both sellers and users, which has played a significant role in the growth of Ninoflex Glasses.

How did you decide to focus on such a specialized field as baby and children’s eyewear?
After observing that this area was not given sufficient importance within the Turkish optical sector, we decided to focus on it. It is known that there are approximately 10,000 optical retail stores across Turkey. In the vast majority of them, only low-priced models commonly referred to as “institutional frames” are available. Very few companies focus on orthopedic and functional frames. However, we have observed that when these products are properly explained to families, they are willing to allocate a budget for specialized frames. After closely observing consumer behavior in stores, the idea of focusing on a niche area such as children’s eyewear naturally emerged.

Could you tell us about the materials and production techniques you use for Ninoflex Glasses products?
Since our products are designed for babies and children, we use European-origin raw materials and production techniques whose quality we fully trust. All of the raw materials we use have undergone laboratory analysis by authorized institutions and are certified. We take a highly meticulous approach to our products. In addition to selecting allergen-free materials, we prioritize user health throughout the entire production process. Once our frames are carefully manufactured, they go through multi-stage quality control before being delivered to our dealers and then to the end user. Even if this level of care and quality is not yet fully recognized by the end consumer, the positive feedback we receive from our dealers and our continuously expanding dealer network clearly demonstrate overall consumer satisfaction.

By initiating local production of silicone nose pads and headbands, you reduced reliance on imports. How did this process come about?
From the very beginning of our production journey, one of our key objectives was to ensure that every component of our eyewear would be easily accessible within Turkey. This was especially critical in terms of providing fast after-sales service. Today, we have reached a point where 97 percent of the components that make up our eyewear are produced using locally sourced suppliers. Since silicone nose pads and headbands are exclusive to our brand, we did not want to remain dependent on foreign suppliers. These initiatives have also contributed to keeping capital within the country rather than sending it abroad.

You currently have more than 600 dealers across 67 cities in Turkey. What are your main priorities when managing this network?
We provide our dealers with supportive materials, display products, and auxiliary equipment that make it easier for them to explain and present the product to potential customers in-store. Our aim is to stand by our dealers and continuously support them with visual and video content that assists their sales processes. Being fully aware of how crucial these elements are when introducing products to end consumers, we continue to provide this support without interruption. For the same reason, we approached the Ninoflex Glasses website with great care. We ensured that it is detailed and easy to understand. In order to help consumers access our products regardless of their location in Turkey, we integrated a mapping system that directs them to the nearest dealer. Additionally, we operate a support line that responds very quickly during business hours.

You maintain a balance between high quality and accessible pricing. How do you manage this challenging equation?
In order to maintain this balance, we make sacrifices not only in profit but also in time. We conduct meticulous analyses. At this point, I would like to emphasize once again that our priority is to ensure the satisfaction of both the dealers who sell our products and the children and parents who use them. Compared to international brands, we offer the same quality at more affordable prices, while providing even more comprehensive after-sales service. Strengthening our brand’s reputation through a solution-oriented approach toward all our business partners results in a high level of satisfaction. For this reason, we believe our positioning against global brands is quite strong.

As CK Grup Optik, which areas are currently the focus of your R&D efforts?
As a company, our primary goal is to produce eyewear using materials and production techniques that cause minimal harm to the world we live in. This has been our fundamental objective since the very beginning. With our structure that is always open to development, we are focusing our R&D efforts and investments on the search for and application of environmentally friendly production materials. I can say that we are fully committed to turning our vision of producing recyclable raw materials and adapting them into our products into reality.

Could you share your short- and mid-term plans for Ninoflex Glasses?
We closely follow global industry developments and innovations worldwide. In the short term, we aim to increase digitalization by implementing a B2B ordering system that will cover all our dealers. In the mid-term, our goals include expanding our color and model range, creating a sunglasses collection when conditions allow, and developing collaborations for popular children’s models. At the same time, we plan to invest in innovative orthotic products that support visual disorders. When the right timing and teams come together, we also aim to expand into new markets.

What does Silmo Istanbul Optical Fair represent for the optical industry in general and for local manufacturers like yourselves?
I believe Silmo Istanbul is an extremely important and prestigious organization for our industry. It creates a valuable experience and vision platform for both those already in the sector and those considering entering it. As manufacturers, we have the opportunity to present our products to opticians and opticianry students in a comfortable and welcoming environment. At the same time, the fair plays a critical role in bringing local brands and products together with international visitors. I sincerely hope that this valuable event, which was held for the 12th time in 2025, will continue to serve the Turkish optical industry for many years to come.

Thank you for taking the time to join us. Finally, would you like to share your thoughts on 4 your eyes?
I do not think there is another magazine that delivers industry innovations with such speed and precision. I make sure to review every issue to stay informed about the latest developments. Thank you for all the work you have done so far and for everything you will continue to do in the future. It is great to have you.

February 2026

Wholesaler Interview

Aspendos Optik

Posted on 22 January 202622 January 2026 by Emre Özden

ASPENDOS OPTİK

Delivering Value to Business Partners

“Silmo Istanbul is a unique platform where we can present our vision and new collections to hundreds of business partners at the same time. More importantly, it inspires and provides feedback.”

Hello Mr. Özkul. Could you introduce yourself to our readers and share your journey into the optical industry with us?
Hello, my name is Mesut Özkul. I began this journey in 2011 and later continued it by founding Aspendos Optik. I come from the field side of the optical industry. Starting in retail taught me not only the excitement in front of the display window but also the responsibility behind it. Understanding the pulse of a store, reading customer expectations, and recognizing the true value of a product on the shop floor have always been my priorities. When founding Aspendos Optik, I used this experience to build a more structured, more sustainable, and long term business model.

