Competing with big business
Interview with Barbara Cozza, co-owner, Cozza Optical

Can small, independent eyewear shops compete with chain stores and Internet sites?

"Contact customers tended to do mail-order anyway, so the Internet is just another option for them. And there's definitely a place for the chains, because some people only look at price. But a lot of the customers we lost to chains are coming back because they like someone remembering their name when they come through the door. We have a very loyal following that wouldn't go anywhere else."

What would help business in 2003?

"Basic eyewear is often a requirement, but some people look at a second pair as a luxury. So if people were a little more confident that they aren't going to be downsized, that would help our sales."

What frames are most popular today?

"It's a tossup between heavy plastic -- sort of the Buddy Holly look, only a little more streamlined -- and frames that almost completely disappear. They're called drilled rimless."

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