How do I see how much an optometry clinic relies on its optical lab supplier?

Begin with purchasing records. Ask the owner to show lab orders grouped by supplier, so you can see how work is split. One dominant supplier is not necessarily a problem, but you should know it and know why.

Then read the terms. Ask whether there is a written agreement, what it says about pricing, minimum volumes, exclusive buying and ending the relationship. Some arrangements carry perks that stop when ownership changes, so ask if the terms transfer to you. Your lawyer can read anything binding.

Ask about quality and speed. Find out how often jobs come back for remakes, how long orders take, and whether the lab is flexible when a patient is waiting. Staff often know this better than the owner. Finally, ask about alternatives. Has the clinic ever tried another lab? What would a move involve? A clinic with a back-up supplier is more resilient, and that answer tells you how much work you would face if things change. Ask the lab what the clinic’s account looks like from their side. A supplier can tell you whether the clinic pays on time, orders steadily and receives any rebates, which helps you plan the relationship you will inherit and decide how much to invest in it.

Key takeaways

• Review lab orders grouped by supplier to see the split.
• Read any agreement for pricing, volume and exclusivity terms.
• Ask whether a second lab has been tried and what a switch involves.