Could you tell us about the founding story of Aspendos Optik? How did this journey from retail to distribution take shape?
Aspendos Optik was born out of a real need. While working in retail, I clearly observed that some stores in Turkey were seeking quality, others design, and others reliable supply. Very few structures were able to offer all three at the same time. Over time, we also realized that a market dominated by large brands and uniform product ranges was creating a gap. There was an audience like us, looking for distinctive and original designs and valuing quality and storytelling. Our distribution journey was shaped not merely around importing products, but around building a business model that correctly communicates the brand in the market and stands alongside the store.

You work with brands positioned within the concept of quiet luxury. How did you approach building your portfolio?
For us, quiet luxury is an attitude. We prefer products that are understated yet reveal themselves through details, making the wearer feel special. Our business partners also consist of a community that values craftsmanship behind the brand rather than popularity. While defining our strategy, we asked ourselves one question: Would you still wear this product ten years from now? If the answer was yes, then it was the right brand for us. Instead of focusing on fast sales, we invest in collections that preserve their value over time. This strategy has brought us both loyal retail partners and a conscious end user base.

You introduced Bloomdale, Malt Belgian, and Jose Alvarez Premium to the Turkish market. Could you describe the general characteristics of these brands?
These three European brands, each illuminating a different perspective, align perfectly with our founding purpose through their originality and uniqueness. Every brand in our portfolio is like a family member with a distinct personality. While selecting them, we were careful to ensure they complement one another. Bloomdale Eyewear, from the Netherlands, is a burst of color and joy. With its bold color combinations and original forms, it appeals to an energetic audience that is not afraid to express itself. Its limited production and timeless design approach offer high comfort. Malt Belgian Eyewear reflects the minimalist and sophisticated spirit of Belgian design. Its focus lies in material quality and flawless detailing, delivering true quiet luxury. Jose Alvarez Premium is an artistic brand that combines advanced material technology, limited production, ultra lightness, and refined aesthetics. Its collections emphasize craftsmanship and natural materials, each carrying its own distinctive character. Together, these three brands address different tastes and provide our partners with unique alternatives they can confidently offer to every customer.

You currently work with 553 business partners across Turkey. What kind of sales and logistics model do you apply when managing such a portfolio?
Managing a network of this size is only possible by balancing systems with human interaction. For us, 553 business partners mean 553 different success stories. The key lies in combining centralized efficiency with local flexibility. We operate with a strong central warehouse, accurate planning, and actively engaged field teams. They are not merely order takers but advisors to our partners. On the sales side, we prioritize maintaining one to one relationships, while in logistics we focus on speed and sustainability. In addition, I personally make it a priority to stay in direct contact not only with our field team but also with our growing network of partners. Coming from the operational side of the business, I can say that such logistics models are unfortunately still not very common in our sector.

How do you establish the balance between sustainability, quality, and design at Aspendos Optik?
We see sustainability not as a marketing argument but as a way of doing business. Long lasting products, conscious production, and timeless design form the foundation of our vision. If one element is missing, the entire structure collapses. We approach this balance not as a hierarchy of priorities but as a philosophy of integration. If the core material and craftsmanship quality of a product does not meet our standards, then neither its design nor its level of sustainability holds any real value. Design is the soul embodied by quality materials. Our goal is to offer designs that are visually striking while also functional and ergonomic. The brands we work with increasingly prioritize environmentally friendly materials such as recycled acetate, bio based plastics, and responsibly sourced metals. Some of our frames are produced using technologies that reduce water consumption by up to 60 percent during the manufacturing process.

The brands in your portfolio draw inspiration from a discovery that won the 2011 Nobel Prize in Chemistry. Could you elaborate on this?
Yes. In 2011, Nobel Prize winning chemist Daniel Shechtman discovered that quasicrystals have highly ordered atomic structures that do not repeat themselves, unlike traditional crystal formations. Brands in our portfolio apply this technological discovery to eyewear frames by using certain titanium and stainless steel alloys originally developed for the aerospace industry. As a result, these materials become extremely light, flexible, corrosion resistant, and most importantly anti allergenic. While a traditional metal frame may permanently deform when bent, these special alloys can return to their original shape thanks to shape memory properties. These engineering marvels offer end users an almost weightless feeling, all day comfort, and durability that lasts for years.

You state that you offer value to stores, not just products. What does creating value mean for Aspendos Optik?
For us, value is anything that makes a customer walk into a store and say, there is something different here. I define the elements that create this value as differentiation power, operational peace of mind, and knowledge and training. We provide our partners with products that have a story and character, allowing them to stand one step ahead of the competition. This enables them to compete through quality and style rather than price. On the operational side, we eliminate one of an optician’s biggest frustrations, unavailable stock and long waiting times, through fast logistics, easily accessible customer service, and flexible payment terms. While they focus on their business, we secure the background operations. We share the story, material features, and design philosophy behind every product we sell. We do not just give them a product but a story they can tell their customers. These trainings and information flows directly increase the motivation and sales performance of retail staff.

What is Aspendos Optik’s approach to digital marketing? Do you engage in direct to consumer sales or advertising?
Our digital marketing strategy is built around producing valuable content in line with our quiet luxury positioning. We do not engage in mass advertising aimed directly at end consumers. The Aspendos Optik website functions as a refined digital showroom presenting our brands and collections. Our existing partners can access exclusive content and place orders through a dedicated e dealer system integrated into the showroom. On social media, through our Instagram account aspendosoptiktr and Facebook page aspendos optikk, we produce professional content that communicates our brands’ stories, design details, and philosophies. Our partners can easily share this content on their own channels to reach customers. In short, our vision for digital presence and commerce is shaped around providing our partners with the most comfortable and authentic distributor experience possible.

