1-800 Contacts adds try-on technology with acquisition

Online vision products company 1-800-Contacts Inc., based in Draper, has acquired Ditto Technologies Inc., of Oakland California. Ditto works with partners in the vision industry with its virtual eyewear try-on technology.

Ditto said that over 60 million people per year have used its service that allows shoppers to realistically try-on eyewear and receive frame recommendations both in person and online. Since its founding in 2011, e-commerce brands, frame manufacturers, retailers and other eyecare professionals have integrated Ditto’s technology into their eyeglass frame sales platforms.

In recent years, 1-800 Contacts affiliate Premium Vision has partnered with corporate clients to offer sourcing, fulfillment, e-commerce and telemedicine services. In 2019, 1-800 Contacts acquired 6over6 Vision Ltd., a technology company that offers optical tests with just a computer or smartphone. Ditto will join forces with Premium Vision and 6over6 to create a turnkey business-to-business offering for other companies in the vision industry.

“Our clients have been asking us for additional technology solutions for years. By combining Premium Vision, 6over6 and Ditto, we can deliver an integrated technology and services offering,” said Kate Doerksen, cofounder of Ditto. “This acquisition helps us bring our vision to life on a larger scale to make buying eyewear simple and accessible.”

“Ditto’s goal of making it easier for consumers to discover and purchase great eyewear is closely aligned with our mission of making vision care simple,” said Kellen Fowler, senior vice president of strategy and business development for 1-800 Contacts.

Founded in 1995, 1-800 Contacts has 1,000 employees on its Utah, North Carolina and Texas campuses.