Vision Now July 2021

V

VV JULY 2021

Vision Now magazine

MiYOSMART: the smart way to treat myopia in children.

60%*

slow down of myopia progression.

Now available in the UK & Ireland, please register your interest here: *Lam CSY, Tang WC, TseDY, Lee RPK, Chun RKM, Hasegawa K, Qi H, Hatanaka T, To CH. Defocus Incorporated Multiple Segments (DIMS) spectacle lenses slow myopia progression: a 2-year randomisedclinical trial. British Journal of Ophthalmology. Published Online First: 29 May 2019. doi: 10.1136/bjophthalmol-2018-313739

Patient loyalty builds practice success.

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

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

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. What’s more, mediflex® products are available at the same price as the CooperVision-branded equivalent.

Contact your CooperVision Business Development Manager.

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

33

V

Inside

VV

14

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.

16

News 4 7 9 11 13 14

Industry award for Alcon experts New hub for specialist lenses GOC outlines barriers to OTP Ortho-k lenses approved in Europe Case sales soar at Louis Stone BCLA webinar to tackle allergies

Editor’s comment A recent poll conducted on behalf of the College of Optometrists has detected a marked rise in the number of people concerned about their vision since the start of lockdown last year; however, a quarter of people surveyed said they hadn’t done anything about it because “they were concerned about catching Covid-19 when visiting the optometrist” (see news page 14).

15 Developing thoughts Just do it

16 Product profile Introducing Yalea

21 NEG exhibition preview Tools for success

30 Business matters Is going fully private right for you?

32 Style spotlight In the Kidz-Zone

34 Suppliers’ directory

Doubtless, the majority have gone above and beyond since the start of the pandemic to ensure the safety of both staff and patients, and so the College’s communications campaign to rectify this perception – underlining the safety of optometric practice – should be welcomed. If independent practices can harness this message and reiterate it locally, then more power to it.

By the time this month’s issue lands, we will be on the cusp of the ending of lockdown restrictions (or not...). Regardless, this summer is the perfect time to remind your community of all that your practice has to offer – including any new products and services. As Phil Mullins suggests in his column this month, practices must now more than ever change and work differently to keep up with and attract new patients.

It’s just two months until the 2021 NEG Building for Success Conference, and the group’s preferred suppliers are absolutely revving to catch up with members in person. Turn to our preview on page 21 to see what this year’s exhibitors will be showcasing. Do make sure you’ve secured your complimentary place and special B&B rate – which includes a relaxed, informal NEG dinner. We all very much look forward to seeing you again in September.

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

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

Vision Now JULY 2021

3

NEWS 1

2

Alcon

Essilor

Multi-pair lens promotion

Essilor’s current digital media campaign, to support independent practitioners participating in its Take Two multi-pair lens promotion, aims to push half a million consumers to the store locator on essilor.co.uk, allowing them to book an eye exam at their local independent optician. Advertising messages in support of the campaign are being delivered across digital platforms.

Tim Precious, managing director at Essilor, said: “Our drive-to-store campaign is expected to be viewed 55 million times across the digital channels with messaging that will influence and incentivise consumers, encouraging them to think about their eyes, book an optical appointment and take up the multi-pair lens promotion with our independent business partners. We believe this will play a key role in driving footfall into independent opticians this summer and helping to boost business for our Independent business partners.” Pointof-sale packs are available to maximise the promotion, which runs until mid-July.

3

Stepper

Weighing only 8.3g, the StepperS STS-30063 has been created for spectacle wearers looking for an everyday-wear frame that’s in tune with their personality. “Many of us want to express ourselves in eyewear, but are put off by overbearing frames that try too hard to make a statement,” said Saskia Stepper. “StepperS turns ‘fashion’ into ‘wearable fashion’, creating modern eyewear

4

Vision Now JULY 2021

Industry recognition for water gradient lens technology inventors

Alcon R&D experts, Erich Bauman and Dr John Pruitt, received the 2021 British Contact Lens Association (BCLA) Industry Award at the Association’s recent virtual conference. They were honoured for their outstanding contribution to the contact lens industry and profession – most notably their invention and development of the water gradient technology first featured in Dailies Total1 lenses.

