Photo Credit: Eyecare Republic
May 27, 2026
Eyecare Republic (ECR), a leading doctor alliance group dedicated to supporting private practice optometrists, announces the launch of THRIVE™, a new member-exclusive progressive lens portfolio developed in partnership with a trusted, industry-leading manufacturer.
THRIVE™ marks a significant advancement in Eyecare Republic’s mission to deliver exclusive, high-value products to independent eyecare professionals. The portfolio features three distinct designs—HD, Easy Digital and HD Customeyes—spanning entry-level, mid-range and premium progressive lens options. Designed to compete with today’s leading branded progressives, THRIVE™ enables ECR members to strengthen patient retention and increase in-house capture rates, while maintaining competitive pricing.
Founded by Justin Weigel, OD, and Neal Troyer, OD, Eyecare Republic was established with a clear vision: to secure exclusive products and services that empower independent eyecare professions (IECPs) to succeed in an increasingly consolidated and competitive marketplace. The introduction of THRIVE™ reinforces that commitment, helping practices not only compete, but truly thrive.
“THRIVE is more than just a lens launch for ECR,” said Dr. Justin Weigel, co-founder of Eyecare Republic. “It’s part of a larger vision to provide our members with exclusive solutions that help differentiate their practices, improve margins and reinforce the value of independent eyecare.”
STRENGTHENING CAPTURE RATE AND COMPETITION
In today’s market, where an estimated 35% to 50% of patients leave independent optometric practices without fulfilling their eyeglass prescriptions*, the need for competitive and high-value in-house offerings has never been greater. THRIVE™ provides members with an exclusive progressive lens brand that delivers high performance comparable to leading lenses—at a fraction of the cost—helping practices recapture lost optical revenue.
The launch of THRIVE™ also aligns with broader consumer trends. Private label and exclusive brands are now a cornerstone of the consumer marketplace, generating more than $238 billion in annual sales** and growing significantly over the past decade. Patients increasingly seek value without compromising quality—an expectation that THRIVE™ is designed to meet.
With THRIVE™, Eyecare Republic continues to deliver on its promise to provide members with differentiated tools, strategic advantages and innovative solutions that support long-term growth and independence.
Join Eyecare Republic today at no cost and reach out to Jen Hogan or Rita Shallin for more information on THRIVE.
*Optical Capture Rate: Why 45% of Revenue Walks Out | MyBCAT
**Diana Sheehan in Beyond Value: How Private Label is Winning Over Consumers
