LensCrafters opens tech-focused flagship

LensCrafters is doubling down on technology to improve the customer experience.

The company, one of the leading optical retail brands in North America, has opened a tech-focused flagship in Palo Alto, Calif. It combines the latest in advanced digital technology with a sleek design accented with colorful and eye-catching finishes.

The new store features a dedicated footprint and display for the first-generation of smart glasses launched by Ray-Ban in partnership with Meta. The “Ray-Ban Stories” smart glasses are showcased in a setting that allows customers to experience how the glasses can “capture, share, and listen at a moment's notice,” the company said.

The location also features high-resolution digital screens and LED walls displaying eyewear and campaigns designed to provide an immersive experience around the brand's offering. A particular focus is given to the storytelling of prescription lenses through interactive applications installed both on iPads and touch screens, leveraging the technology to simulate lens features and effects for better vision.

 In addition, customers can customize Ray-Ban and Oakley frames, and virtually try-on any frame  via the virtual mirror technology available through LensCrafters' Smart Shopper interactive in-store tool.

The Palo Alto outpost is LensCrafters’ fourth flagship location. The company opened its first two flagship  in New York City in December 2020. The third,  in San Francisco, opened in December 2021.

"With our newest flagship opening in Palo Alto, the brand is focused on making a strong impact in this market as an innovative eyewear retailer,"  said Alfonso Cerullo, president of LensCrafters, North America. “ Appealing to the local technology hub in Silicon Valley, the store will reflect the effortless integration of design and technology, giving customers a more individualized experience that allows them to easily browse the vast luxury assortment of both optical and sun frames. The store will also leverage digital tools to afford customers more opportunities to meet their eyecare and eyewear needs."

LensCrafters currently operates more 1,000 stores in the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico. The company is owned by EssilorLuxottica Group, a leader in premium, luxury, designer, and sports eyewear.