Erich Bauman, Alcon senior director of vision care development, said: “I am both honoured and humbled to receive this award on behalf of the team who worked so passionately to bring this innovation to the eyecare market.” Dr John Pruitt, Alcon senior director of vision care research, added: “I am proud of our chemistry and engineering teams that were able to optimise the surface and core materials separately to achieve both extremely high oxygen transmission and an ultra-soft, high water surface. These

characteristics often work against each other and the team overcame many difficult obstacles to achieve what was once considered unachievable.”

During the conference, Alcon presented data on its forthcoming Total30 lens, said to be the first and only monthly replacement water gradient contact lens. The lens features a water gradient material with biomimetic Celligent technology. Several studies of Total30, which evaluated the integrity of the material surface after on-eye wear, showed durability during a full month of wear and daily cleaning, disinfecting and storing, surface softness compared to other contact lens materials, wettability after 30 days of on-eye wear, and surface and structure properties, said the company.

Alcon expects to introduce Total30 contact lenses in the US and select markets in Europe in 2021. Broader commercial availability worldwide is planned for 2022.

with the renowned ‘feel good’ the brand’s fit delivers. So, our frames work both emotionally and physically.”

Sculptured from TX5, the front’s light plastic material works with facial contours to deliver “outstanding comfort”, while the sheet-cut stainless steel sides meet the front with a contemporary joint. Colour options available are brown, crystal or blue. “The design, colour and material combination make the STS-30063 a post-modernist delight,” added Saskia.

The StepperS STS-30063

Sponsored by

Collaboration Planning Strategy

Freedom Teamwork

Focus

Connections

Supporting your independence since 1979

2021 BUILDING FOR SUCCESS MEMBERS CONFERENCE

‘The Tools for Success’ Sunday 26th & Monday 27th September 2021 The De Vere Staverton Estate With the ever-changing reality of commerce today, our conference, ‘The Tools for Success’, will share with members the abilities they need to develop their businesses, succeed in a constantly evolving world and help promote a strong independent sector in the UK.

Register now to attend at www.negconference.co.uk

Sponsored by

NEWS 4

6

Silhouette

No7 Contact Lenses

Accent Shades 8179 in lavender with blue gradient lenses

The latest Accent Shades sunglasses from Silhouette revive retro shapes, nostalgic colour palettes and well-loved shapes. Combining lightness with comfort and total UV protection, Silhouette’s craftsmanship has been applied to two fresh styles. Inspired by the wings of the giant blue morpho butterfly, the Accent Shades’ gently curved rimless lenses are set off with eye-catching accents to deliver a sleek full-rim look. The two new designs are in the form of a delicate oversized shape for women and a dynamic aviator for men.

Katie Harrop

5

CooperVision

CooperVision is sponsoring the British Contact Lens Association’s (BCLA) Myopia Management Certificate for an initial 12-month period. Hundreds of BCLA members have signed up to work towards the certificate since it was launched as part of the BCLA’s refreshed education programme. It focuses on clinical skills and evidence-based practice in myopia management, and can be achieved by any optometrist or contact lens optician who attains seven credits and a final oral (viva voce) examination.

Krupa Patel, head of professional services at CooperVision, said: “We are absolutely thrilled to be partnering with the BCLA for this course. Provision of high-quality education around myopia management is essential, and this qualification ensures practitioners are best placed to deliver up-to-date knowledge and best practice in this ever-evolving area.” For more details visit www.bcla.org.uk As a platinum sponsor of the recent BCLA virtual conference, CooperVision shared its latest scientific insights and showcases opportunities for myopia management in everyday practice.

The company’s Brilliant Futures Myopia Management Programme features MiSight 1 day – the world’s first soft contact lens proven to slow the progression of myopia in children.

Presbyopia management was also on the agenda as CooperVision previewed its MyDay daily disposable multifocal – cited by the company as “an evolution in lens systems design, fitting simplicity and range availability”.

7

No7 Contact Lenses has launched a new website and service, IC Specialist, at www.icspecialist.no7contactlenses.com – with free registration and membership to all No7 account holders. IC Specialist will support those interested in fitting lenses for the irregular cornea (IC). It includes a range of educational courses, a contact lens design selector, key product information and beta access to new IC designs.

“The products featured on the IC Specialist website are exclusively from No7 – but this is not a marketing platform,” stressed Katie Harrop, professional services director and UK commercial lead for No7 Contact Lenses. “We have created a way to share our knowledge, expertise and experience with customers in an accessible and convenient manner.

