In an exclusive interview, we sit down with Yehuda Halperin, the founder of Falco Milano, a trailblazing eyewear brand known for its unique blend of Italian sophistication and South African vibrancy. From growing up immersed in the optical industry to establishing a distinctive brand that celebrates both quality craftsmanship and cultural diversity, he shares the inspiring journey that shaped Falco Milano. Discover how his family’s legacy, relentless dedication, and innovative vision have propelled the brand to the forefront of accessible and stylish eyewear, redefining the market in South Africa and beyond.
Can you tell us about your journey into the eyewear industry? What initially drew you to this field?
I’ve essentially grown up within the eyewear industry; it feels like it’s part of my DNA. My father set the stage by founding his optical chain in 1988, introducing me to every aspect of the industry from an early age. His vision to revolutionize the eyewear market, making it more accessible and convenient for everyone, was genuinely inspiring and deeply impactful. Witnessing its evolution from a small number of stores to a vast network of 150 outlets fueled my own aspirations. Inspired by his achievements, I embarked on my own entrepreneurial path. My goal was simple; to establish a retail chain offering effortless access to quality optics for all South Africans, to establish a retail chain that would offer hassle-free access to quality optics for all South Africans, bypassing traditional supply chains and eliminating the typical frustrations associated with purchasing optics.
Falco Milano offers a distinctive blend of Italian design and South African inspiration. How do you weave these two influences into your eyewear collections?
Milan is celebrated for its sophistication and timeless allure, while South Africa is known for its vibrant colors and bold patterns of indigenous art. Our design team intricately integrates Italian craftsmanship with the latest fashion trends and colors in South Africa, infusing our collections with vitality and authenticity. By paying attention to local fashion trends and listening to customers’ needs we create a fusion of Italian design and South African inspiration that enables us to offer customers eyewear that not only enhances their style but also celebrates their individuality and cultural diversity.
What sets Falco Milano apart from other eyewear brands in the market today? What is your brand’s unique identity?
Falco Milano uniquely merges Milanese sophistication with vibrant South African inspiration, championing vision as a fundamental right, not a privilege. Although Falco Milano does not offer eye tests, through dedicated relationship-building, we guarantee accessible quality eyewear at reasonable prices, setting us apart with our fusion of style, affordability, and a hassle-free optical process. Our innovative approach to streamlining the optic purchasing experience is unparalleled in South Africa, offering seamless transactions with exceptional turnaround times. This commitment to efficiency and customer convenience solidifies our distinct identity in the industry, reinforcing Falco Milano as a leader in accessible, stylish eyewear.
How did your background and previous experiences influence your approach to creating and running Falco Milano?
My background of being involved in a large chain of 150 stores has been instrumental in shaping the approach to creating and running Falco Milano. It provided me with invaluable experience in contact and relationship building, which has enabled us to source and offer customers the best products at competitive prices. Observing how my family managed their chain store equipped me with insights into dealing with various issues and honed my skills in marketing, supply chain management, business development, and pricing strategies. This wealth of experience has been fundamental in shaping the foundation of Falco Milano, allowing us to deliver exceptional value and service to our customers.
The eyewear industry is constantly evolving. How do you stay ahead of trends and ensure your designs remain fresh and relevant?
We stay ahead of trends and keep our designs fresh and relevant by closely monitoring the ever-evolving eyewear landscape. Our design team is exposed to all the latest styles and designs because they attend all the important global fashion events and eyewear exhibitions. They consistently research emerging fashion trends, consumer preferences, and technological advancements in the industry. By staying connected to the pulse of the market, we can anticipate shifts in style and innovation. This ensures our designs reflect current styles and set new standards. Additionally, we prioritize customer feedback, incorporating their preferences to ensure our designs remain relevant and resonate with our audience. This approach allows us to stay ahead of trends and deliver fresh eyewear collections consistently.
Falco Milano eyewear is known for its focus on craftsmanship. Can you elaborate on the importance of quality and detail in your products?
