Eyemart Express has opened on Reserve Street in Missoula, marking the company’s third Montana store.

Lebsock Eye Care also opened in October adjacent to Eyemart Express.

“It’s a convenient relationship,” said Nathan Lebsock, optometrist and son of Jeff Lebsock. The two are co-partners in the business and have worked together for five years. “We are an independent practice that leases the space from Eyemart.”

The doctor-founded corporation hired nine new employees, including five sales associates and three additional lab techs. Most of its glasses can be ordered and received on the same day.

“We just accept walk-ins,” said Paula Blomquist, Eyemart Express chief marketing and merchandising officer. “A lot of people come over when they’re done getting their eye exam. We have five retail associates on the floor who will help you get your frames picked out.”

Jeff Lebsock ran his own optometry clinic at Costco Optical since 1998, then Nathan joined the family business in 2015.

“It (Costco) was a good place to be,” said Nathan. “We just didn’t have enough space to deal with our patients. There is more space for our patients here at the new place, with almost 1,500 square feet – almost 4 times the size of the Costco Optical.”

Lebsocks employ four, not including the two owners. The move has worked out in ways other than the next-door partnership with Eyemart Express.

“We were able to keep a lot of our patient base from Costco and attract a whole new clientele,” said Nathan. “It’s more of a clinic-type situation: we have our own parking lot, a larger waiting area, our own contact lenses room, our own pre-testing room and four exam rooms. We were able to double our exam rooms – which is really nice for us.”

Eyemart Express has 218 stores in 40 states. Discounts for military, and school faculty and staff are also available.

“We recognize military families and educators do so much to shape our future generations,” said Blomquist. “Our everyday programs allow us to show our appreciation for their hard work and sacrifice.”

Contact Business Reporter Renata Birkenbuel at 406-565-0013 and renatab@missoulacurrent.com.

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