Vision Now 2021

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VV FEBRUARY 2021

Vision Now magazine

Patient loyalty builds practice success.

A portfolio of contact lenses and lens care solutions from a world-leading manufacturer, designed to help your practice retain more patients and improve business revenue.

NEW and exclusive* to National Eyecare Group members. < LEARN MORE

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MANUFACTURED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE MEDICAL DEVICES DIRECTIVE

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Inside

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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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News 4 7 9 11 13 14

New NEG conference dates announced Menicon launches new monthly multifocal Take a virtual tour with Essilor Paediatric contact lens wear study published Bausch + Lomb Ultra family expanded CLEAR reports to be released

14 An independent view Between a rock and a hard place

19 Developing thoughts

by Emma Dinmore of Trebuchet

21 Company profile 20 20 Optical Services: the story so far

25 Product profile AOS software solutions

28 Style spotlight Sunglasses: smart and savvy

30 Suppliers’ directory

Editor’s comment With four new contact lens products gracing Vision Now this month, it seems the pandemic has done little to stagnate advances in the field. As well as Alcon’s new one-day contact lens, and multifocal lens launches from Bausch + Lomb and Menicon, CooperVision has launched Mediflex – a portfolio of contact lenses and solutions exclusively available to NEG members.

All this should be music to the ears of independents relying on their monthly recurring contact lens income to mitigate against pandemic-induced profit loss in other product segments. While a percentage of contact lens business has inevitably been lost to the internet – there is concrete evidence that dual-wear patients are sizeably more profitable compared with spectacle-only patients.

As well as offering the latest contact lens technologies, it is imperative to ‘follow the science’ when it comes to patient management. By happenstance, the types of studies and reports that can help inform everyday clinical decision-making can also be found within the news pages of this issue. These include CooperVision’s ReCSS study, Johnson & Johnson’s new myopia management recommendations, and the BCLA’s imminent CLEAR reports on contact lenses and the anterior eye.

Elsewhere this month, we hear about the anterior eye imaging, grading and telemedicine solutions on offer from AOS supporting patient management ‘from a distance’, and how fledgling company 20 20 Optical Services is preparing for a new era in eyewear distribution. Finally, Joan Grady provides a hopeful glimmer of a sunnier future with her stylish and seasonal selection of sector-savvy sunglasses. Bring on the spring...

Nicky Collinson

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

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

Copyright © 2021 for Peekay Publishing Ltd. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying and recording, without the written permission of the publishers. Such written permission should also be obtained before any part of this publication is stored in a retrieval system of any nature.

@PK_NEG VISION NOW is published by Peekay Publishing Ltd for The PK National Eyecare Group Limited, Clermont House, Cranbrook, Kent TN17 3DN VISION NOW is printed by P&P Litho Ltd, Ashford, Middlesex TW15 1AB

Vision Now FEBRUARY 2021

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NEWS 1

National Eyecare Group

Conference moves to September

NEG has announced revised dates for its 2021 Building for Success Conference, themed ‘The tools for success’. The two-day event for members, supported by Title Sponsor CooperVision, will now take place on 26 and 27 September at the DeVere Hotel Staverton Park, Daventry, which enjoys excellent conferencing facilities and convenient accessibility for both road and rail.

Phil Mullins, NEG operations director, said: “Over the course of two packed days of CET, networking and business-building, we aim to share with members the most valuable tools that they require in their toolbox to develop their business, succeed in an everchanging world, and help promote a strong independent sector in the UK.”

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Management courses offered

Association of British Dispensing Opticians

materials, including the ManagementDirect online resource.

Anyone within the optical profession and industry who wishes to improve their management skills can now apply for the Association of British Dispensing Opticians’ (ABDO) Level 5 Management & Leadership (MLT) qualification. Launched last year, initially for ABDO members, the ABDO MLT offers a recognised qualification through online study and assessment – accredited by the Chartered Management Institute (CMI), which also assesses and awards the qualification. Students will become CMI members and gain access to its support and

Nick Walsh, ABDO sector skills development officer, said: “These courses are the ideal next step for any manager, whether you are just starting out or looking to formalise knowledge and experience gained in practice. As a manager, you need to make time for your own development: this will improve the success of the business, the effectiveness of the team and the morale of the team as well as bringing benefits to your career.” The qualification can be completed at either a diploma or certificate level. Find out more on the ABDO website.

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Stepper

The StepperS eyewear ethos of ‘fit for life’, where the frames feel as good at the end of the day as at the start, is exemplified in new model, STS-30050. Made from TX5, the plastic frame is lighter than traditional acetate at just 6.6g, putting less pressure onto facial touch points. The front is moulded in a single process so the anatomical curve won’t change over time, whilst its integral bridge is the result of decades of experience in creating best-fit nose shapes began by founder Hans Stepper, himself a German Master Optician.

“So much of the appeal of a StepperS frame is its design and colouring,” said Peter Reeve, managing director of Stepper UK. “The STS30050 has an easy-to-wear contemporary

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Vision Now FEBRUARY 2021

Colour, comfort and clarity

shape that can be fine-tuned to wearers’ personal style through an array of colour options including Crystal, Hot Pink, Electric

Blue and Jade. When you look good, you feel good – and this StepperS ensures this feelgood effect is long lasting,” concluded Peter.

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NEWS 4

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De Rigo

Heidelberg Engineering

Eco-friendly sunglasses from Chopard

The new Chopard eyewear collection from De Rigo features an array of fresh, contemporary styles offering a glamorous twist on more established, iconic designs. The Ice Cube line for women features new eco-friendly sunglass styles developed in Italy using materials of plant origin. Bio-acetate frames have been crafted from wood and cotton, while the lenses are made with nylon derived from the castor plant. New styles for men are included in the Alpine Eagle collection, also made from bio-acetate and natural nylon, and the sporty Classic Racing collection fashioned from carbon fibre and rubber.

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Norville

Norville (20/20) has welcomed Paul Jones as national sales manager. Joining the company from Hoya, Paul started in optics 28 years ago as an optical technician and has worked in practice as a technician, dispensing optician and practice manager.

Paul said: “I’m really pleased to have joined Norville. The lens portfolio is extensive and Norville has the reputation for being able to make things other labs simply can’t do or will not do.

