Vision Now October 2021

October 2021

The Lens with the Most Moisture *1

%

MORE breathability#7,8,9

MORE moisture than any other lens*1

UVA / UVB protection**7

MORE moisture from morning to night*2 %

MORE stable tear film*4

Bausch + Lomb Biotrue® ONEday contact lens with Surface Active TechnologyTM 3 contains maximum moisture1 compared to other daily disposable lenses in the market, and retains nearly 100% of its moisture for a full 16 hours2 – while providing the highest tear film stability of leading daily disposables.4

And with its high levels of breathability,7 this lens provides more oxygen than the open eye needs to remain healthy and white.5 And now with our Patient Satisfaction Guarantee for complete peace of mind.

The ONLY daily toric with a –2.75D cyl †10

www.bausch.co.uk/mostmoisture

Order your trial lenses today N 0845 602 2350

E cs.vc.uk@bausch.com

Please read the Instructions for Use (IFU) for important product use and safety information with Bausch + Lomb contact lenses. *Compared to other daily disposable lenses in the market. | **UV-absorbing contact lenses are NOT substitutes for UV-absorbing sunglasses. You should continue to use UV absorbing sunglasses as directed. # Dk/t vs DAILIES®AquaComfort PLUS® and1-Day ACUVUE® Moist | † Excluding made-to-order lenses 1. ACLM, 2020. ACLM Year Book Online. https://www.aclm.org.uk/online-access/. Accessed 28.6.21. 2. Bausch + Lomb, 2012. A clinical evaluation of Biotrue® ONEday compared to 1-DAY ACUVUE® MOIST®, 1-DAY ACUVUE® TruEye® and DAILIES® AquaComfort PLUS®dehydration data preliminary results and claims support (ROC2-11-63). Rochester. 3. Bausch + Lomb, 2011. Hypergel Surface Characterisation Memo, Rochester. 4. Tomy, L., Chan, O., Reindel, B., Steffen, R., January 2020. Non-Invasive Tear Break-Up Time Evaluation of Six Unique Daily Disposable Lens Materials After 10 Hours of Wear. Global Specialty Lens Symposium. 5. Barr, J., Donnelly, C., Rah, M.J. Measuring Oxygen Transmissibility: How Much is Enough for Healthy Contact Lens Wear? 7. Bausch + Lomb, 2012. Bausch + Lomb nesofilcon A contact lens (#510(k) Summary). Rochester. 8. Alcon Manufacturer-provided information, November, 2019 9. Johnson & Johnson Visioncare Manufacturer-provided information., November 2019 10. Based on a comparison of manufacturer-provided parameter ranges on May 21st 2020.

Vision Now October 2021 Biotrue and Surface Active Technology are trademarks of Bausch + Lomb Incorporated or its affiliates | ©2021 Bausch & Lomb Incorporated or its affiliates.

BOD.0015.IE.21

1

Your mediflex® max 1 day family just got MUCH bigger.

NEW

NEW AXES

Introducing NEW mediflex® max 1 day multifocal – an evolution in lens design and fitting approach. Expansion of mediflex max 1 day toric with additional parameters and around-the-clock axes. Both lenses built on a reputation of unsurpassed comfort and excellent vision. mediflex® max 1 day is now a bigger family of high-performance one-day lenses with built-in UV blocker† that meet the needs of today’s patients who demand quality without compromise. mediflex® max 1 day is the house brand version of CooperVision’s MyDay® daily disposable family, exclusive to NEG members.

For more information on why using a house brand is great for your practice, contact your CooperVision Business Development Manager.

† Warning: UV-absorbing contact lenses are not substitutes for protective UV-absorbing eyewear, such as UV-absorbing goggles or sunglasses, as they do not completely cover the eye and surrounding area. Patients should continue to use Vision Now October 2021 UV-absorbing eyewear as directed. *Exclusive within the UK&I market mediflex® is only available to NEG members.

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29

Inside

9 Vision Now magazine is published by Peekay Publishing Ltd for The PK National Eyecare Group Ltd, the UK’s largest purchasing group for independent opticians.

News

4 First for Menicon one-day lens 7 Consumer-focused myopia campaign 9 London show opens bookings 11 New sustainability in business tool 13 Louis Stone’s social media milestone 15 Low vision roadshow goes online

15 An independent view Difficult decisions, difficult times

17 Developing thoughts There are 24 hours in a day

19 In the clinic

Floaters: why the fuss?

20 Product profile

Moving boundaries in myopia control

24 NEG Business Club Building your new normal

26 Product profile

Eyewear Direct: total clarity

28 Style spotlight

Winning eyewear for active lifestyle

31 Suppliers’ directory

Editor Nicky Collinson BA (Hons) nicola.collinson@nationaleyecare.co.uk Fashion Editor Joan Grady jgparischats@wanadoo.fr Business Editor Phillip Mullins FBDO p.mullins@nationaleyecare.co.uk Design and Production

Stacey Jordan BA (Hons)

Publisher Michael C Wheeler

FCOptom DipCLP FSMC FAA0

17

Editor’s comment Wherever you stand on the controversial topic of Covid-19 ‘vaccination passports’, the UK government has seen fit to announce that from 11 November all health and social care professionals providing services in care/nursing homes in England must be fully vaccinated against Covid-19 – unless exempt. The government is now consulting on proposals to mandate Covid-19 and flu vaccinations for frontline health and social care workers in England.

In response, the professional bodies are calling for their members in everyday practice – providing face-to-face patient care in the community – to be included alongside (it is understood) hospital optometrists. It is a sensitive issue and both the Association of Optometrists and Association of British Dispensing Opticians have invited their members to give their views on the matter to help inform their official responses to the consultation, which closes later this month. If you have strong views either way, then now is the time to make them known.

Meantime, as practices continue to recuperate from the effects of the pandemic, we have some strategic business-building guidance to share this month – from Andy Clark’s Command and Demand models, to Phil Mullins’ tips for e-commerce. We have new eyewear brands from Eyewear Direct, an in-depth look at myopia control with Hoya, and some clinical pearls of wisdom on floaters from ophthalmic surgeon, Stephen Lash. And for those looking to up their sports eyewear game, Joan Grady has shone her spotlight on eyewear for active lifestyles. Whatever your speciality and interest, Vision Now has got it covered...

Nicky Collinson Editor The Editor welcomes letters, articles and other contributions for publication in the magazine and reserves the right to amend them. Any such contribution, whether it bears the author’s name, initials or pseudonym, is accepted on the understanding that its author is responsible for the opinions expressed in it and that its publication does not imply that such opinions are those of The PK National Eyecare Group Ltd. Articles submitted for publication should be original, unpublished work and are accepted on the basis that they will not be published in any other journal.

Acceptance of material for publication is not a guarantee that it will be included in any particular issue. Copyright © 2021 for Peekay Publishing Ltd. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying and recording, without the written permission of the publishers.

Such written permission should also be obtained before any part of this publication is stored in a retrieval system of any nature.

@PK_NEG

VISION NOW is published by Peekay Publishing Ltd for The PK National Eyecare Group Limited, Clermont House, Cranbrook, Kent TN17 3DN VISION NOW is printed by CFH Docmail Ltd. St Peter’s Park, Wells Road, Radstock BA3 3UP

Vision Now October 2021 3

News New lens “delivers in all key areas”

2 Menicon Miru 1day UpSide is Menicon’s first daily disposable silicone hydrogel lens to use its Menisilk Air and NanoGloss Pro technologies, which balance material and surface properties. As well as combining high oxygen with an ultra-low modulus material, the lens features the company’s unique SmartTouch packaging, developed at a purpose-built research facility in Japan. SmartTouch ensures that every lens faces the right way up, and can be removed and inserted without the patient needing to touch its inner surface.

Taking care of children’s vision

1

Essilor

New Eyezen Kids from Essilor is an optimised single vision lens specifically designed for six to 12-year-olds. Using Essilor’s DualOptim technology, it aligns target points for distance and near vision, to bring children a much wider, clear vision area across the lenses. The technology takes children’s parameters, including morphology, object distance and gaze directions, into account to optimise the lens design. This, says Essilor, provides +60 per cent more optimal lens area than a standard single vision lens with 60 per cent less aberrations in the lower area of the lens.

Tim Precious, managing director at Essilor, said: “The Eyezen Kids lens is designed to support this age group as they undergo high visual demands including learning to read and write. Furthermore, with lockdown leading to a surge in screen time and the use of digital devices at school and at home, it is becoming increasingly important to provide children with a solution suitable for any situation for their multiple daily activities.”

Point-of-sale and marketing materials are available to support the launch including patient leaflets and A2 posters. All Eyezen lens patients benefit from a 12-month guarantee and if they are not 100 per cent happy, they can exchange them for another new pair of lenses free of charge.

4 Vision Now October 2021

Kevin Mitchell, managing director of Menicon UK, said: “From the moment a Miru 1day UpSide lens is produced, until the wearer pinches it out of the SmartTouch packaging, the lens remains untouched by human hands. This lens delivers in all the key areas – health, vision, hygiene, comfort and convenience.” Miru 1day UpSide comes in sphere and multifocal, with toric soon to be added. All three modalities will be available on Menicon’s new online ordering system.

StepperS model STS-40208

3 Stepper Stepper’s attractive stainless steel frame styles are skin friendly for those with a sensitivity to base metals, corrosion-resistant and strong. Model STS-40208 (pictured) combines straight lines with curves, and feature a clever hinge mechanism. Colour combination options include grey/rose gold, green/gunmetal, vanilla/gold or lilac/ silver. “Design comes literally to the front with StepperS frames – as you can see in the rim outline of this example,” said Peter Reeve, Stepper UK managing director. “Add to this imaginative StepperS colouring and you have a stylish piece of ‘face art’ with the wearability and comfort the brand is renowned for.”

INTRODUCING

A GREAT LENS to meet the needs of new and current wearers seeking precise vision,1 long-lasting comfort1 and ease of handling.1

PRECISE VISION1

LONG-LASTING COMFORT 1

EASE OF HANDLING1

A GREAT PROGRAMME designed to reduce contact lens drop out by providing patients with a virtual experience, supporting them on both their pre- and post-fit contact lens journey.

SCAN HERE TO EXPERIENCE THE PRECISION1

TM

PATIENT SUPPORT

PROGRAMME FOR YOURSELF.

Supported by an integrated consumer campaign designed to drive new patients into practice

Please contact your Alcon® Representative to find out more.

