How One City Helps Entrepreneurs Launch, Why Your Store Must Photograph Well and What LVMH’s Drop Means

The following stories are from VMSD, INVISION’s sister publication for retail store design and visual merchandising professionals. Visit VMSD.com or subscribe here.

Maryland Town Launches Incubator for Brick-and-Mortar Concepts

Mid-sized Maryland city Frederick, MD is opening a retail incubator that supports three aspiring entrepreneurs simultaneously for up to 12 months each. The 350-square-foot space at 22 S. Market St. provides affordable rent, shared operations, mentorship and hands-on business training — essentially lowering the barrier to launching a brick-and-mortar retail business. Managed by Downtown Frederick Partnership and SOUL Street (a collective of local Black business owners), the program received a $100,000 grant from Truist Bank. “It fills a critical need for affordable, accessible pathways into brick-and-mortar retail, particularly for entrepreneurs who have historically been underrepresented,” says Executive Director Kara Norman. First cohort starts this spring. Read more.

Restaurants Need to Look Good on TikTok — OpenTable Has the Data

58% of diners say a restaurant’s “Instagram/TikTok worthiness” is important when choosing where to eat (25% say extremely important), and 54% will pay a premium for unique vibe, according to OpenTable’s 2026 design survey. Restaurateurs are responding: 26% are adding more bar seating, 21% are investing in “Instagrammable” bathrooms, and 20% are going minimalist. OpenTable’s conclusion also likely apply to jewelry stores: “Design matters more than ever — interiors need to look as good on screen as they do in person.” Remember, going forward, every corner of your store is potential content. Read more.

LVMH Revenue Drops 5% Despite “Solidity and Effective Strategy”

The world’s top luxury retailer reported 2025 revenues of $96.6 billion — down 5% from 2024 — and profit from recurring operations of $22.1 billion, down 9%. Chairman Bernard Arnault credited “loyalty and growing demand from local customers” and highlighted new stores including The Louis in Shanghai and Tiffany locations in Milan and Tokyo. For 2026, Arnault says the company will rely on “our Maisons’ ability to inspire dreams” plus “vigilance with regard to cost management” in “an environment that remains uncertain.” Read more.

Takeaways for Eyecare Professionals

Here are a few actionable takeaways for independent optical retailers and eyecare practices from this week’s headlines:

• Think local—and collaborative. Frederick’s retail incubator shows how communities can help independents thrive. Partner with local business groups, co-ops, or chambers to support new ventures or share retail space and resources.
• Make your space camera-ready. More than half of diners pick restaurants based on how they look on social media. Patients do the same. Ensure your optical looks great on camera — flattering lighting, a clean aesthetic, and a few “shareable” moments.
• Design for both eyes and phones. Every corner is potential content. Encourage staff and patients to post photos of your eyewear displays or exam-room tech — free marketing that multiplies your reach.
• Sell a dream, not just a diagnosis. LVMH talks about “inspiring dreams.” You can too. Your product isn’t just lenses — it’s confidence, clarity, and self-expression. Make that emotional value part of your brand story.
• Stay adaptable, stay premium. Even luxury giants face downturns. Keep your brand resilient with careful spending, loyal local audiences, and consistent quality that justifies your pricing.