“I’ve always been impressed by the people at Norville; their experience and know-how is second to none,” Paul continued. “When it comes to lenses, I can be quite geeky, but I’m very interested in supporting our customers to be able to improve the lives of

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Menicon

Menicon’s new Miru 1month multifocal contact lens for early and advanced presbyopia features the company’s Dual Balanced Design, which is said to work with the eyes for clearer, comfortable vision, both near and far. In addition, Menicon’s MiniSilk and NanoGloss technologies offer an ultra-high Dk/t silicone hydrogel and smooth lens surface for optimum oxygen

Paul Jones

their customers, by giving them the best optical solution. I believe that with the backing and support of our parent company, Inspecs, we can build on the heritage that Norville has and enter into a new future.” delivery and healthy eyes. To aid fitting success, practitioners are encouraged to use the Menicon Mulitfocal Calculator.

The company stated: “No two presbyopes are the same and Miru 1month multifocal takes a refreshing approach, embracing both the visual and physiological differences between early and advanced presbyopes, while providing all the material and surface features expected in a modern silicone hydrogel lens. The centre near low

Steve Thomson

Steve Thomson has joined Heidelberg Engineering as clinical director to further strengthen the anterior segment product development team. Steve has a background in ophthalmic imaging, followed by more than 30 years’ professional experience in the ophthalmic industry. To inform AI solutions to improve patient outcomes, he will work with new scientific director, Charles Reisman, as well as the newly promoted medical scientific liaison – anterior segment, Richard Cornwell, who now takes on a global role.

Steve said: “Heidelberg Engineering has set extremely high standards for ophthalmic imaging to the benefit of so many patients across the world. I am excited to be part of this talented team, and contribute to the development of Anterion and other complementary anterior segment solutions, with the potential to enhance the biometric and imaging data that is so vitally important to clinicians and surgeons.” add benefits the early presbyope, and the unique high design with a decentred near zone favours the more advanced presbyopes, giving patients clear and comfortable vision at all distances.” Read a recent clinical study highlighting the lens’s performance in the News section of the Menicon website, www.menicon.co.uk Vision Now FEBRUARY 2021

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INTRODUCING

THE LENS TO START IN AND STAY IN Contact your Alcon® representative to find out more.

PRECISE VISION1

LONG-LASTING COMFORT 1

EASE OF HANDLING1

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

Optom Vis Sci. 2019;96:E-abstract 195375.

See instructions for use for complete wear, care and safety information.

14587 © 2021 Alcon Inc

01/21 GB-PR1-2100001

PRE- AND POST-FIT SUPPORT

NEWS 8

British Contact Lens Association

Menicon’s Neil Retallic will be the next president of the British Contact Lens Association (BCLA), taking over from Indie Grewal at the Association’s AGM in June. The succession change comes after Professor Christine Purslow stepped down as president elect. Neil, who is European professional services director at Menicon, said: “It’s a huge honour to be named as president elect of the BCLA, an organisation that is very close to my heart. I look forward to carrying on the good work of Indie and all the previous presidents that have served before.

“The world of contact lenses and anterior eye is rapidly evolving, which is exciting, and we should embrace new technology and innovation to provide our wearers with the most suitable options to match their needs. The biggest challenge is how to keep patients happy with contact lenses

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Neil Retallic

and reduce drop-out rates, with products that are eco-friendly and complement the ocular surface. I think there is further work

and there has never been a better time for business owners to take a leap of faith.”

Essilor

With no exhibitions and conferences to attend at present, why not take a trip to Essilor’s first-ever virtual showroom? The Essilor Virtual Centre presents a flagship optical practice, demonstrating ways to future-proof businesses. Tim Precious, managing director at Essilor, said: “The virtual centre brings to life what we offer to help

10 General Optical Council The General Optical Council (GOC) has issued a statement in response to a petition started by the Ophthalmic Practitioners Group, calling for “a vote of no confidence in the GOC’s ability to protect the public”. In its statement, the GOC explains its role during the pandemic, how it has engaged with stakeholders to draft its Covid-19 statements, and why it has continued with the latest consultation on its Education Strategic Review. It concludes: “We acknowledge that the petition calls upon the Professional Standards Authority to investigate allegations and we will provide further information on the matter as required. We would always encourage those who have concerns, to raise these directly with us.” Read the statement in full on the GOC website.

to be done in developing contact lens solutions for patients with ocular pathology and the therapeutic aspects.”

ECPs provide the finest consumer experience and safest visual offering possible. The independent sector needs future-proofing

Visitors can find out about Essilor’s instruments, lenses and services – as well as marketing tools to attract patients and engage with them once inside. The latest instruments and an in-practice lens lab are showcased in its ‘Screen and prescribe’ section, in addition to digital tools. Take a tour via http://essilorvirtualexperience.com

11 International Eyewear

Puccini 307 (C2)

Puccini model 307 from International Eyewear is one of many styles in the collection, which caters for wearers of all sizes and tastes. The stainless steel style showcases a fanciful delicate metal twist, combining undulating temples with a square yet feminine cat-eye shape with contrasting plating. Silicone nose pads provide extra comfort for a successful fit.

Two colour options are available: Gold and Burgundy (C1) or Rose Gold and Cornflower Blue (C2) – with complementary marbled acetate tips.

Vision Now FEBRUARY 2021

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Delivering the highest quality eyewear. eyewear-direct.net enquiries@eyewear-direct.net +44 (0) 207 193 3334

NEWS 12 Silhouette

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Association of British Dispensing Opticians

Lite Duet model 4555

The new Lite Duet collection from Silhouette is inspired by the minimalistic aesthetics of the 1990s. Comprising of four retro shapes, two for women and two unisex, the lightweight collection offers a wide range of bold hues and tones – from the striking Digital Teal and Cyber Red to the nuanced tones of Soft Sloe and Golden Verde. The Lite Duet collection is made from a sophisticated combination of titanium and SPX+. The lenses are outlined by an SPX ring, flowing into the colour-coordinated retro-style temples for a sleek finish.

ABDO Annual Plan published

13 CooperVision

Study to support regulatory submissions

The largest-ever retrospective study of its kind, published in Ophthalmic & Physiological Optics, has found low complication rates in children who wear soft contact lenses, similar to rates in adults. The so-called ReCSS study was initiated to support CooperVision’s regulatory submissions of MiSight 1 day contact lenses, and measured the rate of adverse events in children prescribed soft contact lenses before they turned 13 to establish wearing safety among that age group.

“ReCSS is the most extensive compilation of ‘real-world’ data supporting safety of soft contact lens wear in children, complementing the effectiveness research from our groundbreaking, multi-year MiSight 1 day clinical study,” said John McNally, CooperVision senior director of clinical research. The study included a range of eyecare practice types and locations, and a variety of soft contact lens brands, modalities and designs.

The Association of British Dispensing Opticians (ABDO) has launched a new Annual Plan for 2021 setting out the activities it will be carrying out to continue to support, develop and represent ABDO members. ABDO president, Jo Holmes, commented: “We know that Covid-19 made 2020 a hugely difficult year for everyone – both personally and professionally. ABDO will continue to support members in dealing with the pandemic’s challenges, while managing the organisation’s finances prudently and hoping that the coming year brings more positive news.”