Can we expect new brand investments or surprises from Aspendos Optik in the short and medium term?
Absolutely. In the short term, we are focused on presenting special capsule collections and Turkey exclusive designs from our existing brands to our partners. In the medium term, we continue to search for a new brand that will complement the characters in our portfolio. We are particularly keeping an eye on niche brands that combine technology with fashion, operate in the smart eyewear segment, or produce entirely under sustainable and circular economy principles.

As the Founder of Aspendos Optik, what does success mean to you and how do you measure it?
For me, success means never losing the excitement you feel for your work when you wake up in the morning. Numbers, market share, and turnover are of course important metrics, but true success lies in seeing the people you work with, both your team and business partners, grow and remain happy alongside you. When I founded Aspendos Optik, my five year vision was to become a brand associated with different and high quality eyewear in Turkey. Financially, we achieved this goal. Today, however, I realize that my true vision goes beyond that. I now see success not as a destination but as a journey. My definition of success today is knowing that a frame displayed in the showcase of one of our 553 partners turns into a smile on a customer’s face. Success is ensuring that every link in the value chain we create remains strong and fulfilled.

What are your thoughts on the Silmo Istanbul Optical Fair? How do you evaluate its contribution to the sector?
Silmo Istanbul Optical Fair plays a critical role in showcasing the strength and potential of the Turkish optical industry on the international stage. For wholesalers like us, it is a unique platform that allows us to present our vision and new collections to hundreds of partners simultaneously. More importantly, Silmo Istanbul has become a valuable source of feedback and inspiration for optical professionals. It gives us the opportunity to engage directly with partners from all across Anatolia, to understand their expectations and listen to the challenges they face. For this reason, I believe Silmo Istanbul’s contribution to the sector is invaluable.

Thank you for this valuable interview. Finally, could you share your thoughts on our magazine 4 your eyes?
I would like to thank you for featuring us in this precious publication. By bringing together innovations, diverse perspectives, and in depth analyses, you broaden the vision of all stakeholders in the industry. High quality medium like yours make a significant contribution not only to the commercial but also to the intellectual development of the sector.

January 2026

Wholesaler Interview

Efes Optik

Posted on 13 December 202513 December 2025 by Emre Özden

EFES OPTİK

Trusted in Optical Solutions

“I believe Silmo İstanbul’s 2025 edition was much more successful than previous years in terms of visitor quality and professional atmosphere.”

Hello Mr. Pehlivanoğlu. Could you briefly introduce yourself to our readers and tell us how you entered the industry?
Hello, I am Gökhan Pehlivanoğlu. My career in the optical sector began in 1994 by becoming a partner in a company. At that time, my entry into the industry was shaped both by my interest in commerce and by the clear need I observed in Turkey for high quality and accessible eyewear. Later, in 1999, I founded Efes Optik. The most valuable insight I gained throughout more than 30 years in the optical field is that a successful business can only be sustained with a strong team, a constant search for innovation and a customer focused mindset.

Efes Optik is a well-established company. Could you share the story of its founding and the growth strategy behind your 25 year journey?
As I mentioned earlier, our founding story began with the intention of addressing a need that was evident in the optical market. There was a shortage of products in Turkey that offered both quality and a balanced price performance value. We set out to fill this gap. Our growth strategy was never based on short term goals but on building sustainable brands. We consistently strengthened our distribution power, established robust collection development processes and invested in branding. The success of Efes Optik is one of the strongest examples of strategies built with this approach.

Quality is a fundamental principle for Efes Optik. How do you maintain your quality standards in material selection and production?
Our understanding of quality is based on a continuous control process from raw material selection to the final stages of production. We choose titanium, acetate, metal and TR90 components according to international standards. All our products are manufactured in compliance with CE criteria. Each collection undergoes durability tests before reaching our retail partners. For this reason, every pair of glasses produced by Efes Optik promises both longevity and a healthy user experience.

You export to Asia and Europe. Could you share your international sales experience and what it has contributed to your company?
Our international operations have brought us significant experience. We saw that every market has its own dynamic and expectations. While design and brand perception come to the forefront in European countries, lightness and functionality gain much more importance in Asia. This diversity has enriched our collection development vision and positioned Efes Optik as a company ready for global competition.

Could you tell our readers about your brands and how you developed this portfolio?
Today, we have a broad and versatile brand portfolio that includes Chanzara, Lufian, Garbino, Lady Victoria, Chimi, Scapa and Garbino Kids. Each brand has its own identity and target audience. Our goal is to offer an option that suits the style and lifestyle of every consumer. This level of diversity makes Efes Optik a strong and flexible player in the industry. Being able to appeal to younger consumers, classic style enthusiasts and licensed product users with the same quality is of great importance to us.

Efes Optik is known for its strong emphasis on R&D. Could you tell us how this process works?
Our R&D team conducts detailed analyses of face shapes across different regions and age groups in Turkey. We are aware that eyewear is not merely an accessory but a design that needs to integrate with the wearer’s face. For this reason, we place special emphasis on ergonomics, nose bridge structure, material lightness and long term comfort. Our prototyping process is highly meticulous and each model is tested and revised multiple times.

You are preparing a new Turkish brand especially for the European market. How are you planning its positioning in this region?
Yes, we aim to create a brand that represents modernity, originality and the strength of Turkish design in Europe. We plan to position this brand as one that brings together quality, design and accessible luxury. We strongly believe that a brand originating from Turkey can secure a lasting presence in Europe. In line with this goal, we continue our work without slowing down and are making large scale investments.