Reference: 1. Cummings S, Giedd B, Pearson C. Clinical performance of a new daily disposable spherical contact lens.

Optom Vis Sci. 2019;96:E-abstract 195375. See instructions for use for complete wear, care and safety information.

PRECISION1, Alcon and the Alcon logos are trademarks of Alcon Inc. 14694 © 2021 Alcon Inc. 04/21 IE-PR1-2100037

Vision Now October 2021 5

6 Vision Now October 2021

NEWS 4

CooperVision

Dr Sara Kayat, supporting the conversation

CooperVision invested in a multi-channel campaign this summer to tackle growing childhood myopia – encouraging parents to take action and protect children’s eye health. New research commissioned by the company amongst 1,000 parents revealed that 36 per cent of respondents did not know, or did not believe that children’s vision should be checked between the ages of four to five. Further, one in four respondents had never asked their children about their vision as they had never thought about it or had a need to ask; more than half didn’t know, or did not believe, there were long-term risks of myopia.

To raise awareness about the need to detect and manage myopia, CooperVision created a short film revealing life through the eyes of a myopic child. The company also partnered with Dr Sara Kayat, GP and TV doctor on ITV’s This Morning, and optometrist Dr Keyur Patel to highlight the importance of regular eye exams, provide eye health tips and educate parents that myopia progression can be slowed down.

The company has also been running consumer adverts for its Brilliant Futures with MiSight contact lenses and engaging with eyecare practitioners on the subject.

Krupa Patel, head of professional services at CooperVision UK and Ireland, said: “Our consumer campaign brings the signs of myopia front of mind to parents and highlights the importance of regular eye examinations to improve children’s vision and help prevent future eye health issues. We are also committed to supporting eyecare practitioners and will be developing a range of tools to facilitate myopia management discussions between ECPs and parents and help guide parents through their children’s eye health journey.”

5 International Eyewear The latest Titanflex collection, available from International Eyewear, presents seven statement pieces that are high on both style and comfort. Germanengineered Titanflex frames are light, robust and highly flexible; they are composed of an exclusive titanium metal alloy that is said to be 10 times more elastic than conventional spring stainless steel. A memory metal effect means the frame returns to its original shape.

The new styles include a Nordic-inspired design, a sporty yet classic design and a masculine rimlesss frame.

6

German technology and design

World Council of Optometry

Building upon its efforts to establish a standard of care for myopia management, the World Council of Optometry (WCO) and CooperVision have jointly developed an online resource that provides multilingual assets and approaches to enable busy eyecare professionals – regardless of geographic location – to apply a standard of care to manage the condition.

“This online resource provides eyecare practitioners from anywhere in the world access to the information they need to implement a standard of care to treat or manage a patient’s myopia progression,” said Paul Folkesson, WCO president. “Thanks to the support of CooperVision, information regarding the treatment of myopia is more accessible than ever before. This is just the start as we work to provide more materials and educational programming through this collaborative partnership.” Visit https:// myopia.worldcouncilofoptometry.info

7 General Optical Council The General Optical Council (GOC) has commissioned a Sector Partnership for Optical Knowledge and Education (SPOKE) to establish a Knowledge Hub/Information Exchange to help meet its updated requirements for qualification approval. The College of Optometrists is the lead partner for SPOKE, supported by the Association of Lizzy Ostler British Dispensing Opticians (ABDO), the Optometry Schools Council (OSC) and bodies from across the sector. The hub will be a resource for programme leaders, academic staff, module coordinators, supervisors and practice-based staff/employers and sector businesses. Its first project will be to develop the sector-led, co-produced indicative guidance to supplement the GOC's Outcomes for Registration.

Lizzy Ostler, director of education at the College of Optometrists, said: “I am really excited that the SPOKE bid, developed in collaboration with Joy Myint [OSC] and Alistair Bridge [ABDO] has been successful. As a steering group, our plan is to involve the whole sector in establishing expected and best practice guidance for the qualifying education of optometrists and dispensing opticians. This will be a great opportunity to bring to life the GOC’s new requirements for providers and those involved in course approval for years to come. We are keen to involve all stakeholders and welcome all interested parties to step up, join in and contribute to this sector-wide collaboration.” Find out more at www.optical.org Vision Now October 2021 7

MiYOSMART: the smart way to treat myopia in children.

60%*

slow down of myopia progression.

MiYOSMART is now available in the UK & Ireland. Access the accreditation course by scanning the QR code: *Lam CSY, Tang WC, TseDY, Lee RPK, Chun RKM, Hasegawa K, Qi H, Hatanaka T, To CH. Defocus Incorporated Multiple Segments (D.I.M.S.) spectacle lenses slow myopia progression: a two-year randomised clinical trial. British Journal of Ophthalmology. Published Online First: 29 May 2019. doi: 10.1136/bjophthalmol-2018-313739

8 Vision Now October 2021

NEWS 8 Alcon

9 100% Optical

Alcon’s Total30 monthly replacement water gradient contact lens has been launched in the US, and will be rolled out to a limited number of European countries before the end of the year. Using the same proprietary water gradient material first introduced with Dailies Total1, Total30 harnesses Alcon’s new biomimetic Celligent technology. This combines a biomimetic surface with a ‘unique chemistry’ to help resist bacteria and lipid deposits. The lens features an inherently lubricious surface, and is compatible with all lens care solutions.

“We are incredibly proud to expand our Total brand with Total30...,” said Andy Pawson, president and general manager of the Global Vision Care Franchise at Alcon. “...innovation within the reusable lens segment has lagged behind daily disposables over the past 10 years. Today, we change that by delivering a reusable lens with a water gradient surface that remains durable for a full 30 days to help people see brilliantly.”

Coming soon to Europe

10 Continental Eyewear

Lazer Junior model 2208 in teal

New in the fun and affordable Lazer Junior range from Continental Eyewear are two new styles for infants. The new frames are intended for children aged four years and under, and feature a plastic flex hinge and safety band for greater comfort and durability. Model 2208 is a rectangular frame, available in blue or teal, while model 2210 is more rounded and can be chosen in blue or purple.

Getting together again in London

Registration is now open for 100% Optical, being held at the London ExCeL from 22-24 January 2022. The show will see new features and a focus on optics and the environment. Key features include a Future Practice Hub, Dispensing Workshop, Design Arcade and live catwalk shows.

The second Love Eyewear Awards will celebrate designers, manufacturers and retailers. Entries open on 18 October with 12 categories including New Designer, Kids Eyewear of the Year and Most Engaging Practice Window. The show will also

celebrate Love Eyewear Week (7-23 January 2022).

Nathan Garnett, 100% Optical show director, said: “100% Optical 2022 is a time for the whole industry to once again get together to network and celebrate the optical sector after an incredibly turbulent time. We’re also in the midst of launching a one-stop, handy show guide in the form of an app as we pledge to be more sustainable in the current climate.”

Register at www.100percentoptical.com

11 Specialist Club The Specialist Club will hold its first face-to-face CET meeting for two years on 25 October at the National Motorcycle Museum in Birmingham. Themed ‘New front tears: techniques and technologies for dry eye’, the day will focus on how to deliver an accurate level of diagnosis and management for dry eye sufferers.

The keynote speaker is consultant ophthalmologist, Professor Jonathan Moore, who will highlight the role of omega 3 and supplements in his CET lecture, ‘Managing dry eye in the modern world'.

Optometrist Nick Dash will present,‘ Establishing a successful dry eye clinic’, while CET discussion lectures will be led by contact lens optician, Rosemin Mussa, on ‘Lifting the lid on periocular care’, and optometrist Craig Wilcox on ‘The role of

Dry eye education on the agenda

intense pulse light therapy in optometric practice'. Event organiser, Nick Atkins, said: “This will be a truly valuable seminar for practitioners wanting to take dry eye management to the next level."

Visit www.specialistclub.uk Vision Now October 2021 9

NEW

Daily use silicone hydrogel lenses with Smart TouchTM technology for hygienic, hassle-free handling and all-day comfort.

Available as sphere, multifocal with toric coming soon.

Highly breathable, super soft lens with Class 2 UV protection.

Talk to us today about how we can help you deliver the best patient eyecare solutions with Miru contact lenses: +44 1604 646 216 enquiries@menicon.co.uk menicon.co.uk 10 Vision Now October 2021

NEWS 12 Silhouette

Neil (left) takes over from Indie

British Contact 13 Lens Association

Minimalist meets modern with Artline

Minimalist meets modern in the latest styles to be incorporated into Silhouette’s Artline collection. Four contemporary new shapes, two for women and two for men, take their inspiration from jewellery design. Crafted from Silhouette’s signature high-quality materials and finished with 23 carat gold, the Artline collection aims to deliver understated elegance for a minimalist look. Model 5546 (pictured) is a flattering cat-eye shape for women with oversized lenses and delicate temples embellished with tiny sparkling crystals. All styles can be custom-fitted at Silhouette’s in-house lens lab with lenses from Silhouette Vision Sensation.

14 Association of British Dispensing Opticians Due to be launched at the inaugural SEE Summit on the Environment (4 October), the new Sustainability Self-Assessment Tool has been developed by the Association of British Dispensing Opticians’ (ABDO) Working Group on the Environment, in collaboration with organisations across the optical community. The tool is designed to assess the user’s current eco status, and provide key activities to make work and practice life more sustainable.

Daryl Newsome, chair of the working group and ABDO vice president, said: “Everyone working in the optical industry has a part to play. If you are an employee, you can work towards saving energy and water in practice every day – and reuse items that would otherwise have been thrown away. If you are a manager or business owner, the tool gives you plenty of ideas too, and could be the first step towards your own sustainability strategy.” Access the tool via www.abdo.org.uk

Neil Retallic, the new president of the British Contact Lens Association (BCLA), has highlighted the opportunities that exist for eyecare professionals in a post-pandemic world. Neil is global professional services manager for Menicon, and took over as president from Indie Grewal last month. In his inaugural address to members, he said: “As eyecare practitioners, we need to understand the emotional consequences of Covid-19 and the resulting mental health crisis. We must go the extra mile and adopt a holistic, person-centred healthcare approach to maximise our contact lens wearers’ performance, ocular and mental health.”

