Vision Now November 2020 by Vision Now

VV NOVEMBER 2020

Vision Now magazine

Designed by the Brien Holden Vision Institute and manufactured in Japan for early myopia management and presbyopia. The SEED 1dayPure EDOF has the most extensive parameter range available in a daily EDOF design, with powers ranging from +2.00 to -8.00 and 3 different depths of focus. SEED 1dayPure EDOF allows lens users to perceive images continuously in focus over a wide range of visual distances, from near to far.

A MEMBER OF THE SEED GROUP

www.ultravision.co.uk

0800 585 115

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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.

News 4 7 9 11 13 15

100% Optical moves to May Myopia programme comes to UK No7 takes on Lunelle lenses BCLA UK event to be online Promising results for myopia lens Webinar to discuss cataract delays

Editor’s comment During a recent virtual press launch I attended, the company in question explained how it had seen a marked growth in its frame and lens package business, along with orders for its best and longest-selling frame styles. The implication was that consumers were increasingly making considered purchases and demanding products with longevity in both style and substance.

17 Developing thoughts Making your own future

18 Product profile Improving vision with E-Scoop

20 Member benefits Portal to the future

22 Product profile Safe practice support

25 AIO conference New year, new dates

26 Product profile A new premium progressive

28 Style spotlight Conquering challenges with optimism

30 Suppliers’ directory

So-called ‘fast fashion’ has a become a by-word for exploitation, pollution and poor quality – with huge negative connotations for those who supply and demand it. Who these days wants to invest in (or be seen to invest in) the pile ‘em high, sell ‘em cheap concept? This is all good news for independents, which can tap into the growing market for local, ethical and sustainable products – and then communicate these choices to patients via social media. We have plenty of progressive products to inform members about this month – including Seiko’s new Brilliance lens, Rodenstock’s portfolio of instruments that support safe practice in the time of Covid-19, E-Scoop lenses for age-related macular degeneration patients newly available from Lenstec, and much more within the news pages. In this month’s Developing Thoughts, Phil Mullins looks to the future of optics – and how members can map their own destiny and plan for future success. Finally, as NEG continues to go greener, Sandi Charlesworth explains how to use the NEG statement portal to provide all the information you need to manage your purchasing through the group. Nicky Collinson Editor

Editor

Nicky Collinson BA (Hons) nicola.collinson@nationaleyecare.co.uk

Editorial PA

Sally Spicer s.spicer@nationaleyecare.co.uk

Fashion Editor

Joan Grady jgparischats@wanadoo.fr

Business Editor Phillip Mullins FBDO p.mullins@nationaleyecare.co.uk Design and Production

Rosslyn Argent BA (Hons)

Publisher

Michael C Wheeler FCOptom DipCLP FSMC FAAO

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 © 2020 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 P&P Litho Ltd, Ashford, Middlesex TW15 1AB

Vision Now NOVEMBER 2020

NEWS 1

100% Optical

BCLA/Alcon

Alcon and the British Contact Lens Association (BCLA) have produced a series of videos on resolving many of the issues associated with regularly wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) – presented by critical care nurse Sally-Anne Bradbury and BCLA president, Indie Grewal. Luke StevensBurt, BCLA chief executive, said: “We’re grateful for Alcon’s support on this project, and we are confident it will make a real difference to ECPs and the way they work.” The issue of PPE in practice was also the subject of a recent BCLA podcast, with Nick Howard and Luke Allen discussing their experiences of carrying out procedures while wearing face masks. The pair discussed everything from surgical masks and video slit lamps to boiling kettles to prevent Volk lenses from steaming up. Access all videos and the podcast at www.bcla.org.uk

Eyespace

Eyespace is now using renewable, biodegradable frame bags for all of its collections. The company’s Eco Conscious frames were already packaged in recyclable FSC accredited card sleeves, while the new bio-frame bags have been rolled out to all other brands. The bags break down in just five years under normal landfill conditions and can be reused or recycled during their lifetime. Company co-founder and managing director, Jayne Abel, said: “We hope that each innovation will encourage other businesses to explore sustainable alternatives, demonstrate an appetite for greener practises, and stimulate manufacturers to invest in more economically viable options. Together we truly can make a difference.”

Practises grow ever-greener

Vision Now NOVEMBER 2020

New spring dates for London show

100% Optical 2021 will now take place on 8-10 May at ExCeL London due to the continuing Covid-19 pandemic. Event organiser, Nathan Garnett, said: “By running in May, our delegates and speakers will feel more confident about attending an exhibition, the virus will be in decline again, and there is the possibility we may have a vaccine by then. We have always taken health and safety extremely seriously, and we look forward to showing you how we will instil confidence in both the venue and our event as a Covid secure environment. “People cannot wait to meet again, and exhibitions remain the most effective way for people to do this,” Nathan continued. “This move will allow us to make sure that the optical sector can meet in 2021, and you can be reunited with friends and colleagues, and a chance to meet new and existing suppliers, and take in our world class education programme.” Media 10 will work with the Federation of Manufacturing Opticians to incorporate the Optrafair brand, as it transitions to Media 10 ownership in January. The organisation plans to work on the programme and content over the coming months; stay tuned to developments on the programme and with exhibitors at www.100percentoptical.com

Lenstec Optical Group

Paul Willis has joined Lenstec as commercial sales director. He arrives direct from Norville, where he was sales director. Nigel Castle, Lenstec MD, said: “Paul has already made a big impact since joining the group – and his knowledge and support will be a fantastic asset to the team and our culture across all our sites.” Paul added: “I am pleased to be working with such a committed team and am looking forward to meeting customers old and new to help develop partnerships strong enough to overcome the challenges presented by our ever evolving optical landscape.”

Paul Willis

Tongue-in-cheek Japanese vitality

This visionary brand draws inspiration from faraway Japan, where tradition, modernity and art as well as past and future merge to form an exciting mixture. The colourful models are perfect for self-confident wearers who go through life with their eyes and minds open and who do not immediately choose the most obvious to express their personality.

A brand of the Michael Pachleitner Group Andrew Davies F.B.D.O UK Country Manager +44 (0) 7583 076 132 a.davies@michael-pachleitner-group.com Michael Pachleitner Group GmbH Liebenauer Tangente 4, 8041 Graz, Austria Online shop: shop.michael-pachleitner-group.com

KNP164-8 Trendsetters rely on this model! The transparent acetate tones frame the thin metal structure. This combination style creates the perfect balance between the individual materials. A stylish accessory that completes every outfit.

New OptiExpert™ v2.0.

Not actual interface.

Smarter than ever, so you can do more. Instantly converts (virtually) any spectacle prescription into a contact lens prescription. NEW OptiExpert™ v2.0 helps make contact lens selection even easier.* Featuring a new smart prescription calculator which converts virtually any sphere, toric or multifocal spectacle prescription into a contact lens prescription. Now that’s smart.

For iPhone, iPad and Android mobile and tablet devices.

Find out more or download web app www.coopervision.co.uk/optiexpert

*OptiExpert™ is an educational, reference and information tool for eye care professionals. Eye care professionals may choose to use the app in connection with their own patient evaluation but it is not intended to be relied upon for clinical decision-making. OptiExpert™ is not intended as and does not constitute medical or optometric advice nor is it intended to replace the patient evaluation performed by an eye care professional.

NEWS 5

CooperVision

Programme is built around myopia control lens

CooperVision’s Brilliant Futures Myopia Management Programme, featuring its MiSight 1 day contact lens, is now available in the UK for the management of childhood myopia. The programme seeks to introduce a new standard of care for children with myopia providing inclusive practice, child and parent support for compliance, satisfaction, clinical outcomes and longterm loyalty. It is built around MiSight 1 day contact lenses, with ActivControl Technology, which have been clinically proven to slow the progression of myopia in children as young as eight. New clinical study results have also shown that nearly one in four children’s eyes originally fitted with the lens remained stable for myopia after six years. Brilliant Futures features: a professional accreditation programme delivered through CooperVision’s online Learning Academy; inpractice tools to help identify children most at risk of developing myopia and communication tools to aid the introduction and subsequent commitment to intervention; and a text messaging service, currently in development, linking patients with practitioners to gauge their lens-use experience and identify support needs. Learn more about Brilliant Futures in the practitioner section of the CooperVision website.

Essilor

New Varilux Comfort Max from Essilor uses Flex Optim technology to stretch the ‘useful vision zone’ of the lens by up to 46 per cent. Tim Precious, managing director at Essilor, explained: “The lens has been specifically created for people with busy lifestyles who take part in activities that result in static postures or cause prolonged strain on the eyes. By providing a stretched useful vision zone, Varilux Comfort Max maximises the wearer’s postural flexibility and allows them to see sharply and more comfortably.” Flex Optim technology allows the wearer to adopt up to 258 more postures and head movements. Based on results from a LiveOptics innovation process and in-depth knowledge of wearers’ visual needs and behaviours, 15 different vision profiles have been defined categorised by addition and

Varifocal lens for busy lifestyles

ametropia. Starting from a given vision profile, it adjusts the power progression curve to each prescription, ensuring optimal equilibrium across the vision. Patient leaflets and window posters are available to support the launch.

