The article discusses how several companies have worked with the French
non-profit organization Action Tank to develop social businesses aimed
at serving the needs of poor people. Eye care firm Essilor established a
company called Optique Solidaire that provides high-quality eyeglasses
to poor pensioners at a dramatically reduced cost. Other participants
include car maker Renault and construction firm Bouygues. The authors
describe elements of the business model employed, how companies benefit
from it, and what distinguishes social businesses from low-cost
businesses.