According to Rui Teixeira, Prolente and Nacional \u00d3ptica’s manager, 2017 will be a year of consolidation, namely with the opening of new venues, giving greater emphasis to own brands. With two base models – franchising and partnership – the company is well and commended.<\/p>\n
\u00d3pticaPro:<\/strong> In 2017 do your foresee the opening of more franchising venues, adding to the nine store already in existence? Does the future involve a further expansion?<\/p>\n Rui Teixeira:<\/strong> 2015 was a year of large and rapid growth. In 2016 we slowed down and consolidated some important aspects to keep growing the brand. 2017 will most definitely be a year of major decisions, which may involve new venues, giving greater emphasis to high-profile brands, as well as having more own brands.<\/p>\n OP:<\/strong> Your business model is based in two different concepts: the franchising and partnership models. Which one is most used and what are the main advantages of each one?<\/p>\n RT:<\/strong> The franchising model is based on a cost streamlining philosophy. With high-volume trading we reach the final consumer with the compromise of offering him the best quality\/price ratio. Every franchising store follows the same marketing and communications plan. As for the partnership model, it is also based in a cooperative, high-volume group trading model. The key difference is that the optics stores maintain a traditional nature, with their commercial names, but enjoy National \u00d3ptica’s various services, concerning marketing, finances and judicial services.<\/p>\n