You have more than 500 retail partners across Turkey. How do you select them and how do you support their sales?
When building our retail network, our most important criterion has always been establishing long term and trust based relationships with our business partners. We prefer to work with visionary retailers in every region of Turkey who value their customers. We provide our partners with regular collection presentations, fast delivery, after sales services and retail support. The strength of our dealer structure comes from the fact that we see them not only as customers but as business partners.

What is Efes Optik’s approach to after sales service and what kind of support do you offer in this process?
For us, the after sales process does not end with the sale of the product; on the contrary, it begins there. We offer our retail partners fast spare part supply, product replacement support and technical solutions. Each region has a dedicated customer representative and all our processes are carried out with minimal disruption. The reason we are known as a solution partner in the sector is our ability to provide fast and transparent support whenever it is needed.

In your opinion, what trends will stand out in the optical sector as we approach 2026?
With the new year, I believe minimal and functional designs will come to the forefront. Lightweight materials, sustainable production, coloured lenses and retro modern forms will see higher demand. At the same time, eyewear will continue to play an increasingly important role in the fashion world and consumers will express their personal style with bolder frames.

Could you share your thoughts on the twelfth edition of Silmo Istanbul Optical Fair held last month and its contribution to the sector?
Silmo Istanbul Optical Fair has become one of the most important gatherings of our industry. It creates a strong platform for both domestic manufacturers and international brands. I believe Silmo İstanbul’s 2025 edition was much more successful than previous years in terms of visitor quality and professional atmosphere. The fair is highly valuable for following innovations, establishing collaborations and bringing the industry together under one roof.

Thank you for your valuable insights. Lastly, could you share your thoughts about our magazine 4 your eyes?
I believe 4 your eyes Optical Magazine is an important publication that enhances the sector’s knowledge base and conveys trends in a professional tone. I consider it a valuable resource for both industry representatives and retailers. Thank you for featuring us and I wish you continued success.

Decemmber 2025

Wholesaler Interview

Essa Daniel Klein Group

Posted on 30 November 20255 December 2025 by Emre Özden

ESSA DANIEL KLEIN GROUP

Fashion for Everyone

“Silmo Istanbul Optical Fair is the ideal venue for companies looking to introduce new products and expand their customer portfolios.”

Hello Mr. Çevik. Could you introduce yourself briefly, and tell us about your journey into the industry and the experience you have gained so far?
I am Ercan Çevik, born in 1973 in Akseki, Antalya. I entered the family business of watchmaking as a second-generation representative. The international trips and fairs I attended from a young age greatly broadened my horizons and helped me develop a global vision. These experiences made me realize that our business should not be limited to Turkey alone. Today, the expertise we have gained at every step, from the initial design of a product to its delivery to the final consumer, forms the foundation of Essa Group’s high standards in quality and service.

Essa Group has held a strong position in the watch industry for over 50 years. Could you tell us about the story of your company and where it stands today?
Essa Group’s journey began in a small 7-square-meter shop in Tahtakale, Eminönü. This modest start quickly grew into a professional structure thanks to our family’s work discipline and determination. The branding journey of our flagship brand Daniel Klein began in 1998, and with the worldwide registration process starting in 1999, we obtained official registration both in Turkey and in 36 countries by 2000. This step became a milestone for our international expansion. Today, we have transformed into a global brand exporting to over 85 countries, with nearly 1,000 points of sale and 25 retail stores. The key factor behind our success is maintaining an honest, transparent, and dedicated work culture with the philosophy of Fashion for Everyone.

Essa Group continues to grow by exporting to more than 85 countries. What strategies are key to managing this successful global structure?
Operating on a global scale requires a flexible and forward-looking management model. Therefore, we prioritize strategic planning, visionary leadership, and a digital-focused approach. We continuously optimize our international supply chain and logistics processes to maintain a cost-effective and seamless operational structure. Through localized marketing strategies for each market, we position our brands correctly and develop communication models that are sensitive to cultural differences. We support our human resources with competency-based training programs and career development opportunities. Customer feedback is placed at the center of our product development cycle, and through digital management systems, we develop proactive solutions to potential risks.

In recent years, you have embarked on a new journey extending from watches to eyewear. How did your decision take shape?
Over the years, our global experience and local strength, combined with our commitment to quality and a customer-focused approach, encouraged us to expand beyond watches into other elements that complement personal style. The watch industry provided us with strong knowledge in design, production, and global brand management. This experience created a natural foundation for moving into complementary style items. Eyewear, like watches, is not only a functional product but also a fashion statement reflecting a person’s identity and style. We observed that consumer trends increasingly favor brands that offer both function and aesthetics. With this in mind, we established a professional eyewear department, entered the optical sector with a strong team, and quickly secured a solid position.

You have a strong brand portfolio. Could you tell us about your brands and the main characteristics of their collections?
Daniel Klein, which started with the motto Fashion for Everyone and reaches millions of users worldwide, continues this philosophy in its eyewear collection. The brand appeals to anyone who follows fashion and wants to express their unique style with quality at an affordable price. Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club, with roots dating back to 1886 and representing American polo culture, is a global style symbol for those who embrace a classic and sporty lifestyle. Its eyewear collection reflects this elegant yet cozy style. Valentino Orlandi combines Italian design heritage with modern sophistication and represents a unique sense of luxury in its eyewear collection. Each model is crafted with the precision of a design object, featuring eye-catching details and a sophisticated structure. In short, Daniel Klein offers trend-focused accessible fashion for broad audiences, Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club provides sporty elegance, comfort, and daily style, and Valentino Orlandi is the perfect choice for those who prefer luxury and grandeur.

