Eyewear Now launches online application platform

Specialist financial solutions provider Eyewear Now have launched their new online application platform at this year’s ABDO conference in Brighton. The new platform allows opticians and practice staff to apply for interest-free credit in-store, in the presence of the customer.

“We now have an incredibly easy-to-use, streamlined system,” explains Giles Greenhough, UK general manager, “that allows staff to apply for 0% finance in-store, and at the time of purchase.  We have done away with the need for phoning information through and filling out forms, which can be time-consuming; now everything is done for you quickly and easily by the application itself.”

Interest-free credit is a fantastic marketing tool for opticians, allowing customers to purchase eyewear or high-quality add-ons such as coatings or specialised lenses recommended by their optician.

“In the current climate there has been a huge increase across all sectors of retail for interest-free offers,” says Greenhough. “It’s a very appealing option for the consumer at this time, and almost always results in the customer’s spend target being lifted considerably.  Eyewear Now’s 12-month option currently averages out at a total spend of £351, while our 24-month payment option averages at £471.”

With Eyewear Now’s package, any optical-related items can be included in the total amount, from frames, sunglasses and lenses, to contact lenses and even the cost of the eye examination. The different products are incorporated into one package, allowing the patient to have just the one payment spread over the desired time period.

Eyewear Now carries no risk for the optician.  Settlement is on a weekly basis with a single merchant payment deducted.  There are no ongoing costs.  No deposit is required by the patient and only minimal ID is requested, such as a credit card, to process the application.

A full pack of POS materials are now available to maximise patient awareness throughout the practice.

“At the end of the day, Eyewear Now allows the patient to purchase the glasses they prefer, in a convenient, cost-effective way,” says Greenhough. “We are very happy with progress in the UK. Opticians can see that we are offering a good deal all round.”