By Denis Langlois

The husband-and-wife duo of Pason and Rawan Banjongpanith have been operating Kennedy Optical in Brampton for more than a quarter of a century.

Pason became a registered optician in 1990 after graduating from Georgian College in Barrie. Rawan, meanwhile, studied office administration at Niagara College.

Kennedy Optical, which is located on Queen Street East in Brampton, now has six full-time staff members, including four licenced opticians.

The store offers prescription eyeglasses, safety eyeglasses, sports goggles, designer sunglasses, contact lenses and more.

Recently, Pason Banjongpanith took some time to chat with Optical Prism about Kennedy Optical and its future.

Q. Please tell us a bit about how you promote your business.

A. We are strong believers of high-quality service and maintaining a solid clientele. Over the last 26 years, we’ve been able to build strong relationships with our clients by doing a good job in servicing them before and after their purchase. We feel we have done a pretty good job since we have many repeat customers who have referred friends and family. Without the use of expensive advertisements, we have been able to grow our business through word of mouth.

Q. What are the primary brands available at Kennedy Optical?

A. We carry over 1,200 frames in store featuring brands such as Miu Miu, Tom Ford, Tiffany & Co., Bulgari, Maui Jim, Oakley, Nike and many others.

We have a variety of styles and shapes to ensure each customer is able to pick out the perfect pair.

Q. What are some of the benefits of operating an independent store?

A. Compared to big box stores, everything we do is more personalized from choosing the products we carry in store to helping guide our clients in selecting frames for their individual needs. All the while keeping them informed with up-to-date fashionable eyewear, products and technology.

Q. Are there any changes or plans for your business?

A. We are striving to make service in our community better and are always looking for ways to improve our store. With technology and social media available to us, we would like to incorporate that to our current operation so we can better reach out to our clients.