Neil is an assessor and examiner for the College of Optometrists. His previous roles include professional services manager for CooperVision, learning and development manager for Vision Express and optometry teaching fellow for the University of Manchester. He is currently part of the General Optical Council Education Committee, chair of the BCLA Education Committee and a past chair of the British and Irish University and College Contact Lens Educators.

15 Positive Impact The Body Doctor’s Eye Doctor Tea Tree Lid Wipes are now fully biodegradable, with recyclable packaging, and available from Positive Impact. Body Doctor managing director, Sue Grant, explained: “At significant financial cost, we have further invested in reducing our environmental impact by making our regular Eye Doctor Lid Wipes biodegradable. Our Tea Tree Lid Wipes and our Lid Wipes are plastic-free and made from viscose fibres, so when in soil or compost, or fresh or marine water, they will fully convert back to nature and do not require recycling.”

Body Doctor head of professional services, Andrew Price, added: “As clinicians, we are rightly focused on the clinical benefit to the user, however, a third factor has now entered the consumer evaluation of how they spend their money; benefit, cost and now how eco-friendly is the production and disposal of a product. I am happy that the Eye Doctor Lid Wipes score high marks on all three evaluations.”

Eco-friendly lid wipes

Vision Now October 2021 11

Every frame tells a story

Stepper (UK) Limited 11 Tannery Road Tonbridge Kent TN9 1RF 01732 375975 www.stepper.co.uk 12 Vision Now October 2021

Titanium

Frame style shown: SI-60194

NEWS 17

Maureen Hunter

16 Obituary: Maureen Hunter It is with great sadness that we announce the death of Maureen Hunter, nee Callender, who died last month at the age of 78 after a brave battle with Parkinson’s disease. Maureen was very well known and popular in the optical profession and industry. As well as producing Optometry Today for the Association of Optometrists, her Hampshire-based company, Word & Images, produced newsletters for SightCare and the Worshipful Company of Spectacle Makers, which she became a member of. She was also active with Vision Aid Overseas.

Vision Now editor, Nicky Collinson, said: “I worked alongside Maureen at OT for 12 years. She was my first editor and taught me not just the arts and crafts of impartial, truthful journalism, but how to always put the reader first. A successful businesswoman who balanced work with fun and family, Maureen’s serene Scottish manner and sense of humour charmed all those who met her. She inspired me as a woman and a journalist. My heartfelt condolences to her sons Chris, Nik and Rod, her five grandchildren and all of Maureen’s family and friends.”

Louis Stone (Optical)

Louis Stone (Optical) celebrated reaching 15,000 followers on Instagram last month, meaning the company now has more than 20,000 followers across all platforms. Head of marketing and communications, Clare Gaba, said: “Social media is arguably the strongest form of marketing around at the moment and Instagram is always at the forefront. We are constantly inundated by customers with Louis Stone product pictures, which they ask us to feature. Our thriving page now hosts a vibrant community of loyal followers.” Follow @louisstoneoptic

Sharing great content on Instagram

18 ABDO College

A farewell to Jo Underwood (centre in red)

A farewell reception was held at Godmersham Park last month to mark the retirement of ABDO College’s founding principal Jo Underwood, who has stepped down after 21 years. Clive Marchant, chair of the ABDO College board of trustees, said: “Twenty-one years ago, Jo joined ABDO College as principal and the College’s first employee, with zero students. Twenty-one years later, we approach four figure numbers of students studying at ABDO College every year – from optical assistant, FBDO diploma and degree courses along with contact lenses and low vision honours courses – all achieving consistent, outstanding results. Jo and her team have achieved so much in the past 21 years. Jo should be very proud of all she has achieved.”

Jo said: “I am so grateful for being given the fantastic opportunity to bring ABDO College into existence in 2000, and become what it is today. It has been a real privilege. I thank all ABDO College staff, both past and present, for their huge commitment to this dream and for making it what it is today – and the College trustees for their confidence in the team.

It has been a magnificent and joyous journey that I wouldn’t have missed for the world.”

19 WCSM The Worshipful Company of Spectacle Makers’ (WCSM) new Journeyman scheme is aimed at those within their first few years of working in any optical profession or in the sight loss sector. WCSM Master, Huntly Taylor, said: “This scheme makes it easier for people in the first few years of their career to get involved and explore their part in supporting better vision for all.

“In the last two years, half of our new

Beginning a new journey?

members have been under 40 and our online events have attracted people living and working far away from our home base in London. We are looking forward to expanding our reach and welcoming an even more diverse group of people into the Spectacle Makers’ family,” Huntly added. Our photograph shows Freeman Karla McKenzie, and Journeyman Chioma Ezenwoye.

Visit www.spectaclemakers.com Vision Now October 2021 13

Contemporary collection combines elegance and style in protection, changing the concept of safety glasses.

Lenstec Safety Labs 17 Twyford Business Centre, London Road Bishop's Stortford, Hertfordshire, CM23 3YT T: 01279 653785 14 Vision Now October 2021

fashion safety glasses

safetylab@lenstec.co.uk

From

NEWS 20 Millmead Optical Group Students at ABDO College will be learning all things optical in the Jai Kudo Optics lab, thanks to renewed sponsorship from the Millmead Optical Group, which celebrates its 75th anniversary this year.

Millmead CEO, James Conway, said: “The critical job performed by the College, along with the supportive and extremely James Conway dedicated staff, made the decision to sponsor the College an easy one. Having worked with them closely for many years, we are pleased to be able to extend our partnership for many years into the future.”

Millmead will be updating many of the materials currently presented throughout the building, with new educational wall artwork and imagery, while new manufacturing techniques and product innovations will be highlighted with a focus on sustainability.

21 Vision Care for Homeless People Vision Care for Homeless People (VCHP) is opening a new weekly clinic in Gloucester, with funding provided by Gloucestershire Clinical Commissioning Group and supported by the local optical committee. The ninth VCHP clinic in England will be New Gloucester clinic opens housed within the Rikenel Health Centre, which provides care for the city’s homeless community.

Local optometrist Karen Gennard is the new clinic manager. She said: “Research by VCHP has found that around 70 per cent of homeless people need glasses for some aspect of their vision, and 10 per cent of patients seen are referred to hospital for other ocular conditions. We are expecting to be busy.” The Norville (20/20) lab is taking on the glazing work for the clinic, with additional supplies donated by Bondeye and Mainline. The clinic is now looking for volunteers and a team lead. Email karen. gennard@vchp.org.uk. Our photograph shows Karen (left) with Di Landon, a primary support worker at the health centre.

22 Visualise Training and Consultancy Dan Williams of Visualise Training and Consultancy has launched a three CET point e-learning version of his Seeing Beyond the Eyes CET Roadshow for dispensing opticians and optometrists. “Optical professionals are highly experienced in the anatomy of the eye and experts in lenses,” Dan said, “but there is a big knowledge gap in understanding visual impairment and how it affects people on a daily basis. The more optical professionals learn, the more people with sight loss will be empowered with the knowledge they need to move forward.” Visit https://visualise.thinkific.com for details.

AN INDEPENDENT VIEW Difficult decisions, difficult times As winter approaches and uncertainty as to the future impact of the pandemic comes to the fore once again, a number of difficult questions and decisions face the world of optics. First: do conferences and events proceed? Some that were scheduled for the last four months of the year have been cancelled while others will go ahead. There is no right or wrong answer to the conundrum that organisers find themselves in, and sometimes the attitude of the venue is an important influencer.

For delegates, they are faced with the same choice as the organisers, but at a personal level. For some, the imperative to compile CET points of the right competence and type is a heavy influence in the decision. Again, there is no right or wrong answer.

Then there is the question of whether all health practitioners, including optometrists and dispensing opticians, should be – or must be – fully vaccinated? The recent government consultation suggests it is a ‘must’ whilst the College of Optometrists and General Optical Council have maintained the guidance of ‘should’. Clearly, there are very strong arguments on both sides – and it is difficult to arrive at a right or wrong answer.

There are also the other big questions of the day, such as whether or not independents are well advised to ditch the NHS GOS contract and go fully private. Whilst for many practices it is simply not an option, for those that can it is a very difficult decision to make. At a different level is the conversation about consolidation of health regulators, which might see the GOC being absorbed into an ‘uber’ regulator. Again, there are many arguments for and against such a move.

One of the consequences of these difficult questions and decisions is the degree of uncertainty for everyone, which can be stressful and upsetting. No doubt many of these questions will be the subject of discussion at the AIO Conference on 9 and 10 October at Chesford Grange Arguably, what is really important in these difficult times is that everyone is respectful of everyone else, regardless of their views and opinions.

Vision Now October 2021 15

Now available at Eyewear Direct

Delivering the highest quality eyewear. eyewear-direct.net enquiries@eyewear-direct.net 16 Vision Now October 2021

+44 (0) 207 193 3334

P R A C T I C E M AT T E R S

Developing thoughts It’s high time independents offered their own online convenience store, writes Phil Mullins

There are 24 hours in a day your contact lens business and if possible, grow it. A big reason why people purchase from online stores is convenience, not always price. It’s quick and easy to order online and the goods are delivered direct to your door. So think about offering this service to your contact lens patients; you may even gain some new ones.

Now more than ever, attending to ‘life admin’ means placing shopping orders, updating diaries, catching up with others, and using Google to research everything from DIY to holidays. All of this activity, at least in my household, takes place online.

In fact, Ofcom recently reported that the average adult in the UK now spends three hours, 47 minutes online each day. So, it is staggering to me that there are still so many independent practices that rarely use their practice website – or don’t have one at all.

Online specs retailers thrive on the fact that the general public don’t know why they shouldn’t buy a £6 pair of specs on the internet. It is our job to educate people that there is a huge difference in quality and performance. However, to do that we need to be active where they are – and that is online. Remember: Google prioritises locally-listed businesses as they have more relevance to the ‘Googler’.

So get in front of those searching for information – be it about eye conditions, finding an optician locally, or actual products. You can have all of this content on your website and lead them right to your door.

ONLINE ACTIVITY IS A ‘MUST’ When creating or refreshing your website, it’s important to have images of your practice from the outside – and the inside.

And you’ll need to have basic, easy-tofind information such as contact details, including an email address, and opening hours. Ensure different sections on, for example, eye exams, contact lenses, sports eyewear and dry eye, are clearly visible. Make sure you have a section on myopia control and what you offer

TEMPLATE FOR NEG MEMBERS

Make it easy for patients to buy from you

in this burgeoning area. This is where you can really show your high levels of professionalism.

