The verdict in three sentences
For a single store, an optical software package (120 to 300 EUR/month) covers the essentials: prescriptions, measurements, frame stock, insurance settlement and after-sales. Custom software (18,000 to 45,000 EUR) becomes profitable from 3 stores or a private label wanting a differentiating customer experience. The real lever is third-party payment: managed well, it brings cash in within 30 days instead of 60 to 90.
Optical package versus custom tool
The package standardises the trade; custom serves multi-store steering and brand image.
| Criterion | Optical package | Custom build (Kolonell) |
|---|---|---|
| Entry cost | 0 EUR | 18,000 to 45,000 EUR |
| Monthly cost | 120 to 300 EUR | Maintenance 300 to 700 EUR/mo |
| Prescriptions + measurements | Standard | Custom |
| Frame / lens stock | Included | Multi-store native |
| Insurance settlement | Included | Automated tracking + chasing |
| After-sales + loyalty | Basic | Dedicated programme |
| Private label / e-commerce | Rare | Integrated |
| Code ownership | No | Yes |
A single-store optician rarely benefits from custom: build costs amortise poorly across one location. The maths flips once stock and settlements must be consolidated across several stores.
Modules and cash impact
| Module | 2026 stake | Custom order of magnitude |
|---|---|---|
| Prescriptions + measurements | Sale accuracy | 3,000 to 7,000 EUR |
| Multi-store frame stock | Optimised rotation | 5,000 to 11,000 EUR |
| Settlement + chasing | Cash within 30 days | 4,000 to 9,000 EUR |
| Loyalty + after-sales | Customer retention | 3,000 to 8,000 EUR |
| E-commerce / booking | Acquisition | 4,000 to 12,000 EUR |
| Annual maintenance | Insurer compliance | 15 to 20 % of build |
Mini case study
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Mr Ferrand runs 3 optical stores in Montpellier. His package bills 3 subscriptions at 240 EUR/month, i.e. 8,640 EUR/year, with no consolidation or automated settlement chasing. A custom tool at 34,000 EUR plus 5,600 EUR/year maintenance automates chasing and cuts insurer payment time from 75 to 28 days. On a 180,000 EUR settlement balance, that cash gain frees roughly 23,000 EUR of working capital and cuts unpaid claims by 3 %, i.e. 5,400 EUR/year. Estimated payback under 2 years.
FAQ
Is a package enough for a single store? Yes. At 120-300 EUR/month it covers measurements, stock and settlement with no capital tied up. Custom would be oversized for one location.
How does settlement improve cash flow? Automated tracking and chasing bring insurer payment time under 30 days instead of 60 to 90. On a six-figure balance, the working-capital effect runs into tens of thousands of euros.
From how many stores should I switch to custom? As a 2026 order of magnitude, from 3 locations or for a private label. Below that, the 18,000 EUR minimum build does not amortise.
Can I add e-commerce and online booking? Yes, it's often the trigger for going custom. Budget 4,000 to 12,000 EUR depending on catalogue and stock connection.
What maintenance should I plan? Maintenance of 15 to 20 % of build, i.e. 3,000 to 9,000 EUR/year, covers insurer updates and compliance. This line secures settlement.
Let's scope your project. Tell us the number of stores, your priority (settlement, stock, e-commerce) and an indicative budget. Detailed quote within 48 h. WhatsApp +221 77 596 93 33.
Mohamed Bah
Fondateur, Kolonell
Passionate about digital and entrepreneurship in Africa, Mohamed has been helping Sénégalese businesses with their digital transformation since 2020. Founder of Kolonell, he believes every SME deserves a professional and accessible online présence.