Your brands cater to different tastes and needs in terms of design language, functionality, and affordability. How is this variety received by consumers?
Each brand in our portfolio addresses distinct expectations and lifestyles. Daniel Klein is preferred by users who say they closely follow fashion but do not want to stretch their budget. Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club receives positive feedback from customers who value quality and comfort combined with understated sporty elegance. Valentino Orlandi appeals to consumers seeking luxury, elegance, and unique design. This variety is a tangible reflection of Essa Group’s Fashion for Everyone vision.

You place special emphasis on quality in your eyewear series. What criteria do you consider from material selection to production processes?
In our eyewear collections, long-lasting comfort is as important as aesthetics. Lightweight construction, ergonomic design, and skin-friendly materials are carefully selected. We define quality not just as stylish appearance but as a flawless user experience that feels comfortable throughout the day. This approach ensures that our products are confidently chosen in international markets, because for us, quality is not only about looking good but about providing the right product that feels comfortable all day.

How do you manage your relations with the stores and opticians you collaborate with in the optical channel? What kind of support do you provide them?
When bringing our products to customers, we always stand behind quality and trust by offering warranty assurance. At the same time, we provide our suppliers with payment flexibility and offer great deals to them, aiming to establish long-term and sustainable collaborations. Having faced similar challenges during our own establishment, we understand the needs and expectations of our suppliers very well. Therefore, we consider supporting them at every step as a fundamental principle. We believe that growing together is the key to true success.

What are Essa Group’s near-term goals? Are there plans for new investments, partnerships, or expanding product ranges?
Essa Group continues to grow each year by increasing its investments. In all our operations, we shape our production processes with a consumer-focused approach, taking into account market dynamics and customer demands. With our strategic investments, our primary goal is to contribute to the development of our country, and subsequently to increase the global recognition of our brand. In this context, we place great importance on strengthening our human resources by increasing the number of competent and qualified employees. Our aim is to provide the highest quality service to all our stakeholders without leaving any market unexplored. Guided by this vision, we continue on our path with a development program based on sustainable growth, innovation, and customer satisfaction.

What are your views on the Silmo Istanbul Optical Fair? How would you assess its contribution to the industry?
Silmo Istanbul Optical Fair is one of the most prestigious events in the optical sector. By bringing together many industry stakeholders from both domestic and international markets, it serves as a platform where the latest innovations are showcased. In this respect, it is the ideal venue for companies looking to introduce new products and expand their customer portfolios. With our overseas customer network covering more than 85 countries and over 1,000 domestic clients, we have a strong presence. Leveraging this experience in the optical sector, Silmo Istanbul Optical Fair provides an ideal stage for us to make an impactful entry into the market. The fair offers a valuable international environment for promoting our brand and establishing new business connections.

Thank you for your valuable interview. Finally, what are your thoughts on our magazine 4 your eyes?
4 your eyes is an important platform with a wide network of stakeholders in the optical sector, both domestically and internationally. Its structure allows direct communication with professionals across different areas of the industry, creating unique opportunities to enhance brand and company visibility. For this reason, collaborating with 4 your eyes is extremely positive for us, and we are very pleased and excited about this partnership.

November 2025

Wholesaler Interview

Prm Group

Posted on 18 October 202518 October 2025 by Emre Özden

PRM GROUP

Bringing Freesbee Quality to Türkiye

“The training sessions and networking opportunities at Silmo Istanbul
elevate the overall service quality within the industry.”

Hello Mr. Tankut Masareci. Could you introduce yourself to our readers and tell us about your background and experience in the industry?
I have nearly 30 years of experience in retail and distribution. In the early years of my career, I worked in sales, marketing, and channel management roles in the denim and fashion sectors. These experiences taught me that a product’s value lies not only in its design but also in the trio of the right channel, the right price, and the right service. Since 2010, as an executive at PRM Mağazacılık A.Ş. / PRM Group, I have focused on the eyewear category. The optical sector demands discipline, trust, and service excellence. Today, by combining our retail, e-commerce, and distribution know-how, we provide our brands with a sustainable foundation for long-term growth. Field training, data-driven decision-making, and sustainable stock management are areas I personally prioritize.

PRM Group has been active in the optical industry for 15 years. Could you briefly share the story behind the company’s founding and its current position?
PRM Group was founded in 2010 with the vision of becoming “a high-service-quality distributor connecting international brands with local market dynamics.” From day one, we focused not on one-time sales but on consistency in the field and store productivity. Today, our distribution network in the optical channel covers independent opticians, retail chains, and regional wholesalers. On the B2B side, we optimize the order–stock–logistics cycle through data analytics, while on the B2C side, we deepen our brands’ storytelling through digital channels. In short, PRM positions itself not as “the company that brings products to the shelves,” but as “the partner that keeps those shelves alive and turns them into sales.”

Freesbee is a young and dynamic brand inspired by the California lifestyle. Could you tell us about its Dna and main characteristics?
Freesbee is a sunglasses brand that blends California’s laid-back yet confident style codes with the expectations of the optical channel. Its design Dna is shaped around sunlight, coastal/sunset hues, and the practicality of urban wear. The product architecture rests on three pillars. The first is the Chameleon Collection, which stands out with its strong visual appeal and color-changing technology. The second is California Classics, a timeless line that appeals to a wide audience through neutral or semi-transparent frames. The third, Seasonal Edits, is a limited-edition line that captures fresh, trend-driven styles each season. As PRM, we present these collections with a focus on balancing everyday usability and fashionable appeal—always with an accessible price positioning.

