Family-owned business expands to West Melbourne area

By Jennifer Nessmith

Staff writer

Looking for a new optometrist with a well-established practice and a proven track record for customer service? The choice is clear. World of Vision can provide all of your eye health needs.

The store is a family affair, with father, Richard Glisker, getting into the business about 37 years ago, said youngest son, Christopher.

"He started right when my older brother was born, and he's been doing it ever since," Mr. Glisker said.

Subsequent to working for other optometry practices, Mr. Glisker founded his own store in Vero Beach about 15 years ago.

The youngest Glisker manages the West Melbourne location, while the eldest Mr. Glisker manages two Vero Beach-based locations. Elder son, Justin, is an optometrist who travels between the three stores to see patients and also helps to manage the family businesses. Two other optometrists are also in the rotation to see patients, Mr. Glisker said.

World of Vision is a complete one-stop-shop for all vision needs. The stores offer eye exams and contact lens fittings, in addition to a wide variety of frames for everyday glasses and sunglasses.

"We have trial contact lenses here (in the stores) and after a follow-up, the doctor will order them for you. (Patients) can get pretty much anything they want," Mr. Glisker said, adding that the choices include any brand and style of contact lenses, including color contacts in a variety of shades.

The frame selection includes designer brands such as Dolce & Gabbana, Armani, Anne Klein and DKNY. The Oakley brand should be available in the West Melbourne location soon, Mr. Glisker said. The store is still in its infancy, just three weeks old at press time.

Mr. Glisker said what sets his family's business aside from larger retailers' and superstores is that World of Vision has an on-site lab - and the freedom to set its own customer service standards and special pricing.

"We're more hands-on," he said. "(When you come to World of Vision), you're actually going to see me or my father. Also, we offer a lot of good specials, which other people can't. Plus, we make all of our glasses on-site."

In addition to its exam services, World of Vision also can duplicate lenses and make eyeglass repairs.

World of Vision has three locations in Indian River and Brevard counties:

. 145 Palm Bay Road N.E., West Melbourne; call (321) 953-2020.

. 530 21st St., Vero Beach, in the Miracle Mile plaza; call (772) 562-2020.

. 6200 20th St., Vero Beach, in the Indian River Mall; call (772) 564-2070.