Published on the ABDO website, the Annual Plan covers activities such as CET, stakeholder representation, academic studies, management training and communication.

ABDO is also this year developing a new Strategic Plan – to take effect from January 2022. “Our new Strategic Plan will set out a positive vision for the future,” explained Jo, “ABDO’s objectives and demonstrate the benefits members can expect to see.”

15 Proven Track Record Independents Day will be back this year after a two-and-a-half-year hiatus. Run by Proven Track Record (PTR), iDay21 will be staged on 4 July at the National Motorcycle Museum in Birmingham. The meeting will once again be supported by an iShow exhibition. PTR co-director, David Goad, said: “With the

devastation the pandemic has caused businesses, it seems appropriate that one of the first live events of 2021 will be focused on business success, more than clinical skills.

“We are in the process of confirming the sort of top-quality speakers we are renowned

for,” continued David, “with technology enabling us to access keynote speakers from all over the world. They will be ably supported by a string of local business talent.” Keep up-to-date with programme, exhibition and registration developments at www.independentsday.co.uk Vision Now FEBRUARY 2021

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1,2,3,4

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N 0845 602 2350 E cs.vc.uk@bausch.com * When the ECP followed the fitting guide 1. ULTRA® Comfort Experience™ for Presbyopia Data Analysis Phase 1 + 2. 2017. 2. Bausch + Lomb ULTRA® Multifocal for Astigmatism stabilisation study. 3. Bausch + Lomb, 2013. Perceptions of Bausch + Lomb PureVision® 2 for Presbyopia (#815). Rochester. 4. Bausch + Lomb., 2016. A study to evaluate the product performance of two designs of soft toric lenses (#ROC2-16-016). Rochester. ®/™ are trademarks of Bausch & Lomb Incorporated or its affiliates. ©2020 Bausch & Lomb Incorporated or its affiliates.

UMT.0033.IE.20

NEWS 16 LOCSU

17 Bausch + Lomb

Seamless vision in all three zones

Bausch + Lomb has launched its new Ultra Multifocal for Astigmatism contact lens, further expanding its Ultra monthly reusable contact lens family. The contact lens incorporates the company’s Moisture Seal Technology, while combining 3-Zone Progressive Design and OpticAlign Design, to meet the needs of astigmatic presbyopic patients.

Booster for vaccination roll-out

The Local Optical Committee Support Unit (LOCSU) has set up two new portals to help ensure all optical practice staff and locums receive their Covid-19 vaccination as part of the priority group roll-out. Non-NHS practitioners and staff are advised to initially check if they can be included on a listing with their local optical committee (LOC). Links to all LOCs in England can be found on the LOC Online portal. However, if none of the above applies, practitioners can complete LOCSU’s Non-NHS Practices Form to add themselves and their staff to a local vaccination list.

Locums are advised to check if they can be included on a practice staff list being submitted to its LOC (as above). Locums can also register directly with their clinical commissioning group or primary care network. However, if none of the above is possible, locums may complete LOCSU’s Locum Form. Any questions can be emailed to info@locsu.co.uk

In phase one data analysis, the company found that the 3-Zone Progressive Design provided seamless vision near, far and in-between. A company stabilisation study found that the OpticAlign Design provided ≤5˚ rotation on 95 per cent of patients.

Practitioners can obtain a fitting guide of trial lenses by contacting their territory business manager or customer services directly on 0845 602 2350 or cs.vc.uk@bausch.com

18 General Optical Council The General Optical Council (GOC) has said it will fully cooperate with the Professional Standards Authority (PSA) after the latter filed an appeal against a decision by the GOC Fitness to Practise (FTP) Committee to suspend optometrist Honey Rose for a period of nine months. The committee had found Ms Rose guilty of failing to carry out adequate eye examinations in respect of two children, Patients A and B, and dishonestly making an inaccurate and

misleading record in relation to her examination of Patient A. The committee did not order a review of the registrant before the end of the period of suspension.

The PSA stated last month that it had referred the matter to the High Court due to its concern that “the decision was not sufficient to protect the public”. Specifically, the Authority said it was “of the view that the General Optical Council failed to

19 Johnson & Johnson Vision A new set of recommendations on managing myopia has been published by Johnson & Johnson in partnership with leading optometric organisations in the USA and Singapore, including the American Optometric Association (AOA) and American Academy of Optometry. The guide, Managing myopia: a clinical response to the growing epidemic, includes recommendations on age and frequency of eye examinations for children, therapies and when to begin them, and why

New recommendations published

measuring axial length is preferable to measuring by percentage.

properly charge Ms Rose with certain allegations, the committee took the wrong approach to impairment and sanction, and the committee wrongly decided not to require a review before the conclusion of the period of suspension.” The Authority is asking the court to quash the findings made by the GOC FTP Committee in relation to misconduct, impairment and sanction, and remit the case back to the committee for reconsideration.

“Eyecare professionals are on the primary eyecare frontlines battling this growing crisis and it is imperative to deliver forward-looking clinical information, grounded in emerging data and first-hand, real-world experience,” said Robert Layman, AOA president elect. “In collaborating with Johnson & Johnson and this group of leaders, we are providing eyecare professionals with information that will enable them to deliver individualised patient care that will support the patient throughout their childhood and into adulthood.”

The guide is available to download via https://jjvcvirtualevents.com/myopia Vision Now FEBRUARY 2021

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NEWS 20 British Contact Lens Association The Contact Lens Evidence-based Academic Reports (CLEAR) will be published in next month’s issue of Contact Lens & Anterior Eye – the journal of the British Contact Lens Association (BCLA) – and will feature 10 overview papers compiled by a panel of internationally renowned experts.

BCLA members will receive a copy of the report as part of their member benefits. Non-members can either join the BCLA ahead of the report publication or subscribe to CLAE via the Elsevier site.

CLEAR executive chair, Professor James Wolffsohn, said: “Putting together these reports has been an amazing journey of discovery, bringing together gems of evidence to inform clinical practice, identifying areas where further research is needed, and determining where there are opportunities for new innovations from industry.

The collaboration between experts in the field of contact Professor James Wolffsohn lenses and the anterior eye has been inspiring and productive, despite the enforced ‘virtual’ nature of the interactions.”

21 General Optical Council The General Optical Council (GOC) has launched a consultation on new draft Speaking Up guidance for registrants, to support registrants to speak up about concerns they have – particularly those affecting patient and public safety. The consultation, which seeks feedback on the clarity and impacts of the guidance, was developed following learnings from recent healthcare inquiries into issues where staff’s concerns were not appropriately actioned, such as the Mid Staffordshire NHS Foundation Trust Public Inquiry.

