A vendor scorecard should compare the factors that determine whether the eyewear category stays profitable and in stock after the opening order. Unit cost matters, but it is only one input.
Core scorecard categories
- Assortment quality: useful style breadth and reader-power logic.
- Availability: fill rate and continuity of core items.
- Lead time: how quickly reorders arrive.
- Replenishment support: whether the supplier helps correct stockouts and mix issues.
- Economics: landed cost, retail margin, sell-through, and space productivity.
- Service: response time, problem resolution, and account support.
Score what matters to the store
A boutique may weight style and visual consistency more heavily. A pharmacy may weight reader-power availability and service. A chain may weight consistency, reporting, and multi-location execution.
Use evidence, not impressions
Update the scorecard with reorder history, stockouts, delivery performance, and actual service experience. Do not let a strong opening presentation permanently outweigh weak execution.
Review the vendor periodically
A quarterly or semiannual review can identify whether the program is improving, slipping, or creating more operational work than expected.
Continue: How to Evaluate a Wholesale Eyewear Vendor.