(Le Mars) Sandi Berendes of Groetken Family Eyecare in Le Mars has been named one of the “Most Influential Women in the Optical Industry for 2011” by a New York magazine. James Spina, Editor in Chief of “20/20 Magazine” said he doesn’t usually nominate for his sister publication, “Vision Monday,” but says he couldn’t help but nominate Berendes.
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Sandi started into the optical business about 10 years ago and says she knew right away that she was in the right industry.
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Her current role at Groetken Eyecare includes marketing, with an emphasis on educating the public about eye health and finding people the right frames for their lifestyle. She also does pre-testing on patients, frame styling, fixing glasses, frame buying and more.
Sandi Berendes was chosen as one of the women who is making a difference in the “Innovators” category. Berendes says that when she got the news she was more than excited.
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Two big things Sandi did over the past year included working with “20/20 Magazine” on an article which featured Groetken in the business/retail strategies section. She then worked with the same publication on a makeover feature called “Style Saviours.” Berendes was chosen as one of the “Most Influential Women in the Optical Industry for 2011” as an “Innovator” from hundreds of female candidates who have initiated new product developments or special programs in the arena of marketing, technology or retail.
