Barney Dougher.
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​LEWISVILLE, Texas—Citing accelerated growth expectations in the U.S. independent eyecare market, Hoya Vision Care North America is significantly expanding its production capacity at its main lab, located here, near Dallas.

The lens maker announced this week that it has already invested $15 million in an Intercompany Manufacturing Center (IMC) as part of a three-year plan begun in 2013 to expand its spectacle lens production and manufacturing capabilities. The IMC is designed for maximum efficiency and will feature next generation lens processing technology, robotic automation, state-of-the-art and anti-reflective lens coating, according to Mike Dougher, vice president of operations for Hoya Vision Care. It will serve as a hub for Hoya’s 29 other labs which are located around the country. The IMC will process its first lens in January 2015, Hoya said.

“The reason for the investment is really very simple, and boils down to the fact that we believe in the U.S. independent eyecare market and have an unwavering degree of confidence this sector will continue to thrive,” said Barney Dougher, president of Hoya Vision Care North America. “This is already being substantiated today given the high level of growth we’ve been experiencing.”

According to Vision Monday’s 2014 Top Labs Report, Hoya’s U.S. lab network will generate Rx sales of $258 million this year and produce 13,000 Rx jobs per day, a substantial increase over 2013.

“Increased efficiencies will have a positive impact and enhance the entire Hoya production model across the country,” Dougher said. The 100,000 square-foot facility will run 24/7, 365 days per year. Hoya will staff the IMC with approximately 100 workers who will operate three shifts of continuous production, he said.

“Investing in the IMC and related technology not only expands capacity, it also plays a major role in turn time,” said Dougher. “The end result is a satisfied customer, a satisfied patient and the opportunity to provide an increased level of service for the independent market.”

The facility is designed to be “green,” Dougher noted. “Every consideration regarding environmental responsibility was incorporated in the design to ensure a green facility, including energy efficient lighting and improved insulation,” he said.

Earlier this week, Hoya Lens of America (HLOA), the import and distribution division of Hoya Vision Care North America, announced that it will relocate its distribution center from Torrance, Calif. to the Dallas/Fort Worth metropolitan area beginning in October.