The eyewear industry is filled with many names, but one company is making remarkable progress—DOYLE Optometrists & Opticians. With a dedication to personalized eye care and a focus on showcasing innovative eyewear brands, Doyle is committed to maintaining the integrity of eye health while ensuring high-quality eyewear selections. Leading the way is Patrick Doyle, who took the reins in 2015 and has since driven significant changes within the company.
A Legacy of Excellence
Doyle’s journey began in 1978, founded by optometrist Luc Doyle, Patrick’s father, with the goal of serving the community and providing outstanding eye care. Patrick, armed with a background in finance and marketing, joined the family business immediately after business school. His entrepreneurial mindset led him to launch an eyewear distribution company at just 22 years old, bringing innovative eyewear to independent retailers across Canada.
His approach combines business expertise, a passion for optometry, and an in-depth understanding of customer needs. Since stepping into the CEO role, Patrick has overseen the company’s expansion from nine to 25 locations, ensuring Doyle’s growth while maintaining its independence and commitment to top-tier care.
The Evolution of Eyecare
Over the past decade, the eyewear market has seen an influx of digital-first, fast-fashion brands that have reshaped consumer expectations. However, Doyle identified a crucial gap—many of these brands lacked the essential medical and technical expertise required for optimal eye care.
Patrick reflects, “We carefully considered our role in this evolving landscape. Ultimately, we chose to double down on our strengths—ensuring that our clients never have to compromise on either their vision health or their personal style.”
Doyle firmly believes that eyewear should seamlessly blend functionality and fashion. “Eyewear isn’t just a necessity—it’s also an expression of personal style. That’s why we insist on providing the best of both worlds,” Patrick adds.
Personalized Care Rooted in Community
Doyle’s approach to optometry is deeply tied to the in-store experience, reinforcing a strong connection with the local communities they serve. While the company embraces digital convenience, its boutiques remain at the heart of its operations, where trained professionals offer tailored eye care solutions.
“The client experience isn’t an afterthought—it’s at the core of everything we do,” Patrick emphasizes.
The company’s unique partnership model ensures that each location is managed by an engaged owner who is dedicated to both the business and patient care. This strategy not only strengthens Doyle’s commitment to excellence but also fosters meaningful relationships between clients and optometrists.
Merging Fashion with Optical Expertise
With the rise of direct-to-consumer brands like Warby Parker and Bonlook, Doyle saw an opportunity to bridge the gap between affordability and expert-driven care. In response, they launched Atelier78 in 2014—a brand that combines stylish, accessible eyewear with Doyle’s renowned quality and service.
“We wanted to create high-quality, fashionable eyewear at a predictable price while staying true to our core values,” Patrick explains. The brand’s instant success attracted younger customers and reinforced Doyle’s overarching mission.
Atelier78 embodies Doyle’s principles—collaboration, expertise, and a customer-first approach. By involving professionals from various departments in its development, the brand became a defining part of Doyle’s identity. To ensure quality, the team works closely with local designers and regularly visits manufacturing facilities in Italy and Asia.
Elevating the Customer Experience
Doyle has reimagined its retail spaces, transforming traditional clinical settings into warm, inviting boutiques. With the expertise of designer Zebulon Perron, the company has created environments where customers feel comfortable and engaged.
“We want our clients to enjoy their time in our stores. It’s about more than just eye care—it’s about creating a memorable experience,” Patrick notes.
Innovative store features include open eyewear displays, allowing customers to try on frames freely, along with thoughtful additions like Nespresso coffee stations, barber chairs for fittings, and lens cleaning dispensers—all contributing to a relaxed and enjoyable visit.
Leveraging Technology While Keeping a Human Touch
Doyle views technology as a tool to enhance—not replace—the expertise of its professionals. By attending key industry trade shows such as Silmo in Paris, Mido in Milan, and Vision Expo in New York, Doyle stays at the forefront of advancements in optometry.
“We integrate technology carefully, ensuring it supports rather than diminishes the expertise of our team,” Patrick explains.
A dedicated team of doctors evaluates and tests emerging technologies before rolling them out across the network. While Patrick acknowledges the potential of telehealth, he believes it should complement, rather than substitute, in-person care—especially in areas with limited access to optometrists.
Retaining skilled professionals remains a priority for Doyle. By investing in talent and focusing on its unique value proposition—high-quality eyewear, uncompromising eye care, and an outstanding customer journey—the company views industry shifts as opportunities rather than threats.
Pioneering Product Innovation
Doyle continues to lead in eyewear innovation, ensuring that its offerings reflect the latest trends and technologies. Atelier78, in particular, is a testament to this commitment, incorporating sustainable materials, strong factory partnerships, and collaborations with top designers.
“We are always looking ahead, identifying trends that will benefit our customers,” Patrick states.
By maintaining an open dialogue with teams and customers, Doyle remains agile, adapting quickly to evolving consumer needs.
Community Engagement and Accessibility
Doyle’s dedication to its communities extends beyond providing top-notch eye care. The company actively supports local initiatives and partners with organizations like The Laurent Duvernay-Tardif Foundation, which focuses on youth development.
“We believe in giving back and strengthening our connections with the communities we serve,” Patrick shares.
Affordability is another cornerstone of Doyle’s mission. By offering accessible eyewear collections like Les Essentiels and Atelier78, alongside services for children and emergency eye care, Doyle ensures that high-quality vision care is available to all.
Overcoming Challenges with a Customer-Centric Approach
The eyewear industry is continuously evolving, facing disruptions from new business models, online competitors, and economic fluctuations. Yet, Doyle remains steadfast in its commitment to customer experience.
“In tough economic times, people will still need eye care and quality eyewear. Our job is to make sure they receive both, with the best possible experience,” Patrick notes.
Rather than rushing to follow industry trends, Doyle has taken a measured approach—listening to customers and ensuring transparency in pricing and service. Inspired by brands like Apple and Starbucks, Doyle has reimagined its stores and service models to meet modern customer expectations.
Patrick concludes, “Our customers deserve clarity and exceptional service. By investing in people, maintaining our independence, and focusing on quality, we’re not just adapting to change—we’re shaping the future of eye care.”