The Chameleon series perfectly reflects Freesbee’s innovative and tech-driven spirit. Could you elaborate on what makes this collection unique?
The Chameleon collection was born from the idea of designs that live with the sun. The frames in this series react to UV exposure and sunlight by changing tone, moving in harmony with the user as they transition from indoors to outdoors. This feature allows optical retailers to instantly demonstrate the effect with a small UV light, creating a powerful visual moment both in-store and on display. These dynamic visuals also provide engaging content for social media. Ultimately, Chameleon is more than just an aesthetic innovation—it’s a compelling sales tool that actively attracts customers and boosts engagement in stores.

How do Chameleon’s color-changing models perform in-store in terms of customer interaction? How do opticians present this experience?
Our retail setup follows a three-step structure. The first is attracting attention with a “Change with the Sun” message and a demo station in the display window. The second is demonstration: the optician uses UV light to show the before/after transformation, allowing customers to experience it firsthand. The third step is context: the optician explains usage scenarios—daily life, city walks, beach moments, events—while highlighting the price–quality balance. We provide our teams with demo dialogues, objection-handling tips, and POS visuals. This turns the product from a technical story into a felt experience.

What were your key considerations when determining Freesbee’s collections?
We structured Freesbee’s collection architecture to serve both sales rotation and brand storytelling. With the California Classics line, we focused on core shapes that ensure fast sell-through and easy restocking, targeting a wide audience with matte/glossy finishes and a neutral palette. With Seasonal Edits, limited production brings a sense of freshness and trend alignment to displays. And Chameleon, with its strong narrative and visual effect, adds emotional and experiential depth. Together, these three lines help stores achieve both secure sales and a “display that instantly draws attention.”

Freesbee’s pricing strategy is built around “affordable quality.” How does this create an advantage for optical stores and end consumers?
For end consumers, it means accessible pricing that enables quick purchase decisions without compromising on trend, quality, or comfort. For optical stores, the key advantages are high sell-through rates, a wide target audience, and a low stock risk. Combined with Chameleon’s experiential power, these strengths also create a “second-pair” or “gift purchase” effect. Overall, this strategy increases in-season stock turnover per store while enhancing customer satisfaction.

Could you tell us about your sales network in Turkey? In which regions is Freesbee currently available?
Freesbee operates through a broad national network covering independent opticians, buying groups, and select chains across the Marmara, Aegean, Mediterranean, Central Anatolia, Black Sea, and Southeastern regions. With the support of our regional wholesale partners, we shorten service and replenishment times, while standardizing in-store visual applications and training support.

PRM Group stands out for its expert field teams and optician training programs. Could you elaborate on your training approach?
We categorize our training under three main topics. The first, Product & Technical, covers UV/color-change technology, materials, comfort, maintenance, and after-sales service. The Merchandising module focuses on window messaging, demo station placement, shelf management, and visual consistency. Lastly, Sales Dialogues include demo scenarios, objection handling, bundle offers, and cross-selling. We reinforce these with field coaching and micro-learning modules, tracking KPIs such as demo count per store, POP application rate, and Chameleon sales share.

Digital channels and social media are crucial for reaching younger audiences. What communication strategy do you follow for Freesbee in this space?
Our main focus is video and experience. We tell the “before/after” story of color change through Reels and TikTok-style formats. We encourage user-generated content (UGC) challenges, use location-based ad sets, and collaborate with micro-influencers to grow reach. On e-commerce, we shorten decision time by integrating short demo clips, clean product copy, and visual variations showing how each model looks in different environments.

What are your goals in terms of global expansion or new collaborations?
In the short to mid term, we aim to expand Freesbee’s presence in select European markets and to scale the Chameleon demo unit—our compact in-store display standard. On the product side, we’re enriching California Classics with new surface treatments and sustainable material options, while evolving Seasonal Edits into collectible capsule concepts. Our measurable goals include gradually increasing annual unit sales and strengthening the omnichannel customer experience through new partnerships.

What are your thoughts on the Silmo Istanbul Optical Fair and its contribution to the optical industry?
Silmo Istanbul brings together suppliers, brands, and opticians under one roof, serving as a strategic showcase not only for Turkey but also for surrounding regions. It offers first-hand access to new collections, opportunities to experience technical innovations, and valuable real-time feedback from the field. For us, Silmo Istanbul is a platform where experiential series like Chameleon can be demonstrated on-site and where new collaborations gain momentum. Moreover, its training sessions and networking opportunities significantly enhance service quality across the sector.

Thank you for this valuable interview. Lastly, would you like to share your opinions about 4 your eyes?
Thank you. I believe 4 your eyes offers the industry content that is current, practical, and well-balanced. The case studies and product trend pages, in particular, serve as valuable guides for opticians. I also appreciate how the magazine’s digital presence allows new collections to be showcased in an experiential way. For story-based lines like Chameleon, such platforms truly make a difference.

October 2025

Wholesaler Interview

Opka Optik

Posted on 16 September 202519 September 2025 by Emre Özden

OPKA OPTİK

Building Trust with Its Quality & Ethical Values

“I believe that Silmo Istanbul is a great opportunity to follow innovations, strengthen collaborations and exchange ideas about the sector.”

Hello Mr. Avşar. Could you introduce yourself to our readers and share your journey into the industry along with the experience you have gained so far?
Hello. My name is Kadir Avşar, and I was born in Istanbul in 1981. I stepped into the industry in 1998 at the age of seventeen. Since then, I have had the opportunity to gain experience by working in various positions within the sector. In my 28 years of professional life, I have changed jobs only once, and that was due to the company I worked for ceasing its operations. Throughout this long journey, patience, perseverance, and stability have always been indispensable values for me. I have taken on a range of responsibilities, from sales to management, in some of the leading lens brands in the industry. I have always strived to fulfill each role with great care and dedication.

