Vision Now June 2025

June 2025

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Vision Now June 2025 1

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Inside

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.

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Edito r: Nicky Collinson BA (Hons) nicola.collinson@nationaleyecare.co.uk Features Contributor: Joan Grady jgparischats@wanadoo.fr Business Editor: Philip Mullins FBDO p.mullins@nationaleyecare.co.uk Art Editor: Stacey Potter BA (Hons) www.spottcreative.co.uk

News 4 New colour tints from Hoya 7 Solid financial results for Rodenstock 9 BCLA announces new chief executive 11 Study results shared on DOT lenses 13 Students gain insights at CooperVision facility 15 O ptical bodies lobby on driving standards Features 18 NEG service providers OPS: managing your direct debits 20 Company profile Design Eyewear Group 22 Business matters The independent’s masterplan Regulars 15 An independent view 17 Developing thoughts 24 Style spotlight 26 Suppliers’ directory

Editor’s comment

Unless the time period is extended, the secretary of state for transport has until 12 June to respond to a Prevention of Future Deaths report from HM Senior Coroner for Lancashire, Dr James Adley, calling for action on vision standards for drivers.

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t follows the coroner’s inquest into the deaths of four people where the driver’s sight was found to be well below the standard required to drive a car – yet who continued to hold a UK driving licence.

The Association of Optometrists (AOP) and the College of Optometrists, both of which provided expert evidence at the inquest, have also written to the secretary of state calling for urgent reform of a situation in which the UK is the only country to issue a driving licence without any subsequent vision check for a continuous period of up to 53 years (see news page 15). Astonishingly, the UK is only one of five European countries to use a number plate test for visual acuity testing, and one of only three countries to rely upon self-reporting.

As NEG members will be aware, the DVLA self-reporting system is far from failsafe. In fact, AOP research estimates around 56,000 drivers a year undergo a sight test which confirms they do not reach the legal visual threshold for driving – yet continue to do so.

College research also shows almost half of motorists are unaware that it is illegal to drive without their prescribed spectacles or contact lenses; while public polling indicates nearly 30 per cent of drivers would continue to drive, even if they knew their vision was inadequate.

So, what to do while the sector awaits some (long-overdue) government action – and a response to their call for mandatory vision checks at first licence application and at every renewal? One plan of action might be to make use of the AOP’s Don’t Swerve an Eye Test campaign resources, and continue to enlist the whole practice team to educate and communicate to patients and their families the importance of self-monitoring and self-referring to the DVLA – and help to prevent future deaths.

Nicky Collinson Editor www.nationaleyecare.co.uk VISION NOW is published by PK National Eyecare Group Ltd, Clermont House, High Street Cranbrook, Kent TN17 3DN VISION NOW is printed by CFH Docmail Ltd. St Peter’s Park, Wells Road, Radstock BA3 3UP

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 © 2025 for PK National Eyecare Group 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 June 2025 3

News

Want to feature in VN?

Email the editor at: nicola.collinson@nationaleyecare.co.uk

@PK_NEG @national-eyecare-group www.nationaleyecare.co.uk

Hoya Launched just in time for summer, Sensity Colours is the new collection of high-fashion tints from Hoya’s Sensity photochromics family. Available in a choice of six solid and gradient tint colours – Energising Orange, Aqua Blue, Lovely Pink, Green Zen, Dynamic Yellow and Orange Splash – Sensity Colours provide a choice of striking looks for style-conscious patients. A Sensity Fast grey layer provides rapid darkening outdoors and a fast fade back to clear indoors, while modular blue light control offers consistent blue light management.

Our photograph shows Sensity Colours in Energising Orange, which along with Dynamic Yellow, is designed to enhance visual contrast whether on the track, the field or the open road. “These lenses give athletes and outdoor enthusiasts the visual edge they need to react faster and perform at their best,” said the company. All six colours provide 100 per cent UV protection against UVA and UVB rays, and are available with Hoya’s Hi-Vision Sun Pro achromatic anti-reflective coating, and a choice of its Light Mirror Blue or Light Mirror Copper coating.

Sensity Colours in Energising Orange

EssilorLuxottica

In addition, five-year efficacy data recently published in Eye and Vision demonstrated that Essilor Stellest lenses significantly slowed myopia progression and axial elongation over five years, saving an average of three years of myopia development. The study also showed that the risk of progressing to high myopia (defined as -6D or worse) dropped from 38 per cent in the extrapolated single vision lens control group to nine per cent in the Essilor Stellest lenses group.

New six-year clinical data of Essilor Stellest lenses have reinforced the long-term efficacy of the lenses in managing myopia progression and axial elongation in children and young adults. The study began in 2018 with children aged between eight and 13 years old. After completing the initial fiveyear phase, participants continued wearing Essilor Stellest lenses for an additional two years to assess the long-term impact on myopia progression. By the time of the sixthyear follow-up, the participants were aged between 14 and 19 years.

The six-year results show that Essilor Stellest lenses slowed myopia progression by 1.95D (57 per cent) and slowed axial elongation by 0.81mm (52 per cent) on average, compared to an extrapolated single vision lens control group model based on

Positive six-year study results

data from the first two years of the clinical trial. The findings demonstrate the continued efficacy of Essilor Stellest lenses, with effects sustained up to 19 years of age, said the company.

Dr Björn Drobe, director, applied myopia research, EssilorLuxottica R&D, said: “The six-year clinical data, along with other recent published studies, represent a significant step forward in understanding the full scope of how Essilor Stellest lenses manage myopia progression, further confirming their long-term efficacy and significant role in myopia management.”

Vision Council Foundation It’s National Sunglasses Day on 27 June – so don’t forget to showcase and celebrate the latest sun styles from NEG preferred suppliers and share those allimportant eye health messages on social media. Founded by the Vision Council, Shine a light on sun protection

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National Sunglasses Day has evolved into the Vision Council Foundation’s flagship global consumer education campaign.

Access campaign resources at https:// thevisioncouncilfoundation.org/nationalsunglasses-day-2025

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News Positive Impact iFlo is a smart eye mask designed to provide heating comfort to the eyes, available from Positive Impact (PI).

It works by using the USB cable, connected to a power bank, computer or any other power source to heat the mask for 12 minutes before automatically turning off. The eye mask delivers therapeutic heat levels for use in the treatment of meibomian gland dysfunction to relieve the eye fatigue and discomfort caused by dry eye. Each layer of the eye mask is now made up with high quality materials, with many recycled materials including 78 per cent recycled

Hot compress "for the 21st century"

3M Thinsulate. The mask comes with an anti-bacterial cotton sheet that is machine washable and replaceable. iFlo provides three optional heating temperatures to meet different comfort

demands. The heating time is 12 minutes for all three options. When the heating is finished, it will automatically switch itself off: it also has a smart chip to prevent overheating. A comfortable wearing experience is ensured by its innovative FlexStrip incorporated into the nose/bridge area of the mask. This is adjustable according to the nose shape. PI commercial director, Tony Whyatt, commented: “The iFlo mask brings the hot compress into the 21st century, no more relying on the patient to appropriately heat the device. It can be used anytime, anywhere there is a power supply. The recent upgrade using recycled materials also boosts its sustainability credentials.”

