Stanton Optical, an eye care center and retailer, has opened its first Wilmington location at 317 S. College Road, according to a news release.

“We love the southeast region of the U.S. and specifically North Carolina,” said CEO Daniel Stanton. “It works perfectly for our growth strategy in the region. There is a demand for our service type in the market and we are able to fill that demand while working on our growth strategy.”

The Wilmington Stanton Optical, located in the same strip of businesses as Carolina Ale House, marks the third Stanton Optical store in North Carolina.

The national corporation and franchise has 140 locations in the U.S. with 60 more stores planned on opening this year, said Stanton.

The eye care center, which officially opened April 22, offers eye exams and prescription lenses.

“What’s unique [about Stanton Optical] is the mission that the company has consistently strived for, which is providing an easy eye care experience,” Stanton said. “At other locations, it’s all about when your physician can see you and not about when you can see your physician.”

Stanton Optical will continue to expand in the state with plans to open locations in Charlotte and Winston-Salem, he said.

“We are grateful to be able to provide service in Wilmington,” Stanton said. “We are thrilled to get the store open and looking forward to impacting the community beyond selling glasses.”