Millmead Optical Group

Rimless Tech model Andres in icy blue

The new Reykjavik Eyes Rimless Tech collection has been developed in collaboration with Jai Kudo lenses and is available through Continental Eyewear. A modern take on the classic rimless style, the collection features four styles, each available in three colours. Every frame sports a silicone band around the lens rim, adding a pop of colour and defining the shape of the lens. Using screwless technology, each Rimless Tech model is designed in lightweight titanium, with silicone temple tips and riveted temple heads.

Menicon

Menicon has added a new digital calculator to its website to support practitioners prescribing its Miru multifocal lenses. Andrew Ferguson, sales manager for Menicon UK’s Frequent Replacement Division, said: “Achieving first fit success with a patient who is perhaps coming to multifocal lenses for the first time can be challenging. Our new

multifocal calculator produces an instant starting point result, increasing the chances of the patient being fitted with the optimal lens for their particular needs. “This approach, together with the lens’s innovative Hi-Add design with a decentred near zone, is likely to produce high levels of

patient satisfaction,” Andrew continued. “This in turn will increase their loyalty to the practice.” Menicon’s Miru 1 Month multifocal lens also features a smooth deposit-resistant lens surface and exceptional oxygen transmissibility to the cornea. All of Menicon’s calculators can be found at www.menicon.co.uk Vision Now NOVEMBER 2020

Value is found in everything you love “Excellent comfort and ﬁt that stays.” “Excellent value, comfort and ﬁt.” “Lightweight. Fit well. Good value for money.” STEPPER UK Customer Survey August 2020

Not only are STEPPER frames an exceptional fit for your customers, they are a great fit for your business too. Our recent customer survey revealed just why STEPPER frames are so popular. To find out how STEPPER can help your business contact us to arrange a consultation with one of our Business Development Managers.

Frame style shown: SI-60194

NEWS 9

11 ABDO College

Seiko Optical

Dr Robert Cubbidge

Personalised progressive lenses

Seiko Optical has launched a new progressive lens called Seiko Brilliance, combining five new technologies. Using its web-based Personal Design Selector (PDS), practitioners can capture the wearer’s lifestyle preferences, progressive lens history and prescription, to produce a code that will design bespoke lenses. In addition, Seiko Brilliance introduces Twineye 360˚ Modulation Technology, Digital Zoom Equilizer, Balance Zone Technology, and Intelligent Magnification Control. Michelle Lloyd-Bibb, professional services manager at Seiko UK. “The Personal Design Selector fits seamlessly into the dispensing process whilst enabling the ECP to demonstrate the higher level of personalisation and added value that this brings to the wearer experience.” Turn to page 26 to learn more about Seiko Brilliance.

10 Thea Pharmaceuticals

With “a passion for lenses and dispensing”, Rob has extensive knowledge of research programmes and will seek to substantially enhance ABDO’s progress in this area. ABDO general secretary, Tony Garrett, said: “I am delighted that we have managed to recruit such a well-known and respected teacher to build on the tremendous work that Jo Underwood has done and I am sure everyone will give him a warm and generous welcome when he takes up his post.”

12 No 7 Contact Lenses

Thealoz Duo eye drops, Thea’s leading dry eye brand, is repeating its successful TV advertising campaign. Running for six weeks from its 16 October launch, the 20-second advert focuses on the symptoms dry eye sufferers experience, highlighting how Thealoz Duo offers a unique combination of ingredients that are clinically proven to relieve the symptoms of dry eye, without the need for preservatives. The advert goes through the most common symptoms and why consumers need to consider a preservative free solution. The TV advert can be seen on YouTube at www.youtube.com/watch?v=qBkgZ1FizUY, and kicks off wider Thealoz Duo brand activity across social media and online. Practice point-of-sale is available through the Thea sales team, by contacting the Thea order line on 01782 381698 or emailing orders.uk@theapharma.com. Patients can

Dr Robert Cubbidge will take over as principal of ABDO College from July 2021. Rob is currently a senior lecturer in optometry at Aston University, and has held academic posts there since 1998 including programme directorships of the BSc and MOptom programmes. He has been visiting Associate Professor at Aarhus University, Denmark since 2016. He has been an external moderator for ABDO College since 2014, and an external assessor for the ABDO programme in Malaysia.

No7 Contact Lenses has become the exclusive distributor of all Lunelle products in the UK, following the acquisition by SwissLens of the complete Lunelle contact lens portfolio from CooperVision. “We’re delighted that we have the opportunity to add this established and distinguished custom soft lens to our specialist portfolio,” said Ashley Pepper, managing director of No7 Contact Lenses.

Dry eye drops hit the small screen

be directed to Thea’s consumer website at www.youreyehealth.co.uk

“We’re committed to offering an outstanding service to existing patients. But we are equally excited about the opportunity Lunelle designs offer to new patients – especially those who fall outside the parameter range for moulded lenses but still require a high performing soft lens.” SwissLens plans to develop a new line of Lunelle designs featuring the ES70 material in the near future. Vision Now NOVEMBER 2020

HELP MORE WE ARERS

DITCH D I S C O M FO RT THE LENS THAT FEELS LIKE NOTHING 1*

It’s time to start the comfort conversation. When it comes to lens comfort, your patients may not be telling you everything. 2-4 In fact, up to ½ of patients experience lens discomfort. 2 By opening up a comfort conversation with your lens wearers, you can increase patient retention and help them ditch discomfort. Trial you patients with DAILIES TOTAL1® today.

9/ 1 0 WE A R ER S AG R EE T H AT DA I L I ES TOTA L1 ® C O N TACT L EN S ES A R E S O C O M F O R T A B L E T H E Y F E E L L I K E N O T H I N G 5,6*

References: * Percentage of wearers agreeing with the statement “With these lenses, I sometimes forget I have them on.” 1. Perez-Gomez I, Giles T. European survey of contact lens wearers and eye care professionals on satisfaction with a new water gradient daily disposable contact lens. Clinical Optometry. 2014;6:17-23. 2. Nichols JJ, Wilcox MOP, Bron AJ, et al. TFOS International Workshop on Contact Lens Discomfort: Executive Summary. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci. 2013;54:TFOS7-TFOS13. 3. Dumbleton K, Woods CA, Jones LW, Fonn D. The impact of contemporary contact lenses on contact lens discontinuation. Eye & Contact Lens. 2013;39(1):93-99. 4. Alcon data on file, 2006. 5. Perez-Gomez I, Giles T. European survey of contact lens wearers and eye care professionals on satisfaction with a new water gradient disposable contact lens. Clin Optom. 2014;6:17-23. 6. Angelini TE, Nixon RM, Dunn AC, et al. Viscoelasticity and mesh-size at the surface of hydrogels characterized with microrheology. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci. 2013;54:E-abstract 500.

NEWS 13 BCLA

14 De Rigo

Mulberry Millie in pink

The new Mulberry collection from De Rigo features sparkling crystals, embossed details and chain motifs across a range of silhouettes. The brand’s signature elements, including the visible core and Mulberry Tree logo, embellish both lenses and temples. Acetate and metal constructions play with feminine and unisex characters that reflect Mulberry’s iconic approach to bag design – a marriage of usability and aesthetic. Our photograph shows model Millie which features crystal detailing and a cat-eye shape. The use of organic acetate reflects the brand’s Mulberry Green sustainability commitments. Christine Purslow will discuss dry eye lubricants

The British Contact Lens Association’s (BCLA) 2020 UK conference will take place online on Sunday 8 November and will include a virtual exhibition. The theme is ‘Evidencebased practice for today’ with lectures promoting best practice in the management of myopia and dry eye disease. The first digital seminar will be chaired by immediate past president, Jonathon Bench, who will look at the issue of retention and how to grow the category. Sarah Smith will discuss, ‘Eyes on the planet: sustainability in practice’. Further sessions include, ‘Science of compliance’ chaired by Dr Katharine Evans, and ‘Evidence-based practice’ chaired by Professor James Wolffsohn. Christine Purslow will hold an online peer review session on ‘Lubricants for dry eye: what’s it all about?’, while Craig McArthur will present, ‘Perfecting communication for successful myopia management’. During the virtual exhibition, delegates will be able to contact suppliers directly and view product demos during coffee breaks throughout the main programme. Register at www.bcla.org.uk