Being able to book an appointment online is a ‘must’ for any modern business. In fact, I don’t think I can remember the last time I booked an appointment for anything during the working day. People need to be able to book an eye exam when it suits them – not you. Your practice management software provider will be able to add this functionality to your practice software, and there should be a highly visible link to this on your homepage. You can also add a booking link to recalls that you can send via SMS or email.

So, you have a great website with great images and content; your online booking facility is making it easier for people to book an appointment, but what next? You don’t want to join the selling cheap specs online gang, but you would like to protect

To enable NEG members to offer this type of online sales, our IT division Optinet has teamed up with EKM, one of the UK’s leading providers of e-commerce stores. Working with the Optinet team, EKM has created a template for you to use in conjunction with the contact lens catalogue that we have assembled.

You can create your own e-commerce offering easily and effectively – all for a low monthly fee. You don’t need to be an Optinet user, so all NEG members can benefit from the EKM service – starting with a 28-day free trial. EKM will help build your online store, and work with you to make the most of the opportunity.

Although you may start by offering your patients the ability to order just contact lenses online, you might think about adding other products too – such as accessories and sunglasses. With Google promoting local businesses in searches, having an online store will make you appear in more searches and be seen by more potential patients, which will help your business to keep growing.

To help you discover what the service will offer, we have put together a very simple example of an online store which you can view at www.flexlensstore.co.uk. View more details about the EKM offering at http://www.ekm.com/optinet Vision Now October 2021 17

PRACTICE MANAGEMENT SIMPLIFIED @

eGos Stock

SMS/ Email

Diary

Order

Business Intelligence

Till

Clinical

Patient Manager

Take control with Optinet Flex, the innovative software with intuitive dashboards and intelligent reporting that keeps your optometry business at the cutting edge.

Call us today to book your no obligation, demonstration.

0800 310 2400

sales@optinetuk.com • www.optinetuk.com 18 Vision Now October 2021

IN THE CLINIC

Floaters: why the fuss?

Can – or should – we be doing anything about floaters? asks Stephen Lash

I am sure you have come across many people with floaters.

Can we do anything about it, or perhaps more importantly, should we do anything about it? In this article, I want to explore the options – focusing on primary floaters as oppose to ‘pathological floaters’ like vitreous haemorrhage or sudden onset.

The vitreous gel collapses throughout life; fluid pockets appear and the collagen clumps. Seeing bits float around inside your eye is not uncommon – 76 per cent in one study1 – but some people are willing to risk blindness and even death to get rid of them2.

When we examine the eyes, we usually see very little and this puts us in a difficult position; offering ‘dangerous’ surgery to remove something we cannot see. It then becomes easier to tell the patient to ignore them and send them on their way.

But floaters are common and people are willing to take a risk to get rid of them. So, is vitrectomy dangerous? No. In fact, rapidly progressing technology within this sub-specialty is leaving more general ophthalmology behind. US ophthalmologist/vitreoretinal specialist, Ferenc Kuhn, says to his patients that the most dangerous thing that can happen during surgery is him dying.

There is a one to two per cent risk of retinal detachment, but it’s the same as any other indication for vitrectomy – so why not for floaters?

SCATTERING LIGHT EFFECTS Examining floaters involves looking into a dark globe; the light is scattered back off the vitreous floaters. Looking out of an eye with floaters involves looking through them and suffering the forward scatter. A former floaterectomy patient, who also happens to be a professor and math genius, was so impressed with his result that he started to model these effects – and the initial results are astounding. This scatter effect could be up to one million times worse for the patient. Those of us who treat floaters have always suspected as much. Interestingly, a 2015 study found that surgeons with floaters themselves were more likely to offer their patients surgery3.

The best objective measure of the effect of floaters is contrast sensitivity function (CSF). Posterior vitreous detachment (PVD) can result in a 52 per cent reduction in CSF4. In a small series, we have seen similar effects on lower contrast lower frequency aspects of CSF. Further objective evidence can sometimes be gained using the shadowgram function on OCT. Anything we can do to demonstrate an objective effect is to be welcomed.

DIFFERENTIATING THE DISEASE What do I really like to hear and see in floater patients? I like to hear a global reduction in vision intermittently, like a windscreen wiper across the vision. When I hear this, I often see a PVD with the gel bunched up behind the lens; especially in psuedophakes and even more so when it is a multifocal. The refractive and diffractive gymnastics these lenses have to perform seem to further interfere with the effect of floaters.

With a pseudophakic eye, the nodal point sits just behind the intraocular lens, just where the bunched-up gel sits. I often visualise this effect to patients by holding my hand close to the floor, demonstrating the sharp shadow formed and then moving my hand upwards so the shadow blurs, fades and spreads.

The floaters close to the retina form the sharp bits but it is my contention that the larger, more diffuse shadows from gel at the front of the eye are the real issue and impossible to get used to.

Like any disease, floaters can have a psychological overlay and I am wary of perfectionists who are very young (no PVD) and seem overly bothered by floaters and other entoptic phenomenon. Surgery does come with a risk, but up to 94 per cent of patients are happy after surgery5. I always quote Mr S, who came for floaterectomy surgery. I was unable to induce a PVD – and he was very happy. Two years later, he developed a giant retinal tear, had oil in the eye and we were unsure of his outcome. I asked if he was pleased he had had the surgery, and without hesitation he said: “Yes!”

REFERENCES 1. Webb BF et al. Prevalence of vitreous floaters in a community sample of smartphone users. Int. J. Ophthalmol. 2013;6:402-405.

2. Wagle AM et al. Utility values associated with vitreous floaters. Am. J. Ophthalmol.

2011;152:60-65.

3. Cohen MN et al. Management of symptomatic floaters: current attitudes, beliefs and practices among vitreoretinal surgeons. Ophthalmic. Surg. Laser Imaging Retina. 2015;46:859-865.

4. G arcia GA et al. Degradation of contrast sensitivity function following posterior vitreous detachment. Am. J. Ophthalmol. 2016; 172: 7-12 5. M ason 3rd JO et al. Safety, efficacy, and quality of life following sutureless vitrectomy for symptomatic vitreous floaters. Retina 2014;34:1043-1045.

Stephen Lash BM, BSc (Hons), MCOptom, FRCOphth, MBA works part-time within the NHS and part-time as a private ophthalmic surgeon. www.stephenlasheyesurgery.com Vision Now October 2021 19

PRODUCT PROFILE

Moving boundaries in myopia control Myopia is a significant global public health and socioeconomic problem and has been steadily increasing in recent decades, writes Andy Sanders It is estimated that by 2050, around 50 per cent of the world’s population will be myopic1. With increased myopia, the risk of sight-threatening conditions increases almost exponentially – with even lower levels of myopia being of concern. Research suggests that ocular diseases potentially leading to sight impairment or blindness is doubled with a refractive error as low as -2.00D (Table 1)2.

Historically, practitioners have focused on correcting myopia with standard spectacles or contact lenses that correct the refractive state of the eye, but don’t manage the progression of myopia which typically increases from around six years of age to adulthood. Large segment bifocals have been prescribed with some success in cases where children are esophoric at near. Additionally, short corridor progressives and more recently low add boost lenses have been utilised,

Figure 2: MiYOSMART lenses have a honeycomb-like structure

which are clearly cosmetically more appealing but appear to have relatively low efficacy3.

There are several theories as to the aetiology of myopia, however, the mechanisms involved in the onset and progression remain unclear. These proposed theories include mechanical tension, accommodation lag and peripheral refraction or relative peripheral hypermetropic defocus theory (RPHD). Each of these theories may not be exclusive of each other and, in addition, there are complex physiological and biological processes involved which are affected by environmental and genetic factors3.

CLINICALLY-PROVEN TREATMENT The novel MiYOSMART spectacle lens is a collaborative development between the prestigious Hong Kong Polytechnic University and Hoya Vision Care (Figure 1).

This innovative, non-invasive spectacle lens design features Defocus Incorporated Multi Segment (DIMS) Technology and has been clinically proven, via a two-year randomised controlled trial with a one-year follow-up, to be safe and effective in the management of myopia; on average reducing myopia progression by 60 per cent4.

The MiYOSMART spectacle lens features a clear central hexagonal area measuring 9.4mm in diameter, giving the patient the prescribed myopic correction. This is surrounded by a treatment zone of 33mm consisting of micro-lenslets, each with

-1.00 to -3.00D

-3.25 to -5.00D

-5.25 to -7.00D

Over -7.00D

Myopic maculopathy

2x

10 x

41 x

127 x

Retinal detachment

3x

9x

22 x

44 x

PSC cataract

2x

3x

6x

Data not available

Glaucoma

2x

3x

3x

Data not available

Table 1: Estimated odds ratio of ocular diseases as a function of myopia2

20 Vision Now October 2021

Figure 1: A novel, non-invasive spectacle lens design

3.50D defocus power measuring 1.03mm in diameter distributed exactly 1.5mm centre to centre. Unlike standard spectacle lenses, which produce peripheral hypermetropic defocus, which is hypothesised to drive eye growth myopia progression5, the MiYOSMART spectacle lens creates peripheral myopic defocus reducing the progression trigger.

The honeycomb type structure of the defocus zone (Figure 2) gives an average ratio of myopic correction to defocus of 50:50, so when the patient looks directly through the defocus zone, visual acuity remains almost unchanged4. It should be noted that the lenslets, whilst having a power of 3.50D, do not represent or perform like a bifocal addition.

This description might well conjure up images of a compound eye type appearance but in Hoya’s view, nothing could be further from the truth. The technological beauty of this lens remains invisible – only becoming apparent when the lens is moved around as if trying to find progressive lens markings. This is partly because the lenslets have a peak of less than 0.8 microns and the lenses come as standard with a special easy clean anti-reflection coating.

PRESCRIBING TOOLS AND SUPPORT Being made of polycarbonate the lens is impact resistant and safe for the rough and tumble of daily life children may experience, additionally providing UV protection. Prescribing the lenses is straightforward and they are measured in the same way as progressive lenses. First, an appropriate frame needs to be selected that has a B size of more than 25mm allowing at least 12mm above pupil centre.

