Popular eyeglasses retailer to open at area mall

SARASOTA — Warby Parker is expanding its retail presence in Florida with a new location opening in The Mall at University Town Center March 20.

The Sarasota store will carry the company's full optical and sun eyewear offerings, its brand of daily contact lenses and other products, according to a press release. 

Amid the pandemic, Warby Parker has safety protocols in place, including one-on-one guided shopping, limited capacity, contactless checkout features and enhanced sanitation. 

To celebrate the opening, Warby Parker created a special edition “Keys, Wallet, Sunglasses” pouch, which is free with all sun purchases made in the store while supplies last.

The store will also carry copies of "The Alphabet of Art at Warby Parker," Warby Parker’s newly launched retrospective book about the over 100 artists the brand has collaborated with around the world. 

After the grand opening, comprehensive eye exams also will be available at the location. 

Warby Parker was launched in 2010. For every pair of Warby Parker glasses purchased, a pair is distributed to someone in need. To date, over 8 million pairs have been distributed. Due to COVID-19, some of the company's glasses distribution has been temporarily suspended. As of April 1, 2020, for a portion of Warby Parker glasses purchased, personal protective equipment and preventative health supplies are distributed to health care workers and communities in need.