Go Eyewear The Italian singer, songwriter and rapper Bresh is pictured wearing the TSM9082 Trussardi sunglasses in his new music video Umore Marea. Part of the spring/ summer Trussardi eyewear collection, available to NEG members from Go Eyewear, the style is said to embody the perfect blend of style and function. Crafted from premium acetate with a refined metal hinge, it comes in four vibrant shades – black, tortoiseshell, green and crystal – and features polarised lenses for full UV protection. “A statement accessory that reflects Bresh’s bold yet sophisticated aesthetic, and the timeless elegance of Trussardi”. Watch the Umore Marea official video, starring Bresh, at www. youtube.com/watch?v=Nc2uWDrcH2c

Bresh wears Trussardi eyewear

Rodenstock Fuelled by sustained growth in demand for the BIG Vision product portfolio for biometric lenses and MyCon lenses for children, Rodenstock has announced increased consolidated net sales to 512.4 million euros (2023: 506.1 million euros) for the 2024 financial year. Despite the cited uncertain market environment, Rodenstock achieved an adjusted EBITDA of 128.6 million euros in 2024, an increase of 5.1 per cent compared to the previous year.

Strong 2024 financial results

Bausch + Lomb Bausch + Lomb has expanded its Ultra Multifocal for Astigmatism contact lenses to a total of 6,068 parameters; the widest range

Marcus Desimoni, CEO of the Rodenstock Group, said: “I would like to thank the entire team for another successful year, especially regarding great benefits for customers that result in very satisfied customers. With the strong performance of our BIG Vision portfolio, MyCon lenses and the strategic launch of the DNEye Scanner 3, we have reached key milestones in our strategy. These achievements provide a strong foundation for further growth.”

of this lens type available in stock and ready to ship. The lenses offer "stable, seamless vision across all distances and boast a simple, predictable fitting process with almost

nine out of 10 patients successfully fit in their first visit" – the company stated. With lenses available in stock, practices can order trial lenses free of charge.

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News

New BCLA chief executive, Brad Parkes

British Contact Lens Association

Hoya

Two for one offer for expanded Miyosmart lenses

Hoya has extended the power range of its Miyosmart lenses for myopia management – for prescriptions up to -13:00D on clear lenses. Larger diameters mean that Miyosmart clear lenses are now suitable for a wider choice of frames. In addition, until 31 July, Miyosmart customers can receive a free pair of Miyosmart sun lenses (photochromic or polarised) with every purchase of Miyosmart clear or photochromic lenses.

Mioysmart myopia management spectacle lenses are based on Defocus Incorporated Multiple Segments (DIMS) Technology, and have been proven to slow the progression of myopia by an average of 60 per cent with no rebound effect. According to Hoya, Miyosmart has the longest follow-up clinical study of any myopia management spectacle lens, has been proven in the UK as well as Asia, and is recognised as effective by the International Myopia Institute.

Marchon Marchon Eyewear has renewed its global partnership with social fintech, Plastic Bank.

The partnership began in 2022 with a focus on Marchon’s Dragon brand with a plastic offset programme. In 2025, the partnership will focus on the same plastic offset programme, but this time with the spotlight on Marchon’s Nautica and Columbia eyewear. The partnership will help gather discarded plastic from the environment and improve the lives of collection community members in vulnerable coastal areas, particularly in Brazil.

By choosing Nautica or Columbia eyewear, customers are contributing to Marchon’s annual commitment of stopping a minimum of 45,455kg of plastic from polluting the environment – that’s the equivalent of 2,272,750 PET plastic bottles of 500ml. “We are very proud to renew our partnership with Plastic Bank, and these

brands are certainly a natural fit,” said Gabriele Bonapersona, Marhon’s chief brand officer. “By continuing our successful partnership and putting a focus on Nautica and Columbia eyewear, we are solidifying our commitment to social responsibility and advancing our Eyes on Tomorrow initiative – building a more sustainable future for our eyewear and our processes.”

Brad Parkes, a qualified dispensing optician and contact lens optician, is the new chief executive of the British Contact Lens Association (BCLA). A former Specsavers director, Brad is the author of Making Clubs Work. He said: “This role is a perfect combination of two of my biggest passions: the work of our collective professions in providing the best eyecare to the public, and the importance of membership organisations in bringing people together with shared vision, passions and skills for the greater good of our community and wider society.

“This is an incredibly exciting time for both the profession and industry and I see contact lenses as being right at the centre of a global eye health revolution,” continued Brad. “With the advancements in AI technology and the potential for lenses to be used in the treatment of multiple health conditions, the possibilities are endless.” Paying tribute to his predecessor, Luke Stevens-Burt, BCLA president Sarah Farrant, said: “Luke has been a visionary leader for the BCLA who embraced the culture of change, innovation and continuous learning that lies at the heart of the association. We now look forward to Brad leading us into a bright new era.”

Plastic Bank prevents plastic waste from polluting oceans and land

Vision Now June 2025 9

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News Inspecs Inspecs is offering a broad selection of ‘urban-cool’ prescription sunglasses in its Superdry range for key customer groups this season.

For the more aspirational group, the team has developed SDS-5042.

“These under 35s are early fashion adopters but choose items to reflect their own style,” says the company.

The SDS-5042 is a classic pilot style but with a modern makeover, offering complete eye protection. Colour pops on the sides ensure there’s “space for personality without being too showy.

A perfect, refined balance”. The SDS-5042 is available in black and red, navy and muted grey as well as grey and lime. For more information on the full Superdry sun collection, or prescription glazing, visit the Inspecs website or get in touch.

SightGlass Vision A new clinical study from SightGlass Vision – a joint venture of CooperCompanies and EssilorLuxottica – has demonstrated that its Diffusion Optics Technology (DOT 0.2) spectacle lenses are “highly effective for myopia management, achieving 75 per cent efficacy in Chinese children after 12 months”. A separate study has demonstrated “no evidence of rebound (i.e. myopia progression did not accelerate after ceasing wear) in North American children”.

The papers were presented at last month’s ARVO conference in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Superdry SDS-5042 for the fashionforward

evidence-based myopia management intervention that can improve children’s lives worldwide.” The company is continuing to invest in foundational research related to myopia management. This includes new work on short-term sub-foveal choroidal thickness variation, which may act as an early biomarker for successfully controlling eye growth and myopia progression.

DOT lenses use thousands of lightscattering elements to reduce contrast signalling on the retina – an evidencebacked mechanism of action to slow myopia progression in children. “Eyecare professionals in a growing number of markets trust DOT lenses, and this latest data further builds the well-established science behind our technology,” said Andrew Sedgwick, chief executive officer of SightGlass Vision.

“Clinical investigators have seen an extremely positive response to our approach among Chinese children – a remarkable 75 per cent reduction in myopia progression after one year of wear. Additionally, researchers observed treatment benefit was retained after North American children stopped DOT lens wear. This is a durable,

SightGlass studies build on product science

Panellist, DO Rebecca Thompson

Independents Day Independents Day (iDay) has announced the final element of this year’s 20th anniversary programme. Chaired by Jason Kirk, CEO of Kirk & Kirk, the event’s everpopular discussion panel will debate the future of independent eyewear from both the industry and profession perspective.

Representing industry will be Ed Bird, founder of Bird Eyewear. The profession will be represented by optometrist Eva Dave, founder of the Eyewear Styling Academy, dispensing optician (DO) Rebecca Thompson, owner of dispensing only practice Eye Style Studio, and Pop Specs founder, DO Daniel Barnes.