15 CooperVision A survey of more than 5,000 contact lens wearers, commissioned by CooperVision, has been incorporated into a new downloadable practice guide, ‘Beyond vision correction: the real impact of contact lens wear on patients’. Eighty-nine per cent of survey respondents from Germany, the UK, Spain, Japan and the US agreed that contact lenses had ‘improved their quality of life’, while more than four in five stated they felt attractive and confident when wearing contact lenses. When compared to wearing their spectacles, 78 per cent believed they ‘saw better’ in contact lenses, including presbyopes aged 55 and over. Dr Gary Orsborn, vice president, global professional, medical and clinical affairs for CooperVision, said: “Contact lenses’ ability to emotionally enable and empower people are powerful motivators. This data has the potential to stimulate more trials, purchase, retention and wearer delight, becoming a valuable tool with which ECPs can enhance

Emotional benefits in focus

their practices.” The guide, which also offers advice for incorporating the survey insights into practice, can be downloaded at coopervision.com/impact-contact-lens

16 ABDO A survey by the Association of British Dispensing Opticians (ABDO) has exposed harassment and discrimination within the optical industry. Twenty-one per cent of survey respondents did not know if their company had discrimination or harassment policies – and 12 per cent reported their companies did not. Forty-seven per cent of female respondents reported prejudice on

grounds of gender ‘sometimes’, ‘a lot of the time’ or ‘almost all of the time’; responses on the grounds of age and race were 32 and 24 per cent respectively. ABDO president, Jo Holmes, said: “I am shocked and dismayed by the results of this survey. It is everyone’s duty to promote and practise equality, inclusion and to respect

diversity. It shows that our members are on the receiving end of prejudiced behaviour at work, which is unacceptable.” ABDO is calling on employers to highlight their policies on discrimination and harassment, and improve training for managers on handling complaints. It has issued policy guidance on the ABDO website, and offers resources for both employers and employees. Vision Now NOVEMBER 2020

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NEWS 17

Worshipful Company of Spectacle Makers

18 Silhouette

Charity chair, Liz Shilling

The Worshipful Company of Spectacle Makers (WCSM) has launched a new charity combining two previous grant giving trusts: one promoting support for optical education and the other for organisations helping vision impaired people get the most out of life. The trusts have previously given over £70,000 a year in charitable support, and is currently inviting applications for its 2020 bursary scheme for first-year optical students. Chairman of the Spectacle Makers’ Charity, Liz Shilling, said: “In this pandemic year there are extra challenges, both for vision charities and their recipients and for young people starting their careers in eye health. The Spectacle Makers’ Charity will play its part in helping them, as part of our ongoing mission to support better vision for all.” Find out more at www.spectaclemakers.com

Sivista model 7530 for women

Silhouette’s new Sivista collection comprises of eight striking new shapes – four women’s, two men’s and two unisex – in an array of colours. Featuring SPX+ titanium sides, the collection delivers a translucent design with hand-painted finishes. All models can be custom-fitted at Silhouette’s in-house lens lab in Liz, Austria, with lenses from Silhouette Vision Sensation. Silhouette recently installed a 2,500m2 solar panel on the roof of its Linz lab. The use of the panels to generate power to manufacture the brand’s eyewear and lenses on site, will reduce Silhouette’s CO2 emissions by 240 tons per year. It will also enable Silhouette to reduce the amount of energy purchased from outside sources by up to 10 per cent annually.

19 General Optical Council The General Optical Council (GOC) has launched a consultation seeking views on how it can continue to support registrants and the optical sector throughout the Covid-19 pandemic as different parts of the UK experience local and potentially national restrictions now and in the future. Find out more about the consultation at www.optical.org, and respond by the closing date of 7 January 2021.

20 Essilor One-year interim clinical trial results undertaken in China have shown Essilor’s Stellest lens to slow down myopia progression in children by more than 60 per cent, when compared to children wearing single vision lenses. The ongoing three-year clinical trial on 167 myopic children started in 2018 in Essilor’s joint Research and Development Center with its key partner, the Wenzhou Medical University, in China. The one-year results also showed eye elongation was prevented in 28 per cent of the children wearing Stellest lenses, while eye elongation occurred in all the children wearing single vision lenses. The lens has been designed with Essilor’s HALT technology (Highly Aspherical Lenslet Target), which consists of a constellation of aspherical lenslets spread on 11 rings to create a volume of signal that slows down eye elongation. Read more about Stellest and the trial at www.essilor.com

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NEWS 21 Opti

23 CooperVision

Dr Juan Carlos Aragón Looking onwards to 2022

Opti 2021, due to take place in Stuttgart from 8-10 January, has been cancelled. Dieter Dohr, chairman of the management board of GHM, the show’s organiser, said: “...it was with a heavy heart that we decided to take this step. The decision to cancel was really not an easy one for us. We are now gathering our strength, looking to the future and directing our focus towards Opti 2022, which will once again provide a positive impetus to the optical industry.” The next Opti will take place at Fairground Munich from 14 to 16 January 2022.

22 Alcon The Alcon Experience Academy is holding an evening webinar for optometrists on 18 November at 8pm titled, ‘Challenging your perceptions about ophthalmology’. Presenters, consultant ophthalmologists Simon Madge and Jonathan Ross, will look at how Covid-19 has led to an exponential increase in cataract surgery waiting lists in the UK, and how the role the private practice pathway in meeting this challenge. The presenters will also ‘debunk myths’ about ophthalmology and cataract surgery, and discuss when and how to refer, common challenges, and the key part optometrists play in improving eye health in this patient group. This educational webinar is the first in a series covering a wide range of topics related to the ‘new normal’, and has been approved for one CET point by the General Optical Council. Register at https://tinyurl.com/y3gwwek or email alcon.academy@alcon.com for more information.

Paragon CRT and Paragon CRT Dual Axis contact lenses have received CE marking for slowing the progression of myopia. Both designs are now approved in 32 European markets for myopia control indications for children and young adults with up to 6.00D of myopia and up to 1.75D of astigmatism. This represents the highest approval range for orthokeratology lenses in the region, and the first European Union-approved ortho-k myopia control option for patients with myopia over 4.00D, said CooperVision. “Paragon CRT gaining CE mark status represents another major milestone in CooperVision’s commitment to advancing myopia management technologies and practice,” said Dr Juan Carlos Aragón, president, CooperVision Specialty EyeCare. In a two-year study, Paragon CRT lenses were shown to reduce axial length growth by 56 per cent. The lenses are available in Paragon HDS 100 (paflufocon D) and Paragon HDS (paflufocon B) materials.

24 Kirk and Kirk

Big Guy in jade

Kirk and Kirk has launched two new styles – Guy and Angus – in its Centena collection designed for larger head sizes. Each style is available in 10 technicolour tints and the eye sizes are 59 and 60 – “big enough to accommodate the biggest of brains”. Created from the company’s unique grade acrylic, the frames weigh a fraction of acetate or metal frames while the 10mm material is ideal for “the most challenging of lenses”. All Kirk and Kirk frames are handmade from start to finish in the company’s factory in France. Vision Now NOVEMBER 2020

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Order your trial lenses today: N 0845 602 2350 E cs.vc.uk@bausch.com † 98% for 16 hours. *Excluding made-to-order toric lenses. **UV-absorbing contact lenses are NOT substitutes for UV-absorbing sunglasses. You should continue to use UV absorbing sunglasses as directed. 1. ACLM, 2020. ACLM Year Book Online. https://www.aclm.org.uk/online-access/ 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. FDA (2012) 510(k) summary, B+L nesoﬁlcon A contact lens. 4. Based on a comparison of manufacturer provided parameter ranges of May 21st 2020. Biotrue is a trademark of Bausch & Lomb Incorporated or its affiliates. All other brand names are trademarks of their respective owners. ©2020 Bausch & Lomb Incorporated or its affiliates. BOD.0016.IE.20

PRACTICE MATTERS

Developing thoughts This month, Phil Mullins looks at how to create your own destiny in a disruptive environment with some practical guidance

Making your own future In business we are always trying to plan for the future. Most of you will have a five-year or even a 10-year plan for your business, which may in turn be broken down into 12month segments, thus enabling you to look at short-term, medium-term and long-term objectives. But as this year has shown, things do not always go to plan with events out of our control pushing us off course. But that is not to say we cannot take a different route and end up at the same destination. When planning for the future, we need to look at what we know or at least have a good idea of what might happen. For instance, we know that Covid-19 will become less of an issue and life will return to some sort of normal. We may not know when exactly, but during 2021 it will become less of an issue as treatments and vaccines come on board. The issue from the pandemic is what damage it has done to the economy, unemployment rates and how the government will expect us to pay for it. Although these things are out of our control, we still need to consider them when planning for the future. We also need to consider how to protect our business from the next pandemic that might come along. Another area to consider is disruptors. All industries have them, but the optical industry seems to have more than its fair share. Over the years, we have had some very successful ones and then some not so successful. The multiples and supermarkets have had a major impact on our market – but the various attempts by international companies to muscle in on the UK have seemingly failed every time. Currently, the whole market is being disrupted by the internet, while the independent sector is being disrupted by companies buying up parts of the sector. All of this moves the marketplace, reduces the size of the independent sector and makes it harder to be successful.

