Managing frame inventory is no small task. This month, we detail the steps needed to keep a fresh, popular, and profitable frame board.

having the latest styles, on-trend features, and popular brands on your frame boards is of the utmost importance when trying to entice customers into your optical area (and keeping them there through purchase). But it can become overwhelming if you’re not careful. Having a system in place, and great vendor relationships, is key.

This month, our checklist focuses on what staff can do to track sales, inventory, and returns, as well as build rapport with frame vendors.

Here you will find some helpful tips on how to coordinate all aspects of managing your inventory.

About the Authors: Our optical checklist is pulled together each month by the highly respected ECP team at Complete Family Vision Care Optometry in San Diego—including owner and optometrist Eric M. White, O.D., and staff Ashley Samuels, Gloria Lopez, and Lorie White.

They’ve worked hard to create this optical checklist so you don’t have to. Dig in, tear out, and share it up with your team.

OCTOBER 2018

WEEK ONE

TIP: Meet with frame reps bimonthly to check stock and replenish anything that has been sold. Ask frame reps to show you the latest styles and trends to keep your inventory up to date.

TIP: If a line of frames is not selling, don’t hesitate to replace it with something that will be more profitable.

WEEK TWO

TIP: Utilize a software program that will allow you to keep track of your frame inventory.

TIP: Implement a barcode scanning system that pairs with your inventory software program to easily keep inventory up to date when frames are sold or put into stock.

TIP: Generate monthly inventory reports that allow you to spot sales trends for the different brands, styles, and manufacturers.

WEEK THREE

TIP: Develop a relationship with your frame reps so they will replace the less popular frames in a way that ensures your practice doesn’t take a loss. The client/vendor relationship can be vital to a practice.

TIP: If you can’t return a frame to the vendor because it is not selling, consider discounting the style to make room for inventory that is more up to date.

TIP: Give each frame rep a set amount of slots on your frame boards. That way you can keep a variety of frames in inventory from a variety of vendors.

WEEK FOUR

TIP: Designate one staff member to handle all frame returns. This will go far in minimizing miscommunication that can muddy the process.

TIP: Label a shelf or cabinet in the back room on which all returns should be kept.

TIP: Process the frame returns frequently, such as every other week, so that product does not build up and become a daunting task.