Marcus Dye, GOC acting director of strategy, said: “Within our standards, registrants have a duty to speak up about concerns they have when patients and the public might be at risk. We know this can be a difficult thing for individuals to do, and even more so if businesses are unaware of their responsibility to make the process simple and to act on concerns raised.

“We’ve split the guidance into two parts, one for individuals and one for businesses, to be as clear as possible on our expectations. Whether you’re an individual or a business, we encourage all registrants to read both parts. As always, we expect registrants to use their professional judgement when applying the guidance, however, we hope that this new guidance will give them the confidence to speak up when they need to in order to protect the public.” Respond to the consultation via the GOC Consultation Hub by 10 March.

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Vision Now FEBRUARY 2021

AN INDEPENDENT VIEW Between a rock and a hard place The current lockdown has thrown up yet more controversy and angst in the optical profession. At the core, is a divergence of view over whether practices should be providing essential clinical eyecare services only, or should also be able to offer more routine refraction and dispensing of eyewear. The majority (but not all) of AIO members favour the former, whilst unsurprisingly the multiples strongly favour the latter. The problem is that the behind the current Covid-19 dictated environment, and what seems an apparently stark and simple choice, there is a rather more complex dynamic.

Why complex? Well optical bodies through the Optometric Fees Negotiating Committee (OFNC) have all grasped the nettle during the Covid-19 pandemic to get the message across to government and NHS England (Scotland and Wales are already more enlightened) that optometrists provide an essential clinical service that is currently underutilised by an NHS service that is facing (and will continue to face for quite some time) huge pressures. This message was core to the AIO Post-Covid Manifesto released last year, and there is some evidence that it is starting to get across. One element of this messaging is to avoid the use of the word ‘routine’ in exchanges with the government and NHS, and to fundamentally gain an understanding that the current GOS regime needs reform.

That the whole profession is on a journey that will become increasingly clinical in its focus is indisputable. Volume optical outlets on the High Street, which rely on conversion rates and selling ‘cheap’ specs, are under increasing pressure from online suppliers. Indeed, a number of them are now online suppliers themselves.

So, bringing this back to the current lockdown, what is the answer? Whilst the AIO, on behalf of the majority of its members, might advocate clear guidance from the government/NHS that optical practices should only be providing essential eyecare services in the current lockdown, it is a voice on its own. As a result, practices must make their own choice in terms of the level of service they will provide in the current environment.

In a recent meeting of the optical bodies, there was acceptance that practitioners who decide to close their doors to all but essential (even emergency) services have absolutely the right to do so, and should be respected for doing so. When we come out of the Covid-19 pandemic, we can only hope and pray that the-long term outcome for optometry is positive, and that the opportunity to move the profession forward has not been wasted.

Patient loyalty builds practice success.

A portfolio of contact lenses and lens care solutions from a world-leading manufacturer, designed to help your practice retain more patients and improve business revenue.

NEW and exclusive* to National Eyecare Group members.

Patient loyalty builds practice success.

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

CooperVision is pleased to announce it’s partnership with National Eyecare Group (NEG) to offer you, its members, an exclusive brand portfolio of contact lenses and lens care products – mediflex.®

Behind each mediflex® label is a trusted CooperVision product, giving you the reassurance of a world-leading manufacturer. What’s more, mediflex® products are available at the same price as the CooperVision-branded equivalent.

Our research shows that private label contact lens patients are more loyal to their optician. Private label contact lenses can help drive spectacle sales and can generate greater income for your practice.

Private label contact lens products are typically subject to minimum order quantities and therefore may be out-ofreach for many small-to-medium sized practices.

Through the collective buying power of NEG, the mediflex® brand is now available exclusively to NEG members: designed to act just like a private label.

Launching mediflex® in your practice couldn’t be easier - CooperVision have worked with NEG to create a comprehensive welcome pack that includes a How-To Guide, in-practice tools, in-store promotional material, website and social media assets and patient communications; all designed to help you engage with and retain more patients, building long-term practice success.

An exclusive house brand is a fantastic and unique opportunity for NEG members. I hope you seize the moment to protect your practice, build patient loyalty and strengthen your contact lens business so you can enjoy greater long-term profit.

Doug Bairner Country Manager, UK & Ireland, CooperVision

Join one of our 30 minute introductory webinars throughout February â&#x20AC;&#x201C; check the NEG website for details or contact your CooperVision Business Development Manager today.

Your exclusive mediflex® portfolio is designed to help your practice retain more patients and improve business revenue.

New and exclusive to NEG members, the mediflex® portfolio of contact lenses and lens care products includes: ■

Daily disposables

■

Monthly disposables

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Lens care solutions.

Contact your CooperVision Business Development Manager today. *Exclusive within the UK&I market. mediflex® is only available to NEG members.

MAKE YOUR BRAND STAND OUT IN 2021 2020 was a unique and challenging year. The chaos and ever-changing safety guidelines brought big transformations to our society, forcing every person and business to 昀nd new ways to evolve and adapt.

Pandemic or not, trends in the marketing industry move quickly and things change almost every day. New technologies, techniques and algorithm updates are announced regularly, changing the way we need to address our audience. Ensuring you’re continually attracting, engaging and connecting with your audience is an essential part of your marketing campaign.

Younger audiences especially are turning away from the more traditional marketing message delivery channels of print and television. Widening your marketing strategy to incorporate social media platforms and YouTube will broaden your reach into these audiences.

customers help generate content for you and market your products or services to prospective new customers.

Branded Content – In conjunction with user-generated content, high quality branded content is on the rise for 2021.

Creating branded content isn’t just about sales, it is also about creating a unique and memorable experience for your customers.

Social Commerce – Social media has become one of the biggest and most bene昀cial platforms for online marketing, meaning your Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn efforts could make a huge difference for your business.

Brand Activism – Political activism and other movements have been on the rise in 2020, and brands and businesses have followed suit. Being more vocal about your values and beliefs can help attract and secure your audience.

Predicted marketing trends for 2021 include:

Nostalgia Marketing – Over the last year, nostalgia marketing has become increasingly popular. In a world that has become increasingly unpredictable, nostalgic strategies can bring comfort to users. Nostalgia can be so powerful that it can make a customer want to spend more on goods and services. Combining nostalgia familiarity with innovation can help to boost interaction with your customers.

User-Generated Content – Due to the rise in in昀uencer marketing, content generated by customers or users has become one of the most authentic ways to build a brand.