Conference organiser, Nick Atkins, said: “Over the years, our panel discussion has proven to be an extremely popular part of the iDay programme. This year I wanted to move away from the more clinical aspects of independent practice to focus on retail, and the area that generates the majority of practice revenue – spectacles. I have no doubt that, with each of the panellists bringing a unique perspective to the debate, this year’s panel will be just as popular, hopefully with the usual hint of controversy.”

The full programme and ticket pricing is available at independentsday.co.uk Vision Now June 2025 11

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News Hoya VisuReal MasterAI Move is the latest AI-powered solution for eyecare professionals from Hoya, designed to make lens centration precise, fast and easy.

Complementing Hoya’s sleek, wall-mounted visuReal MasterAI mirror, the VisuReal MoveAI is completely portable, running on an iPad using specialised optics hardware to ensure precise and accurate measurement.

Manufacturing insights for students

CooperVision CooperVision welcomed 16 students from the University of Manchester to its main UK manufacturing facility in Hamble recently for a behind-the-scenes look at the manufacturing process for Biofinity contact lenses. The students gained insights into the quality assurance that goes into the manufacture of the medical devices, as well as how the process is being made more sustainable. CooperVision has supported the university’s MSci Optometry course for a number of years, with manufacturing tours a regular part of the students’ experience until the Covid pandemic hit in 2020. The tour marked the return of this valuable element of the partnership.

Guests were led by head of optometry and director of Eurolens Research at the University of Manchester, Professor Philip Morgan, who said: “The chance to see the impressive, automated processes of modern contact lens manufacture has great educational benefit, and helps inform students about issues related to lens fitting and ongoing patient management. I am grateful that CooperVision has once again hosted our group from Manchester.”

CooperVision also supports students across the UK and Ireland through educational workshops and clinical fitting sessions as well as through the OptiStudent app, which provides educational content including videos assessing the fit of soft contact lenses and an introduction into myopia management. It also includes information about the OptiStudent Awards, an annual contact lens competition where university students may present research projects on contact lenses or the anterior eye. This year’s OptiStudent Awards EMEA final is planned for October in Budapest where students will present their work to a panel of judges, with the winner being declared OptiStudent of the Year.

Using innovative AI technology, visuReal MoveAI calculates the centration parameters within the app and does not require internet connectivity. It is suitable for all spectacle lens types, including single vision, progressive or occupational, and patients’ measurements are instantly recorded and saved into the practice’s own database.

Safilo The Safilo Group and Special Olympics renewed their long-standing partnership through to 2027 at the Opening Ceremony of the 2025 Special Olympics World Winter Games in Turin, Italy, in March.

This commitment underscores a shared dedication to inclusive health and vision care for athletes with intellectual disabilities worldwide that has stood strong for more than 22 years.

During this period, Special Olympics athletes from over the world have received prescription frames and sunglasses provided by Safilo through the Special Olympics Lions Clubs International Foundation Opening Eyes programme.

Safilo employees have also been volunteers at Opening Eyes events, where athletes

Lens centration powered by AI

It can recommend a maximum possible corridor length based on frame size, and provides information about all features, with an FAQ and quick-guide available within the app.

Long-standing partnership renewed in Italy

receive eye examinations, prescription eyewear and referrals for follow-up care.

“At Safilo, we believe that clear vision is a fundamental right, not a privilege,” said Angelo Trocchia, CEO of Safilo Group.

“For over 20 years, our partnership with Special Olympics has allowed us to bring not just eyewear, but dignity, confidence, and opportunity to thousands of athletes worldwide. This renewed commitment reaffirms our dedication to inclusion, accessibility and eye health – ensuring that every athlete has the vision care they need to excel both in competitions and in daily life. We are proud to continue this journey and to stand alongside Special Olympics in their mission of empowerment.”

Vision Now June 2025 13

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Sensity Colours: Celebrate colour with smart light-adaptive lenses The latest addition to HOYA’s innovative Sensity photochromic range.

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News Association of Optometrists/College of Optometrists The UK’s approach is out of step with best practice internationally and the current vision standards mean UK drivers do not undergo an objective measure of vision and assessment of eye health. With over 7,000 optometry practices nationwide, optometrists are well placed to support the delivery of these checks swiftly and effectively…Lives can and must be saved by ensuring no driver with unsafe vision remains on the road unchecked.”

The Association of Optometrists (AOP) and the College of Optometrists have written to the secretary of state for transport, Heidi Alexander, calling for mandatory vision checks for drivers at first licence application and at every renewal. The move follows an inquest brought by HM Senior Coroner for Lancashire, Dr James Adeley (17 April) into the deaths of four people killed by drivers with failing eyesight.

The coroner has sent the secretary of state a Prevention of Future Death Report, warning that enforcement of visual legal standards for motorists is “ineffective and unsafe”. Both the AOP and the College of Optometrists gave expert evidence at the inquest. In comments to the Transport Committee about the Coroner’s conclusions, the transport secretary made a commitment to consider changes to vision standards for drivers (23 April).

Free visuals available for AOP campaign

Welcoming the secretary of state’s remarks, in the joint letter, the AOP and the College of Optometrists stated: “We strongly believe that vision-related accidents are preventable with simple, evidence-based legislative changes…

To make UK roads safer, both organisations are calling for mandatory vision checks that take place at first licence application and at every renewal – every 10 years for most drivers and every three years for those over 70. Further information is available from the AOP’s Don’t swerve a sight test campaign pages on its website, alongside guidance and evidence on the College of Optometrists’ website.

Association of British Dispensing Opticians Bookings will open on 1 July for the Association of British Dispensing Opticians’ (ABDO) 2025 clinical conference. This year’s one-day event will be held on both

12 and 13 October at the ABDO National Resource Centre in Birmingham. The hybrid conference will focus on ‘Dry eye for the dispensing optician’, with the face-to-face

conference and online lectures supported by industry suppliers. Registration will be available from 1 July via ABDO’s website, at www.abdo.org.uk

AN INDEPENDENT VIEW ‘Patients first’ – and the rest will follow How does one run a successful optical practice? How do you run yours? And how or when, if at all, did you learn how to do so?

At industry events, around a table or while propping up the bar, talk often turns to the fact that we’re optometrists or dispensing opticians by qualification, but business ownership (or being a meaningful contributor to a leadership team within an independent practice) requires us to become accountants, social media gurus, HR specialists and merchandising experts all at once.

Learning such a broad range of skills and keeping all the relevant plates spinning is tricky enough in the good times, but with changes in leadership at home and abroad, geo-political uncertainty in the

Middle East, Eastern Europe and India/ Pakistan, and the resulting ambiguous forecasts for the UK economy, it is difficult to know what the next week, quarter or year is going to look like in our businesses – and where we should be focusing our energies to make sure that business performance remains strong.

In increasingly challenging trading conditions, and in an progressively competitive marketplace, there is no doubt that a well-considered business model and some careful strategy is an absolute necessity.

Regrettably, the ‘build it and they will come’ approach is no longer a viable option; but as I think about how to ensure my clients continue to vote with their feet and walk through my door rather than someone else’s, I’m often reminded of the words of my first ever mentor in optometry. He taught me

to dispense, to glaze, to adjust and to troubleshoot but, most of all, he would always come back to the same mantra: “Look after your patients – really look after them – and they’ll look after the till for you”.

