Bloor Optical

They say that big things come in small packages, and that is certainly true of Bloor Optical.

A few years ago, a much larger chain store set up shop half a block away in Toronto's Bloor West Village neighbourhood. Did this hurt Bloor Optical's business? Quite the opposite. "Customers go there, then they come here, and they see the difference. The chain is my biggest asset!" says owner Dragana Kljajic, laughing.

The difference, Dragana explains, is multifaceted. On one hand, it's about service and convenience: With six staffers, Bloor Optical offers eye exams and is home to an automated eyewear lab. This means customers can come in with nothing but prescriptions and leave with new glasses in about an hour.

Even if they didn't buy their glasses there, Bloor Optical is happy to make complimentary adjustments. "This is a family neighbourhood, this is a family-run store, and we cater to busy families. It all just fits together," Dragana says.