PRODUCT PROFILE Production

HOYA Rx SuperLab Thailand

Price

€

Index

1.59 polycarbonate

Power

SF 0.00 D up to -10.00 max cyl -4.00

Prism

Up to three prism dioptres per lens

Diameter

75mm: plano 70mm: -6.25 65mm: -7.75 60mm: -8.75

→ -6.00 → -7.50 → -8.50 → -10.00

MiYOSMART DIMS technology has already received a number of awards and recognition, including the prestigious Grand Prize, Grand Award and Gold Medal at the 46th International Exhibition of Inventions of Geneva in April 2021, and the Silmo d’Or award in October 2020. There are currently more than 500,000 children benefiting from wearing MiYOSMART spectacle lenses across multiple countries7.

Could you patients benefit too?

cyl. -400 cyl. -400 cyl. -400 cyl. -400 Figure 3: Lens availability and diameter

This ensures there is an appropriate level of defocus in the superior and inferior of the pupil.

The ideal vertex distance is 10mm or less and in the worn position, the frame should have a pantoscopic tilt close to zero and a frame face form angle no more than five degrees. Whilst these measurements are a crucial starting point, glasses will often go out of adjustment over time so parents should be advised to return to the practice with their children should this happen, as is the case with standard glasses. It should, however, be noted that during the randomised controlled trial3, there were no specific instructions given for frame adjustment to parents other than to visit as they would have in the past to their regular eyecare practitioner.

Hoya produces a range of support materials including an essentials guide for eyecare professional that outlines the protocols associated with the myopia management journey. Unlike other spectacle lens designs, we believe this to be a medical intervention strategy not a 'fit and forget' vision solution. As such, prescribers should give additional advice such as limiting time spent using closelyviewed material, including digital devices, taking breaks from near work activities and recommending time spent outdoors6.

AVAILABILITY AND ACCREDITATION MiYOSMART is available up to a 75mm blank in a wide power range from plano through to -10.00D with opposite cyls to -4.00D (Figure 3). Prism is also available up to three prism dioptres. For verification, the lenses are checked by the eyecare practitioner on the focimeter at the optical centre. However, moving the focimeter to the defocus zone and focusing the lenslets shows the unique pattern of defocus.

Hoya continues to move boundaries

using extensive research and innovative technologies to provide products that the optical community needs to meet customer expectations. MiYOSMART has a clear prescribing protocol and Hoya has developed a three-stage accreditation process, featuring presentations from Professor Carly Lam, principal co-investigator at the Hong Kong Polytechnic University and Bruce Evans, director of research at the Institute of Optometry in London.

The presentations and Q&As cover the topic of myopia, the different interventions available, and the fitting and roll-out of the lens, including how it should be used. These are followed by two exams that must be passed to receive the certification. The first has a pass mark of 80 per cent and the second a 100 per cent pass mark. The accreditation programme, and ultimately the MiYOSMART spectacle lens, can be accessed via Hoya’s training platform at hluktrainingresource.thinkific. com (Figure 4).

Additional myopia management training modules are in development to ensure the most up-to-date information is available to all myopia visionaries.

Hoya’s business development managers are supporting practices, providing both online and face-to-face workshops relating to the introduction of the lens to parents and patients. Accredited practices receive full launch packs, which include a detailed ECP guide with FAQs.

SUMMARY Hoya is committed to supporting eyecare professionals in raising awareness around myopia, and the need for parents to focus on their children’s eyecare by visiting their local opticians. Nothing is more important than the health and well-being of our children. Now and into the future, we want to see the next generation thrive.

Figure 4: Scan this QR code to access Hoya’s accredited training platform

REFERENCES 1. Holden BA et al. Global prevalence of myopia and high myopia and temporal trends from 2000 through 2050. Ophthalmology 123;5:1036-104. https:// pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26875007 2. Table values rounded to the nearest integer.

Sources: a) Gifford K. Preparing your practice for the myopia control stampede. Contact Lens Spectrum 2016;31:20-23,25, 55; b) WHO. The impact of myopia and high myopia. Report of the Joint World Health Organization. Brien Holden Vision Institute Global Scientific Meeting on Myopia, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia, 16-18 March 2015; c) Flitcroft DI. The complex interactions of retinal, optical, and environmental factors in myopia aetiology. Prog. Retin. Eye Res. 2012;31:622-660; d) Saw S et al. Myopia and associated pathological complications. Ophthal. Physiol. Opt. 2005;25:381391; e) Lai T. Retinal complications of high myopia.

Medical Bulletin 12;9:09/2007.

3. Nameth J et al. Update and guidance on management of myopia. European Society of Ophthalmology in cooperation with Int853883. ernational Myopia Institute. European Journal of Ophthalmology 31;3:853-883. https://journals. sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/1120672121998960 4. L am CSY et al. Defocus Incorporated Multiple Segments (DIMS) spectacle lenses slow myopia progression: a two-year randomised clinical trial. British Journal of Ophthalmology.

Published Online First: 29 May 2019. doi:10.1136/ bjophthalmol-2018-313739 5. Huang J et al. Efficacy comparison of 16 interventions for myopia control in children: a network meta-analysis. Ophthalmology 2016;123:697-708.

6. Wu PC et al. Myopia prevention and outdoor light intensity in a school based cluster randomized trial.

Ophthalmology 2018;125:1239-50.

7. Hoya Data on file, September 2021.

Andy Sanders is professional services director for Hoya Lens UK and Ireland.

Vision Now October 2021 21

Going Beyond Vision Bausch + Lomb, ocular specialists in eye care for over 165 years, has been at the forefront of visionary innovations in eye care. Our Bausch + Lomb mission of “helping people see better to live better” is supported through our extensive portfolio of vision care products that we continue to enhance with new innovations and our commitment to building and nurturing our partnerships with the professionals who provide eye care to the public.

We seek to encourage growth of a loyal contact lens customer wearer base for our practice partners through the use of our comprehensive lens and lenscare portfolio and most recently with the fitting of our innovative contact lens brand, Bausch + Lomb ULTRA®.

Bausch + Lomb ULTRA® is the latest innovation in reusable contact lenses across a complete family*53,55,56,57 giving it a strong advantage as eye care professionals familiar with the material have a range offering to meet many of their patients’ vision needs and are therefore able to keep patients in the same material from when they are young to old.

Additionally, this lens family provides all the comfort80 you would expect from a premium brand, but at a competitive price, thereby making it an attractive offering for patients.

If I’m fitting an astigmatic 35-year-old, I’m thinking that I want this patient to carry on for the next 15, 20, 25 years, possibly even more. If I can keep them in that particular brand and lens that I know works for them, that the vision is good, stable, and there is a good multifocal I can go to as they get older, that ticks all the boxes for me and that would be my first choice.”

David Barker, Director and Optometrist Rawlings Opticians, Croydon

Bausch + Lomb ULTRA® Multifocal for Astigmatism the latest lens in our portfolio, was launched in January 2021.

This innovative contact lens is based on the well-established performance of both the Bausch + Lomb ULTRA® Multifocal and Toric lens designs. Thereby combining the seamless vision presbyopic patients want with the lens stability for their astigmatic needs1,2,6 and enabling eye care professionals to address the needs of this target segment, providing growth opportunities for their contact lens wearer base. Additionally, with the lenses being available in stock and ready to ship upon order, this has helped practices offer patients good customer service by reducing their waiting time and fulfilling their vison needs sooner.

As a practitioner, I have been longing for a [monthly] disposable lens for my presbyopic astigmatic patients and, finally, it’s here! I’m pleased to say that this lens doesn’t disappoint.

The fitting process is easy to follow, and the patients love their enhanced clarity in their vision.”

Adrian Baxendale, Hepworth and Hall Opticians

The ULTRA® and Biotrue® ONEday family of lenses have changed my contact lens practice more than any other lens in the past. Why do I say this?

A. The expert and enthusiastic recommendation of the Bausch + Lomb consultant... who has continued to be in close contact and has offered any help that is required.

B. The extensive range available.

C. The availability of Bausch + Lomb ULTRA® Multifocal for Astigmatism The lenses have proved their worth in that many patients have commented how much more comfy they are, both early in the day and at the end of the day and indeed at the end of the month.”

Andrew Rider, Eyecatchers Ltd, Harrogate

THE DUAL COMFORT COMBINATION Bausch + Lomb ULTRA® and Biotrue® multipurpose solution

22 Vision Now October 2021

11,80

What are some of the ways in which Bausch + Lomb has been engaging with independent eye care professionals?

Training and education

KOL insights sharing

We continue to provide training and educational support to keep up with clinical insights through our on-demand CET and non-CET webinars on our Let’s Rethink Optometry Together educational platform: www.gotostage.com/channel/bausch

By engaging with our KOL’s in a round table discussion we have been able to share some valuable insights and feedback on the performance of Bausch + Lomb ULTRA® Multifocal for Astigmatism and how best to introduce this lens into practices.

View the article and video extracts here: www.bausch.co.uk/ultra-mfa

How has Bausch + Lomb been supporting independent eye care professionals?

Practice sustainability building During lock-down, where the need to remain sustainable became most pertinent for practices, we offered practices free freight on all orders through our Bausch + Lomb Direct Service. This service supports practices e-commerce offering by providing an enhanced online ordering and direct-to-patient delivery service for all Bausch + Lomb soft contact lens and lens care products. This service also enables practices to fully manage their Bausch + Lomb patients online, 24/7, with full customer service support and without having to be in their practice. There is also the option to utilise the subscription model from this service, to build patient loyalty to the practice.

To find out more visit: https://bauschandlomb.adarodirect.com

Practice support tools To support the patient contact lens journey through every practice partnering with Bausch + Lomb, we provide practice tools such as social media content with images and patient email templates to help raise awareness that the practice has a new contact lens available to address patients’ prebyopic astigmatic vision needs.

Other key tools available are a consumer video for waiting rooms, a 100% satisfaction contact lens guarantee and a wearing and caring contact lens guide tear-off pad for patients.

Encouraging patient footfall into practice Following lock-down, we have supported our practice partners with an engaging native advertising campaign that targets consumers based on their contact lens needs and drives relevant traffic to the practices to trial Bausch + Lomb contact lenses. Participating practices have also had point of sale materials to use in practice to elevate the campaign messaging.

During the initial lockdown we anticipated that with people working from home, they would not require as many lenses as they normally would, due to wearing their glasses more. As it turned out that to retain some normality, patients continued wearing their contact lenses.

Prompt home delivery from Bausch + Lomb Direct was crucial as patients could have easily ordered them online with all their other shopping.

A big THANK YOU to Bausch and Lomb for helping us retain patient loyalty!”