In the current climate, I think perhaps that sentiment is more relevant than ever.

Keval Sejpar BSc (Hons) MCOptom Chairman

Vision Now June 2025 15

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D E V E LO P I N G T H O U G H TS

Developing thoughts

By Phil Mullins

How’s your stressometer?

R ecently I had the privilege of holidaying on Boa Vista Island in Cape Verde, and I must say it is probably the most relaxed I have felt in years. Interestingly, Cape Verde has a motto, ‘No stress!’, and they truly live up to this; nothing is hurried or pressurised, but nothing is too much trouble, despite the fact that the average salary is 27,605 CVE, which is around $280 per month. So not what you would call rich.

But, looking at an island like Boa Vista, it does make you think: do we have it right?

We have so much, but we have very high levels of stress. Everyone seems to have an entitlement and are really quick to complain – as I’m sure you know from working in practice with the general public. Now, I’m not here as some guru to encourage everyone to change their lives and take on the ‘No stress’ mantra – because let’s face it I’m probably as stressed as the next person. But there are elements we can introduce into our businesses that will follow this concept, and hopefully make life a little easier for everyone.

TAKE A STEP BACK As bosses, leaders and business owners, we do need to always consider the effect we have on the people around us; in other words, don’t share your stress. There is nothing worse than working for someone who is constantly watching over your shoulder or having a go at you about the smallest thing. I am a great believer in that if I have employed someone to do a job, I will let them do the job. Yes, you need to be on hand to support and direct, but if you give people the freedom to work, you’ll find they will generally do it better than you could – and will often add more to the business than expected.

One element that seems to have crept into modern business is the one-to-one meeting, where a boss sits down with each member of staff and gives them feedback.

Obviously, feedback is a good thing and

Don’t spread your stress around your team

helps people improve, but I feel it is much better to have an ongoing, open dialogue with your staff rather than this fixed point, which can be stressful for staff and lead to little or no benefit from either side.

I prefer to pull someone to one side if they haven’t done something correctly, so it is acted on in the moment not some time later, when you seem to have a big list, half of which the staff member can’t even remember. It also works for positive encouragement, praising staff at the time. A timely ‘Well done, that was great work’ has amazing impact on the whole team.

It’s also not just about doing things right or wrong when supporting staff. If someone has been dealing with a difficult customer, leave them to deal with the customer, so the customer doesn’t feel empowered by getting to speak with the boss. But always be ready to step in where needed.

Remember: supporting a staff member is good for the long-term benefit of the practice; throwing a customer out for bad behaviour is a one off. Once the situation is passed, even if the practice is busy, tell the staff member to take five, grab a coffee and just take a short time away from the front

line. This does two things: 1) allows them to relax from a stressful situation; and 2) means the next customer doesn’t get the aftermath of the previous ‘bad customer’.

We also need to recognise that it’s not just difficult people who cause upset and stress. I remember an optometrist coming out of a consulting room looking upset after examining a six-year-old patient. My boss at the time was fantastic and was straight there to lead her away, enabling her to gather her thoughts and just breathe.

The optometrist had discovered what she was convinced were the signs of a brain tumour, and had just spoken to the hospital which accepted the patient straight away.

Thankfully, the parents came back a few months later to thank the optometrist as their daughter had been successfully treated.

There is no way to eliminate the stresses of modern life, and certainly dealing with the general public is always going to be a challenge, but just taking simple steps and giving people the freedom to work will make a massive difference. You will see the difference in both your business and your own stress levels. ■ Vision Now June 2025 17

N E G S E RV I C E P R O V I D E R S

Optical Payment Services Managing your Direct Debits Take control of your practice finances with OPS

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Although we all use Direct Debit every day, sometimes it’s good to go back and review the basics...

Direct Debit is an instruction from a customer or business (the payer) to their bank, authorising a third-party organisation (the payee) to regularly collect money directly from the payer’s bank account at intervals within a specified timescale. This authorisation is provided in a paper or electronic Direct Debit mandate form.

The payee may vary the amounts collected via Direct Debit, but only with advance notice of the amount and date the Direct Debit will be collected. Direct Debit is the only payment method that allows organisations to ‘pull’ payments from bank accounts, rather than rely on customers to push payments to you.

Direct Debits offer a more reliable and lower cost method of collecting payments compared to card payments, for example.

The Direct Debit guarantee is the only payment type that offers customers protection in the event of a loss due to error or fraud. The following statistics demonstrate how widely-used Direct Debit is in the UK: ■A round eight Direct Debits exist for every UK adult

18 Vision Now June 2025

Reduced administration costs

Greater security

Fewer missed payments

WHY DIRECT DEBIT?

Improved cash flow

Increased customer loyalty

Increased trust Efficient customer acquisition

An easy, convenient and secure way to collect payments

■ Nine in 10 British adults have at least one Direct Debit ■ 6.4 billion Direct Debit and BACS credits were processed in 2018 ■ The Direct Debit industry is worth more than £5trillion ■ From August to November 2018, there was an eight per cent growth in Direct Debit transactions

DIRECT DEBIT COLLECTION SERVICES Direct Debit allows organisations to automatically collect regular payments from customers and, therefore, dramatically reduces the risk of late payments, administration and resources required.

The benefits of making payment collection by Direct Debit are there for organisations both small and large, and is

N E G S E R V I C E P R OV I D E R S why so many organisations have turned to Direct Debits. A major issue, however, is that typically businesses turning over less than £3m, or those which have been established for less than three years, find it difficult to gain sponsorship from their bank to enter the BACS scheme.

This is where Optical Payment Services (OPS) can help. OPS is an NEG service, powered by Bottomline, that enables NEG members both big and small to collect Direct Debit payments from their patients – all without the need to get sponsorship from the bank.

WHO ARE BOTTOMLINE? Bottomline is the leading Direct Debit payment bureau, approved by BACS and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Its customers range in size from the smallest to the largest, from charities to public sector. It offers a simple, compliant and secure Direct Debit processing solution to manage the collection of recurring payments from your customers.

Outsourcing the collection of vital Direct Debits to Bottomline’s cloud-based solution via OPS removes risk and the complexity of remaining compliant, whilst enabling collections to be made in full, on time, every time.

WHAT DO PEOPLE SAY ABOUT BOTTOMLINE? “The help required on transferring all the current Direct Debits to Bottomline was seamless with the help of the integration team. The service provided, with longer term arrangements being set up, has brought savings and ease of use to our Direct Debit team. The support has been exceptional not just with telephoning the support line, but also through the log in portal which is development at its best,” SLLCapital “We’ve used Bottomline for over 10 years now and have always found their system to be seamless and faultless. I’ve often called their friendly and helpful client services team for assistance and direction, and they have been simply spot on with everything.

The efficient processing of our payments is a critical factor in running our business, and Bottomline’s handling of this process has been second to none,” thebestof HOW DOES OPS WORK? It couldn’t be easier to use OPS to collect your Direct Debit payments. Once signed up with OPS, you use the secure web portal to sign up your patient on your payment scheme, be that for contact lenses, professional fees or ongoing dry eye

treatment. OPS will then email your patient all the relevant information, including the Direct Debit guarantee, ensuring your compliance with BACS requirements.

