EyeBuyDirect

EyeBuyDirect was founded in 2005 by Roy Hessel, a former venture capitalist.[8][9] The company launched EyeBuyDirect.com in March 2006.[10]

In 2007, EyeBuyDirect added EyeTry, a "try-on" function, to its site.[8] The function allows users to upload photos and then superimpose EyeBuyDirect's glasses overtop their photos to "try on" the glasses.[8][10][11] The company later launched the "Wall of Frame", a social network that allows customers to share their created pictures and interact with other site users.[10][12]

In February 2010, EyeBuyDirect began incorporating facial recognition technology to its site to give users the ability to measure their pupillary distance using user-submitted photographs.[12][13]

In 2013, French lens manufacturer Essilor purchased a majority stake in EyeBuyDirect.[6][14] Essilor had previously purchased Framesdirect.com in 2010.[6][14] Hessel was retained as EyeBuyDirect CEO.[6]

EyeBuyDirect redesigned and relaunched its website in April 2014.[15]

EyeBuyDirect introduced EyeZen digital screen protection lenses from Essilor as an option to customers in 2016. The company still sells EBD Blue lenses.[16]

EyeBuyDirect is an online-only retailer and designs and custom-makes all its glasses in-house.[12][17] It does not carry brand name frames or lenses.[6][18] According to the company, 50 percent of its revenue came from repeat customers in 2013.[15]

Customers must have a valid prescription prior to purchasing prescription eyeglasses from EyeBuyDirect.[8] The company sells multiple types of lenses, including bifocal, progressive, and Transitions lenses.[5] Instances reported of it and other companies, including some owned by its parent company, selling glasses illegally without a valid prescription.

• Official website