WHERE TO NEXT? So, what about planning for the next few years? Where should we be going and what should we be aiming for? In the last couple of articles, I have discussed going private and having the tools to do so; these are elements that need to be considered, but I am a great believer in creating your own destiny. So often when an industry takes a hit, or a major disruptor come along, an industry swings one way or another.

There are, however, certain elements that are going in the independent sector’s favour. Firstly, although this year has seen the online market grow faster than ever, results from Europe indicate that this is not as bad as first thought and not particularly long-lasting. In addition, though some patients will never return to practice, it is price led businesses that will be impacted more by internet sales than the majority of independents. Secondly, there is a growing movement towards buying local. This trend has accelerated during the pandemic as people began working from home and using their local shops more often. There is a strong trend to support small local businesses and knowledge, and for knowing where your goods come from. People are realising that small can mean a better, more personal service; the one thing that Covid-19 has shown is that people like people, buy from people and want to interact with people.

So, for instance, when the major players came to our market focusing on cost, many practices felt they had to compete by offering cheaper products or reducing their offering. Many practices have stopped fitting contact lenses because they feel they can’t make money because patients go off to the internet. But this is having your future dictated to you by others. Instead, create your own destiny; look at your business and see where it can work. This might include going private, or it might mean offering more specialist services such as independent prescribing, minor eye conditions services, dry eye clinics or diabetic screening. It could mean actually increasing your prices and seeing fewer patients, but spending more time with them and making higher sales per patient. You might want to embrace technology or spread out to additional practices or take on hearing care. But whatever you do, look at where you want to be and plan your route. You may have to deviate occasionally, but focus on the end game of success. And remember – you are not alone. There is a lot of help out there, not only from NEG and Optinet, but from Andy Clark and the NEG Business Club, Myers LaRoche, many of our key suppliers and organisations such as ABDO and the AIO. The support for the independent sector has never been greater, so now is the time to plan for your future success. Vision Now NOVEMBER 2020

PRODUCT PROFILE

E-Scoop: Improving vision for patients with AMD Lenstec has added an essential new tool to its portfolio for AMD sufferers. We discover more... In July 2020, the Lenstec Optical Group was offered the opportunity to become the UK distributor for the E-Scoop prescription lens designed for patients with age-related macular degeneration (AMD). With an already loyal following of existing E-Scoop practitioners providing lots of proven success, a growing number of AMD sufferers, optical professionals still unaware of this product as well as a further new lens to launch within the UK, the Lenstec Optical Group felt this an essential lens to add to its portfolio. With reports of more than 600,000 sufferers, AMD is currently the biggest cause of sight loss in the UK. It is estimated that at the age of 60, one in 200 people will have AMD impairing their vision, and at the age of 90, one in five will be affected by the condition. With the current increase in life expectancy, we can expect to see more and more patients with AMD impacting upon their vision and quality of life. It is important to remember that however developed AMD becomes for the patient, total sight loss is rare – and despite the severity of the deterioration of central vision, some level of peripheral sight will remain. This is where the E-Scoop lens looks to support vision by utilising the healthier area of the macula and improving contrast and magnification to support the quality of the redirected vision.

Vision with and without E-Scoop

The special thickness and curvature of the lens offers an increased magnification of three to seven per cent depending the wearer’s prescription. The prism is essential in shifting the retina image from the fovea to a healthier part of the retina. Base up prism is recommended, as this will shift the viewed image into the superior macular area and away from the inferior retina, which is more commonly affected (Figure 1). Being a subjective test, base down can also be explored and prescribed as best supports the patient’s response. As standard, E-Scoop is prescribed with a yellow tint. A clear and a sun brown option

are available, but the yellow tint is to provide a better contrast for the patient as well as protect from shorter wavelength visible and ultraviolet light. The AR coating increases light transmission, and removes distracting glare.

SIMPLE ASSESSMENT AND FITTING The lens is available in a wide range of prescriptions and by creating a singular prescription lens with all of the above benefits, the wearer can appreciate the best optics as well as a cosmetically superior and more discreet experience than with bulky clip-on solutions. The lenses can be glazed into most standard full rim metal and plastic frames.

FIVE DISTINCT DESIGN ELEMENTS Invented by Dutch Optometrist, Frans Oosterhof, E-Scoop is the first lens to introduce many elements into one solution specifically for patients with AMD. The E-Scoop lens is a patented design incorporating five distinct optical elements: magnification, prims, contrast filter, a high quality anti-reflection (AR) coating, and individual refractive correction.

Vision Now NOVEMBER 2020

Figure 1: E-Scoop offers improved vision for AMD sufferers

PRODUCT PROFILE NEW FOR 2020 In addition to the E-Scoop distance lens, we now have a further product designed to support the near vision for patients with AMD – the E-Scoop Detail. The E-Scoop Detail uses the same tint and coating technologies but the preset power and nasally directed prism replaces the refracted add power. This brings the viewed near object to a closer working distance of 20cm and gives a larger magnified image with improved contrast (Figure 2). Again, it is easy to assess the benefits for the patient by positioning the E-Scoop Detail demonstration lorgnette in front of a trial frame with their distance correction in place.

Figure 2: Near vision benefits of E-Scoop Detail

By combining all of these elements into a single lens, using the trial set to assess for suitability and improved vision for the patient couldn’t be easier. Whilst wearing the refracted prescription in the trial frame, simply introduce the E-Scoop demonstration lorgnette and ask the patient to report any improvements in vision. It’s recommended to take the patient out of the test room to carry out the exercise as most of the improvement is appreciated in everyday experiences such as recognising faces, noticing previously lost details and

viewing objects they may have missed. With no adaptation time required, the reports of improved vision should be instant – allowing the practitioner to explore prism direction and ensure the patient will benefit from the lens prior to making up a prescription pair. Successful E-Scoop lens wearers report better visual acuity, sharper, more relaxed vision as well as improved mobility navigating around potential trip hazards. The lack of reliance on others and the ability to function independently improves confidence and general wellbeing.

OUR AMAZING OUR

Full training is available either within your practice or online as appropriate. Contact your Lenstec Optical Group regional account manager for more details on training, to enquire about a fitting set, or to order an E-Scoop Detail upgrade to your existing set. E-Scoop is available from any Lenstec Optical Group site including Lenstec Optical, Tant Labs and Rawdon Optical – and all glazing is carried out on state-of-the-art MEI edging systems to ensure the most accurate and cosmetically appealing finish. Article provided by the Lenstec Optical Group.

Choose and receive 60 Frames Free of Charge across our ranges Use the loan stock to order complete Glazed Packages from either Lenstec, Tant or Rawdon Labs Our very competitive package pricing comes complete with SV Lenses lower than list price of the Frame Simple no quibble agreement and immediate delivery No Middle Supplier Postage hidden in cost

SCHEME

Order 9 jobs and have the 10th order Free of Charge (Lens Choice

Unit 8, Bedwas Business Centre Bedwas, Caerphilly, CF83 8DU T: 02920 883 009 | F: 02920 889 798 E: LenstecCC@lenstec.co.uk

1 Clayton Wood Court Leeds, LS16 6QW T: 01132 883094 | F: 01132 883095 E: RawdonCC@rawdonoptical.co.uk

17 Twyford Business Centre, London Road, Bishop’s Stortford, Hertfordshire, CM23 3YT T: 01279 653785 | F: 01279 658308 E: TantCC@tantlabs.com

conditions apply)

MANUFACTURED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE MEDICAL DEVICES DIRECTIVE

Keep dispensing over and over again with no restrictions using the loyalty card.

BS EN ISO 13485:2016

MEMBER BENEFITS

Portal to the future As with many businesses, NEG is constantly looking at ways to improve how we work with our members. One particular area is our monthly statement. Currently this is sent via post, along with copies of the supplier invoices, Vision Now and the members’ monthly update. Although a perfectly efficient way of getting the information to you, there are a number of issues. First is the time it takes to get through the postal system, which can take up to three days. Second is the cost of postage, which over the last 10 years or so has dramatically increased, let alone the cost of paper and printing. Finally, there is the impact on the environment, which we must all take into account for our future generations. Start by logging into the My Account section

Earlier this year, we started emailing members their statement, which meant you received the information two or three days earlier. This was roundly welcomed by members across the country and made a real difference during lockdown, with many members working from home. We followed this up by launching our online accounts portal, where you can view statements, copies of invoices and see your spend across suppliers. With the benefits that this brings for everyone, we recently announced that from January we will be going fully electronic with our monthly statements and members will not receive the paper version, unless you specifically ask for it. With this in mind, we thought it would be beneficial for us to give an overview of how the portal works and what information you can see there.