Payments are taken monthly and sent directly into your bank account. The portal is then updated with all your payments, so you can see at a glance who has paid and how much anyone has paid, either for that month or over a longer set period. If for any reason, a payment should fail, in addition to seeing it in the portal, you will receive an email, giving you the chance to contact the patient and resolve the issue.

In addition to standard monthly payments, OPS enables you to offer ad hoc payments.

This means that if your Direct Debit patient buys an additional product, e.g. a monthly contact lens patient buys some daily lenses for their holiday, you can add that payment to the next monthly payments as a one-off transaction. This adds convenience to both you and your patient.

OPS OFFERS TWO OPTIONS. 1. Firstly, if you don’t currently collect Direct Debits, you can sign up under the OPS service user number, so you don’t need sponsorship from your bank. This makes it easy for everyone to benefit from Direct Debits.

2. The second option is if you already collect Direct Debits and therefore have your own service user number. This can be transferred to OPS, so you can benefit from the paperless option and the savings compared to the standard bank offering.

Either way, you benefit from the simplicity of the system and the savings that can be made.

OPTINET PMS INTEGRATION To make the whole process even easier, OPS is fully integrated into Optinet FLEX and Optinet Nova practice management software. This enables you to set up the Direct Debit payments from the patient’s record, so eliminating double entry and the errors that this can cause. When the

See at a glance each patient’s payment history

monthly payments are received, the Optinet software allocates the payments to each patient, enabling you to see what payment the patient has set up and how much they have paid.

For more information about OPS, and what a difference it can make to your practice, please call 0344 8266700.

Regulated services are provided by Bottomline Payment Services Limited, an authorised payment institution regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority (reference number 616279) for the provision of payment services.

Article supplied by Optical Payment Services. ■

ADVANTAGES OF OPTICAL PAYMENT SERVICES ■ Automated Direct Debit collection process ■ Simple to set up and low cost to administer ■ Trusted, reliable and proven outsourced option ■ Backed up by an expert UK BACS team

■ Increased visibility of cash ■ Better control over cash flow with a more stable stream of income ■ Remain fully compliant with BACS scheme rules ■ Adopt paperless Direct Debits

Vision Now June 2025 19

C O M PA N Y P R O F I L E

Design Eyewear Group Authentic eyewear. Global brands. Local support

D

Design Eyewear Group is proud to partner with NEG members, and bring more than 50 years of premium eyewear innovation into your business...

esign Eyewear Group develops and markets a portfolio of iconic, independent brands sold by opticians around the world. Rooted in design and inspired by global trends, our nine dynamic brands offer exceptional design, technical quality and customer-focused support.

WHY PARTNER WITH DESIGN EYEWEAR GROUP? ■ Nine international brands, each with a strong, unique DNA ■ Fast delivery via digital warehouse and B2B tools ■ Dedicated local support in 10 languages ■ Value-boosting programmes that drive profitability ■ Onboarding offer for NEG members allowing you to earn up to £1,550 credit on your account per brand OUR FOUR MAIN BRANDS As you begin your journey with us, we’d like to introduce our four cornerstone brands – William Morris London, Face à Face, Woow and ProDesign...

Woow Run Faster

ProDesign Cleo

PRODESIGN Since 1973, the design philosophy of ProDesign has been deeply rooted in the rich tradition of Danish craftmanship.

With a focus on fit, function and precision, ProDesign delivers exceptional eyewear for the design-conscious consumer.

William Morris London Tate (left) and Carnaby

WILLIAM MORRIS LONDON Fashion-forward and unapologetically British, William Morris London captures the diverse spirit of London through standout colours, on-trend styles and an edge that’s both bold and accessible. Designed in the UK, these frames reflect the creative pulse of East and West London – urban, stylish and international.

20 Vision Now June 2025

Face à Face Glimps

FACE À FACE Artistic, architectural and daringly original, Face à Face is eyewear as wearable sculpture. Designed in Paris, every frame is a conversation starter – crafted with exclusive acetates, precision components and a bold vision of individuality. This is luxury eyewear for those who lead with creativity.

WOOW Add a little joy to the everyday. Woow combines vibrant colours, playful design and witty details to create frames that don’t just accessorise – they uplift.

French-designed and full of character, Woow is the cheeky rebel in our family, perfect for clients who love to stand out.

OUR FULL PORTFOLIO Beyond our leading brands, we offer five additional collections that bring even more diversity and design flair to your offering: ■ I nface: Trend-savvy and affordable, Inface frames are designed for a youthful audience with an eye for clean Scandinavian fashion and urban cool ■K ilsgaard: Minimalist, powerful, and crafted in raw materials, this Danish brand embraces the art of reduction, precision and purpose ■A lium: A cutting-edge, technical collection handmade in France, crafted largely from patented aluminium. Bold, lightweight and engineered for men ■N ifties: Tailored for individuals with fine facial features, Nifties brings perfect-fit eyewear in fresh, classic styles with premium comfort ■C harles Stone New York: New Yorkinspired and rich in vintage charm, this brand delivers trendy, creative styles at competitive prices

C O M PA N Y P R O F I L E Each of these collections has its own story, design language and price point – ensuring there’s something in our portfolio for every client and market segment.

30 YEARS OF DESIGN AND SCULPTING COLOUR This year marks the 30th anniversary of Face à Face, and we are celebrating in style. To honour three decades of artistic innovation, we’re offering exclusive promotions, along with a fabulous brand campaign designed to drive in-store visibility and inspire your customers.

From limited edition styles to immersive merchandising tools, it’s the perfect time to introduce (or reintroduce) Face à Face to your audience. This is luxury eyewear for those who lead with creativity – and for independent practices that want to stand out.

Terms and conditions apply. Please contact your sales representative for more information.

Something in our portfolio for every client

Celebrating 30 years of Face à Face

LOYALTY THAT PAYS OFF Earn points with every full-price frame and unlock increasing benefits as you grow – from free shipping and marketing kits to extended warranties and exclusive visibility.

Our three-tiered Loyalty Programme – Partner, Premium Partner and Ambassador – is designed to support and reward your success every step of the way.

LET’S GROW TOGETHER This partnership marks the beginning of a dynamic collaboration. Whether you’re drawn to the precision of Danish design, the bold energy of Paris, or the style pulse of London and New York, we have the tools, support and creativity to elevate your eyewear business.

We look forward to achieving new milestones with you – one frame at a time.