Ultimately, our goal is to help more patients with irregular corneas to live happier lives with healthier vision.” Developments in the pipeline include a blog/vlog and a Contact Lens Knowledge-base.

Go Eyewear

The Go Eyewear Group has announced a new house brand – Bravewear – to deliver eyewear designs for the younger generations. The project name comes from the combination of ‘brave’ and ‘eyewear’, giving a feeling of youthful exuberance and non-conformism. “Bravewear is for those who are not afraid to say what they think,”

New house brand for Go

said a company spokesperson. “Through innovative design, the use of contrasting materials and the combination of themes,

this brand is challenging and pushing back the boundaries of fashion.” Bravewear also has its own hashtag: #justbeyourself Vision Now JULY 2021

7

INTRODUCING

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

PRECISE VISION1

LONG-LASTING COMFORT 1

EASE OF HANDLING1

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

SCAN HERE TO EXPERIENCE THE PRECISION1

TM

PATIENT SUPPORT

PROGRAMME FOR YOURSELF.

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

Please contact your Alcon® Representative to find out more.

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

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

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

NEWS 8

International Eyewear

10 Charmant

New eco brochure out now

More than 400 styles are showcased in International Eyewear’s newly-released 2021 brochure. Presenting core collections alongside the premium Eschenbach portfolio and licensed brands, the freshlydesigned brochure has a steel blue paper cover made from recycled materials. New colour options are available on a selection of Eyestuff and OK Frame Company styles, while a ‘think green’ logo marks Episode’s new eco-conscious direction.

Now part of the Inspecs Group, following Inspecs’ acquisition of Eschenbach Optik, the company can offer a complete frame and lens package through Norville 20/20. To celebrate the launch of its new brochure, for a limited time only, International Eyewear customers can take advantage of an exclusive offer. Details are available from the customer care team on 0121 585 6565 or by emailing sales@internationaleyewear.co.uk

9

Elle Made in France: Juliette

The new Made in France Elle collection from Charmant pays tribute to the Elle woman through high-quality French frames made in the world-renowned Oyonnax valley in the Jura mountains. Oyonnax is famous for its rich artisanal heritage that has endured over centuries. Acetate is the flagship material of the Elle Made in France collection, with three polishing barrels used to achieve a high-quality finish.

The 10 new frames – eight opticals and two sunglasses – feature feminine and soft curves in panto, oversized, geometric and cat-eye shapes, some combining acetate with metal decorations on the sides. Our photograph shows glittery model EL 31506 in blue, inspired by the life of legendary heroine Juliette Dodu, the first woman to receive the Legion of Honor for her courage during the Franco-Prussian War of 1870. Other female icons celebrated within the collection include philosopher and novelist Simone de Beauvoir, tennis player Suzanne Lenglen, scientist Marie Curie, and painter Rosa Bonheur.

ABDO

The Association of British Dispensing Opticians (ABDO) is reminding eyecare and industry professionals that applications for its next management and leadership courses close on 4 August for a study commencement of 3 September. “Expanding people skills is one of the most important investments a business can make,” said Nick Walsh, ABDO head of corporate development. “Rather than seeing training as a cost, practices should actively encourage – or in some cases insist – that their staff complete training courses, setting aside budgets for this purpose.”

ABDO offers training courses in management and leadership accredited by the Chartered Management Institute (CMI), leading to recognised CMI qualifications. “Individuals will not only improve themselves in their roles but also learn how to improve the team and the business,” Nick added. To read MLT case studies and hear what previous students think, go to the ABDO website.

For more information and to apply, visit the ABDO Business Support Hub.

11 General Optical Council The General Optical Council (GOC) has published findings from its literature review on optometrist therapeutic prescribing (OTP) identifying a range of barriers and facilitators.

These included: the extent of organisational readiness; leadership; preparation of the infrastructure to support non-medical prescribing (such as access to a prescription pad and prescribing budget); practitioner readiness; continued support; and professional development. Other challenges to OTP included limited practitioner skills and motivation, access to clinical practice training, limited organisational support and a lack of external/ local policies to facilitate prescribing.