How did you decide to establish Opka Optik? Could you share the story behind its founding?
Thanks to my long-standing field experience and strong brand relationships, I felt the time had come to chart my own course. I founded Opka Optik in 2024, bringing together my knowledge, expertise, and trust-based relationships under one roof. My goal during the establishment process was not merely to create a commercial structure but to build a business model rooted in ethics, quality, and sustainability.

Although it was founded only last year, Opka Optik has shown rapid growth. What lies behind this success?
Even though Opka Optik was established in 2024, there is in fact a long-standing accumulation of experience behind this success. Having worked actively in the sector for twenty-eight years, the trust-based relationships I have built with both my customers and business partners have become our greatest strength today. Moreover, starting out with a reliable and high-quality brand like Optiswiss was a major advantage for us. My confidence in the brand and its product quality allowed us to lay much stronger foundations. Our reliability, transparency, and commitment to quality service have enabled us to quickly establish a strong position, and we continue to move forward with a focus on long-term partnerships.

What were the main factors that led you to collaborate with the Switzerland-based Optiswiss for Opka Optik? How did your distributorship process begin?
At a certain stage in my career, I had the opportunity to actively sell Optiswiss products in the field. My trust in the brand dates back to those years. Both the product quality and the positive feedback from customers had genuinely impressed me. When I decided to start my own business, I did not hesitate to take my first step with Optiswiss. I believed that not only my company but also the industry truly needed a brand of such quality and reliability. The distributorship process naturally began with this trust and mutual understanding built over the years. Today, I can say that this collaboration has evolved beyond a commercial partnership to become part of a shared vision.

Could you tell us about the general qualities and production approach of Optiswiss? What sets the brand apart from its competitors in your opinion?
Founded in Switzerland in 1937, Optiswiss produces its entire range entirely in Switzerland and operates with the highest engineering and quality standards. Optiswiss is a first-class independent Swiss brand focused on quality, sustainability, and innovation. All production processes are carried out in accordance with ISO quality management systems, with many stages exceeding these standards in terms of precision and tolerances. Optiswiss embraces the “Swiss Made” quality approach not as a mere label but as a principle at every stage of production. Its manufacturing facility in Basel operates entirely on renewable energy. With state-of-the-art automation, thousands of lenses are produced every day with the highest precision and quality. For me, what makes the brand truly special is not only its technical competence but also the way this high-quality philosophy is reflected in the field and to the end user. For those seeking a reliable solution partner in the premium segment, I believe Optiswiss is indeed a very strong alternative.

We know that the brand places great importance on R&D and innovation. How does this technology-focused approach translate into the field
Optiswiss sees innovation not merely as product development but as a core vision. In this regard, it allocates significant annual budgets to R&D, pioneering the sector in many areas from lens and coating technologies to personalized solutions. Thanks to this technology-driven approach, Optiswiss not only delivers high-quality products but also offers solutions that optical professionals can confidently recommend to their customers and that end users can enjoy with long-term satisfaction.

Do you have any products or service models specifically developed for the Turkish market?
Since the Turkish market is both dynamic and highly competitive, we attach great importance to expanding our product range and offering solutions tailored to local needs. In the coming period, we aim to highlight Optiswiss SMYLE myopia control lenses, which make a global impact by being produced in all indices, as well as newly developed progressive designs.

What are the distinguishing features of the services you provide to your business partners at Opka Optik?
Coming from the field myself, I have a strong understanding of the challenges and real needs our business partners face in daily operations. This enables us to create a structure at Opka Optik that offers not only products but also solutions. We focus on delivering the fastest and most reliable services both in sales and after-sales. From order to delivery, from technical support to customer communication, we strive to remain accessible and solution-oriented at every stage. Our decision-making processes are built on transparency and mutual trust. Since our aim is to build long-term, sustainable relationships with our business partners, we regard the satisfaction of both them and the end consumer as our most important measure of success.

What are your goals for the upcoming period? Do you have any plans for new investments, collaborations, or expanding your product range?
In the short term, our priority is to increase the recognition and reach of the Optiswiss brand, for which we hold the distributorship, across Turkey. To this end, we aim to build a wider dealer network, strengthen our presence in the field, and provide face-to-face support to optical professionals. In the medium and long term, we plan to enrich our portfolio with new product groups and introduce to the market special solutions that the sector needs. We are particularly open to new collaborations in the areas of personalized lens solutions, next-generation coating technologies, and specialty lenses. In addition, we plan to invest in digital infrastructures, after-sales support systems, and logistics efficiency to further enhance customer satisfaction. We are determined to continually improve ourselves and make a difference in terms of both product variety and service quality.

With nearly thirty years of experience, what advice would you give to young entrepreneurs and those new to the industry?
This industry requires patience, dedication, and trust. Love what you do, be honest, and always keep your word. It is very important to go beyond short-term goals and progress with long-term plans. My most valuable advice would be to do your work with passion, remain committed to ethical principles, and never stop building trust.

What are your thoughts on Silmo Istanbul Optical Fair? How do you evaluate its contribution to the sector?
I believe that Silmo Istanbul Optical Fair is a very important event for our optical industry. I find it extremely valuable in bringing together both national and international players. I believe that Silmo Istanbul offers a great opportunity to follow innovations, strengthen collaborations, and exchange ideas about the sector.

Thank you for your valuable interview. Finally, what are your thoughts on our magazine 4 your eyes?
I can say with confidence that you are at the top of the list among publications that add value to the industry. I believe that both your content quality and your approach to providing accurate and up-to-date information are truly valuable for us optical professionals. I thank you for your efforts and wish you continued success.

