Custom-fit lenses give second life to frames

Scott Ihlenfeld's customer service goal is as clear as the eyeglass lenses he sells.

"Our unique business allows us to be transparent with patients," said Ihlenfeld, owner of The Lens Kiosk. "Unlike other optical retailers, we only carry lenses, so there's no pressure or games to convince customers that they need to buy frames for their glasses."

A longtime optical retail executive, Ihlenfeld opened The Lens Kiosk in Brookfield Square in December, after growing disenchanted with the direction he believes the industry is taking.

"I started The Lens Kiosk because I sensed customers' frustrations at having to discard their existing frames in favor of new and pricey ones every time they needed updated lenses," he said.

"We also work with a lab that has the sophisticated technology to handle high-definition lenses and can fit virtually any frame, including vintage and rimless."

Ihlenfeld estimates that The Lens Kiosk' installation service can be up to 50 percent less expensive than traditional optical retailers charge to add their lenses to new frames.

Public response, he continued, has been overwhelmingly positive to his new venture.

"Aside from the savings we provide, customers appreciate that our technicians can trace their frames, so they don't have to leave them with us," said Ihlenfeld.

Ihlenfeld's goals include expanding to other shopping malls. His kiosk is open seven days a week during regular Brookfield Square hours (10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday).

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JUST THE FACTS

BUSINESS:The Lens Kiosk

ADDRESS: Brookfield Square, 95 N. Moorland Road

PHONE: (262) 443-6678

OWNER: Scott Ihlenfeld

INCORPORATED: 2011

TYPE OF BUSINESS: eyeglass lens retailer

PEARLS OF WISDOM: "If you understand and are committed to customers' needs first, then your success rate is assured."