The research was led by the University of Surrey, and will inform and shape the GOC’s proposals for updated education and training requirements for GOC-approved qualifications for specialist entry to the GOC register in additional supply (AS), supplementary prescribing (SP) and/or independent prescribing (IP) categories. The GOC will consult on these in July alongside similar requirements for contact lens opticians.

GOC director of education, Leonie Milliner, said: “...we have considered the need for the integration of theoretical and clinical competencies within approved AS, SP and IP qualifications, removing the current two-year registration requirement prior to undertaking a clinical placement and aligning supervision requirements with other non-medical prescribers, so that suitably experienced optometrists can supervise trainees. This approach would allow optometrists to study prescribing concurrently with a GOC-approved pre-registration qualification in optometry.” The full report is available on the GOC website.

Vision Now JULY 2021

9

Easy-to-昀t gas permeable lenses with a clear advantage

A well blended spherical posterior multicurve construction to give a constant axial edge lift to ensure consistent 昀tting.

Aspheric posterior design incorporates a spherical optic zone, an innovative progressively 昀attening aspheric periphery ensuring a uniform thickness.

Rigid lenses with 昀exible bene昀ts available in a wide range of materials and lens parameters including toric and multifocal • Empirical 昀tting advice • Proven track record of success

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

NEWS 12 Independents Day

14 CooperVision

Following the postponement of its Independents Day conference, slated for 4 July, Proven Track Record (PTR) has rescheduled the event for Sunday 24 October at the same venue: the National Motorcycle Museum in Birmingham. PTR director, Nick Atkins, said: “I’d like to thank all our speakers, booked delegates, sponsors and exhibitors for their understanding and flexibility.” The company has advised that tickets will simply be transferred to the new date with a refund available for anyone unable to attend. Earlybird pricing has reopened until 31 July. For up-to-date information and bookings, visit www.independentsday.co.uk

13 Rodenstock

Study show positive results with children

CooperVision Specialty EyeCare’s Procornea DreamLite night lenses have received European approval for slowing the progression of myopia in children and young adults. Dr Juan Carlos Aragón, president, CooperVision Specialty EyeCare, said: “Our commitments to innovations such as DreamLite night lenses, providing broader access to optical interventions with scientifically-demonstrated outcomes, and investing in widespread education for eyecare professionals and parents are examples why CooperVision continues to lead the myopia management category.”

According to the company, DreamLite night lenses can be used for myopia control with children who have a refraction of -0.75D to -5.00D and a cylindrical refraction with a maximum of -2.50D. A two-year study showed that the lenses reduced axial length growth by 63 per cent among high myopes compared to the single vision spectacle lens control group – a reduction of 0.32mm (Charm J and Cho P. High myopia-partial reduction ortho-k: a two-year randomized study. Optom. Vis Sci. 2013 Jun;90(6):530-9. doi: 10.1097/OPX.0b013e318293657d. PMID: 23645372). The lenses are currently available across Europe, the Middle East and China.

New hub for all things BIG Vision

A new BIG Precision Hub – at www.rodenstock.com/uk/en/bigprecision. html – has been established by Rodenstock to provide a one-stop-info portal to all things related to its BIG Vision concept. The hub contains information about the challenges and successes in the production of lenses based on a complete biometric model of each eye, including the length and several thousand data points in the eye. The biometric eye model enables Rodenstock to precisely target the centre of focus of each individual eye, providing the sharpest possible vision at every angle, or with every glance, in the peripheral areas and at mid, near and far distances.

All relevant biometric data determined by the combination of the DNEye scanner and the patented DNEye PRO technology are integrated directly into the lens. This process is said to be unique in the market and with the result being: “the world’s most precise lens”.

15 Continental Eyewear

Jacques Lamont model 1310 in Mauve

Three new models have been added to the Jacques Lamont eyewear collection from Continental Eyewear, designed with bifocal and varifocal lens wearers in mind. The plastic and metal frames have been specifically designed to provide ladies and gentlemen with a classic traditional look. The new styles feature classic shapes with a hint of individuality; from distinctive angular temples to diamante detailing and embossed patterns. Each frame is available in three soft colourways. Model 1310 (pictured) is an oval supra frame with ripple effect temples and diamante detailing. This feminine style is available in Grape, Mauve and Tan. Vision Now JULY 2021

11

NEWS 16 Positive Impact

18 Louis Stone Optical

Surge in demand for cases and cloths

Effective dispensing pump for Eye Doctor drops

Now available from distributor Positive Impact (PI) are two new dry eye drops from the Body Doctor: Eye Doctor Daily Refresh Eye Drops, and Eye Doctor Intensive Relief Eye Drops to treat more severe and persistent cases of dry eye. Both come in 10ml bottles with a pump that dispenses the right amount of solution required. They can be used by contact lens wearers and are recommended by television’s Dr Hilary Jones.