Videos, images and reviews from past

Going Live – Live videos have become one of the most popular types of content in the marketing industry. In 2019, internet users watched approximately 1.1 billion hours of live video. Creating an engaging and

Help your business’ marketing efforts succeed and overcome the unpredictable year ahead by staying on top of and in tune with the industry’s latest trends.

For this month’s Developing thoughts, we thought we would go outside the optical world and gauge the thoughts of Emma Dinmore, Director of creative agency, Trebuchet, who NEG have been working with for over 10 years.

Emma and the Trebuchet team have a long, successful track record of helping companies grow their brands, so we asked her how you can make your brand stand out in 2021.

informative live video stream or podcast for your viewers can increase your views.

Above all put your brand at the heart of what you do. So much more than just your logo, your brand should be at the heart of everything you do, tightly aligned with your business strategy and goals. A brand which is in tune with your ambitions will propel you forward rather than holding you back.

And remember, your verbal identity is equally as important as your visual identity: a distinctive tone of voice will build customer recognition and elevate your brand. Communicate clearly, con昀dently and consistently across all platforms, reinforcing your marketing messages at every opportunity to build trust and customer loyalty.

If you’re looking for a creative marketing agency to help boost your brand in 2021, Trebuchet is ready to help. Our team has years of knowledge and experience and is always at the forefront of the industry’s latest trends to deliver success for our clients. Contact us today to learn more about our branding and marketing strategies and what they can do for your business.

+44 (0)1473 213000 hello@trebuchetcreative.co.uk trebuchetcreative.co.uk

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COMPANY PROFILE

20 20 Optical Services The story so far

We hear how one of NEG’s newest Preferred Suppliers is evolving for a new era in eyewear distribution

The year 2020 was one of unprecedented circumstances and challenges for businesses and economies across the globe. The ripple effects of the ongoing pandemic will be felt for decades to come, and will affect the way all businesses operate – from the very top to the very bottom.

Mark Truss, MD of 20 20 Optical Services

When the Norville Group went into administration last summer, it sent shockwaves around the optical industry and profession. Mark Truss, managing director of frame distributor 20 20 Optical Services, worked with Norville for more than a decade. He says: “Having spent 15 years with the Norville Group – 12 as group sales director and then three as sales and marketing consultant – it was a shock to the system to see the group unexpectedly go into administration last July.

“Like everybody in the industry, to see a stalwart company such as Norville become a casualty was very sad. However, it also meant that the brands within Norville’s portfolio would need new representation. It was at this point that 2020 Optical Services approached both Duck & Cover and Racing Green to offer a complete sales and marketing solution. As group sales director, I had been instrumental in bringing both these brands into Norville – and so I was already well known to the principals. It seemed a perfect fit.”

RACING GREEN British born and bred A contemporary British menswear brand focusing on timeless looks, its name is derived from British Racing Green, the colour made internationally famous by the Iconic British motor racing team of the 1990s.

Since its formation, the brand has taken great pride in keeping the indomitable British spirit alive, blending the characteristics of the island into its products. Today, Racing Green not only encompasses classic British menswear but includes a wide cross-section of other products.

20 20 Optical Services is proud to represent the brand as eyewear partner, designing and manufacturing quality, commercial fashion frames. Always wearable, always true to the spirit – taking a lead from one of the UK’s great success stories.

WORKING OUT THE LOGISTICS Setting up a new business during a pandemic is not without its difficulties; warehousing, delivery, stock sourcing, creating new products whilst working during limited government measures, meant long and fraught days ahead for the fledgling team at 20 20 Optical Services.

Six months on, the company has a new base in Ilton, Ilminster, and Mark has been joined in the business by his wife Francesca. Rachel Goodwin is looking after the customer services side of the business, with hands-on support from Deano Creighton – all working together to build a new optical company.

“Distribution has for the most part continued within the multiple sector on a very limited number of styles,” explains Mark, “yet the industry wanted the full collection. This posed another set of issues: how could we best present ourselves to the independent sector? We wanted to be a new company for a new situation, without the costs of an employed, full-time sales team, expensive overheads and split distribution centres. 20 20 Optical Services is primarily centred on added value.”

Having created a new company website and devised flexible terms, 20 20 Optical Services approached Phil Mullins, NEG operations director, to discuss becoming an NEG Preferred Supplier. “On talking to Phil about our offer, and how we could work with the Group to support independent practitioners, we came up with an exclusive value proposition for NEG members,” Mark explains.

Vision Now FEBRUARY 2021

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COMPANY PROFILE NEG member offer: • Zero postage costs on up to six free frames on approval • One-day delivery on available stock • No quibble returns • Simple, clear and concise terms: one brand, one price, one discount “Our aim was to offer NEG members the best possible terms, where they could really benefit by purchasing Duck & Cover and Racing Green frames through the Group,” Mark says. “By offering sensible and commercial pricing, we could help independent practices to be as competitive

as the multiples. By listening to, and working with Phil, we believe we are giving NEG members the very best proposition we can.”

To this end, 20 20 Optical Services has reduced the new list prices on Duck & Cover and Racing Green frames by 22.5 per cent – bringing them into line with the High Street. “This positions the brands in a very competitive area, but one where the design, value and quality far exceed expectations,” adds Mark.

awaiting the decision to become a partner with a major European supplier. New release schedules on existing collections will be offered to NEG members first, while a small, dedicated team is ready, willing and available to meet the requirements of today’s market.

“The team is proactive and keen to learn,” Mark concludes. “20 20 really is a new company for new times.”

The company is currently discussing additional brand opportunities, and is

Find out more about the company and the brands at www.2020opticalservices.co.uk

value, quality and wide commercial appeal.

The range encompasses metals and mixed acetates – all with colour flashing, using both solid and contrasting sides. Often

reserved but always true to the brand’s DNA, all frames feature Duck & Cover logo marking – be it discreet infilled and lasered, or a statement metal block.

DUCK & COVER Born in London NW10 Founded in 1996, Duck & Cover takes established styles and gives them a contemporary twist in design and fabrication. With innovation and evolution to the fore, Duck & Cover eyewear is finished with workwear detail, with sport and utility inextricably woven into its DNA. The brand’s extension into eyewear, designed and manufactured by 20 20 Optical Services, reflects not only its blueprint but its ethos and no-nonsense

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Healthy eyes Daily disposable contact lenses with Smart TouchTM and Smart Fit technology

sphere

toric

Smart TouchTM technology assists hygienic handling allowing the inner surface of the lens to remain uncontaminated up to the point of application reducing the risk of microbial contamination.

The wearer only touches the outer surface of the lens.

Smart Fit naturally orients the lens correctly no matter which way it is applied.

