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In 2018, Lapaire, an innovative eyecare startup based in Ivory Coast, emerged with a mission to revolutionize vision care in Africa. By offering a trusted and accessible eyecare experience, Lapaire has taken a customer-centric approach to provide stylish, quality eyeglasses at fair prices. Since its inception, the startup has made significant strides, testing the eyesight of over 300,000 individuals and enhancing the lives of 180,000 among them.
Current Operations: Lapaire has successfully established its presence in six African countries, operating 58 branches in Ivory Coast, Togo, Benin, Mali, Burkina Faso, and Uganda. This widespread network enables the startup to reach diverse communities and address the eyecare needs of a broad demographic.
Impactful Journey: Lapaire’s commitment to making eyecare accessible and affordable has resulted in a tangible impact on the lives of thousands. Through its one-stop-shop model, the startup has become a beacon of change, providing not just eyecare services but also offering stylish eyeglasses at reasonable prices. The positive outcomes of their efforts are evident in the improved eyesight of 180,000 individuals, marking a substantial contribution to the communities they serve.
Funding Round and Key Investors: In a significant development, Lapaire recently closed a $3 million funding round, spearheaded by Investisseurs & Partenaires (I&P). The round saw participation from other notable investors, including AAIC, FINCA Ventures, and Beyond Capital. This injection of capital signifies a vote of confidence in Lapaire’s mission and recognizes the potential for transformative change in the eyecare landscape across Africa.
Utilization of Funds: The funds secured in this round are earmarked for a strategic expansion plan that aligns with Lapaire’s vision of making eyecare accessible to a broader audience. The startup intends to bolster its presence in existing markets while venturing into new African territories. A key objective is to open 300 new eye care centers across the continent, thereby amplifying their reach and impact.
Optimizing Operations for Scalability: As Lapaire embarks on this ambitious expansion journey, the optimization of operations remains a focal point. The startup acknowledges the importance of maintaining efficiency and scalability to meet the growing demand for eyecare services. By refining its operational processes, Lapaire aims to ensure that its model remains highly scalable without compromising on the quality and accessibility of services.
Founder’s Vision:
Jerome Lapaire, the founder and CEO of Lapaire, expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming phase of growth. “Over the last few years, we worked hard to build a highly scalable model, and we are now in the best position to accelerate our growth to positively impact the life of one million people across the continent by 2026,” he remarked. Jerome’s vision underscores the transformative potential of Lapaire’s model in shaping the future of eyecare in Africa.
Impact on One Million Lives:
Lapaire’s ambitious goal of positively impacting one million lives by 2026 reflects its commitment to creating lasting change. By expanding its footprint and reaching underserved communities, the startup envisions a future where eyecare is not just a service but an integral part of improved well-being for individuals across the continent.
In conclusion, Lapaire’s journey from its founding in 2018 to securing a $3 million funding round marks a significant milestone in the realm of accessible eyecare in Africa. The startup’s innovative approach, combined with strategic expansion plans, positions it as a trailblazer in the field. As Lapaire continues to grow and open new eye care centers, its impact on the lives of individuals across the continent is set to become even more profound, shaping a future where quality eyecare is a reality for all.
Source: Disrupt Africa