Sterling Optical is a leading U.S. optical retail franchise offering comprehensive eye care services. Founded in 1914 in New York City's Financial District, the brand has over a century of experience in the industry.

It is headquartered in Garden City, New York, and operates more than 50 locations across the United States. The company began franchising in 1992, expanding its reach through both new openings and acquisitions.

Sterling Optical provides a full range of eye care products and services, including prescription and non-prescription eyeglasses, contact lenses, and designer sunglasses. Each location offers professional eye exams conducted by licensed optometrists, ensuring quality care for customers.

The brand's commitment to affordability and fashion-forward eyewear sets it apart in the competitive optical market.

Training

Sterling Optical provides a variety of training programs for its franchisees to ensure proper operation and brand consistency. The key components of the training include:

1. Initial Training: Franchisees, including principal stakeholders and designated operators, must complete a comprehensive initial training program before starting the franchise. This program covers operations of a Sterling Optical Center, including classroom sessions and on-the-job instruction at existing locations.
2. Refresher and Ongoing Training: The franchisor may require franchisees and relevant staff to participate in refresher or other training courses implemented periodically. These courses are mandatory and designed to maintain operational standards.
3. On-Site Support Training: A member of the Franchise Support Team may provide hands-on training at the franchisee’s center. This includes guidance in sales, merchandising, POS systems, and day-to-day operational procedures.
4. Optional Additional Training: Franchisees can request further training, which the franchisor may provide at its discretion. The franchisee bears the cost for such training, including instructor fees and related expenses.

Territory Protection

Sterling Optical offers limited territory protection to its franchisees through what is termed a "Designated Territory." This territory generally corresponds to a radius determined by lease provisions or population density in the area. For example, in densely populated urban areas, the radius may be as small as four blocks, while in rural areas, it may extend to three to five miles.

Although Sterling Optical will not authorize another Center under the same tradename within this specified area, the protection is not absolute. Franchisees do not receive exclusive marketing rights, and the franchisor may still operate or franchise other stores using different tradenames within the same territory.

Moreover, franchisees may face competition from other Sterling Optical franchisees, company-owned locations, or even different retail outlets operated by the parent company under alternative branding.