Newton, formerly known as Neurolens, is expanding its presence in the optical industry with the acquisition of Founders Optical Lab.
Lots of developments for this company these last few months!
Indeed—and it all kicked off this past September.
From unveiling its official rebrand as an innovation company to celebrating the launch of the Sequel lens—its new single-vision, anti-fatigue lens for progressive wearers—Newton has certainly been busy.
Give me a quick refresh on Sequel.
The company’s first product under its new name is designed as an alternative lens for patients who don’t necessarily present as symptomatic and also spend long hours in front of digital screens.
But the real game-changer of this lens is the company’s new Convergence Boost Lens Technology, which improves visual comfort and clarity while also enabling eyes to remain in their most natural position (using patients’ current prescriptions).
- See here for all the details on the lenses’ four designs—and how Sequel compares to Newton’s Neurolens prescription-based lenses.
How exciting! Now to this latest development: the acquisition.
Founders Optical Lab is an independent optical lab headquartered in Texas.
Its specialization: Manufacturing and supplying eyecare providers (ECPs, optometrists, ophthalmologists, and optical retailers) with lenses and optical services via partnerships with independent companies.
Who are these partners (and products)?
The company markets itself as offering a “curated selection of lens designs,” from basic single-vision to advanced progressive and specialty designs (for driving, digital use, and symptom relief).
Included among its featured brands are:
- Neurolens
- Sequel (yes, the very same lens by Newton)
- Take note: These are now offered through VSP
- Copley Progressive
See here for a look at its portfolio, which also encompasses a range of lens materials, coatings, treatments, and sunwear / light protection, as well as progressive lenses.
Just to be clear: The company already offers Newton’s specialty lenses?
That’s correct (and has long offered and manufactured in-house Neurolens as well).
Got it. Now what will this acquisition mean for the optical lab?
To start with, according to the companies, “immediate benefits and long-term value” for ECPs.
- Elevated Sequel lens rebate programs for customers
- Expanded accessibility to Newton’s customer service team
- Access to both Founders Optical’s products and Newton’s lens technologies
And how about for Newton?
Similar to the advantages for Founders Optical, the innovation company stands to “significantly expand our customer service capabilities”—including faster turnaround times and those aforementioned rebate programs to support ECP customers.
As Chief Operating Officer, Danny Perales, noted: Our customers are our top priority.”
So what do we know about the deal itself?
As part of the transition process, the companies shared that Founders Optical will be adopting Newton’s standard operating policies (to ensure consistency and transparency for all customer operations).
- The optical lab will also adopt Newton’s standard privacy policies, terms and conditions, and processing fees—with Founders Optical credit card fees to be 4% as of Dec. 1.
As for shipping fees for orders: Optical lab customers will continue to receive free shipping on all standard orders with autopay (ACH or credit card enrollment).
Lastly: Do we know how much this acquisition is worth?
Unfortunately, no monetary details were shared.