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About Us

Innovative. Progressive. Cutting-Edge. Visionary. All of these traits describe Co/op Optical Vision Designs. These characteristics stem from the values that took root from the very moment that Co/op Optical came into existence. The unique history of the company still influences the way the business is run today. Initially as Co/op Optical grew, the retail offices had their own optical finishing equipment to cut and edge lenses for patients.

By 1977 there were seven retail offices, each with their own equipment and inventory. In an effort to reduce cost to the members and overhead for the business, the manufacturing and inventory of lenses was consolidated. The company began manufacturing from a centralized location. This resulted in lower inventory costs and increased quality. Soon equipment was added to complete surface work on lenses. Co/op Optical was able to control the entire process of producing eyewear for its members. While refining the manufacturing and retail processes, the company began to explore other ways to improve the lifestyles of its members. At this time Co/op Optical pioneered pre-paid eye care. In response to insurance companies charging high monthly rates for eye care coverage, Co/op Optical began to offer this service directly. Co/op Optical benefits programs became available through union welfare funds or employer benefits packages. To honor the nature of how a cooperative organization should be run, Co/op Optical was established to be a not-for-profit, consumer cooperative. The membership was to include the "groups or sponsors of groups which utilize our eye care programs. The Board of Directors was to be composed primarily of labor representatives.

During the mid 1980's Co/op Optical encountered some financial problems. In 1983 Bernard Englander became the president and helped turn the business around. It was shortly after this time that Ken Morris began his work with the Board of Directors. These two men realized quickly that in order for the company to survive, it must grow. An opportunity was presented by Chrysler when it bid on vision care for 70,000 employees in and around Southeast Michigan. It quickly became apparent that the program offered by Co/op Optical would allow Chrysler employees to save 50% of what they had previously paid for similar benefits. The only concern was whether or not Co/op Optical had the retail locations and the infrastructure to handle the addition of a large account like Chrysler. Staff members at Co/op Optical acted quickly and decisively to prove to Chrysler that their employees would be in good hands.

The Co/op Optical Provider Network was created and included optometrists and ophthalmologists in geographic areas which met the needs of Chrysler members included in the contract. In addition to creating the provider network, the capitation program was carefully tailored to meet the needs of the Chrysler employees. Internally Co/op Optical experienced explosive and necessary growth. There was a need for more employees and a greater capacity for production to meet the requirements of the Chrysler account. In order to do this a new facility was needed for the administrative headquarters and laboratory. It was constructed and is still in use today.

One characteristic that has always separated Co/op Optical from other businesses in the industry is a commitment to the people in the communities in which we live and work. As business improved, Co/op Optical extended its commitment in community relations to include involvement in The Children Center of Wayne County, Northeast Guidance Center, and New Center Community Health among other programs. A source of great pride for the company was the founding of a scholarship fund which is distributed to deserving students in the community.

The rich history of Co/op Optical has molded the company into one of the leading vision care providers in southeast Michigan. The customer-oriented philosophy and values that existed when the company was founded still drive the business today. As changes take place in vision plans, manufacturing and fashion, Co/op Optical Vision Designs will continue to be an innovator in the industry and keep customers first.