Stanton Optical

Stanton Optical: Same-Day Eye Exams and Glasses

Stanton Optical is an optical chain that opened its first store in Mishawaka, Indiana, in 2007. Its business combines the sale of prescription glasses, sunglasses and contact lenses with complete eye exams, including a vision health check, performed by a network of affiliated doctors who see patients in the stores themselves.

The company presents itself as a simple and accessible vision care option, with more than 1,000 frames in a variety of styles and budgets. Much of its offering is built around speed: it advertises same-day eye exams and glasses, with frames ready in 30 minutes in certain cases, depending on the customer's prescription.

Frames, Lenses and Brands

The frame catalog is organized by shape — rectangular, round, oval, square, aviator, geometric, cat eye and double bar, among others — and can be tried on virtually before buying. The company states that it designs its own frames and works directly with eyewear manufacturers, which allows it to offer more affordable prices. Among the contact lens brands it promotes is Acuvue.

The site shows promotions current at the time of analysis, such as digital progressives 2 for $175 with a free eye exam, 20% off the annual contact lens supply — with an additional 10% off with a subscription — frames starting at $64, 30% off a second pair and kids' glasses starting at $79 with a free exam and impact-resistant lenses.

In-House Lab and Quality Control

Stanton Optical has an optical lab equipped with automated machinery. Lab technicians cut, polish and grind the lenses to fit each frame. Once assembled, the glasses undergo a quality assurance check before being sent to the store and made ready for customer pickup.

Purchasing and Customer Service

Purchases can be made in store or online, with free shipping and same-day in-store pickup. The site offers the ability to upload your prescription, select lens treatments and complete your order with home delivery or in-store pickup. It also has a stylist consultation service to help choose frames.

The company accepts vision insurance, as well as flexible spending accounts (FSA) and health savings accounts (HSA). Its team of optical professionals guides the customer throughout the entire process to find the right frame.

Expansion and Parent Company

Stanton Optical is part of the parent company Now Optics and maintains a plan for continuous expansion of its store network. The company states that it continues to open new locations, so it recommends checking the availability of nearby stores.