SIMPLIFYING THE PROCESS Firstly, to log in to the NEG statement portal go to our website at www.nationaleyecare.co.uk and click on the blue My Account tab near the top right corner. Then simply log in with the details that we have given you. This will take you to the customer page, which shows your details and the accounts attached to your login. From the home page, you can request details to be updated or further accounts to be added or deducted from your portal. In the top right corner, you will see a green box, ‘View your statements and invoices’. Click the box which will lead to the statement section. In the top right, you can choose the month that you wish to view. Then click ‘Get statements’. This will load the statement for the chosen period. The statement will display the list in supplier order as it does currently on the paper version, with the summary at the bottom. You can scroll up and down the list to see all the content. Each line will represent an invoice. If there is a

Vision Now NOVEMBER 2020

paperclip at the end of the line, you can click on the clip which will display a PDF of that invoice. Where there isn’t a paperclip, the invoice is sent to you directly by the supplier which once again is in line with our current system. The second tab of the statement box is, ‘Spent with each supplier’, which shows the total you have spent that period with each supplier. There are also two blue boxes – ‘Get PDF’ and ‘Get CSV’. The ‘Get PDF’ box gives a PDF of the complete statement, the ‘Get CSV’ one downloads a CSV file of the statement summary, formatted for loading into Xero accounting software. With Making Tax Digital legislation, you now need to submit VAT digitally and we would highly recommend the Xero accounting software. We use it ourselves; it is integrated with Optinet FLEX and you can download the file from the portal. By selecting different periods, you can now view previous statements, but also if you untick the ‘Single period’ tick box you can enter start and end dates. When you click ‘Get statements’, it will display invoices for that entire period and the ‘Spent with each supplier’ summary will cover that period. You can select a period of up to 12 months. Statements are available back to April 2018. If you view the current month, you will receive an error message, as the details won’t be on the system. We will email you each month to say the statement has been processed for that month and is available through the portal. We hope that this gives you a good overview of how to use the portal, but if you have any queries or don’t have the login details for the portal, please email me at s.charlesworth@nationaleyecare.co.uk. Additional information is available on our ‘How to’ video – also available at https://youtu.be/Tizu0-Mm6m0 Sandi Charlesworth is NEG business development manager.

www.nationaleyecare.co.uk

As NEG goes increasingly paperless, Sandi Charlesworth provides a step-by-step guide to using the member statement portal

™

B.I.G. VISION FOR ALL

OUR EYES MOVE 250,000 TIMES A DAY. ONLY BIOMETRIC INTELLIGENCE CAN SUPPORT THAT. Our vision is in a constant dynamic state. That’s why progressive lenses must support vision at all angles – not just at one central focus point. To do that, you need precise data about the eye. At Rodenstock, we determine all the relevant biometrics of the whole eye. This includes the length and several thousand data points in the eye – far beyond industry standards. These data points are integrated directly into the lens, orchestrating a construction process which results in lenses that are precise to the micrometre. By accurately hitting the sharp vision centre of every eye, we provide people with the sharpest vision at all angles, no matter where they look. We are vision experts since 1877. B.I.G Vision™ is our philosophy and unique to Rodenstock – because we recognise that every eye is different. We call these lenses B.I.G. BIOMETRIC INTELLIGENT GLASSES™

Read more about B.I.G. Vision™ at rodenstock.com/bigvisionforall

PRODUCT PROFILE

Safe practice support Step forward with Rodenstock During these very challenging times, we find out how Rodenstock is supporting its customers with a safe practice system

The optical industry is going through some very tough times right now. Practices have suddenly found themselves really analysing how they can make their patients feel safe when visiting the premises and want to raise the game in providing the very best service and products.

• 92 per cent experienced sharper vision • 84 per cent had better contrast vision • Adaptation time was reduced for 87 per cent of participants In partnership with Rodenstock, BIG Vision enables practices to stand out from their competitors with a truly unique offering compared to other manufacturers. This partnership allows practices to provide compelling reasons to their patients to upgrade to these high-quality products – leading to increased patient satisfaction, more recommendations and higher practice turnover. As of October 2020, Rodenstock is supporting its customers even further with a comprehensive marketing campaign designed to help practices attract new and existing patients.

Rodenstock is in exactly the same boat and want to support all its customers, new and existing, to step forward together in partnership. With price drops and freezes, campaigns to help sales and, with the use of innovative equipment and technology, Rodenstock truly believes it has the winning combination. With the DNEye Scanner (Figure 1), the ImpressionIST 4 and BIG Vision, practices can safely take socially distanced, high precision measurements of their patient’s eyes, individualised measures of both frame and facial fit that allows Rodenstock to manufacture the most accurate, Biometric Intelligent Glasses providing patients with their most comfortable vision ever.

MAKING A BIG DIFFERENCE For the first time, with the introduction of the DNEye Scanner 2+, Rodenstock is able to measure the full focusing system of every single eye (Figure 2). No longer is there a reliance on using a 120-year old reduced and simplified model of the eye to base lens design upon. Gullstrand’s model has served us well up until now, however, we can now confidently throw it away and base our lens designs on the patient sitting in our practice – True Precision Vision. The DNEye scanner, using unique patented technologies, records thousands of data points – far beyond industry standards – and combines these with measurements of corneal and lenticular powers, anterior and posterior chamber depths and total axial length to build a biometric model of each unique eye. It is this biometric model that Rodenstock’s Biometric Intelligent Glasses are designed from rather than Gullstrand’s.

Vision Now NOVEMBER 2020

Figure 1: The DNEye scanner for high precision eye measurements

When you compare the measurements of the reduced eye model to the real world, it can be shown that only two per cent of the global population fit exactly leaving the other 98 per cent potentially with glasses that do not fit their eyes precisely. Rodenstock feels it’s time for this to change.

The benefits a DNEye Scanner offers to a practice are numerous; • High precision, comprehensive eye measurements (Figure 3) • Stand out from the crowd with a real USP • Social distancing • Increased reputation with patients as a vision expert

BIG BENEFITS FOR PATIENT AND PRACTICE You might be asking yourself: “Does it really make a difference?” or “How can this really be true?” By realising that we actually see with our brains rather than our eyes, Rodenstock really began to fully understand the dynamic demands on our complete visual systems. Having a complete biometric data set and model means that the combination of BIG Vision and DNEye Technology delivers up to 40 per cent sharper vision at near and intermediate distances and an 8.5° wider field of sharp vision at near. True Precision Vision could now be available to all. However, what have patients found in the real world? A study found the following statistics: • 88 per cent of wearers noticed greater visual comfort than before

Figure 2: BIG Vision determines the biometrics of the whole eye

PRODUCT PROFILE

Figure 3: The DNEye Scanner 2+ helps create security and trust

• Increased profitability • Save space by replacing several devices with the multi-faceted DNEye scanner e.g. Auto-refractor Non-contact tonometer Pachymeter • BIG Vision marketing support • Biometric Intelligent Glasses Thanks to a very intuitive interface screen on the scanner, quick adoption rate from all practice staff is increased and the results can be viewed from any networked PC. This allows for consistent information to follow each patient around the practice.

MAXIMUM CONSULTING, MINIMAL SPACE The latest generation of video centration and patient measuring technology from Rodenstock, the ImpressionIST 4 is where theatre meets amazing accuracy and

reliability. Incorporating a 3D camera system, the ImpressionIST also offers lens consulting and ordering all wrapped up in a stunning ergonomic design that once again encourages social distancing by allowing operation via a tablet (Figure 4). Coming from excellent stock, the multi-award winning ImpressionIST 4 (Winner of the Red Dot Design Award 2017, the iF Design Award 2017 and the German Design Award 2018) has been designed, adapted and optimised from the previous Rodenstock version and guarantees the very best in individual consulting and suitability for all practices. Highlights are the innovative lighting concept and the colour-illuminated LED on/off switch as a functional eye-catcher. Reliability has also been improved with the internal workings all being assessed and updated to the latest improved versions where possible.

Realising that not all practices are the same, the ImpressionIST 4 is available in two different versions, free-standing and wall-mounted, to ensure a fit to every practice in the best way possible – even those with limited space – and still providing its many benefits. With both versions catching a patient’s interest immediately, the wall mounted version does not take up as much sales space due to its intelligent installation. With the control unit (PC) attached inconspicuously on the back of the unit, all the data is combined in the one system. This way, once the image has been captured, the data can be accessed from different consulting areas with networked PC’s meaning that multiple patients can be served at the same time. The key features and benefits of the ImpressionIST 4 are: • Quick, easy measurements are possible giving a better experience to patients • Tablet operation enables social distancing • Multi-user access to the data from networked PCs allows for more patients to be measured • Single-photo feature keeps speed and efficiency high • Fully integrated lens consulting software enables better lifestyle dispensing • No additional frame attachment (jig) required ensuring exact frame fit and more patient friendly • Greater patient satisfaction • Rodenstock Perfection Lenses offer truly unique vision opportunities for spectacle wearers • The innovative stereo cameral system ensures high-precision 3D video measurement and spectacles that are perfectly suited to the individual requirements of the patient • Individual pupil diameters can be quickly and easily calculated. The determined measured values allow for even more exact calculation of the pupil-optimised correction, and are automatically taken into consideration as new additional parameters for all lenses in the Rodenstock Perfection category Is it time you considered stepping forward with Rodenstock? For more information about DNEye, BIG Vision or the ImpressionIST 4, contact your Rodenstock regional lens manager or Rodenstock customer service on 01474 325555.

