Walmart Unveils Vision Center Savings to Provide Parents with a Back-to-School Rollback

More than 40 states require vision screenings for school-age children.

BENTONVILLE, Ark., – With the back-to-school season in full swing, Walmart today announced eye-opening values and everyday low prices in its Vision Centers across the country. These unbeatable prices will help children see the blackboard and their parents “see” great savings on everything from frames and lenses to contacts and other optical offerings.

“Considering that more than 40 states require vision screenings before children return to school, and a recent survey* found that 87 percent of respondents were unaware that one in four children have vision problems, it’s very important that we provide a low-cost solution for parents this back-to-school season and beyond,” said Jeff McAllister, Walmart’s senior vice president for the optical division. “Through our Vision Center products and services, parents can ensure that their children receive the proper screenings necessary to head back-to-school without breaking the bank.”

In addition to select youth frames and lenses** at the low price of $40 (was $75 to $83), Walmart also offers great savings on other optical offerings, including:

* Avaira Contact Lenses -- $27.49***
* Select adult single vision complete eyeglasses starting at $48
* Lined bifocal complete eyeglasses starting at $73 and no-line complete eyeglasses starting at $96.
* Bollé and Serengeti sunglasses starting at $99

With styles by JLo, Hannah Montana, Nickelodeon, Hilary Duff, Nascar and Body Glove, students are sure to sport the latest looks when they go back to school.

Currently, 46 states and the District of Columbia require vision screenings or exams for school-age children. These states include: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia and Wyoming. For more information about requirements in individual states, visit 2020advocacy.com.

* According to the American Optometric Association’s 2008 American Eye-Q® Survey
** While supplies last. Includes single vision, platinum no-glare polycarbonate scratch-resistant lenses with 100% UV protection and spring hinges on frames. Eye examination by independent doctors of optometry. Professional eye exam and fitting fees not included. Valid doctor’s prescription required. Only available in Walmart Vision Centers. Good through September 30, 2008.
*** Contact lenses in AR, DE, OK, and RI available at Walmart.com only.