Dave Barton: On How David Kind is Changing The Way People Buy Eyewear

I’ve never worn glasses. The whole experience of going into a store and even trying to pick out of frames is almost too much to bear. David Kind is changing that whole crappy-ass process (Disclosure: David Kind is a client of the authors’ Company FAB Counsel). I recently signed up for a personal styling session, and I was blown away with the quality and the whole experience. I wanted to speak with the owner of this company so that I could get a better idea of where the whole idea came from and who was the mastermind behind such a revolutionary way to pick out glasses. Here’s what, Dave Barton, the founder of David Kind, had had to say…

How long ago was David Kind founded?

We sat on the idea for a while. Started working in earnest on the concept about 18 months ago and just shipped our first try on set a few months ago. It may seem like a long time, but physical products can take so much longer than digital products to design and build!

We have a simple strategy. If you wear glasses, and you are willing to give us a try, we know that you will be delighted to have discovered a new and better way to buy eyewear.

How did you go about building your team for David Kind?

It was purposeful, but also very organic how everyone came together. Each of us has the passion for building the very best product and making sure it is matched perfectly with the face we are styling. Trish, our Lead Stylist, is from Fred Segal and has styled thousands of people in luxury eyewear, including many A-list celebs. I met Victor, our quality expert, at Oliver Peoples and has been in the optical industry for over 30 years. Our CFO is a long time friend and mentor, and former CEO of Spy Optic. We are partners with the best dev shop on the West Coast working closely with them to build all of our tech product and execute on our brand vision.

How did you meet Trish?

I was a co-founder in a boutique wholesale eyewear brand and Trish was managing Fred Segal Eyes. She bought our collection for the store after we convinced her to with a little cake and tequila. True story.

What is Trish’s background in the eyewear industry?

She became an expert in her field with Fred Segal Eyes as store manager and buyer for over 5 years. She has worked with thousands of people helping them select the perfect pair of glasses, including many A-list celebs.

Being an innovative company in the eyewear space, how do you engage with people who have never used the internet to buy eye glasses?

We have a simple strategy. If you wear glasses, and you are willing to give us a try, we know that you will be delighted to have discovered a new and better way to buy eyewear. Then via your style profile that is built with your stylist, we get to know you before hand selecting glasses for you to try-on. We have found that this starts the relationship in the right direction. Once this happens, we have found that customers who have tried us, love the process. And LOVE to tell others.

What were some things you’ve learned since starting your company?

Listen very carefully to what the customer tells you, or doesn’t tell you. Ask questions, observe and make changes quickly.

Our philosophy is that length of useful ownership because a quality product is built to last greatly contributes to sustainability. -Dave Barton

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With so many eyeglass companies out there, what makes you guys different?

Many aspects of our business are different. You cannot find our frame quality and lens optics online or anywhere else, for our price. Combine this with our personalized service and we are VERY different than anything else out there.

Your glasses have great quality, there is definitely a deep attention to details. Is there a connection for you between quality and sustainability?

Absolutely. Our philosophy is that length of useful ownership because a quality product is built to last greatly contributes to sustainability. We realize there is a place in the world for disposable eyeglass fast fashion, but that is not the product we make.

How can someone who has never worn glasses work with you to make sure that they get the right look and fit?

Our stylists are there to help you every step of the way. Every stylist has experience in eyewear and can help you every step of the way. From guiding you to some great online tools for finding an eye doctor, to choosing frames, through building your first pair of lenses.

What are some obstacles that you had to overcome to get to where you are today?

Too many to count! Anyone who has started or built a business can relate!

Is there any advice you can give someone who wants to be in the eyewear industry?

There are several major industry eyewear shows around the world. If you can find your way into one of the shows that happens in New York, Milan, Paris, Tokyo, or Munich, I highly recommend going. My favorite is in Milan. Each happens once a year.

What is the future of David Kind?

To find an amazing glasses for every face, one person at a time.

How can people find out more about David Kind and all of your future happenings?

Connect with us on social media on: , , , & or drop us a line. We would love to connect. www.DavidKind.com

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