my account
Independence at Opto-Réseau
Anabelle, seven years ago, you took over the reins of the optometry clinic founded by your mother in 1983. Why did you choose to keep the clinic independent?
Independent business is crucial, especially in optometry. It allows direct access to professionals who tailor their practices to local needs rather than following standards imposed by large organizations. Independent optometry also allows for a variety of products — responsible, eco-friendly, high-end, or artisanal — so that each patient can find what suits them best. By staying close to its clients, an independent clinic integrates naturally into its community. It understands the local reality, identifies needs, and invests time and money into addressing them. There’s a lot of talk about the importance of local businesses. Why? Because it’s the healthiest approach for our planet, our economy, and our community.
In this sense, what aspect of Opto-Réseau’s support is most valuable to you?
All of them! As independents, our resources are limited. Accessing specialized professionals, such as in human resources, is practically impossible or costly. Having quick access to so much expertise is extremely valuable on a daily basis. By handling more general aspects like creating an IT system or managing account statements, the work Opto-Réseau does for us allows us to better focus on what truly matters: the growth of our clinic, our employees, and our patients.
Finally, at Opto-Réseau, our motto is “We see you like no one else.” What does this mean to you in practical terms?
It’s a beautiful and powerful motto that applies across all levels of our profession. For patients, it means we see each of them as individuals, we take the time to assess their personal needs, and we’re able to adapt to all types of clients. For the banner towards its members, it means that each clinic has its own identity, objectives, and challenges, and that headquarters takes the specific needs of each into account. For clinic owners towards their teams, it shows a human work environment where every employee’s full potential is recognized.