Please contact our sales representatives today for more information or to book an appointment: STEWART LEWIS stewart@designeyeweargroup.com 07973269417 London South East • ProDesign • Charles Stone NY GAVIN CORNELIUS gco@prodesigndenmark.com 07786981876 Northern England and Scotland • Woow • ProDesign (Scotland only) • William Morris London • Charles Stone NY • InFace KRISTINA MCCONNELL kmc@designeyeweargroup.com 07718772312 Northern England • William Morris London • InFace • Charles Stone NY

SALES REPRESENTATIVES CONTACT DETAILS DAVID BAGNALL DEREK CHARNLEY dba@designeyeweargroup.com dec@designeyeweargroup.com 07769736448 07595364532 London, South East and South West Northern England and Scotland • Face à Face • Face à Face • Alium • Alium • Kilsgaard AMANDA HAMBLET • Nifties amh@designeyeweargroup.com 07971806519 CAROL HOLLAND London and Southeast crh@designeyeweargroup.com • Woow 0035(0)3868456926 • Kilsgaard Ireland • Nifties • Face à Face ASHLEY KERR • Alium akr@designeyeweargroup.com • Woow • ProDesign 07714487135 • Nifties Ireland • William Morris London ABIGAIL O'NEILL • InFace aon@designeyeweargroup.com • Charles Stone NY 07816939477 • Kilsgaard Midlands & Wales • Face à Face • Alium • Woow • ProDesign • Kilsgaard • Nifties

RICHARD JOHN rjo@designeyeweargroup.com 07900905084 South West • ProDesign • Woow • Kilsgaard • Nifties GIUSEPPE MIUCCIO gmi@designeyeweargroup.com 02036301341 Midlands & Wales • William Morris London • InFace • Charles Stone NY (East only) POPPY CUTHBERT pct@designeyeweargroup.com 07837892473 Southwest • William Morris London • InFace • Charles Stone NY (South East only)

Article supplied by Design Eyewear Group. ■ Vision Now June 2025 21

B US I N E S S M AT T E R S

The independent’s masterplan A step-by-step guide to building your perfect practice. Part 1. By Andy Clark

I

t’s a momentous day when someone decides to become a practice owner. Maybe it’s fuelled by a desire to work in a different way, maybe it’s a desire for more challenge, maybe it’s a dream of having more money and working less. It’s probably a combination of all of the above.

Some practices don’t last very long, many tick along with overworked, underpaid owners and a few allow their owners to realise their dreams. The difference between them is often found in the owner’s ability to formulate and implement a detailed plan for building a practice that works even when the owner isn’t there.

THE OWNER The owner creates the vision, then provides investment, looks after the finances and enjoys the rewards.

THE PLAN There are four essential elements in the blueprint: ■ Vision ■ Profit ■ Control ■ Prosperity THE BUILDERS There are four different roles for the people who are working in – and on – the practice: ■ Team ■ Manager ■ Leader ■ Owner The owner has to deliver all four of them until they recruit somebody else to do it instead of them.

22 Vision Now June 2025

THE VISION “I’m building a secure profitable practice, that allows me to work when I want to in the way that I want to; that provides me with the funds to be financially secure and live my ideal life outside of work.”

When you have clear vision of what success looks like, you will know why you are building a practice, and you will know what you need to build. Then you’ll just need a masterplan to work out how to make it happen. This vision of success becomes the owner’s driving force in the early days of ownership, but it can be lost over time – and without it the project can come to a grinding halt.

Do you have a clear picture of what your perfect practice looks like? If not take some time to define it in nitty-gritty detail.

Then remind yourself of it every morning and do something that brings it closer before you go home. It’s all too easy to work hard and get nowhere.

THE INVESTMENT Owners make three substantial investments in their practices: money, time and energy. They often underestimate just how big these investments will have to be and the impact that they will have on them and their loved ones.

The owner’s goal must be to invest less and enjoy the returns as quickly as possible. If they find they have to keep on pouring in more of their money time and energy without any returns, they’re not making an investment they’re making a sacrifice.

How happy are you with the money, time and energy you are having to put into your practice? Is it an investment or a sacrifice?

FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT The owner is also responsible for making sure that the practice is trading profitably and has appropriate cash reserves. The best owners make profit by design by deciding how much profit they want the business to generate – and building a practice that will deliver it. Others make profit by accident by working hard and calling profit what’s left in the bank after they’ve paid all of the bills.

Which version are you depending on – profit by design or by accident?

You could be just one spreadsheet away from a whole new way of thinking.

PROFITABILITY The team makes the practice profitable by looking after the patients and performing the day-to-day administrative tasks. Owners are often most comfortable in a team role for which they are already professionally qualified; they’ve usually done it for years. The challenge for them is that in order for the practice to be profitable, they have to step out of this comfort zone and undertake tasks for which they have little or no training or experience.

When faced with a new challenge in the discomfort zone, owners tend to behave in one of the following ways: ■ Ignore it and hope it won’t matter (too risky) ■ Work out how to do it by trial and error (too expensive and time consuming) ■ Try and copy someone else’s model (too difficult to repeat) ■ Get an expert with a best practice guide who will work with you while you implement it

B US I N ES S M AT T E R S We have identified six essential profit projects that an owner must implement, constantly review and fine tune in order to ensure optimum profitability 1. More new patients 2. More returning patients 3. More recalled patients 4. More sales per patient 5. More gross profit 6. More net profit (See the next article in this series for the details.)

If you are spending all of your time being an optometrist or dispensing optician, you are going to have to set aside time every week to look after your practice and roll out these new systems. If it feels uncomfortable at first, consider which of the following is the best use of 30 minutes: ■S pending 30 minutes improving your profitability every day from now on ■S pending 30 minutes seeing another patient with a 50 per cent conversion rate and a £200 ADV (feel free to insert your own numbers) WARNING Success in this step can feel very chaotic because, although your practice is busier and more profitable, there is too much for you to do on your own and consequently: ■Y ou get overloaded ■T he team lose direction ■Y our standards slip ■Y ou feel like you are constantly fire-fighting ■S ales and profits flatline or even start to fall The first thing to do is buy yourself some time. Investing some of your new-found profits by paying for someone else to do your team job, so you can move on to the next phase and create some order out of the chaos.

THE MANAGER CREATES CONTROL By moving into a management role you will be: ■ Setting standards that define how you do things ■ Consistently achieving targets ■ Managing the business’ performance in more detail ■ Systematising essential processes ■ Training, developing and motivating the team (See the third article in this series for more information on management.)

You might not be in the manager’s role for long. As the practice comes under your control and the profitability increases further, you will be able to develop in a manager who will work alongside you and be accountable for the day-to-day running of the practice – freeing you up to move on to the next step.

THE LEADER CREATES PROSPERITY The leader creates prosperity by creating a culture, making a strategic plan, and making sure that it is implemented.

PROSPERITY CREATES FINANCIAL SECURITY Now it’s time to build up cash reserves and investments both in the business and personally Prosperity creates opportunity: ■ The opportunity to complete the build of your perfect practice ■ The opportunity to reward and nurture your team ■ The opportunity to do other things away from work now your practice works perfectly in your absence PROSPERITY CREATES GROWTH Are you going to stop with one site, or take your model for success and build a group?

(See the fourth article in this series for more information on management.)

NEG members are invited to complete a complimentary masterplan review of their practices to highlight where they are strong, what needs attention, and where the biggest wins will be found by visiting www.practicebuilding.co.uk/masterplan Andy Clark BSc (Hons) MCOptom FIoD is the founder of Practice Building, an award-winning consultancy dedicated to transforming independent optical practices. ■ Vision Now June 2025 23

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

Fit, fun & function

There’s so much more to paediatric spectacles dispensing than ensuring youngsters feel and look amazing in their frames. Fit, comfort and durability are of paramount importance – as NEG’s preferred suppliers know all too well. Here are some of the latest launches ensuring excellence in fit, fun and function... By Nicky Collinson

New Stepper Start model SK-76500

Stepper has expanded its Stepper Start range to include frames suitable for teenagers up to 14 years. This growth builds on the brand’s earlier launch of a range informed by the empirical facial development research of Dr Alicia Thompson, funded by the Association of British Dispensing Opticians (ABDO).