Minaz Mamdani, Optometrist, Mamdani Opticians

To find out more please contact your Bausch + Lomb Territory Business Manager or Customer Services on: N 0845 602 2350 E cs.vc.uk@bausch.com * Latest technology in soft reusable lenses across a complete contact lens family. 1. ULTRA® Comfort Experience™ for Presbyopia Data Analysis Phase 1 + 2. 2017. 2. Bausch + Lomb ULTRA® Multifocal for Astigmatism stabilisation study. 6. The 2020 Study of US. Multifocal contact lens market. 11. Millward Brown., 2010. Biotrue® Product Test (#640). 53. Pence, N.,2014. Contact Lens Design and Materials. Contact Lens Spectrum [e-journal]. https:// www.clspectrum.com/supplements/2014/october-2014/breaking-the-cycle-of-discomfort/contact-lens-design-amp-materials [Accessed 8/12/2020]. 55. Sulley, A., 2005. Practitioner and patient acceptance of a new silicone hydrogel contact lens. Optician 6017 (230), pp 15-17. 56. Barr, J., 2004. An avalanche of products, compliance and the FCLCA. Contact Lens Spectrum [e-journal]. https://www.clspectrum.com/issues/2010/december-2010/ product-spectrum [Accessed 15/12/20]. 57. Mack, C., 2008. Contact Lenses 2007. Contact Lens Spectrum [e-journal]. https://www.clspectrum.com/issues/2008/january-2008/contact-lenses-2007 [Accessed 8/12/20].

80. Merchea, M., Steffen, R., et al., 2014. Clinical performance of Bausch + Lomb ULTRA® contact lenses with MoistureSeal® technology silicone hydrogel.

Please read the Instructions for Use (IFU) for risks associated with Bausch + Lomb ULTRA® contact lenses.

ULTRA and Biotrue are trademarks of Bausch & Lomb Incorporated or its affiliates.

All other product/brand names and/or logos are trademarks of their respective owners. © 2021 Bausch & Lomb Incorporated or its affiliates.

ULC.0040.IE.21

Vision Now October 2021 23

NEG BUSINESS CLUB

There has never been a better time to build a better practice than right now, writes Andy Clark

BUILDING YOUR NEW NORMAL This article is all about making your life easier. It isn’t about ditching your NHS contract, though you’d still need this if you did. Think of the things that frustrated you about the way your practice used to work before Covid-19 turned everything upside down.

Maybe your list includes:  ‘Gappy’ appointment books without a system to fill them up  Routine recall letters filling a big chunk of your appointments book with ‘no change’  Full appointments books that still don’t keep the dispensing opticians busy  Recalled patients who were adamant that they’re “not buying anything today”  Patients who wouldn’t pay for your advanced eyecare services even though they cost less than a visit to a hairdresser  Having to use the profits from a single dispensing to subsidise two or three ‘no change’ poorly paid eye exams  People purchasing new spectacles reluctantly and occasionally While this list reflects the norm for many practice owners before the pandemic, most of them have noticed that it hasn’t applied as much over the last year or so.

It’s been seriously hard work and it’s been extremely stressful, but at least the things on this list weren’t an issue.

If your practice is like most practices over the last 18 months:  You refused all routine work and each patient had to declare that they had a good reason to visit before you even let them in  Most patients happily purchased a scan because they understood why it was a good idea. Sadly, for many the good idea was that you didn’t have to get too close to them if they had a scan

24 Vision Now October 2021

Which model is most like how your practice operated before Covid?

The Command Model

The Demand Model

You tell patients when they need an eye exam

Patients tell you when they want an eye exam

You tell patients when they need new specs

Patients tell you when they want new specs

We totally ignore people between eye exams

We actively encourage people to want more of what we do

Reluctant returners take up a high percentage of the book and every one of them who doesn’t dispense must be subsidised by a patient who did

Appointments books are dominated by people who turn up because they have a compelling reason to buy something that you are offering

Delivering optometry loses the practice money

Optometry is a profit centre

You say: “You don’t need new glasses” – and they feel uncomfortable wanting new ones

You say: “When you are [activity], I’d recommend [product]" – and they feel like getting some new specs

There is a long time between purchases, People purchase more frequently so practices focus on increasing so practices focus on increasing lifetime values dispensing values

 You spent more time per patient

ACTIVE PLANS

 Your conversion rate kept on hitting all-time highs

1. Rely less on recall

P eople seemed very happy to spend, and average dispensing values shot up  In terms of sales per patient, it was probably your most productive time ever If only you could get all of that without a pandemic. Actually, you can probably do much better. All it will take is some new systems and an open mind.

OBJECTIVES Compared to the pre-pandemic practice, we would like to:  I ncrease practice productivity  I ncrease the lifetime value of each patient  Reduce the number of loss-making eye exams  Make the same amount or more profit for less effort

2. Engage your database 3. Actively fill your appointments book 4. Make optometry profitable 5. Provide multiple pairs per patient

RELY LESS ON RECALL Vast numbers of patients are currently very overdue the awaited command to return. Recall is fundamentally broken, and practices are busy by patient demand.

Most NEG Business Club members have replaced their old, “Our records indicate it’s time for your next test” letters (Command Model) with our, “We’re ready when you are” designs (Demand Model). The effect of this is that patients are returning when they’re ready to and are more motivated to spend.

NEG BUSINESS CLUB Should we recall people at all then? The answer is yes of course because your patients expect it. However, instead of sending a series of messages saying the same thing, start sending something else.

In the Demand Model, you make recall part of an ongoing communications calendar to strengthen relationships, educate patients and increase demand for more products and services. If you do it right, recall can also be replaced by advanced booking.

On the NEG Business Club website, see the Post Pandemic Recall section.

ACTIVELY FILL YOUR BOOK The practice managers on our Big M programme have been working with our model to make sure their appointments books are always full of the right mix of patients. The result has been consistently busy, profitable days. Our Book Quality Scorecard enables them to create the mix of appointments offering the most profitable opportunities – and measure how well this optimum book has been achieved.

Unsurprisingly, a high book quality score does not guarantee a good day’s sales, but a low score does guarantee a day of low sales. See the Book Quality Scorecard on the NEG Business Club website.

ENGAGE YOUR DATABASE I rarely meet a practice owner who thinks properly communicating with the practice database is a bad idea. I also rarely meet a practice owner who does it; and I meet even fewer who do it effectively. But if you get database marketing right, you can make your practice far more profitable without having to recruit more patients – because it increases patient retention and frequency of purchases.

Here’s a quick guide to setting up database marketing.  Don’t ask people to give you their email address without giving them a compelling reason to do so  Ask how they would prefer you to contact them: email, SMS or post  Give them a choice of three or more mailing list topics so they can choose the sort of content that they will receive.  Create a rolling communications calendar for each list  Record each patient’s activities that involve them wearing their specs so you can send them task specific updates  For each communication, write a short message and design an attractive graphic

Quality has come before quantity during the pandemic

 After sending hundreds of thousands of email messages on behalf of our clients and measuring the response, we are currently finding that sending each person three messages a month creates an optimum combination of high click throughs and low unsubscribes  I f they click unsubscribe, have the link ask them which list they wish to leave  Embrace GDPR instead of fear it; it’s an excellent best practice guide to database comms Done properly, database marketing opens the door to repeat sales and higher lifetime values. Take a look at VIPx on the NEG Business Club website. If you sign up, we’ll do nearly all of the work for you.

PROFITABLE OPTOMETRY If you have a high percentage of people who are eligible for an NHS eye exam, you will find that a lot of them willingly upgrade their eyecare. Most over-60s can afford to upgrade their eyecare and they will if you stop selling scans and start selling the benefits of having an advanced appointment. If you’re not based in a low income area and you have a poor uptake of your advanced services, ask yourself how you could present the benefits in such a way that they realise what a great idea it is for such a low amount. See the Advanced Optometry section on the NEG Business Club website.

MULTIPLE PAIRS It’s very hard to dispute that owning multiple pairs is a good idea; in fact, it is undoubtedly in the patient’s best interest that they do. Our data shows that the practices that sell the most pairs per patient have a few things in common:

 They constantly promote the wearing of different specs in different situations  They investigate the situations in which a patient wears their spectacles in detail  Every spectacle wearer receives very specific recommendations for different lenses in different situations during an eye exam  Frame selection always considers different styles for different situations  They appreciate that patients won’t purchase two or three pairs all at once, and continually present them with opportunities to return  They have a mix of premium and mid-priced frame and lens options so patients can choose how much they spend each time On the NEG Business Club website, see: 1) the new ‘I can help you with’ training centre and train your entire team to recommend multiple pairs; and 2) t he ‘Look and lenses’ training and marketing assets in VIPx.

SUMMARY There has never been a better time to build a better practice than right now; a practice that builds stronger relationships with its patients and reaps the rewards accordingly.

Over the next few months, we will be releasing more tools, advice and ongoing support to NEG Business Club members and we look forward to working with you.

Visit the NEG Business Club at www.practicebuilding.co.uk/neg

Andy Clark is founder and managing director of Practice Building Vision Now October 2021 25

PRODUCT PROFILE

Eyewear Direct: total clarity Eyewear Direct has added New Balance and Bloc Eyewear to its ever-growing collection. Brett Waugh introduces the brands and the refreshed portfolio...

Here at Eyewear Direct, we are excited to announce that two new brands have joined the Eyewear Direct family – New Balance and Bloc Eyewear. The addition of these brands enriches our portfolio, offering athleisure design at its finest. With a shift in the way we are living and working, athleisure is more popular than ever and an essential in every eyewear range.

NEW BALANCE: NOT JUST SPORTSWEAR New Balance stands for more than sportswear: it champions those who are fearlessly driven by their passions, who are fearlessly independent and doing right by people and the planet. The men’s, women’s and teens’ eyewear lines are ergonomically designed with E-lock temples, offering the perfect blend of function and fashion. The lightweight and strong styles celebrate the evolution of athleisure style.

Ergonomcially-designed New Balance eyewear

New Balance aligns with our own principles on transparency and quality, and is a brand customers know and trust. New Balance was one of only six companies to step forward and be featured on a new map that links brands to their suppliers’ environmental performance in China. For the first time, factory pollution data for suppliers can be viewed in almost real time by the public.

In 2017, New Balance ranked 16th of 267 companies in the Corporate Information Transparency Index, which evaluates brands according to how well they address supply chain environmental responsibility in China. In 2018, they climbed to 11th overall.

