IRIS The Visual Group, Canada’s largest network of eye care professionals, stays
ahead of the optical curve and partners with Nikon introducing MyLab, the Nikon/IRIS integrated laboratory. This
is a first in NIKON Optical Canada’s history intended to deliver on both companies’ commitment in helping people
experience better vision. Following its 2013 spring launch, IRIS locations are now fully integrated and are seamlessly
processing increasing demands and delivering on patients’ needs. MyLabTM offers exclusive designs to IRIS patients
namely, their latest digital progressive lens series, I View Series2.
“IRIS and Nikon share a similar vision, to improve Canadians’ vision. Partnering up with Nikon was not only something
we aspired to, but a sensible next step. Our partnership will demonstrate that vertical cooperation is more efficient than
vertical integration,” says Dr. Francis Jean, Optometrist and President of IRIS.
MyLabTM is equipped with advanced industrial software and the latest edging and mounting technologies enabling to
produce New Generation lenses that store superior intelligence. The most specific of patients needs relevant to their
IRIS Profile, are met. This allows IRIS to provide patients personalized and exclusive products in real-time.
“Nikon Optical Canada is proud to have partnered with Iris to create MyLabTM, a dedicated structure providing Iris
patients with Nikon latest technology lenses. We strongly believe that the association of our respective expertise in
professional patient care and premium quality products will contribute to elevate the optical market and provide
Canadians with better vision for a better life,” says Pierre Longerna, President of Nikon Optical Canada.
IRIS has increased its Nikon lens volume from 15% to 50% in the last years, in part due to patients requesting the
sophisticated lenses, and essentially because Nikon delivers innovation that resonates with IRIS’ comprehensive
patient service. With MyLabTM, IRIS persists in being at the forefront of optical developments honouring its dedication
to eye health.
About IRIS The Visual Group:
In 1986, Dr. Francis Jean opened his first Optometry practice in his hometown of Baie-Comeau, Quebec. In 1990, he founded a buying group
engaging several dynamic and like-minded Optometrists with the same ideals as the IRIS The Visual Groupe trademark.
In 2000, IRIS doubled the size of their network by acquiring the largest optical retailer in Western Canada, Fort Optical. This move introduced the
concept of collaborative eyecare offering the highest quality of products and services in British Columbia and Alberta.
Over the last 25 years, IRIS has become the largest network of eye care professionals in Canada. Its influence has provoked important changes
regarding the country’s legislation pertaining to the profession of optometry. IRIS has managed to differentiate itself in the eyecare industry thanks
to a distinctive concept and commitment to bring Optometrists, Opticians and Ophthalmologists together under one brand.
About Nikon Inc:
Beyond an iconic brand name, Nikon Inc. is a precision optical company that has been ranked amongst the most respected in the world. It is
involved in a broad spectrum of businesses centred around specializations in imaging products, precision equipment, and instruments. Always
at the forefront of technology, Nikon reinvests 7% of its total revenue in research and development annually.
The Nikon name is equated with extraordinary photographic performance, innovation, precision and optical quality. Nikon is the only major
optical company in the world that still controls and manufactures every aspect of its glass-making business, allowing it to finely tune Nikon lens
specifications, quality and performance. From basic materials to final coatings, Nikon lens production is both a science and an art form.
Nikon Optical Canada Inc., (NOCI), has been manufacturing and selling ophthalmic lenses to Eye Care Professionals for more than 25 years in
Canada and is one of the top players on the Canadian market, with a premium positioning. By literally mimicking the workings of the human eye,
Nikon Optical affords the wearer the unparalleled comfort and pleasure of lenses that are the closest thing to natural vision. From single vision
to progressive lenses, Nikon assures all wearers superior visual performance through proven optical design expertise and the finest materials and
coatings in the world today.
As a manufacturer, Nikon Optical Canada sells exclusively to Canadian eye care professionals and Nikon lenswear is only available through them.
For more information visit www.iris.ca or www.nikonlenswear.ca
