Major Advancements Announced at IDOC's The Connection 2026 Conference

IDOC Unveils Major Initiatives at The Connection 2026

The IDOC, recognized as the premier alliance for independent optometrist business owners in the United States, recently concluded its flagship conference, The Connection 2026, which took place in Orlando, Florida from February 12 to 15. The event brought together over a thousand independent optometrists, industry leaders, and partners for three days filled with education, networking, and discussion about the future of independent optometry.

This year's conference, themed "The Future in Focus," featured an inspiring keynote address along with more than 30 breakout sessions, interactive training workshops, peer group discussions, and a vendor marketplace showcasing the latest technologies in the field. IDOC CEO, Dave Brown, expressed excitement about the synergy between the initiatives presented and the needs of independent practices. He stated, "The energy at The Connection this year was incredible because you could feel how aligned everything we're building is with what independent practices actually need."

Announcing Clerra: A New Lens Range for Independents

One of the standout announcements was the introduction of Clerra, a new ophthalmic lens range crafted specifically for independent practices. This exclusive offering is available only through IDOC Labs and covers approximately 90% of most practices' dispensing needs in a unified portfolio. By simplifying the lens selection process and optimizing dispensing, Clerra promises to deliver high-quality designs across a wide variety of materials and coatings, enabling practices to save at least 25% on their usual lab invoices. This could mean a potential annual saving of $50,000 for a practice generating around $1 million in revenue.

Moreover, this initiative aims to alleviate the dependency on branded lenses by offering competitive pricing and state-of-the-art lens technology through IDOC's global supply chain, thus raising the standard for independent optometry while fostering autonomy and innovation.

easyvision: Quality Contact Lense for Better Value

In addition to Clerra, IDOC announced its new easyvision contact lens range, manufactured by CooperVision. This range is set to launch on March 30, 2026, and provides IDOC members the opportunity to offer patients a more economical alternative to branded daily lenses—up to 30% less expensive than market alternatives. This initiative not only protects the in-practice contact lens business but also improves customer retention by delivering quality at a better price. This strategic move underscores IDOC's commitment to ensuring that its members can thrive without sacrificing service quality.

New Huvitz Exam Lane Program: Enhanced Support for Members

The conference also showcased the introduction of a new exam lane program featuring Huvitz equipment, offered at competitive pricing facilitated by IDOC's purchasing power. Members can access Huvitz products at over 50% off the standard list prices, enabling them to invest in the latest diagnostic tools without financial strain. With no minimum order requirements and a reliable two-week delivery guarantee, this initiative reinforces IDOC's resolve to enhance the operational capabilities of independent practices.

With enhancements such as a four-year warranty and fixed pricing until March 31, 2027, the program serves as a robust addition to the tools and resources available to IDOC members.

Building a Sustainable Future for Independent Optometry

Through these initiatives, IDOC aims to create a more sustainable and innovative landscape for independent optometrists. The launch of Clerra, easyvision, and the Huvitz Exam Lane Program illustrates IDOC's ongoing commitment to offering exemplary service and support to independent practices.

The IDOC community encompasses over 7,000 optometric business owners dedicated to improving patient care and elevating the value of independent optometry. By focusing on solutions that empower practitioners, IDOC aligns its mission to make independent ownership easier and more rewarding, allowing doctors to provide better sight and improve lives.

For more details about the initiatives introduced during The Connection 2026, IDOC invites interested optometrists to visit their official website at IDOC.net.

IDOC Independent Together.