We believe that, together, we can drive meaningful change in the eyewear sector.

Ashton Riley has introduced a new compact range

26 Vision Now October 2021

Bloc Eyewear: revolutionising the sports eyewear industry

sports sunglasses and goggles using innovative technology. Designed in the UK, Bloc sports optical frames are strong, lightweight and flexible. The new collection is manufactured from tough and durable TR90 acrylic and Ultem Resin. TR90 is extremely comfortable and supremely lightweight, while Ultem (PEI) resin is an amorphous thermoplastic that provides exceptional flexibility. It is flame retardant, and resistant to chemicals, heat and UV light. This combination offers the best in performance technology, alongside the commercial style customers are looking for.

ASHTON RILEY: PERFECTLY COMPACT Ashton Riley is also celebrating new additions with the launch of its compact range for more petite face shapes.

Competitively priced, Ashton Riley provides all-day style ensuring the wearer can move seamlessly from work to play – delivering quality acetate, stainless steel and titanium frames. Through our unique share scheme, stockists build up shares in the brand meaning everyone benefits from its success. Designed in and inspired by the UK, all frames take their names from towns and cities like bestsellers Cardiff, Oxford and Newtownabbey. New styles and colours are launched every eight weeks, and the new Ashton Riley website shows the latest additions with an option to order wholesale online.

BLOC EYEWEAR: UK-DESIGNED

HOOK LDN: MUSIC AND FASHION

Launched in 1988, Bloc Eyewear revolutionised the sports eyewear industry, creating high-performance

Hook LDN has grown from strength to strength - with its emphasises on creating quality, style led designs that are

PRODUCT PROFILE roots. It draws influences from the Los Angeles icons of yesteryear, plus the new creative community of today.

Hook LDN has a strong social media presence

influenced by its passions for music and fashion. Stockists benefit from Hook LDN’s strong social media presence with regular appearances from celebrities, musical artists and influencers styling the fun, fashionable frames. Hook LDN includes premium acetate and stainless steel frames and sunglasses. The collection mixes classic and fashion-forward frames in unique colours, and now offers more than 30 styles, including popular Parklife, Colston and Supernova.

INVU: LEADING IN POLARISATION Invu is currently available in 90 countries and is a market-leading polarised sunglasses brand. Designed in Switzerland, the next generation polarised lens technology is an intelligent, multi-layer light management system that selectively filters out reflected glare. It offers clear, glare-free vision with high contrast and exceptional colour perception. Invu’s distribution with Eyewear Direct began in December 2020, adding a high quality yet affordable prescription sunglass collection with a discount when part of a frame and lens package. The Two in One optical frames and magnetic clips made from TR90 and Ultem bring together high quality production values; likewise the Ultra Polarised Self-Healing lens.

The patented TR2R material is ultralightweight and is combined with beta titanium temples to create exquisite frames. Unbelievably light and playful colours ensure there are options for those looking simply for comfort, or those looking to make a statement. 2020 saw the introduction of Mazzuchelli acetate frames to the collection. The luxury feel, combined with amazing designs, created instant best-selling styles. 2021 sees the launch of TitanBlock, the new beta titanium collection incorporating an innovative hinge system.

CLARITY, VALUE, COLLABORATION As Eyewear Direct continues to grow, it is important to us that we keep to our original brand ethos and continue to listen to our customers. This is major part of what we do and the only way to create practical, affordable and stylish eyewear that end-consumers want to buy. We continue to build with our original three main principles: total clarity, value and collaboration.

Total Clarity: This entails providing our customers with more information about the frames and sunglasses we offer. In turn, this enables our customers to make better decisions about what they do – and do not – buy.

Value: In terms of value, we work across a range of price points and always overdeliver on value for money. Our customers and their patients are consistently

delighted with the quality of the frames for the price they pay.

Collaboration: The world is changing; the market is changing. So, building strong, collaborative relationships with both customers and suppliers ensures we can all be successful into the future. This includes one-for-one swaps, no minimum order quantity, volume promotions and shares in our brand, Ashton Riley.

We are proud of the six brands that represent Eyewear Direct and the evolution of the brands over the last year.

Each has its own personality, and is aimed at a specific customer. Combined, the six brands create a complete and staple eyewear range, all offered at exceptional value for money. All stock is held in our UK warehouse, and orders are despatched within 24 hours. The collections are exclusive to independent opticians.

WORKING IN PARTNERSHIP As a preferred supplier to NEG, Eyewear Direct is already working in partnership with many members – and we are keen to work with many more. We will continue to build our portfolio of products and services to ensure we become a valuable partner to NEG members.

REDELE EYEWEAR: SLEEK ITALIAN STYLE Made in Italy, Redele offers sleek, fashionforward designs with a bold colour palette.

With a mix of unique patented TR2R material and beta titanium frames, the quality is hard to beat. Redele Eyewear was founded in 2012 by the young, freespirited rule breaker, Alessandro De Vecchi.

After five successful years, the brand’s creative team relocated to Los Angeles.

The new collection celebrates the brand’s newly-established Southern Californian

Redele Eyewear celebrates the LA lifestyle

For more information, please speak to your area manager or contact me direct on 0207 193 33334 or email enquiries@ eyewear-direct.net. Equally, please get in touch if there is something you’d like us to add to our offering. We would love to get your input.

Invu leads the way in polarised lenses

Brett Waugh is managing director of Eyewear Direct.

Vision Now October 2021 27

S T Y L E S P OT L I G H T

Winning eyewear for active lifestyles

Norville’s Climber frame

By Joan Grady

Active sports, physical exercise and personalised wellbeing are an integral part of many people’s lives. Sports participation inspires a winning attitude, and has spawned new sectors in fashion, equipment and dynamic eyewear. The recent Olympics and Paralympics in Tokyo, plus the continuing concern with the pandemic, have galvanised and encouraged people to re-evaluate various aspects of everyday living. Being active is a high priority, as is the resolution for healthier and broader horizons.

Fashion has rallied to the demand with casual, yet striking athletic wear created for comfort, safety and style. Eyewear designers are spot on with dynamic frames that provide protection, durability, a comfortable fit and bold style. Advanced

technology in materials and lenses also enhance the profusion of sports eyewear with charisma and personality.

SPECIALITY SPORTS STYLES Certain sports categories require masks, goggles or spectacles more than others, and these range from skydiving to skiing, archery to artistic swimming, cycling to climbing, and badminton to bungee jumping. The Norville Group has been supplying a wide range of sports eyewear to the optical sector for more than 60 years. With cycling increasingly popular, the Progear line, distributed by Norville, includes dramatic eyewear combining reliability, performance and value.

The Progear Racer for cycling and other outdoor activities is available in both vivid and neutral colours for a fashionable flourish. The wrap-around design is ideal for

Cyclist Jakob Fuglsang in Bollé (Courtesy of Dom Daher)

maximum visibility, protection and comfort.

The curvaceous Climber frame adjusts easily on the face, gently protecting climbers’ eyes, and is available in a variety of colours.

Just a few years before the turn of the 20th century, Cébé in France was creating spectacles and already recognised for its intrepid spirit and providing the best gear for outdoor enthusiasts. More than a century later, this enthusiastic approach still applies. Cébé creates frames that protect daredevils in their wilder challenges, with the arrival of intricate technologies.

The S’Track 2.0 is Cébé’s most advanced technical model and is popular with trail runners and joggers. The ergonomic Progear Racer, available from Noville

Cebe S’Track 2.0

Götti Dimension Active

28 Vision Now October 2021

S T Y L E S P OT L I G H T World Cup in Lenzerheide, Switzerland, wearing the Nevada signature Bollé goggle.

Oatman Serengeti Sport

technology exclusive to the company ensures a fit that adapts to all types of faces. The S’Track 2.0 is available with a diverse selection of lenses, including high contrast Sensor lenses, and photochromic Vario lenses.

Designed and crafted in Switzerland, Dimension Active by Götti Eyewear integrates lifestyle and athleticism. The 3D material and the superb construction results in frames that are sleekly high tech, and provide a unique ventilation system of optimal air circulation. The colours are luscious – including a fresh berry.

Bollé, the French active sports brand, has a long history in protective eyewear. Many cyclists in the Tour de France wear Bollé designs. The latest frames combine the best of Bollé’s technologies and ultimate styling that includes Chronoshield lenses, with the versatile Phantom lens that tops the list for performance cyclists. The Phantom photochromic lenses are built from NXT material that is lightweight, slim, and very impact resistant.

HIGH SPIRITS ON THE SLOPES Schussing down a ski slope, with bracing air and majestic mountains for company, is an exhilarating experience. The latest goggles for protection and safety also feature serious fashion adventures.

Komono is the Belgian avant-garde brand that is creating a demand in everyday eyewear, as well as active sports. The Snow collection is specifically designed to optimise vision on bright winter days, particularly on the ski slopes. The ice blue Revo coated polarised lenses filter harmful UV rays, and protect against reflections from ice or snow. The smart crystal-clear frame provides the wearer with a stylish and confident profile on the slopes. Kiki Snow is especially chic with its cat-eye silhouette.

Spektrum goggles from Sweden combine a unique injection technology with futuristic wrap-around shapes and plant-based materials. Water repellent treatments on the inside and outside of the goggles also provide protection from inclement days on ski trails.

IN WATER AND ON LAND Whether on land or in the water, clear, crisp vision is a necessity for confidence, safety and performance. Progear swim goggles are available both with customised prescription lenses, or plano lenses. Progear H20 goggles come in a wide range of great colourations, with added benefits of being hypoallergenic.

They are also available with silicone eyeseals and an adjustable strap.

Driving on congested motorways, or trying to navigate through dense city traffic, could hardly be considered a sport.

However, when driving, the need for optimal vision is a necessity. Serengeti Sport has launched the formidable Oatman that features the Saturn lens, which the company claims to be the most advanced organic lens available. Lightweight and slender, the Saturn lens is said to be twice as light as traditional mineral lenses and highly impact resistant. The Oatman rates

Progear swim goggle, distributed by Norville

Komono Kiki Snow

high on sustainability as well: the frame is constructed with eco-nylon, and comes with a vegan leather case.