Figure 4: The ImpressionIST 4 guarantees optimal individual consulting and adaptation

Article supplied by Rodenstock. Vision Now NOVEMBER 2020

A breakthrough in Myopia control for children 2020 SILMO d’Or Award Winner MiyoSmart is a new non invasive myopia management lens which is both safe and convenient for the patient -just like ordinary spectacle lenses. The lenses provide vision correction so the wearer will experience comfortable vision in daily wear. All this whilst working to reduce the progression of their shortsightedness. They are easy to adapt to and are suitable for full time daily wear for a wide range of activities.

D.I.M.S. Technology

Eye Protection

• Clinically proven to correct both myopia and provide effective control • Reduces myopia progression on average by 60%*

Available in the UK & Ireland soon, please register your interest here: * Myopia progression (SER) by 59% and axial elongation (AL) decreased by 60% compared with those wearing SV lenses.

• Safe and durable, suitable for active wear • Provides comprehensive UV protection for the eyes

MiYOSMART Coating • Easy clean finish • Special anti-reflective durable coating

AIO CONFERENCE

New year, new dates The AIO conference will now take place in January 2021, as Christian French explains

In last month’s Vision Now, we previewed the AIO virtual conference that was scheduled to take place for nine days from 7 November; but plans have now changed. The AIO council has decided to postpone the conference and move it to the last week in January 2021. So, why the decision? Well there were a number of factors. First of all, as a result of the Covid-19 lockdown, and with longer appointment times to take safeguarding into account, many practices are currently flat out. With appointments stretching out towards the end of the year, time for practitioners is at a premium. There is also a sense that some practitioners are rather ‘webinared out’ due to the number of online sessions that have been put on in recent weeks and months. A further consideration is that with the relaxation of the CET time frame requirements, there will not be any late year scramble for points. January is traditionally a quieter month for practices and, of course, many independents will have had 100% Optical in their diaries, which has now been pushed back to May 2021. There were also the logistics to consider in arranging such an ambitious event; the virtual conference experts that we are working with have counselled that allowing more time for planning will reduce the risks associated with using complex technology. It will also provide the best experience for delegates and the optimum exposure for sponsors and exhibitors. This additional planning time will also allow us to add a student stream to the conference, providing a unique opportunity for optical students across the country to gather together virtually. Needless to say, the up-and-coming generation of clinicians-in-training are already very familiar with the use of technology from their studies, and thus a bumper attendance can be guaranteed. The AIO has also decided to provide greater exposure to friends and supporters of the Association, and so there will be a Charity

Stream for students will be added

of the Day feature on all nine days of the event.

STRONGER FOCUS ON BUSINESS The planned clinical programme will remain largely the same, with a wide range of CET lectures, workshops and peer reviews covering the whole range of competencies required by optometrists, dispensing opticians, contact lens opticians and independent prescribers. There will still be panel sessions discussing topical issues, such as the move by many practices away from the NHS to look after private patients only. There is also likely to be much discussion about the General Optical Council’s Education Strategic Review and the post Covid-19 world for optometry. One slight change of emphasis will be towards a stronger business stream. The Covid-19 pandemic has caused many practices to take stock of the way they are operating and to look at improving their business models, their use of technology, the range of services that they offer and optimising their income. There will be a focus on each of these areas with dedicated sessions, and case studies to illustrate how different approaches may be appropriate to different practices, depending on location and patient demographics.

The postponement until January will also provide more time to pre-fill the diaries of sponsors and exhibitors with one-to-one appointments. This works well, not just for the sponsors and exhibitors, but also the delegates. It will allow them to schedule their time so that they can take as long as they want engaging with their chosen suppliers without feeling rushed to get to the next lecture, which so often happens with physical events. It also allows the exhibitors to request sessions with specific delegates who they wish to engage with. AIO conferences have always been noted for their friendly atmosphere and social programmes, and whilst 2020 will mark the first time in 65 years that a conference has not taken place within the calendar year, plans are already in progress to resume with a physical event in October 2021. To book your space at the conference, please contact Lin or Mike on 0800 1300 486, or email lin@aiovision.org. And remember: NEG members get a discount of £20 on all non-AIO member bookings. Christian French is chairman of the Association for Independent Optometrists and Dispensing Opticians. Vision Now NOVEMBER 2020

PRODUCT PROFILE

Seiko Brilliance

A new premium progressive Seiko Brilliance features five new technologies that push the boundaries of progressive lens wear in the digital age, writes Michelle Lloyd-Bibb Available to order since 10 October, new Seiko Brilliance progressive lenses provide supreme vision for all lifestyles, demanding maximum precision. The way we see the world is changing, and our eyes are facing new challenges. The increasing use of digital devices means our visual system is forced to cope with accommodation and convergence over increasingly long periods of time1. With the closer working distances that smartphone use often dictates, near distances have also reduced by almost half – to between 20-30cm2-5 (Figure 1). Demographic changes are also increasing the potential number of progressive lens wearers6,7. Nowadays, we use progressive lenses for nearly half of our lives8. When using smaller displays, frequent focusing on specific areas with extremely small text sizes, has led to a desire – and a need – for spectacle lenses that enable relaxed vision with clear imaging over prolonged periods of time5.

DISCOVER THE BENEFITS Seiko Brilliance builds on Seiko Optical’s current progressive lens portfolio, and is an addition to the range rather than a replacement to any of the current progressive lenses. Seiko Brilliance provides the utmost level of customisation, as not only are the lenses made to the wearer’s individual facial or frame parameters, the design will also be based on the wearer’s personal lifestyle preference.

Figure 1: Seiko Brilliance addresses the needs of the digital age

• Balance Zone Technology • Intelligent Magnification Control

With Twineye 360° Modulation Technology, Seiko has significantly advanced the TMT technology launched in 2016. This technology offers effortless and quick focusing, consistent visual stability and improved depth of focus. It also increases spontaneous tolerance and reduces symptoms of fatigue, irrespective of the direction of vision, viewing distance and frequency of changes of view.

vertical and horizontal directions (Figure 2). The binocular visual fields are coordinated with one another in the intermediate and near vision areas. The progressive power distribution of simple progressive lenses produces unwanted prismatic effects with horizontal changes of view. The unequal distortions that result between each eye can impair binocular vision and binocular fixation. In a nutshell, Seiko Brilliance manages to control the unwanted prismatic effect and improve binocular performance when the eyes move laterally as well as vertically.

The optimised power distribution of unwanted prismatic effects – due to differences in power between the right and left prescriptions – now occurs in the

Digital Zoom Equilizer creates wider intermediate and near vision areas due to an adapted calculation of astigmatic effects

NEXT-GENERATION BINOCULAR VISION

LENSES FOR THE DIGITAL AGE

This improved level of personalisation is driven by the introduction of the Personal Design Selector (PDS). This web-based tool enables the practitioner to capture the wearer’s lifestyle preference, and previous progressive lens history and prescription, to produce a lens design code specific to their individual needs. In addition to this higher level of personalisation, Seiko Brilliance introduces four new additional technologies: • Twineye 360° Modulation Technology • Digital Zoom Equalizer

Vision Now NOVEMBER 2020

Figure 2: Unwanted prismatic effect are controlled with Twineye 360˚

PRODUCT PROFILE contributes to aesthetic optimisation. The lens radii are modified and cosmetics are enhanced by changing lens thicknesses. All of this is achieved whilst full visual quality and acuity is provided in both areas.

DISTORTION AND IMAGING

Figure 3: Digital Zoom Equilizer creates wider intermediate and near vision areas

(Figure 3). The astigmatic power and axis positions are added in a controlled manner during the calculation process, with it calculated and produced separately for the near portion allowing the distance portion to be unaffected or reduced in size. In addition to a noticeable gain in the intermediate and near areas, the transition becomes more relaxed and vision more comfortable. Digital Zoom Equalizer makes it easier for the visual system to function at different near distances, for example, when using smartphones.