This clever dynamic asymmetric stabilisation system anatomically matches the natural eyelid contours, providing both high levels of comfort and axis stability.

Healthy planet Sustainability is our focus Less raw material

Less waste

An environmental focus

80%

99%

80%

Plastic used in the lens package has been reduced by approximately 80%.1

Plastic used in the manufacturing process is approximately 99%.2

Packages are made from 100% recycled plastic.3

REDUCTION

RECYCLED

RECYCLED

Only 20% waste when comparing to a 1 year supply of conventional blister packs!

If you require more information on Menicon lenses, call us on: 01604 646216 www.menicon.co.uk 1

Menicon data on file, in comparison with previous Menicon product.

2

Menicon data on file, excluding products that have been shipped for use.

3

Menicon data on file.

PRODUCT PROFILE

Placing imaging and grading front and centre Ben David explains how AOS software can help you to develop a truly patient centric business

Regular assessment of the anterior eye is part of everyday life for anyone working in eye health. But is imaging and objective grading included in these everyday assessments? Without accurate grading and imaging, how is it possible to deliver the eye health experience, both in and out of practice, that patients want and demand?

It is now standard practice to record findings by use of one of the recognised grading systems. The benefits to the eyecare practitioner (ECP) and patient of a grading system are manifold: • Consistent clinical record keeping; • Effective monitoring of ongoing eye health conditions; and • Improved patient adherence to treatment pathways, to name but a few.

One of the main concerns with grading, however, is the level of subjectivity which can lead to inaccuracy and inter clinician variability. Studies have shown reliability and accuracy between clinicians to be as low as 47 per cent*. This figure suggests an accurate, objective alternative would bring about substantial change for the better.

BENEFITS FOR BOTH ECP AND PATIENT Digital imaging of the back of the eye has been incorporated into every posterior assessment for years, and the benefits of doing so are unquestionable. Retinal photography and optical coherence tomography (OCT) are routinely used in practice to aid examinations and educate patients on their eye health. If digital imaging has become part and parcel of posterior examinations, then why is this not the case for many anterior assessments?

Visually showing the patient the blepharitis on their lashes, or the level of staining on the

Facilitating objective clinical assessments

cornea, has the same benefits as diabetic retinopathy from a fundus image, or wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD) from an OCT image – namely, significantly improved understanding of their condition compared to a verbal explanation, and for measurements and tracking over time.

Imaging carries the added benefit of not being restricted to an in-practice assessment. The prevalence of smartphones and their photographic capabilities means that a powerful imaging tool is in the hands of almost every patient. Incorporating outof-practice patient imaging results in new levels of understanding and, crucially, the opportunity to improve the patient experience, refine existing workflows and maximise ‘chair’ value.

REVOLUTIONARY SOFTWARE SOLUTION For ECPs who see the value in anterior imaging and objective grading and want to

become a truly patient centric business, AOS software is the technology that makes this possible. AOS was built firmly with the patient experience in mind, to enable ECPs to use digital imaging to provide the service their patients demand and expect.

This revolutionary anterior imaging and grading software allows images of the anterior eye to be analysed in a variety of ways that can then be more easily interpreted and recorded. In so doing, it removes the subjective error that might otherwise risk misinterpretation and mismanagement of any individual presentation.

AOS is device agnostic software designed to automate ocular surface analysis of any digital image of the eye and automate the grading of: • bulbar redness; • lid redness; and • corneal staining.

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Introducing My Lens Life… …the contact lens patient retention programme from CooperVision, designed to help reduce drop out and support remote patient care.

Starter pack

Email template

Welcome pack

Email template

Step 2

Step 1

Step 3

Information booklet

Series of follow-up emails

mylenslife.uk If we can give step-by-step support to new contact lens wearers, we can help reduce contact lens drop out - allowing new wearers to enjoy the freedom provided by contact lenses and live their lens life to the full.

My Lens Life is a category programme that provides patient communication tools at every step of the contact lens journey, for all your contact lens patients, regardless of the lenses they are wearing.

To find out more please contact your CooperVision Business Development Manager.

coopervision.co.uk/mylenslife

PRODUCT PROFILE relate to is something that occurs in other medical fields and is an experience they expect when they see an ECP. The AOS grading has been shown to be between 98.2 to 99.8 per cent accurate and repeatable, and significantly reduces inter clinician variability; subjective and often inaccurate grading is replaced with consistency, accuracy and objectivity. Tracking and monitoring a pathology with a consistent, repeatable system has obvious benefits.

AOS enhances, rather than restricts, patient flow as the information is presented in a way that is easy to understand and explain.

It also allows ECPs to give consistent advice to patients.

Patient reports can be easily shared

There are a host of additional tools, patient reporting capabilities and a telemed platform, which are explained in more detail later.

and saved to the patient file; this can be easily exported to a PMS/EMR and mailed directly to the patient.

Bulbar redness

TELEMED AND TELEHEALTH

Accurate measurement and tracking of bulbar redness is a vital part of any anterior surface diagnosis. The bulbar redness mode provides instant grading from 0-4 of a selected area along with a measurement of the percentage of vascularity. The comparison mode can be used to compare bulbar injection of two areas of interest on the same patient, and generate a heat map for further improved patient education.

The latest version of the AOS software comes complete with a telemed platform, which enables secure, easy-to-use remote communications with patients. The live video calling feature is activated with one click and can be accessed by patients on any smart device or PC.

Lid redness For objective measurement of inverted upper and lower lids, the lid redness tool detects palpebral conjunctival redness and uses the same zero to four scale seen in bulbar mode. Results are presented instantly in the industry standard five-sector grid.

Corneal staining Accurate evaluation of fluorescein staining is a key component of any anterior eye assessment and something that is vulnerable to a significant level of subjective variation. When an area of interest has been highlighted, using the standardised corneal grid if preferred, the points of stain or fluorescence are displayed clearly in red and an accurate count of the punctuates in each section is recorded.

The patient-facing mobile app is a tool that captures images easily and transfers them directly into the patient record in the AOS software. From here, analysis of the image takes place and reports can be generated without having to see the patient in practice, all the while conforming to GDPR and HIPAA compliance.

IMPROVING PATIENT EDUCATION Patient education is the key challenge that AOS helps overcome, the introduction of enhanced imaging and grading improving compliance with treatment. Explaining why the treatment options have been recommended, visually and objectively, and giving a score which the patient can easily

Being able to offer safe, secure and easy-touse remote services has become a business requirement over the past year and the benefits of this flexible way of treating patients are clear: safer, less time-consuming care for the patient, maximised chair time value and increased revenues for the practice.