September 2025

Wholesaler Interview

Biz Grup Optik

Posted on 1 August 202514 August 2025 by Emre Özden

BİZ GRUP OPTİK

Exploring Surreal Touches and Sophisticated Creations…

“I’d like to emphasize that Silmo Istanbul Optical Fair has made a highly positive contribution to the proper introduction of our Coco&Dali brand to the
Turkish optical market.”

Hello Mr. Tahsin. Could you please introduce yourself to our readers and tell us how your career in the industry began?
Hello, I’m Tahsin Mavili. I hold a degree in Biomedical Engineering from Başkent University. I come from a family of opticians with a 45-year legacy in the profession, and I am the eldest of three siblings. My two younger brothers still work in the optical business. Since childhood, I’ve always been involved in the sector, and there was never a time I truly stepped away from it. At the same time, as a natural extension of my profession, I also ventured into the medical field. I’m engaged in the import, domestic sales, and technical service of professional therapeutic equipment and consumables used in physical therapy, rehabilitation, and sports medicine. Driven by my passion for learning and discovering new areas of trade, I also spent about 10 years working alongside some of the most experienced professionals in Turkey’s energy industry-particularly in oil and gas. During this time, I played an active role in facilitating business agreements that served the national interest.

When and how was Biz Grup Optik founded? What were your primary goals and motivations?
In mid-2023, we obtained the representation rights for the Coco&Dali brand in Türkiye, aiming to introduce a unique line of optical frames and sunglasses that stand apart from the widely available collections in the local retail market. We envisioned a collection with a distinct style-sophisticated, modern, and reflected consistently across all models. With this ambition, we officially established our company and began our journey. Our primary motivation was to create a collection that harmonizes surreal inspiration and contemporary aesthetics, without completely straying from the conservative lines embraced by the general public. We want to offer products that users truly enjoy wearing and that reflect a unique sense of style.

Could you tell us more about Coco&Dali’s Dna, design line, choice of materials, and target groups?
The Dna of Coco&Dali draws inspiration from the bold artistry of Spanish painter Salvador Dalí and the timeless elegance of French fashion icon Coco Chanel. This magical influence is at the core of every design. Our materials are carefully selected from the highest-quality, biodegradable, hypoallergenic, and skin-safe sources. Each piece is handcrafted-not mass-produced. Our frames are made from acetate and metal, while our sunglasses are equipped with UV400 protection, anti-reflective coatings, and premium lenses known in the industry for delivering optimal visual comfort.

Which sales channels are you using to introduce Coco&Dali in Türkiye?
We strongly believe that traditional, face-to-face sales interactions are more effective and sincere. As Biz Grup Optik, we are committed to maintaining this approach. While we recognize the impact of innovative sales channels on performance, we believe that meeting our clients in person fosters trust and allows them to better perceive our solution-focused mindset. We value transparency and authentic communication, which is why our website is designed purely for product display and does not include any direct sales or marketing functionalities.

How do you select the optical stores you collaborate with, and what kind of support do you provide them?
Having been in the industry for many years, we don’t rely on algorithms or analytical models to reach or select our partners. That said, in today’s digital age, it has become easier to identify and connect with potential clients. We offer honest and personalized guidance to all our customers during product selection. For each store, we consider their location and target audience and offer tailored suggestions accordingly-without compromising our integrity. If clients have specific requests regarding delivery timelines, we prioritize and fulfill them precisely. As for after-sales service, if a product is found to have a manufacturing defect, we do not replace parts-we provide a brand-new product. In return, all we ask for is feedback from the end-user confirming their satisfaction.

Could you tell us about your services in the medical aesthetics and physical therapy sectors?
We supply professional medical equipment, tools, and consumables used in rehabilitation, physical therapy, and sports medicine. We’re also preparing to launch a new venture in the field of medical aesthetics. This initiative will focus on providing professionals with aesthetic-specific consumables, tools, and advanced equipment.

Can we expect new brand surprises from Biz Grup Optik? What are your near-future plans?
At Biz Grup Optik, we have strong faith in the spirit and energy of the Coco&Dali brand. Its steady progress and the motivation behind it are of utmost importance to us. When considering the inclusion of new brands, this will be our top priority. I can comfortably say that exciting new surprises are on the horizon. We expect to introduce them to esteemed optical professionals in 2027, following our meticulous planning and preparation process.

As an experienced professional, how would you evaluate the current and near-future landscape of Türkiye’s optical market?
Like all sectors, Türkiye’s optical market has been somewhat affected by global economic turbulence. However, just like a river finding its course, our industry continues to move forward-adapting, renewing, and keeping its momentum alive.

Biz Grup Optik presented its brand for the first time at the 11th edition of the Silmo Istanbul. How would you describe this experience and the fair’s impact on the industry?
I’d like to emphasize that Silmo Istanbul Optical Fair has made a highly positive contribution to the proper introduction of our Coco&Dali brand to the Turkish optical market. Being a participant allowed us to meet numerous optical professionals face-to-face, all under one roof, making it a highly valuable and meaningful event. As Biz Grup Optik, we believed that participating in Silmo Istanbul would play a key role in enhancing our brand recognition and visibility across Türkiye, and the fair’s organization and quality truly met our expectations. I believe Silmo Istanbul will continue to be a prominent and closely followed event for all industry stakeholders in the coming years.

Thank you for this valuable interview. Lastly, do you have any thoughts to share about our magazine, 4 your eyes?
On behalf of the entire Biz Grup Optik family, I’d like to thank you as well. With its well-rounded and up-to-date content, 4 your eyes not only delivers valuable insight and vision to professionals but also effectively engages eyewear users and fashion followers-especially through its transition to digital publishing. I wish continued success to everyone who contributes to this excellent publication.

August 2025

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