Opto-Réseau Celebrates 30 Years: Stronger Together Through Independent Practice
In 2026, Opto-Réseau marks 30 years of history defined by collaboration, commitment, and the development of a distinctive model in optometry: independent practices united within a strong network.
Since its founding, Opto-Réseau has embodied a clear vision: enabling eye care professionals to remain independent while benefiting from the strength of a collective, in order to provide superior eye care to Quebecers.
A flagship event to launch the anniversary year
The celebrations officially began on April 11 during the annual Claude-Léger Training Day, held at the Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth hotel in Montréal, bringing together more than 850 members, partners, and collaborators.
Hosted by Marie-Claude Barrette, the event featured, among other highlights, a keynote by internationally renowned aerospace engineer Farah Alibay, along with a rich and inspiring program.
A strategic leadership transition
The day also marked a key moment in Opto-Réseau’s history: the official transition of the President and CEO role from Christine Breton to Mélissa Bastien.
After 25 years at the helm of the network, Christine Breton leaves behind a strong, growing organization deeply rooted in its independent model.
A meaningful moment, the transition was also an opportunity to pay tribute to Christine Breton, notably through the presentation of a work by artist Clarence Bourgoin—her artist of choice. The piece reflects both her origins and the exceptional journey she has accomplished in Quebec throughout her leadership at Opto-Réseau.
Mélissa Bastien, who has worked in the optical sector for nearly 20 years and joined the network more than three years ago as part of a succession plan, now assumes the role of President and CEO. She will continue to develop the network around a clear priority: protecting and sustainably evolving the entrepreneurial model of independent clinics.
A model built on solidarity and independence
Founded 30 years ago during a period of industry transformation, Opto-Réseau was built on a simple yet ambitious idea: to prove that professional independence can coexist with the strength of a collective.
Since then, the network has grown through the commitment of many founding members and builders, including the clinics of Magog, Sherbrooke (Sherbrooke East and West, Lennoxville, Windsor, Stanstead), Waterloo, and Sainte-Dorothée.
Opto-Réseau also wishes to recognize the contributions of its past presidents : François Gendron, Carole Melançon, Léo Breton, Robert Boulé, and Alain Côté as well as influential figures such as Renée Guertin and Jean-Yves Roy.
Today, the network remains true to its mission: to provide high-quality eye care rooted in local communities, delivered by dedicated and independent professionals.
Watch the recap video of the April 11 event.
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About Opto-Réseau
Opto-Réseau is a network of independent eye care professionals united by a single conviction: better vision means a better life. For 30 years, optometrists and opticians have combined their expertise and knowledge to care for eye health with the utmost attention.
For inquiries or interview requests:
Marie-Hélène Choquette Zaurrini
Marketing Director
mhczaurrini@opto-reseau.com
514-797-3714
