2 minute read
Nominee: Clarke & Roskrow
Fun in the
(UV filtered) sun
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As we approach the summer months, many of us will start to think about renewing our sunglasses. You might already have a broad idea of which designer or style you want, but if you’re looking for something unique, Clarke & Roskrow Styling Opticians have
another approach WORDS BY TOM YOUNG
There’s been an optician on Market Harborough’s Church Street for nearly 50 years. In May 2014, Anthony Clarke and his wife, Karen, bought the premises to create the multi-award winning, boutique optical practice, Clarke & Roskrow Styling Opticians. The company specialises in niche eyewear (no pun intended), choosing to work with smaller, more artisanal designers. They’ve been nominated in multiple categories for this year’s Niche Business Awards, including Best Customer Service.
“For most people, a trip to the opticians is a forgettable experience,” says Anthony. “You go because you have to, or because you feel duty-bound – ‘I go to the dentist to look after my teeth, I’d better go to the optician to look after my eyes’. Our ethos is to wow the client and make it a more enjoyable experience.”
With tea, coffee, and even prosecco available for clients awaiting their appointment, it’s certainly a more enjoyable experience than most health or retail appointments. Anthony notes: “The fridge is always well-stocked”. On May 13 and 14, that fridge gains beers, wines, and even cocktails, as Clarke & Roskrow host their annual Super Sunglasses event, back by popular demand after the COVID pandemic. An opportunity to view their entire spring/summer 2022 collection, clients can book in, enjoy a cocktail, have their eye examination, and view this season’s new sunglass collections.
“Most of the sunglasses brands you’ve heard of are owned by one company called Luxottica,” says Anthony. “They control the majority of the global optical market, but as a boutique practice, we choose not to work with them, so we can offer something different.”
The flagship brand for the event is Maui Jim – a Hawaiian designer, “so they know a thing or two about sunlight” – with those in the know seeking out their designs due to the superior lens technology.
“Maui Jim’s sunglasses have the best UV protection,” says Anthony. “Protecting the eyes from the harmful effects of UV helps to reduce the risk of certain diseases like cataracts, as well as keeping the eyes healthy and happy for longer!”
Their lenses also have a patented polarising filter, which removes glare and reflected light; they also use rare earth elements, which help to maintain colour perception, eliminating the sensation that “sunglasses make the world look dark”.
“We want people to think about their sunglasses, so they’re not just a last-minute panic buy at the airport,” concludes Anthony. “We ensure they look great, are suitable for purpose, and a comfortable fit.”
Learn more about sunglasses at clarkeandroskrow.co.uk or call 01858 462 996 to book an appointment.