The new drops are preservative-free and last for up to six months. The Eye Doctor Intensive Relief Eye Drops contain 0.3 per cent sodium hyaluronate, while Daily Refresh Eye Drops contain 0.1 per cent sodium hyaluronate. Practice owner and dispensing optician, Adam Rushton, said: “The dispensing mechanism is proving incredibly effective for the delivery of one drop, which improves patient compliance – much better than any other drop mechanism.” * PI has launched a new webinar about dry eye and lid hygiene protocols featuring Sarah Farrant, UK ambassador for the Tear Film and Ocular Surface Society. She discusses her experiences in practice with the NuLids electronic lid cleaning device and new antimicrobial spray Purifeyes, both available from PI. Visit www.positiveimpact.co.uk

17 ACLM The Association of Contact Lens Manufacturers (ACLM) has published its 2021 Contact Lens Year Book, listing technical details for all the contact lenses, solutions and materials produced by ACLM member companies in the UK. It is supported by an online version, aimed at encouraging new wearers and supporting existing ones, with a restricted area for eyecare practitioners. There is a separate restricted area in which the Year Book tables are available. Access to these tables is free for up to 12 months for all those who have purchased the latest hard copy Year Book, as well as British Contact Lens Association members and selected students at the various training establishments. Find out more at www.aclm.org.uk

Louis Stone Optical has reported a tripling of spectacle case sales over recent months, leading to the introduction of two weekend shifts for its printed cases and micro fibre cloths. Managing director, Paul Gaba, explained this increase in demand: “During the pandemic, practices have had more time to look at their existing case products for quality and price. Shortages have arisen with several case companies not ordering from their suppliers due to price increases and the 500 per cent plus rise in freight charges from abroad; neither are customers prepared to wait five to six months for bespoke printed cases anymore.”

The introduction of 10 new case models for 2021 (such as the Spectacular Collection pictured), has also fuelled online orders and enquiries – with a similar surge in orders for printed micro fibre cloths. “As a case company, it is imperative that we maintain the case supply chain and competitive prices for our customers,” added Paul.

“Every day we are welcoming new and old customers including several from abroad.

We are now looking to invest in new additional machinery and staff.”

19

BIB Ophthalmic Instruments

Optopol Technology has been awarded the prestigious Forbes Diamond 2021 title, which singles out businesses with the highest growth dynamics. The business ranking, prepared annually by Forbes magazine, is based on the Swiss evaluation method and covers the criteria: financial results over the past three years, value of assets, payment history and reliability, clean legal record.

Now available to buy

BIB Ophthalmic Instruments is the “proud partner” of Optopol Technology for the UK and Eire.

Vision Now JULY 2021

13

NEWS 20 General Optical Council

22 College of Optometrists

GOC aligns its stances on Covid

The General Optical Council (GOC) has published its response to its Covid-19 statements consultation, alongside a set of updated statements. The statements are now aligned to the College of Optometrists’ red-amber-green classification system, to “reduce the number of different reference points for registrants and to ensure that its expectations can be more clearly linked to the guidance being offered by the professional associations”.

Marcus Dye, GOC acting director of strategy, said: “As we move out of the more restrictive lockdown measures we have been in and more of our staff return to the office, we will now only be serving statutory notices electronically where we have consent from the registrant to do so. We will continue to take the consultation feedback into account as we reflect on our response to Covid-19 and any further guidance that might be required to assist registrants delivering patient care in the future.” Read the GOC’s consultation response and updated statements on its Covid-19 page.

21

In a survey of 2,000 British adults conducted by Opinium on behalf of the College of Optometrists in April 2021, 31 per cent of respondents said they had noticed their vision getting worse since the Covid-19 pandemic induced lockdowns. Forty-four per cent of respondents said they believed their eyesight had worsened due to increased time in front of screens; however, many did not take any action “because they didn’t think the problem was serious enough” (29 per cent) or “because they were concerned about catching Covid19 when visiting the optometrist (25 per cent)”.