“Poorly fitting spectacles can compromise lens effectiveness, interfere with critical stages of visual development, and reduce compliance due to discomfort or self-consciousness,” said Peter Reeve, Stepper UK managing director. “In contrast, Stepper frames offer a lightweight, stable and flexible designs – prioritising both physiological fit and wearability. The newly introduced larger sizes incorporate titanium elements to appeal to more mature tastes.”

iPlay range expanded with Vibes release Plant-based Birdies are bendable and throwable

Designed to be virtually indestructible, Birdies frames from Bird Eyewear are bendable, throwable and come with impact and shatter-resistant lenses. Best of all, they are made from plants.

“Birdies are made from processed castor beans, a natural polymer that is lighter than aluminium and strong enough to be used in vehicles,” explained Bird Eyewear co-founder, Lawrence Bird.

“With impact and shatter-resistant lenses, the low-density material is 10 times stronger than the plastics in car bumpers, and 13 times stronger than common bioplastics – the perfect material for inquisitive minds.”

Birdies are also available as sunglasses with 100 per cent UV protection, or with blue light blocking lenses for screen time.

StarFit 13 is part of a new collection for Continental Eyewear’s trusted paediatric range, specifically designed for children aged six to 12 years.

In collaboration with ABDO research director, Dr Alicia Thompson, StarFit has been created by extensive research into facial development to deliver "outstanding fit, comfort and practicality".

Bridging the gap between playful toddler frames and more mature styling, the new

24 Vision Now June 2025

Star-Fit 13 from Continental Eyewear

eight-piece collection features trend-led shapes and colours for pre-teens. The frames are crafted from flexible materials

The children’s iPlay continues to grow with a new Vibes release for 2025. The Exeter Eyewear brand is available to NEG members though distributor and preferred supplier, Bondeye Optical.

“New features include multi-position nose pads, utilising asymmetric adjustment and perfect for low flat nasal bridges,” explained Rob Barrow from Exeter Eyewear.

“Complementing the new bridge, the sides have been redesigned for 70-100mm lengthto-bend adjustment. Colour and size options have all had a boost, making iPlay eyewear the right choice for your practice.”

As the brand continues to develop, support has been added with helpful instructional videos. Adjustments, features and hints are all covered on the Exeter Eyewear website. that evenly distribute weight to reduce pressure points and enhance all-day comfort.

Adjustable end tips with guideline markers and a cylindrical core make for easy in-practice customisation, while a carefully shaped lens area supports children’s natural upward gaze.

ST Y L E S P OT L I G H T Vogue model OVY2033 is one of many children’s styles from EssilorLuxottica designed to accommodate Essilor Stellest myopia management lenses.

Featuring a bio-based nylon fibre material, for children aged from four to 10, the frame blends sustainability with functionality. Rubber accents on the sides and tips provide snug, no-slip comfort – while adjustable sides and flex hinges deliver a custom fit that can grow with the child.

“By combining tailored lens solutions

Vogue OVY2033 from EssilorLuxottica

with frames that offer superior comfort, durability and stylish designs, we aim to address the multi-faceted needs of

today’s children,” says Richard Davies, EssilorLuxottica commercial sales director for frames.

Rock Star Diane from Eyespace

Diane from Eyespace’s Rock Star collection fuses European style influence with child-led innovation – delivering both high fashion and optical performance.

Crafted in lightweight acetate with a crystal-clear base and accented by a gentle gradient of lavender and indigo at the temples, the design makes a youthful style statement while remaining versatile enough for everyday wear.

Diana features Smart Fit technology, a design innovation tailored specifically for developing faces and clinical needs. The frame geometry allows for optimal lens centration and stability, making it particularly suitable for myopia management lenses.

Anyone for enhanced eye protection?

Eyestuff ESO-420 in pastel pink from Inspecs

Eyestuff is Inspecs’ fashion-forward in-house brand created specifically for children and young adults. The collection features vibrant shapes and playful colourations, all designed for comfort and confidence.

With eye sizes from 47 to 55, Eyestuff frames are designed for smaller face shapes and people who are still growing, with a keen eye on accessible fashion.

One of the latest styles is model ESO-420 – available in gloss crystal acetate in a pastel trio of blue, taupe and pink. This trendy hexagonal silhouette is only a 48 eye size, and the rest of the frame is clean-lined so the frame has an oversized look without being overwhelming.

Polarioid sunglasses from Safilo are perfectly positioned for youngsters who enjoy summer sports like tennis – where fast reactions, depth perception and handeye coordination are crucial.

The sunglasses offer reduced glare by filtering out horizontal light waves, making it easier to track the ball, better clarity by reducing brightness and improving contrast, 100 per cent UV protection, protection from dust and wind, and therefore improved comfort and focus.

The collection offers styles in bio-based rubber offering excellent flexibility and impact resistance, recycled polycarbonate, and bio-based polyamide for breakage resistance and a lightweight feel. The latter also contains at least 45 per cent bio-based content.

Vision Now June 2025 25

Preferred Suppliers’ directory tel: 01580 713698 | web: www.nationaleyecare.co.uk ALCON UK

tel: 0371 376 0017 | fax: 0871 351 1005 | web: www.uk.alcon.com

ASSOCIATED OPTICAL

tel: 01628 600410 | fax: 01628 666495 | email: sales@assopt.co.uk | web: www.associatedoptical.com

ATLANTIC OPTICAL UK LTD

tel: 02920 362 136 | fax: 02920 362 137 | email: info@atlanticoptical.co.uk | web: www.atlanticoptical.co.uk

AVIZOR

tel: 0800 085 6559 | email: uk.sales@avizor.com | web: avizor.co.uk

BAUSCH + LOMB

tel: 020 8781 2900 | web: www.bausch.co.uk

BIB OPHTHALMIC INSTRUMENTS

tel: 01438 740823 | email: sales@bibonline.co.uk | web: www.bibonline.co.uk

BIRD EYEWEAR

tel: 0751 568 8907 | email: ryan@birdeyewear.co.uk | web: birdeyewear.co.uk tel: 0121 7723888 | fax: 0808 2801865 | email: sales@bondeyeoptical.co.uk | web: www.bondeyeoptical.co.uk

The future of practice management software is here.

tel: 01224 596 006 | email: info@caledonianoptical.com | web: www.caledonianoptical.com

www.optinetuk.com

BONDEYE OPTICAL

CALEDONIAN OPTICAL LTD CARDNET

tel: 0345 604 2491 Option 2

CENTROSTYLE OPTICAL CENTRE SUPPLIES LTD

tel: 01923 239267 | fax: 01923 253951 | email: sales@centrostyle.com | web: www.centrostyleproducts.com

CFH DOCMAIL

tel: 07834 173 288 | email: chris.burridge@cfh.com | web: www.cfhdocmail.com

CHARMANT

tel: 07899 235 053 | email: uksupport@charmant.eu | web: charmant.com

CITATION

tel: 0161 464 6731 I email: enquiries@citation.co.uk | web: www.citation.co.uk

CONTINENTAL EYEWEAR

tel: 0151 426 3907 | fax: 0151 426 9340 | email: sales@continental-eyewear.co.uk | web: www.continental-eyewear.com

COOPERVISION

tel: 0870 9000 055 | email: enquiries@coopervision.co.uk | web: www.coopervision.co.uk

DESIGN EYEWEAR GROUP

tel: 0203 630 1341 | email: info.uk@designeyeweargroup.com | web: designeyeweargroup.com