AOS is HIPAA and GDPR compliant, is registered as a Class 1 medical device and has been subject to several validation studies including â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Evaluating a new objective grading software for conjunctival hyperaemiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; by Byki Huntjens at City University of London. AOS is intuitively designed to fit within the workflow of an everyday practice and its core features improve patient evaluations, covering any condition/pathology which affects the ocular surface.

The addition of a telehealth platform into the latest version enables ECPs to deliver the type of flexible service that has, over the last year, become vital. For anyone who is serious about digital imaging and grading of the anterior eye, for those who want to deliver the type of flexible, educational experience patients want and deserve, for those who want better patient outcomes and want to maximise in-practice chair time, AOS is a must-have piece of software.

For more information on how AOS can become a tool for success for your business, go to aos-hub.com

Other tools There are a host of additions to the main functions that allow for exact measurements, direct annotations and powerful enhancements of every image.

And for every session, a report is generated

FLEXIBILITY LEADS TO PROFITABILITY

*source: http://openaccess.city.ac.uk/16492/1/Ant erior_eye_health_recording.pdf

Telemed platform enables live video calling

Ben David is the general manager of AOS (Advanced Ophthalmic Systems).

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STYLE SPOTLIGHT

SUNGLASSES: smart and savvy

Amsterdam Art Deco inspiration: Suzy Glam Decorates

By Joan Grady Jackie Kennedy Onassis, Audrey Hepburn, John Lennon, Steve McQueen, Sir Elton John, Joseph F. Biden and Anna Wintour are among the iconic and famous people known for their sunglass style.

The quintessential aviator, the glamorous, voluminous silhouette, mirrored lenses, statement square shapes, seductive cat-eye designs and cool flat top sunglasses are among the archetypal designs worn by musicians, politicians, actors and fashion luminaries. The powerful impact of sunglasses extends to the general public who avidly follow former – as well as current and trending – style makers.

With positive projections for spring and summer 2021, and the anticipation of people travelling again, designers and manufacturers demonstrate their mettle and initiative with a captivating array of sun specs that will emphatically appeal to the independent optician’s clientele. Styles, colours, shapes and materials manifest creativity as well as imagination – with priorities on quality, craftsmanship and construction.

RETRO INSPIRATIONS From rock stars to royalty and trendsetters to tech geeks, tortoiseshell eyewear

Vintage allurs: Cocoa Mint model CMS2082 from Eyespace

embraces perennial allure. Eyespace Eyewear has just launched a stunning new design in its Cocoa Mint collection: a retro masterpiece in tortoiseshell with golden amber hues. The full square shape – CMS2082 – unifies the timeless trend for vintage flashbacks that represents cultural aesthetics particularly of the 1960s and 70s.

A revival of much-loved retro shapes and nostalgic colour palettes highlights the allnew Sun21 collection by Silhouette. Comfort, lightness and total UV protection unite with Silhouette’s specialist craftsmanship in five smart shapes for men and women.

a squared octagon shape with an acetate front and slender metal temples.

Inspirational and imaginative styles are hallmarks of Suzy Glam designs. Each frame is crafted with exemplary care and attention to detail. Timeless materials, innovative technology and Suzy’s creative ability to merge past and present, reflect quiet elegance, refinement and confidence. Suzy Glam Decorates is a Limited Edition design inspired by the Amsterdam Art Deco

The Austrian brand reinterprets the sporty aviator – style 8730 – that combines a more rounded lens and a slick double bridge in gold with contrasting accents. The frame is also available in gunmetal, coupled with an all-black design, and mirrored lenses are also featured. Silhouette’s Accent Shades designs were introduced in 2019 and have enjoyed soaring popularity since.

Sporty aviator: Style 8730 from the Silhouette Sun21 collection

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Vision Now FEBRUARY 2021

A profusion of sunshine in Brazil most likely inspires Ana Hickmann’s voluminous, charismatic sunglasses. The latest collection from the Brazilian creator, distributed by Go Eyewear, confirms the importance of supersized frames. Style AH9317 dazzles in

Supersize sun specs: AH9317 by Ana Hickmann

STYLE SPOTLIGHT

Cat-eye charm: LK Bennett LKBSun27

Colour contrasts: Ambiance by Jeremy Tarian

movement called Amsterdamse School.

Gold-mirrored lenses shimmer in the acetate frame that is packaged in a protective pouch, handmade individually by Suzy.

SERENADES IN SILHOUETTES Colour contrasts highlight the new sun styles by Parisian designer Jeremy Tarian, who with the touch of the maestro fuses soft characteristics with courageous concepts. Bold and distinguished, a dash of colour spotlights the contemporary shape of Ambiance, with a streak of blue on white, or navy blue on vivid red. With Tarian’s commitment to sustainability and consideration for the environment, all his designs are crafted in the Jura region of France, which has a renowned tradition of spectacle making since the 18th century.

Luminous yellow is among the colours of the year for 2021, and Flash by Face à Face Paris is a dynamic play of transparency that dazzles with a streak of lemon yellow on crystal acetate. The generously proportioned sunglasses contemplate elegant contours, allure, mystery and illusion. Design director Pascal Jaulent translates his love of contemporary design and architecture into eyewear with precision and inimitable Parisian style, which translates fashionably on an international stage.

Among the fashion brands worn by the Duchess of Cambridge is LK Bennett. Linda Bennett is a Londoner with a love of fashion and accessories; she designed the shoes worn by the Duchess of Cornwall for her wedding to the Prince of Wales. Her multiple talents include spectacle frames for Continental Eyewear, and the latest designs feature trim, slim designs in metal and acetate. LKBSun27 with its smooth cateye form in creamy cappuccino acetate is coupled with metal sides, and is produced in tortoiseshell.

Vienna’s Neubaugasse section of the former imperial capital is an exciting hub; a vibrant district that boasts bountiful vintage shopping and fun flea markets. Capturing the feel and mood of Vienna’s history and trendy direction, Neubau Eyewear fuses magnetism, quality and lustrous acetate in Adam in glossy ruby red. The bold shape incorporates state-of-the-art technical acumen and perceptive style.

Vienna vibrancy: Adam in glossy ruby red by Neubau

CREATIVITY WITH METALS Classic, lyrical fluid shapes are masterfully re-interpreted in various metals into updated, timeless forms that are comfortable and easy to wear. Irish designer Paul Costelloe’s new

Titanium perspective: Henderson by Salt Optics

sun collection, distributed by Dunelm Optical, highlights a contemporary, slim round shape in metal, with a distinctive edged rim available in gold, silver and black.

Streamlined and sleek, Paul Costelloe Sun104 also sports a delicate, curved nose bridge.