College clinical adviser, Daniel Hardiman-McCartney, said: “We polled adults about their vision after the first lockdown in June 2020 and again in April 2021, and have seen a marked increase in those worried about their eyesight. The research also showed us that many people believe that spending more time in front of screens has worsened their vision.” Respondents also said they: struggled with everyday tasks due to problems with their eyesight (21 per cent); felt that life would be more fulfilling if they could see better (38 per cent); thought they should get their sight tested more often that they do (45 per cent).

The College is encouraging the public to find their local College member practice, and read eyecare tips, at www.lookafteryoureyes.org

23 BCLA

Association of Optometrists

Adam Sampson has succeeded Henrietta Alderman as chief executive of the Association of Optometrists (AOP). Adam’s last role was as chief executive of St Elizabeth’s Hospice, where he led on its transformation. Mike George, AOP chairman, said: “Adam spent three months as an interim CEO of the General Optical Council, so he has gained insight into the complex landscape of optometry and dispensing optics. I would like to thank Henrietta Alderman for her outstanding contribution to the AOP. We wish her the very best for her retirement.”

14

Worsening eyesight during lockdown

Vision Now JULY 2021

Dry eye experts to host webinar on allergies

The latest webinar for members of the British Contact Lens Association (BCLA), titled ‘Fixing that itch: allergies and contact lenses’, is on 14 July and will be led by 2021 BCLA Dry Eye Practitioner of the Year, Dr Keyur Patel, and Zachary Cairns. The speakers will look at the aetiology of hypersensitivity reactions, how to manage them and the effect on contact lens wear. They will discuss everyday allergic presentations, with case studies, and explain the strategies used to manage these scenarios. The duo will then examine how to best manage allergy-related complications.

Dr Keyur Patel is the clinical director at Tompkins, Knight & Son Optometrists, with special interests in therapeutics, dry eye, sports vision and contact lenses. Zachary Cairns is a specialist optometrist currently working in the UAE; he is deputy head of Moorfields Optometry department and specialises in contact lenses, anterior segment and glaucoma.

Register at www.bcla.org.uk

PRACTICE MATTERS

Developing thoughts As businesses, we need to start adapting now – and for the future, writes Phil Mullins

Just do it As I write this, we have just been informed that the final stage of the opening up of the economy has been delayed until 19 July.

The government has also reserved the right to delay the complete ending of lockdown restrictions yet further; regardless, the world is far from being back to normal. Previously unheard of (or rarely used) phrases such as ‘the new normal’, ‘hybrid working’, ‘travel corridors’ and ‘green zones’ are now commonplace. Although everything remains fluid, we as businesses still need to look at what adaptations we need to make now – and for the future.

As more people work from home, their behaviours change

Over the past year or so, many people have been forced to work from home – shifting where they spend their time. This has led to many of our members reporting an influx of new patients, as more people stay local and visit their independent practice.

This has been great news for the independent sector, but has been slightly tarnished by the fact that members in city centres have seen some of their patients go elsewhere. The issue now is how to keep these new patients.

FLEXIBILITY IS EVERYTHING One of the biggest lessons from the pandemic is flexibility – be that adapting to new working patterns, different ways of shopping or just communicating differently.

This will continue, regardless of how the pandemic plays out or what the government decides. People have seen that you don’t have to do things the same way all the time. The phrase, ‘because we always do it that way’, has well and truly been thrown out. So to keep these new patients looking to make the most of a new, flexible life, practices need to be willing to change and work differently.

Over the years, practices have been very ridged with opening hours; stuck on the routine of Monday to Friday, 9’til’5, close for

lunch and then open Saturday morning only.

Fortunately, things have moved on, but with changing work structures, practices need to look at how to provide a ‘wow’ service.

When I ran a practice on the outskirts of Cheltenham, we ran an evening clinic until 8pm every Thursday. This late opening generated by far the most income compared with any other day; often we would take a third of the weekly takings between 5pm and 8pm on a Thursday. It was a time that fitted in well with private patients, who worked and found it difficult to come to us at other times. It meant our retired patients could be easily seen at other times.