DE RIGO UK LTD

tel: 01923 249491 | email: info.uk@derigo.com | web: www.derigo.com/en

DUNELM OPTICAL

tel: 01388 420420 | fax: 01388 810101 | email: dunelm@dunelmoptical.co.uk | web: www.dunelmoptical.com

ESSILOR

tel: 01454 281281 | fax: 01454 28128 | email: orders@essilor.co.uk | web: www.essilor.co.uk

EYESPACE

tel: 01527 870550 | fax: 01527 837012 | email: info@eyespace-eyewear.co.uk | web: www.eyespace-eyewear.co.uk

GO EYEWEAR UK LTD

tel: 0800 9178270 | web: www.goeyeweargroup.com

HILCO EUROPE

tel: 0800 591150 | email: info@hilco.co.uk | web: www.hilcovision.co.uk

HOYA LENS UK

tel: 0845 330 0984 | fax: 0845 330 0977 | email: enquiries@hoya.co.uk | email: orders@hoya.co.uk web: www.hoyavision.com/uk

INSPECS

tel: 01225717000 | web: https://shop.inspecs.com/ | email: customerservice@inspecs.com

LAB3SIXTY

tel: 0113 5211071 | email: Info@Lab3Sixty.co.uk | web: www.lab3sixty.co.uk

LENSTEC EYEWEAR

tel: 02920 857122 | fax: 02920 920480 | email: eyewear@lenstec.co.uk | web: www.lensteceyewear.co.uk

LENSTEC OPTICAL

tel: 02920 883009 | fax: 02920 889798 | email: LenstecCC@lenstec.co.uk | web: www.lenstecopticalgroup.co.uk

26 Vision Now June 2025

Think independently Scan the QR code or call 0844 873 1110 to open an account.

LUXOTTICA (UK) LTD tel: 0808 1658 8555 | web: www.luxottica.com/en

MARCHON

tel: 0800 72 2020 | email: csuk@marchon.com | web: www.marchon.com

MARK’ENNOVY

tel: 0800 3280610 | fax: 0800 3280649 | email: mkservices@markennovy.com | web: www.markennovy.com

MENICON UK LTD (FORMERLY DAVID THOMAS)

tel: 01604 646216 | fax: 01604 790366 | email: enquiries@menicon.co.uk | web: www.menicon.co.uk

MID-OPTIC

tel: 01332 295001 | fax: 01332 295158 | email: orders@midoptic.com | web: www.midoptic.com

NORVILLE

tel: 01452 510321 | email: sales@norville.co.uk | web: www.norville.co.uk

No7 CONTACT LENSES

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.

tel: 01424 850620 | fax: 01424 850650 | email: info@no7contactlenses.com | web: www.no7contactlenses.com

OPTELEC

tel: 0800 145 6115 | email: ordersuk@optelec.co.uk | web: lowvisionshop.co.uk

OPTINET LTD

tel: 0845 313 0233 | email: sales@optinetuk.com | web: www.optinetuk.com

coopervision.co.uk

OTE OPTICS

tel: 020 8428 9028 | email: customerservices@adaro.net | web: https://oteoptics.nl/en

PERFORMANCE FINANCE

tel: 01536 529696 | fax: 01536 310033 | email: info@performancefinance.co.uk | web: www.performancefinance.co.uk

PKP OPTICS

tel: 01892 837979 | email: info@pkpoptics.co.uk | web: www.pkpoptics.co.uk

POSITIVE IMPACT

tel: 08446 696907 | email: sales@positiveimpact.co.uk | web: www.positiveimpact.co.uk

PRACTICE BUILDING

tel: 0800 840 3988 | email: andy@practicebuilding.co.uk | web: www.practicebuilding.co.uk

RETAIL EXPERIENCE DESIGN (RED)

tel: 024 7710 3494 | email: design@retailexperiencedesign.co.uk | web: www.retailexperiencedesign.co.uk

RODENSTOCK

tel: 01474 325555 | email: sales@rodenstock.co.uk | web: www.rodenstock.co.uk

SAFILO UK LTD

tel: 00800 72345600 | email: customerserviceuk@safilo.com | web: www.youandsafilo.com

SEIKO OPTICAL UK

STEPPER (UK) Limited 11 Tannery Road, Tonbridge Kent - TN9 1RF 01732 375975 www.stepper.co.uk

tel: 01452 610033 | fax: 01452 638250 | email: orders@seiko-optical.co.uk | email: info@seiko-optical.co.uk web: www.seikovision.com/uk

SILHOUETTE UK LTD

tel: 020 8987 8899 | fax: 020 8987 2430 | email: office@silhouette-uk.co.uk | web: www.silhouette.com

SPEC-CARE LTD

tel: 01392 460806 | email: info@speccareservices.co.uk | web: www.speccareservices.co.uk

STEPPER UK

tel: 01732 375975 | email: sales@stepper.co.uk | web: www.steppereyewear.com

TANT LABORATORIES

tel: 01279 653785 | fax: 01279 658308 | email: TantCC@tantlabs.com | web: www.lenstecopticalgroup.co.uk

THEA PHARMACEUTICALS LIMITED

tel: 01782 381698 | email: orders.uk@theapharma.com | web: www.thea-pharmaceuticals.co.uk

THOMSEN DENMARK tel: 07899727671 | email: lee@thomsendenmark.dk | web: thomsendenmark.dk

ULTRAVISION

tel: 01525 381112 | fax: 01525 370091 | email: info@ultravision.co.uk | web: www.ultravision.co.uk

WINDCAVE LTD

tel: 0800 088 6040 | email: sales@windcave.com | web: www.windcave.com Vision Now June 2025 27

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.

ORDER YOUR LENSES NOW www.ultraoneday.co.uk † UV-absorbing contact lenses are NOT substitutes for protective UV-absorbing eyewear such as UV-absorbing goggles or sunglasses, because they DO NOT completely cover the eye and surrounding area.

You should continue to use UV-absorbing eyewear as directed.

Please read the Instructions for Use (IFU) for important product use and safety information with Bausch & Lomb contact lenses.

1. Only Bausch + Lomb ULTRA® ONE DAY contact lenses offer a complete moisture + comfort system with Advanced MoistureSeal® and ComfortFeel Technologies plus a complete design of high Dk/t, low modulus, UV blocking and High Definition Optics. Bausch + Lomb ULTRA® ONE DAY contact lenses deliver health through its complete system working together to support a healthy ocular environment, the inclusion of eye health ingredients which are retained over 16 hours and the high allowance of oxygen permeability (Dk/t=134) [Applicable references 2,3,4,5]. 2. Rah M. Ocular surface homeostasis and contact lens design. February 2021. 3. 3.Product Performance Evaluation of a Novel Silicone Hydrogel Contact Lens: kalifilcon A Daily Disposable Contact Lenses. Bausch + Lomb Incorporated, Rochester, NY, 2021. 4. Schafer, J. Steen, R. Reindel, W; A clinical assessment of dehydration resistance for a novel silicone hydrogel lens and six silicone hydrogel daily disposable lenses. Poster presented at AAO; October 2020. 5. Competitive grid packaging solutions with sources.

28 Vision Now June 2025

Bausch + Lomb ULTRA and MoistureSeal are trademarks of Bausch & Lomb Incorporated or its affiliates. ©2024 Bausch & Lomb Incorporated.

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