How do I prepare an eyewear shop’s repeat customer lens prescriptions history for a handover?

Start by finding all the places those records live: paper cards, a computer system, notes on frames, supplier order histories. List them and check that nothing is stored only on a personal device or in someone’s memory.

Next, tidy the records. Match duplicates, mark which customers are repeat buyers and note the date of each prescription and the last purchase. A buyer who can see that a customer has bought lenses regularly gets a clearer picture of the shop than one who sees only a pile of cards.

Think about privacy. Prescription records are personal. Ask your lawyer what a buyer may see before closing, and whether names can be removed until the deal is firm. Share only what is needed at each step. Finally, plan the handover. Write down who will hold the records, how customers can ask for a copy and how the shop will tell them about the change of owner. Your lawyer can help word the notice. Keep a backup somewhere safe until closing. A short summary of how often repeat customers return, and what usually prompts them, will help a buyer understand the business. Keep it descriptive and avoid predictions. Your accountant can help you present the information clearly.

Key takeaways

• List every place customer history is stored, including old devices.
• Organize by customer and date, and flag repeat buyers.
• Agree in writing who holds the records and how customers are told.