I heard about Warbly Parker through a friend who had used their services. It is a small company, started by a group of college friends, that make and sell eyewear.

Further the company incorporates shared value into its core business, donating a pair of glasses to a person in need for each pair sold. While the company has been billing itself as a “humanitarian eyewear company”, which no doubt has an appeal to the more financially sound, their glasses are also extremely affordable and fashionable and thus more accessible for a broader financial demographic.

This article talks about how Warbly Parker arrived at their business model, which was an inspired mash up of elements from Apple, Zappos, Patagonia, Nike, and Methods. Their competitive edge is afforded through their cost cutting measures go hand in hand– an online based venture, ordering from the manufacturer and selling directly to the customer, bypassing retail chains. Lenses are included with the flat rate of the glasses and shipping and returns are free.

The company really utilizes the Internet beyond is use as a transactional method. Customers can upload photos of themselves and virtually try on glasses. Or the company sends out 5 loaner pairs, and also maintains some real estate in department stores of large cities. Like Zappos, shipping is free and all eyewear may be returned.

http://thenextweb.com/insider/2011/10/10/warby-parkers-do-good-vision-for-humanitarian-eye-wear-comes-into-focus/

– Jen W.