BALANCED AESTHETICS AND APPEARANCE With higher prescriptions, the appearance of the lens itself, as well as the appearance of the wearer, will be influenced by the prescription value. The increased edge or centre thickness, and the resulting increase in magnification or ‘minification’ of the wearer’s facial contours and eye size, leads to the eyes losing their natural appearance and the wearer’s facial contours being affected. By adjusting the existing differences in image scale and lens thickness in certain areas, Seiko Balance Zone Technology makes it possible to positively change the appearance of the Brilliance lens and the wearer (Figure 4).The surface of the lens is divided into two areas: the central area is responsible for best possible optical imaging and visual quality; the outer area

Ideally, natural vision means clear vision, i.e. as if there are no spectacles at all. For those with presbyopia, this is not always possible; the reading addition results in magnification due to the additional positive power. Consequently, progressive lens wearers must learn to accept distortion and different image ratios from their lenses. To effectively influence distortion and image ratio control within the Seiko Brilliance product, the distribution of the add power is optimised across the lens surfaces using Seiko’s Intelligent Magnification Control. The lens considers the specific properties of the images created by the prescription and addition for the intermediate and near vision areas, to enhance them and provide a much more natural image size.

FEEDBACK FROM WEARERS Prior to the launch of Seiko Brilliance, customers were given the opportunity to try out the new lens. The testimonies that were received certainly bore out the benefits expected from this premium progressive lens. Not unsurprisingly to Seiko, ‘brilliant’ was the most commonlyused term to describe the overall lens performance. The adaptation to the lens was also found to be much easier, with an easy transition from many differing previous lens designs.

OPPORTUNITIES FOR THE PRACTICE The dispensing process for such a premium personalised progressive lens was also a key consideration in its design. To that end, Seiko Brilliance does not require any additional

Figure 4: Balance Zone Technology improves the appearance of both lens and wearer

equipment – just simply internet access to enable the completion of the PDS tool. The completion of the PDS will also complement the dispensing consultation; it fits seamlessly into the dispensing process whilst enabling the practitioner to demonstrate the higher level of personalisation and added value that this brings to the wearer experience. The aim of Seiko Brilliance is to provide practitioners with a progressive lens that they can feel confident in recommending, with little or no adaptation issues, high performance across the visual areas, and the opportunity to meet the needs of today’s increasing presbyopic market. For further information about Seiko Brilliance or the full Seiko range, please email infouk@seikovision.com Michelle Lloyd-Bibb is professional services manager at Seiko UK.

REFERENCES 1. Schumacher L. Just how much time do we spend each day with digital media? eMarketer. April 2014 http://www.vicimediainc.com/justmuch-time-spend-day-digital-media/ [Accessed 25 August 2020] 2. GlobalWebIndex. Survey based internet users 16-64 years. Q2-Q3 2017. ComScore MMX Multi-Platform January 2017. http://www.smartinsights.com/mobilemarketing/mobile-marketing-analytics/ mobile-marketing-statistics/ attachment/mobile-share-of-onlinetime-percent-2017 [Accessed 25 August 2020] 3. Think with Google. New data. How people use their devices. September 2016. www.thinkwithgoogle.com 4. Bababekova Y, Rosenfield M, Hue JE, Huang RR. Font size and viewing distance of handheld smart phones. Optometry & Vision Science 2011 88(7):795-797. 5. United Nations, Department of Economic and Social Affairs, Population Division (2013). World Population Ageing 2013. ST/ESA/SER.A/348. https://www.un.org/en/development/ desa/population/publications/pdf/ ageing/WorldPopulationAgeing2013.pdf [Accessed 25 August 2020] 6. United Nations, Department of Economic and Social Affairs, Population Division (2017). World Population Prospects: The 2017 Revision https://ourworldindata.org/agestructure [Accessed 25 August 2020] 7. Charman WN. Developments in the correction of presbyopia I: spectacle and contact lenses. Ophthal. Physiol. Opt. 2014;34(1):8-29. doi:10.1111/opo.12091 Vision Now NOVEMBER 2020

STYLE SPOTLIGHT

Conquering challenges with optimism

The optical sector pushes forward with positive thinking and courageous confidence, writes Joan Grady

This year has been a time of exigent changes and challenges for global retail – in all metiers. Through wars, earthquakes, tsunamis and fires, most retail establishments were rarely closed for several months. However, the start of a new decade brought with it a pandemic that changed business mindsets and lifestyles around the planet. Worldwide, many practices were closed as lockdowns and strict mandates governed daily life in order to prevent the spread of the Covid-19 virus. Nevertheless, this did not curtail intrepid independent designers from seeking broader horizons, as they opened new optical shops that make positive, powerful statements.

GÖTTI SWITZERLAND BASEL Once restrictions were lifted and shops could open again, Sven Götti at Götti Switzerland fulfilled a longstanding dream by opening a shop-in-a-shop in Basel. The brand concept within an existing space has been successful with department stores for some time, and now the idea is gaining a stronghold in optics. Götti collaborated with Basel’s

“We found the perfect partner with Ramstein Optik,” says Sven Götti

Streamlined interior at Götti Brand store Basel Switzerland

leading optician – Ramstein Optik, located in the historic old town. Both Götti and Ramstein are united by a long-term passion for eyewear and premium, first class service. The spacious presentation for the frames was created by Götti Switzerland, and developed using local Swiss partners. Designs, many of which are produced nearby, are shown on a vast display wall, with superb lighting to enhance discovery of the collections. The focal point is a huge chandelier of glass spheres with more than 400 acetate frames, suspended over a long service counter.

Does Götti envision this format in other European boutiques or abroad? Sven observes: “A Götti Brandstore is a friendly handshake between a long term and committed Götti eyewear seller and Götti Switzerland. Like a good friendship, it has to grow over the years – and like between friends, it has to be a win-win situation. We have good friends all over the world, and we would love to discuss this project with some of them, since the result of the two existing Götti Brandstores is just fantastic.”

LGR FLORENCE A dream also became a reality for Luca Gnecchi Ruscone, founder and CEO of LGR in Italy. Luca’s vision was to open boutiques in Milan and Rome which he accomplished in

“We found the perfect partner with Ramstein Optik, ”says Sven,“ and the basis for such a close collaboration has to be a specialty store, and a team acquainted with the collection that uncompromisingly identifies with the brand.”

Sven Götti Götti Switzerland

Vision Now NOVEMBER 2020

Sven believes that the shop-in-a-shop could be a developing trend for independent opticians. “The idea is certainly an interesting answer to the individual optician market,” he muses. “A good, serious shop-in-shop concept is combining the purchasing experience of a brand, displayed in their full depth, with excellent advice from real experts in terms of eyewear, sight and lenses.”

Luca Gnecchi Ruscone of LGR World

STYLE SPOTLIGHT territory, as this is where I chose to live and where most of my family lives,” says Luca.

African adventure combined with Italian elegance at LGR Florence

the last few years, and then Florence. The Florence boutique was particularly significant for the designer. “I have a deep connection with Florence and the Tuscan

The boutique, designed by Giampiero Celani Piendlbach, unites the passions that influence everything in the designer’s life: the adventure of Africa where his grandfather lived and the timeless elegance of Italian design. Handcrafted wood and soft lights provide the cultivated surroundings where customers can leisurely browse the stunning frames from the LGR collections in one place, and fully dive into the LGR World. Ruscone is also keen to expand. He explains: “Let’s get the pandemic to end completely, and then we will take new steps into retail. We are looking to open in

“I have a deep connection with Florence” Luca Gnecchi Ruscone

Venice and then move into important European cities like Paris, London and Vienna, and summer tourist destinations such as Mykonos, St Tropez and Ibiza.”

HALL OF FRAMES ZURICH The peaceful, serene and beautiful city of Zürich provided a pleasant backdrop to Hall of Frames Zürich. The event was beautifully organised in keeping with Swiss requirements during the pandemic. Visitors were required to give contact tracing details, wear masks, and sanitiser was provided at all stands. Approximately 50 eyewear companies, including Falvin, Orgreen, JF Rey, Rodenstock, Ana Hickmann, Any Di Munich and Nirvan Javan amongst others presented their collections at historical Papiersaal with its unique industrial character. Organiser Nathanaël Wenger said: “We had 75 shops that visited the show, with quite a number from Germany, and from the French speaking part of Switzerland.” Nathanaël noted that there were fewer visitors than usual, but observed: “I think this is a transition period; many opticians are not sure about the future and prefer to wait and see. The wonderful weather and the obligation to wear a mask didn’t help. We hope to avoid a mask for the next show – if possible.”

Solstice in mat rose by Falvin Eyewear (photo: Henrik Adamsen)

Silmo d’Or children’s category prize for Hugo by Lafont Paris

Lafont was among the Silmo d’Or winners this year with its colourful children’s design Hugo. Parisian designer Jeremy Tarian achieved a First Class award for his striking design Sky Bar, a retro-futuristic aesthetic inspired by the 50th anniversary of the Space Age, and the first steps on the moon.