Titanium technology, with its lightweight yet sturdy features, is among the memorable highlights in Salt Optics’ sun specs collection.

Henderson is a sleekly contoured frame, and elegantly streamlined to fit securely and comfortably, plus demonstrating cool style savvy with polarised CR39 lenses. The frame is available in four striking colour combinations: antique gold with deep brown lenses, black sand with denim lenses, and antique silver with CR39 G15 lenses.

For more than 20 years, Copenhagen based Ørgreen Optics has crafted eyewear and sunglasses primarily in titanium and betatitanium. Handcrafted in Japan, the latest innovation from the Danish label is Quantum, made from titanium and polyamide. The new style introduces an unseen hinge technology for further comfort and character. Colour combinations and frame shapes are stylish, unique and distinctive.

Danish distinction: Quantum Sun by Ørgreen Optics

Luminous dazzle: Flash by Face à Face Paris

Streamlined and sleek: Paul Costelloe Sun104

A new year is an overture to fresh starts, new beginnings and limitless possibilities.

Independent opticians can seize the moment to alert customers to the impressive and exciting sunglass collections for spring and summer. Innovation, creativity, incredible craftsmanship, enhanced safety and stunning selections – along with a positive mindset – can make it a great year.

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V

VV

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

ALCON UK

BONDEYE OPTICAL

DE RIGO UK LTD

GO EYEWEAR UK LTD

Tel: 0371 376 0017 Fax: 0871 351 1005

Tel: 0121 7723888 Fax: 0808 2801865

Tel: 01923 249491

Tel: 0800 9178270

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

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

www.goeyeweargroup.com

www.uk.alcon.com

CENTROSTYLE

DUNELM OPTICAL Tel: 01388 420420 Fax: 01388 810101

Tel: 01442 502 330 Fax: 01442 242 386

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

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

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

www.essilor.co.uk

HOYA LENS UK

BARCLAYCARD

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

EYESPACE

Tel: 0845 330 0984 Fax: 0845 330 0977

CONTINENTAL EYEWEAR

Tel: 01527 870550 Fax: 01527 837012

Tel: 0151 426 3907 Fax: 0151 426 9340

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

ASSOCIATED OPTICAL Tel: 01628 605433 Fax: 01628 665077

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

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

ESSILOR Tel: 01454 281281 Fax: 01454 281282

EYEWEAR DIRECT (EUROPE) LTD

HEIDELBERG ENGINEERING www.HeidelbergEngineering.co.uk

HILCO EUROPE Tel: 0800 591150 info@hilco.co.uk www.hilco.co.uk

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

INTERNATIONAL EYEWEAR LTD

Tel: 020 7193 3334

Tel: 0121 585 6565 Fax: 0121 585 0954

eyewear-direct.net

www.internationaleyewear.co.uk

When you prescribe contact lenses, you prescribe freedom.

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

COMING SOON

©2020 Alcon Inc

30

Vision Now FEBRUARY 2021

coopervision.co.uk

T 01527 870550 eyespace-eyewear.co.uk

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

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

LENSTEC OPTICAL

MICHAEL PACHLEITNER GROUP

RETAIL EXPERIENCE DESIGN (RED)

THEA PHARMACEUTICALS

Tel: 07583 076 132

Tel: 024 7601 0103

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

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

www.thea-pharmaceuticals.co.uk

RODENSTOCK

Tel: 0845 521 1290 Fax: 01782 717 944

THREE SIXTY

MID-OPTIC

Tel: 01474 325555

Tel: 01686 627595 Fax: 01696 610015

Tel: 01332 295001 Fax: 01332 295158

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

Kieran@calotherm.co.uk www.calotherm.co.uk

orders@midoptic.com www.midoptic.com

SEIKO OPTICAL UK

No7 CONTACT LENSES

20 20 OPTICAL SERVICES LTD

Tel: 07780 338656

Tel: 01452 610033 Fax: 01452 638250

franchising@lloydsbanking.com www.lloydsbank.com/business

Tel: 01424 850620 Fax: 01424 850650

LOUIS STONE OPTICAL LTD

info@no7contactlenses.com www.no7contactlenses.com

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

LLOYDS BANK

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

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

OPTINET LTD

mark@2020opticalservices.co.uk www.2020opticalservices.co.uk

SILHOUETTE UK LTD

Tel: 01525 381112 Fax: 01525 370091

Tel: 020 8987 8899 Fax: 020 8987 2430

sales@optinetuk.com www.optinetuk.com

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

PERFORMANCE FINANCE

SPEC-CARE LTD

Tel: 0800 074 2425

Tel: 01536 529696 Fax: 01536 310033

Tel: 01392 460806

annie.mackervoy@webpost.com www.webpost.com

www.performancefinance.co.uk

LUXOTTICA (UK) LTD

POSITIVE IMPACT

STEPPER UK

Tel: 0808 165 8555

Tel: 08446 696907

Tel: 01732 375975

www.luxottica.com

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

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

Tel: 0800 72 2020

PRACTICE BUILDING

SUNWISE (TG SPORTS)

csuk@marchon.com

Tel: 0115 989 9772

Tel: 01865 714620

MARK’ENNOVY

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

Tel: 0800 3280610 Fax: 0800 3280649

PRO-OPTIC

mkservices@markennovy.com www.markennovy.com

MENICON UK LTD

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

ULTRAVISION

Tel: 0845 313 0233

info@speccareservices.co.uk www.speccareservices.co.uk

MARCHON

Tel: 01460 929460

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

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

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

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

WEBPOST

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

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

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

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

www.nationaleyecare.co.uk SUPPLIER – OPTICIAN – PATIENT

OUR PARTNERSHIP

Suppliers’ directory

LENSTEC EYEWEAR Tel: 02920 857122 Fax: 02920 920480

Open your eyes to

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

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

T: 01279 653785 E: TantCC@tantlabs.com

0845 3130233 sales@optinetuk.com

www.optinetuk.com T: 02920 857 122 E: Eyewear@lenstec.co.uk

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

www.stepper.co.uk

Vision Now FEBRUARY 2021

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

CooperVision is pleased to announce it’s partnership with National Eyecare Group to offer you, its members, an exclusive brand portfolio of contact lenses and lens care products – mediflex.®

Behind each mediflex® label is a trusted CooperVision product (e.g. Biofinity,® MyDay,® Hy-Care® etc.) giving you the reassurance of a world-leading manufacturer. What’s more, mediflex® products are available at the same price as the CooperVision-branded equivalent.

Join one of our 30 minute introductory webinars throughout February – check the NEG website for details or contact your CooperVision Business Development Manager today.

*Exclusive within the UK&I market. mediflex® is only available to NEG members.