At Falco Milano, we believe in the essence of Milanese craftsmanship, where attention to detail is paramount. We infuse this philosophy into our eyewear, ensuring that each pair reflects the precision and excellence associated with Italian craftsmanship. However, we also understand the financial constraints our customers may face. That’s why we’re committed to offering exceptional value for money. By prioritizing durability and longevity in our designs, we ensure that our eyewear not only looks great but also stands the test of time. This focus on quality and value underscores our dedication to providing our customers with eyewear they can trust and enjoy for years to come.
Can you share any memorable stories or milestones from your journey with Falco Milano so far?
Reflecting on Falco Milano’s journey, two significant milestones stand out vividly. In 2016, the excitement was palpable as we opened two stores, one in Kenilworth Centre and another in Somerset. While the initial reception was positive, we yearned for greater customer engagement. Then, towards the end of that year, a breakthrough moment arrived with the opening of our Canal Walk store. The response was overwhelming; customers flocked in droves, and demand soared to unprecedented heights. We found ourselves in a whirlwind of activity, with shelves emptied faster than we could replenish them. It became a race against time as we embarked on urgent trips abroad to secure additional stock, ensuring our shelves were brimming with choices for Christmas shoppers. I can still recall the scene vividly—our dedicated head office team burning the midnight oil, meticulously barcoding products to meet the relentless demand. Another significant milestone unfolded in 2020, albeit amid challenging circumstances. Faced with the necessity of closing half our stores to remain operational, our resolve was tested. However, through unwavering dedication and the remarkable resilience of our retail field and head office teams, we defied the odds. We pivoted our focus back to what truly matters—the customer. By offering a seamless and hassle-free optical experience, we not only weathered the storm but emerged stronger, reaffirming our commitment to serving our customers with excellence and unwavering passion.
Where do you see Falco Milano Eyewear & Sunglasses in the next few years? What are your aspirations for the brand’s future?
With nearly a quarter of the global population facing visual impairment, Falco Milano’s vision is bold and clear: to become the number one destination for affordable hassle-free optics and quality frames. Over the next few years, we aim to expand our presence across Africa, catering to customers who appreciate our unique designs and affordability. To achieve this, we are actively seeking strategic partnerships with fellow entrepreneurs, dispensing opticians, and optometrists, offering affordable franchise opportunities to broaden our reach and contribute to alleviating the global vision crisis and uphold our commitment to accessible optics and customer satisfaction, remaining attentive to our customers’ evolving needs and adapting our offerings accordingly. Ultimately, our goal is to establish Falco Milano in every province in the Country, as the number-one choice for affordable, stylish, and hassle-free optics and eyewear without compromising on quality.
The National Film & TV Awards South Africa recently celebrated its inaugural year. Can you tell us about Falco Milano’s decision to partner with the awards in 2024?
Falco Milano’s decision to partner with the National Film & TV Awards South Africa in 2024 is driven by our understanding of the profound impact of storytelling in fostering connections. As a fundamental aspect of human experience, storytelling is celebrated through events like the National Film & TV Awards, honoring those who excel in this craft. This collaboration allows Falco Milano to not only reaffirm our dedication to providing quality eyewear but also to engage with the cultural sphere that champions creativity and narrative expression. We eagerly anticipate connecting with audiences who share our appreciation for both visual excellence and compelling storytelling. This partnership represents a natural synergy between two entities—one enhancing vision, the other crafting captivating narratives.
What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs looking to launch their own brand in the fashion industry?
Belief in your vision is crucial; it will sustain you through the inevitable challenges and setbacks that come with starting a brand. Stay true to your unique perspective and aesthetic, and let it guide your decisions and actions. Persistence is key; building a successful brand takes time, effort, and perseverance. Don’t be discouraged by setbacks or failures; instead, use them as learning opportunities to refine your approach and grow stronger. Above all, listen to your customers. Their feedback is invaluable in shaping your brand and products. Pay attention to their preferences, desires, and pain points, and use this insight to continually improve and innovate. By believing in yourself, staying persistent, and prioritizing customer needs, you’ll be better equipped to navigate the challenges of launching and growing a successful brand in the fashion industry.
Follow on social media:
Instagram:Â https://www.instagram.com/falcomilano_sa
Facebook:Â https://www.facebook.com/FalcoMilanoSA
Twitter:Â https://twitter.com/FalcoMilano
Website:Â https://falcomilano.co.za/