editor's letter

Happy 25^th

Stephanie K. De Long

In January 1986, Eyecare Business published its first issue. The cover stories? “Perish or Prosper…in the Shadows of the Superstores” and “Will RK Cut Into Your Business?” More than 300 issues later, the optical industry—and Eyecare Business—are both stronger than ever. And, despite the marketplace concerns back in 1986, neither RK nor superstores killed the category in general or the independent in particular. The same goes for managed care, refractive surgery, vendor consolidation, and every other business challenge you've had to address in the last 25 years.

Sure, the landscape has changed. But, so have you.

In 1986, the title “Eyecare Business” was considered controversial. Most of you who were in optical then weren't comfortable being referred to as a business. You were—and are—an eyecare professional and a healthcare provider, but the business part made you nervous.

That is, of course, one of the reasons the magazine was launched. As stated in that first issue: “This is the age of the entrepreneur, and ours is an industry of professional entrepreneurs. The objective of this magazine is to make you a more successful one.”

We're proud to be 25 and continue to appreciate the opportunities you've given us. We're going to celebrate throughout the year. In September, we'll produce a special looking back—and ahead—issue.

And, every month this year, we'll include Retrospectives, a column in which we'll feature timeless tips and expert advice from years past. Look for “then and now” recollections and quotes in other sections of the magazine, too.

We're also sponsoring a “design your own anniversary-themed eyewear” contest. We hope you'll join in the fun. See the article News for more details.

Thank you from all of us at EB for the last 25 years. We wish you all the best for another 25 years of growth, success, and happiness.

Steph De Long
Editor-in-Chief