If the rigours of mountain climbing and snowboarding are too extreme for certain clients, golf is a pleasant, less demanding sport. Nevertheless, precise vision is essential. For durability, smart styling and vivid colours, the Nike Show X3 Elite, distributed by Marchon, will go far – and possibly par – for golfers. The curved onepiece lens provides an uninterrupted line of sight and protection when moving. The injected frame’s material is derived from at least 40 per cent castor bean oil.

Being part of diversified sports activities is fun and provides wonderful exercise; it stimulates one to achieve personal goals whilst enjoying many of Mother Nature’s beautiful landscapes. Independent opticians can excite and encourage existing clients, and cultivate new business opportunities with the many fresh and innovative designs now available in the compelling and influential active sports market.

Bollé has been making professional and proficient ski goggles for more than 60 years. Earlier this year, the company was the choice of French champion Alexis Pinturault, who triumphed at the FIS Ski

Spektrum Bio-Ostra goggles

Alexis Pinturault Nevada goggle by Bollé

Vision Now October 2021 29

Preferred Suppliers’ directory Preferred Suppliers are suppliers who, by prior arrangement, offer members of the PK National Eyecare Group preferential terms.

For full details and terms offered to the membership, please call 01580 713698 Directory listings are available free of charge to all preferred suppliers, with a larger listing available to Vision Now Advertisers.

To make changes to the directory listings, please call Sally Spicer on 01580 713698 or email s.spicer@nationaleyecare.co.uk

ASSOCIATED OPTICAL

Tel: 01628 605433 Fax: 01628 665077 sales@assopt.co.uk www.associatedoptical.com

ATLANTIC OPTICAL UK LTD Tel: 02920 362 136 Fax: 02920 362 137 info@atlanticoptical.co.uk www.atlanticoptical.co.uk

BARCLAYCARD

Tel: 0800 056 5569

BAUSCH + LOMB

Tel: 020 8781 2900 www.bausch.co.uk

BIB OPHTHALMIC INSTRUMENTS

Tel: 01438 740823 sales@bibonline.co.uk www.bibonline.co.uk

BONDEYE OPTICAL

Tel: 0121 7723888 Fax: 0808 2801865 sales@bondeyeoptical.co.uk www.bondeyeoptical.co.uk

CENTROSTYLE

OPTICAL CENTRE SUPPLIES LTD Tel: 01923 239267 Fax: 01923 253951 sales@centrostyle.com www.centrostyle.com

CFH DOCMAIL

Tel: 07834 173 288 chris.burridge@cfh.com www.docmail.co.uk

CHARMANT UK CO LTD Tel: 020 8992 9222 Fax: 020 8896 0287 sales@charmant.co.uk www.charmant.co.uk

CONTINENTAL EYEWEAR

Tel: 0151 426 3907 Fax: 0151 426 9340 sales@continental-eyewear.co.uk www.continental-eyewear.com

SO CLOSE YOU CAN ALMOST SEE IT

COOPERVISION

Tel: 0870 9000 055 www.coopervision.co.uk

DE RIGO UK LTD

Tel: 01923 249491 info.uk@derigo.com www.derigo.com www.derigo.com/eng

DUNELM OPTICAL

Tel: 01388 420420 Fax: 01388 810101 dunelm@dunelmoptical.co.uk www.dunelmoptical.co.uk

ESSILOR

Tel: 01454 281281 Fax: 01454 281282 www.essilor.co.uk

EYESPACE

Tel: 01527 870550 Fax: 01527 837012 info@eyespace-eyewear.co.uk www.eyespace-eyewear.co.uk

When you prescribe contact lenses, you prescribe freedom.

We’re stepping up to do more, supporting you to Prescribe Freedom for more people than ever.

COMING SOON

©2020 Alcon Inc

30 Vision Now October 2021

coopervision.co.uk

EYEWEAR DIRECT (EUROPE) LTD

Tel: 020 7193 3334 eyewear-direct.net

GO EYEWEAR UK LTD

Tel: 0800 9178270 www.goeyeweargroup.com

HEIDELBERG ENGINEERING

Tel: 01442 502 330 Fax: 01442 242 386 www.HeidelbergEngineering.co.uk

HILCO EUROPE

Tel: 0800 591150 info@hilco.co.uk www.hilcovision.co.uk

HOYA LENS UK

Tel: 0845 330 0984 Fax: 0845 330 0977 enquiries@hoya.co.uk orders@hoya.co.uk www.hoyavision.com/uk

01580 713698

ALCON UK

Tel: 0371 376 0017 Fax: 0871 351 1005 www.uk.alcon.com

Tel: 0121 585 6565 Fax: 0121 585 0954 www.internationaleyewear.co.uk

LENSTEC EYEWEAR

LENSTEC OPTICAL

Tel: 02920 883009 Fax: 02920 889798 LenstecCC@lenstec.co.uk www.lenstecopticalgroup.co.uk

LOUIS STONE OPTICAL LTD

LUNEAU TECHNOLOGY UK/IRELAND – VISIONIX Tel: 07383 555659 infouk@luneautech.com www.luneautech.co.uk

LUXOTTICA (UK) LTD Tel: 0808 165 8555 www.luxottica.com

MARCHON

Tel: 0800 72 2020 csuk@marchon.com

MARK’ENNOVY

Tel: 0800 3280610 Fax: 0800 3280649 mkservices@markennovy.com www.markennovy.com

PRO-OPTIC

(FORMERLY DAVID THOMAS) Tel: 01604 646216 Fax: 01604 790366 enquiries@menicon.co.uk www.menicon.co.uk

RAWDON OPTICAL

MICHAEL PACHLEITNER GROUP

Tel: 02920 857122 Fax: 02920 920480 sales@lensteceyewear.co.uk www.lensteceyewear.co.uk

Tel: 029 2073 5293 Fax: 029 2073 1446 info@louisstone.co.uk www.louisstone.co.uk

MENICON UK LTD

Tel: 01884 266130 sales@pro-optic.com www.pro-optic.co.uk

Tel: 01132 883094 Fax: 01132 883095 RawdonCC@rawdonoptical.co.uk www.lenstecopticalgroup.co.uk

Tel: 07583 076 132 a.davies@michael-pachleitnerRETAIL EXPERIENCE group.com www.michaelpachleitnergroup.com DESIGN (RED) Tel: 024 7601 0103 dean@retailexperiencedesign.co.uk MID-OPTIC www.retailexperiencedesign.co.uk Tel: 01332 295001 Fax: 01332 295158 orders@midoptic.com RODENSTOCK www.midoptic.com Tel: 01474 325555 sales@rodenstock.co.uk www.rodenstock.co.uk No7 CONTACT LENSES Tel: 01424 850620 SEIKO OPTICAL UK Fax: 01424 850650 info@no7contactlenses.com Tel: 01452 610033 www.no7contactlenses.com Fax: 01452 638250 orders@seiko-optical.co.uk info@seiko-optical.co.uk OPTINET LTD www.seiko-optical.co.uk Tel: 0845 313 0233 sales@optinetuk.com www.optinetuk.com SILHOUETTE UK LTD Tel: 020 8987 8899 Fax: 020 8987 2430 PERFORMANCE FINANCE office@uk.silhouette.com Tel: 01536 529696 www.silhouette.com Fax: 01536 310033 www.performancefinance.co.uk

POSITIVE IMPACT

Tel: 08446 696907 sales@positiveimpact.co.uk www.positiveimpact.co.uk

PRACTICE BUILDING

Tel: 0115 989 9772 andy@practicebuilding.co.uk

TANT LABORATORIES

Tel: 01279 653785 Fax: 01279 658308 TantCC@tantlabs.com www.lenstecopticalgroup.co.uk

THE NORVILLE GROUP LTD Tel: 01452 510321 sales@norville.co.uk www.norville.co.uk

THEA PHARMACEUTICALS

Tel: 0845 521 1290 Fax: 01782 717 944 www.thea-pharmaceuticals.co.uk

20 20 OPTICAL SERVICES LTD

Tel: 01460 929460 mark@2020opticalservices.co.uk www.2020opticalservices.co.uk

ULTRAVISION

Tel: 01525 381112 Fax: 01525 370091 info@ultravision.co.uk www.ultravision.co.uk

XACT

Tel: 01698 574 655 IMcGleish@xact.uk.com www.xact.uk.com

SPEC-CARE LTD

Tel: 01392 460806 info@speccareservices.co.uk www.speccareservices.co.uk

STEPPER UK

Tel: 01732 375975 sales@stepper.co.uk www.steppereyewear.com

www.practicebuilding.co.uk

www.nationaleyecare.co.uk

Suppliers’ directory

INTERNATIONAL EYEWEAR LTD

SUPPLIER – OPTICIAN – PATIENT

OUR PARTNERSHIP

PRACTICE MANAGEMENT SIMPLIFIED

T: 01132 883094 E: RawdonCC@rawdonoptical.co.uk

T: 02920 883 009 E: LenstecCC@lenstec.co.uk

T: 01279 653785 E: TantCC@tantlabs.com

Optinet Flex, the innovative software that keeps your optometry business at the cutting edge.

0845 313 0233 T: 02920 857 122 E: Eyewear@lenstec.co.uk

sales@optinetuk.com www.optinetuk.com

OPTINET DIRECTORY AD - FEB 21_AW.indd 01/03/2021 109:47

Stepper (UK) Limited 11 Tannery Road Tonbridge Kent TN9 1RF 01732 375975

www.stepper.co.uk

Vision Now September 2021 31

Patient loyalty builds practice success.

Your mediflex® contact lens portfolio – designed to retain more patients and improve business revenue.

Keep patients and business coming back with your mediflex® portfolio of contact lenses and lens care solutions – NEW and exclusive* to National Eyecare Group members.

Studies show that private label contact lens patients are more loyal to their practice;1,2 and they spend more on their contact lenses too.3 Private label also helps drive spectacle sales4 and increases spend on them.4 Build your business with the mediflex® portfolio – exclusive* to NEG members. Behind each mediflex® label is a trusted CooperVision product at the same price as the branded equivalent.

Discuss this exclusive opportunity with your CooperVision Business Development Manager.

1. CVI consumer insight study, July 2019. GB adults who wear branded/private label contacts lenses: n=489; 2. CVI data on file 2020. Covid-19 contact lens users survey, Verve, April 2020. Base (all respondents): Total UK n=240.

3.Euromonitor 2020 Eyewear Sources UK July 2019. 4. CVI consumer insight study, July 2019. GB adults who wear branded/private label contacts lenses: n=497; 56% vs. 36%; p<0.05