Cornelia by Orgreen Optics

SILMO 2020 HORS LES MURS The elegant Jardin des Tuileries created by Catherine de Medici in the 16th century was the setting for a mini version of Silmo that reconfirmed the optimistic spirit of eyewear. Director general Matthieu Lafont, at Lafont Paris, observed: “This Covid has really been a difficult period, however, we are finding worldwide that people want to take care of their eyes. So it hasn’t been has dreadful as it could have been.”

First Class Silmo d’Or award for Sky Bar by Jeremy Tarian

Trends at Silmo 2020 included frames with a concerti of colours – bursts of vivid bright tones, to elegant portrayals in shades that take their cue from Nature: woody brown and forest green colourations, silky sand tones, plus cinnamon and a sprinkle of nutmeg. Shapes included contemporary silhouettes, frequently with curvaceous graphic elements in acetate, stainless steel, titanium and alluring combinations. Even during challenging times, independent opticians can move forward with powerful declarations that encourage eye health for their patients and continue building successful practices.

Graphic with vivid colour: Pigalle by Benjamin Mézière at Gaston Eyewear Vision Now NOVEMBER 2020

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

BONDEYE OPTICAL

DE RIGO UK LTD

Tel: 0121 7723888 Fax: 0808 2801865

Tel: 01923 249491

www.uk.alcon.com

sales@bondeyeoptical.co.uk www.bondeyeoptical.co.uk

ASSOCIATED OPTICAL

info.uk@derigo.com www.derigo.com www.my.derigo.com

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

CENTROSTYLE

DUNELM OPTICAL

HENRY BEAUMONT

sales@assopt.co.uk www.associatedoptical.com

OPTICAL CENTRE SUPPLIES LTD Tel: 01923 239267 Fax: 01923 253951

Tel: 01388 420420 Fax: 01388 810101

Tel: 0116 251 8936 Fax: 0116 262 4205

dunelm@dunelmoptical.co.uk www.dunelmoptical.co.uk

info@henrybeaumont.com www.henrybeaumont.com

Tel: 01628 605433 Fax: 01628 665077

ATLANTIC OPTICAL UK LTD

sales@centrostyle.com www.centrostyle.com

Tel: 02920 362 136 Fax: 02920 362 137

CHARMANT UK CO LTD

info@atlanticoptical.co.uk www.atlanticoptical.co.uk

Tel: 020 8992 9222 Fax: 020 8896 0287

BARCLAYCARD

sales@charmant.co.uk www.charmant.co.uk

EYESPACE

HOYA LENS UK

CONTINENTAL EYEWEAR

Tel: 01527 870550 Fax: 01527 837012

Tel: 0845 330 0984 Fax: 0845 330 0977

Tel: 0151 426 3907 Fax: 0151 426 9340

info@eyespace-eyewear.co.uk www.eyespace-eyewear.co.uk

enquiries@hoya.co.uk orders@hoya.co.uk www.hoya.co.uk

Tel: 0800 056 5569

BAUSCH + LOMB Tel: 020 8781 2900 www.bausch.co.uk

sales@continental-eyewear.co.uk www.continental-eyewear.com

BIB OPHTHALMIC INSTRUMENTS

COOPERVISION

Tel: 01438 740823

Tel: 0870 9000 055

sales@bibonline.co.uk www.bibonline.co.uk

www.coopervision.co.uk

SO CLOSE YOU CAN ALMOST SEE IT

ESSILOR

HILCO EUROPE

Tel: 01454 281281 Fax: 01454 281282

Tel: 0800 591150

www.essilor.co.uk

GO EYEWEAR UK LTD Tel: 0800 9178270 www.goeyeweargroup.com

info@hilco.co.uk www.hilco.co.uk

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

A refreshing perspective To help you enhance your contact lens practice, CooperVision offers an extensive product range designed to meet the needs of even more of your patients.

For more information 0870 9000 055* www.coopervision.co.uk COMING SOON

Vision Now NOVEMBER 2020

*Calls cost 2p per minute plus your phone company’s access charge.

T 01527 870550 eyespace-eyewear.co.uk

01580 713698

ALCON UK Tel: 0371 376 0017 Fax: 0871 351 1005

sales@lensteceyewear.co.uk www.lensteceyewear.co.uk

LENSTEC OPTICAL

MENICON UK LTD

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

Tel: 02920 883009 Fax: 02920 889798

MICHAEL PACHLEITNER GROUP

LenstecCC@lenstec.co.uk www.lenstecopticalgroup.co.uk

Tel: 07583 076 132

LLOYDS BANK Tel: 07780 338656 franchising@lloydsbanking.com www.lloydsbank.com/business

LOUIS STONE OPTICAL LTD Tel: 029 2073 5293 Fax: 029 2073 1446 info@louisstone.co.uk www.louisstone.co.uk

LUNEAU TECHNOLOGY UK/IRELAND – VISIONIX Tel: 07383 555659

PRACTICE BUILDING

STEPPER UK

Tel: 0115 989 9772

Tel: 01732 375975

andy@practicebuilding.co.uk www.practicebuilding.co.uk

sales@stepper.co.uk www.steppereyewear.com

PRO-OPTIC

SUNWISE (TG SPORTS)

Tel: 01884 266130

Tel: 01865 714620

sales@pro-optic.com www.pro-optic.co.uk

info@tgsports.co.uk www.sunwise.co.uk

a.davies@michael-pachleitnergroup.com www.michaelpachleitnergroup.com

RAWDON OPTICAL

TANT LABORATORIES

Tel: 01132 883094 Fax: 01132 883095

Tel: 01279 653785 Fax: 01279 658308

MID-OPTIC

RawdonCC@rawdonoptical.co.uk www.lenstecopticalgroup.co.uk

TantCC@tantlabs.com www.lenstecopticalgroup.co.uk

RETAIL EXPERIENCE DESIGN (RED)

Tel: 01452 510321

Tel: 01332 295001 Fax: 01332 295158 orders@midoptic.com www.midoptic.com

Tel: 024 7601 0103

No7 CONTACT LENSES

dean@retailexperiencedesign.co.uk www.retailexperiencedesign.co.uk

Tel: 01424 850620 Fax: 01424 850650

RODENSTOCK

info@no7contactlenses.com www.no7contactlenses.com

OPTINET LTD

Tel: 01474 325555

SEIKO OPTICAL UK

Tel: 01686 627595 Fax: 01696 610015

LUXOTTICA (UK) LTD

sales@optinetuk.com www.optinetuk.com

Tel: 01452 610033 Fax: 01452 638250

www.luxottica.com

ORANGE EYEWEAR

MARCHON

Tel: 0161 773 5555 Fax: 0161 773 5544

orders@seiko-optical.co.uk info@seiko-optical.co.uk www.seiko-optical.co.uk

csuk@marchon.com

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

info@orange-eyewear.co.uk www.orange-eyewear.co.uk

PERFORMANCE FINANCE Tel: 01536 529696 Fax: 01536 310033 www.performancefinance.co.uk

POSITIVE IMPACT Tel: 08446 696907

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

Tel: 0845 313 0233

Tel: 0800 72 2020

sales@norville.co.uk www.norville.co.uk

sales@rodenstock.co.uk www.rodenstock.co.uk

infouk@luneautech.com www.luneautech.co.uk

Tel: 0808 165 8555

THE NORVILLE GROUP LTD

THREE SIXTY Kieran@calotherm.co.uk www.calotherm.co.uk

ULTRAVISION

SILHOUETTE UK LTD

Tel: 01525 381112 Fax: 01525 370091

Tel: 020 8987 8899 Fax: 020 8987 2430

info@ultravision.co.uk www.ultravision.co.uk

office@uk.silhouette.com www.silhouette.com

SPEC-CARE LTD Tel: 01392 460806 info@speccareservices.co.uk www.speccareservices.co.uk

sales@positiveimpact.co.uk www.positiveimpact.co.uk

WEBPOST Tel: 0800 074 2425 annie.mackervoy@webpost.com www.webpost.com

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

www.nationaleyecare.co.uk

Suppliers’ directory

LENSTEC EYEWEAR Tel: 02920 857122 Fax: 02920 920480

Open your eyes to

Love Your OCT. Guaranteed.

www.HeidelbergEngineering.com

Andrew Davies F.B.D.O UK Country Manager +44 (0) 7583 076 132 a.davies@michael-pachleitner-group.com

0845 3130233 sales@optinetuk.com

www.optinetuk.com

Vision Now NOVEMBER 2020

Advanced Practice Management Software

Fashionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s always evolving So is our software Intuitive dashboards, intelligent reports and individual staff permissions. Optinet FLEX keeps your business at the cutting edge.

For further information and to book your no obligation, in practice demonstration, please call 0845 3130233 or email sales@optinetuk.com

0845 3130233 sales@optinetuk.com www.optinetuk.com