Glance Eyewear Business Profile - Salem Business Journal, March 2009

More and more people are drawn to the little shop that resides under the Court Street awning that sports the Glance Optics and Eyewear logo, those unmistakable black glasses. What was once called “Salem’s best kept secret,” is fast becoming a destination spot for optical connoisseurs all over Oregon.

Glance, open from 10am to 6pm, Monday through Friday, often schedules weekend appointments for her customers that come from the greater Portland area and coastal communities such as Lincoln City, Newport, Seaside and Rockaway Beach. During this interview, Martinsson had scheduled two weekend appointments, one for a Lincoln City client picking up her eyewear, and the other a local Salem client that works a similar schedule to Martinsson, therefore making it nearly impossible to arrange for her much anticipated Glance experience.

Lisa Martinsson, optician and owner of the popular eyewear boutique, reports that she is only one of many quality shops that are thriving in downtown Salem. “Just look across the street,” nods Martinsson from her storefront window on Court Street, “Bittersweet Boutique, Roy John Jeweler, Lullu’s Tutto Cucina, Le Shoe Boutique, even Great Harvest and Venti’s they’re all thriving!” Martinsson reports, “Everyone appreciates quality, service, and a friendly smile. These are just some of the elements that draw people to downtown Salem.” As for quality, Martinsson includes her neighbors on either side of the little eyewear boutique, “Shyrock’s Menswear on one side and Sid’s Furniture on the other, I’m surrounded with exceptional product and service! I can’t go wrong with all of this good juju!”

According to Martinsson, after taking a good look at downtown shopping and how it’s evolving, one can’t help but raise an eyebrow at the fear based reporting in the media. “Look around the corner on Commercial Street, The Bike Peddler is in the process of a major expansion, Gallagher’s Fitness is doing more business than ever since their move two blocks south, and everyone knows that the State street merchants are amazing! Even a challenging location like the inside lower level of the Reed Opera House, is home to new flourishing businesses like Yuppy Puppy!

Go downtown and go shopping! I am! Glance is headed for New York in March to attend the International Vision Expo, where the latest European eyewear fashions will be unveiled! “So, come in before we leave, with needed repairs, adjustments and purchases and come again when we return for your very own Glance Experience!”

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