I’ve always been surprised that more practices don’t offer early and/or late clinics. Some say staff won’t want to work these hours – but as patients work more flexible hours, maybe your team should too? And if your competitors aren’t offering flexibility for all, then you stand a greater chance of keeping your new patients.

This may also fit in well with your drive to go private. Obviously, you wouldn’t offer these slots to NHS patients, but it would be worth offering extended hours to those on your direct debit payment plan. You may want to run special events at these times and make a

real feature of it. The possibilities are endless and restricted only by what you want to do.

TAKING STOCK FOR THE FUTURE Going forwards, you will need to be more flexible around your services and stock. Now that you have the patients, you need to make sure that you can serve them. This doesn’t necessarily mean jumping on the ‘brand wagon’ again, although you might want to review the brands you want to keep. It’s about knowing what sells, what might attract people, and what patients require with the changes in their work-life balance.

The large multiples have for so long promoted BOGOF offers to encourage multipair usage, but they miss the trick. It’s not about two pairs the same, it’s about multiple pairs covering different needs.

After all, you don’t use just one golf club to do 18 holes or one pan to cook a meal. So why have one pair of glasses? We should be discussing with patients occupational lenses, contact lenses for all uses, sports products, protective eyewear and so on.

People want more from their life, but to do that they need more from their visual performance – and more support from us.

So forget ‘we’ve always done it that way’ and (to coin a phrase) – ‘just do it’.

Vision Now JULY 2021

15

PRODUCT PROFILE

Introducing Yalea DE RIGO has treated itself to a new all-female house brand – with Cindy Crawford and Bianca Balti as brand ambassadors Yalea brand ambassadors, Bianca Balti and Cindy Crawford

DE RIGO has announced the arrival of its fourth house brand: Yalea. An important project that has taken shape over the last few months, Yalea is intended to enrich the group’s portfolio with a 100 per cent female brand, designed and produced with women in mind. The new brand of sunglasses and prescription eyewear aims to promote contemporary women by supporting their freedom of choice, encouraging their talent and rewarding their personal beauty. In short, a timeless, elegant and feminine brand that is an inspiration to all women.

We are living in a new era – an opportunity to put personal priorities and social values back in order. A moment in which even the conception of a new eyewear collection can contribute to communicating a new vision of freedom of expression and independence from fashions. Yalea goes beyond fashion to inspire strength and confidence, combining aesthetic and ethical values with which each and every woman can identify.

The brand does so concretely, in the planning and design of the collection in which the shapes frame the face without concealing it and the styles take the names of truly inspirational women. A tribute to women of different backgrounds, cultures, ages and eras, not necessarily famous but who, in different countries and fields, have distinguished themselves owing to their life choices, commitment and achievements.

BEAUTIFUL INSIDE AND OUT The idea behind the two women chosen to endorse the Yalea brand further echoes this ethos. Cindy Crawford and Bianca Balti are not just characters but real people. Two internationally-renowned models – differing in age and style – but both expressions of harmony between exterior and interior beauty. Two women committed to promoting a conscious, independent and attentive take on femininity, in keeping with the values that characterise Yalea.

Lastly, the coordinated image created for

16

Vision Now JULY 2021

Cindy Crawford showcases a Yalea sunglass model

Yalea embodies the brand’s values in every detail. The logo expresses essentiality and elegance through the choice of a clean and sober font, with a touch of originality provided by the inversion of the letter ‘Y’.

The brand’s institutional colour palette suggests a renewed sense of femininity in which the nude tones are illuminated by coral-hued notes to symbolise the strength, passion and vitality of women.

Barbara De Rigo, De Rigo chief marketing officer, commented: “Our company wholly recognises the value of women both in the workplace and in society. My mother personally contributed to the founding and development of De Rigo which, from the very onset, was also characterised by the large number of women at the company. This is why we wanted to enrich our portfolio with a new all-female brand. Yalea is a tribute to the success of women. We have put our know-how at the service of a collection, distinguished by its contemporary elegance, to create frames that are characterised by a style which goes beyond time and fashion.”

FURTHER ENRICHED PORTFOLIO Proudly boasting more than 40 years of savoir-faire, De Rigo – with the launch of Yalea – enriches its portfolio with a new proprietary brand joining Police, ST!NG and

Lozza, in addition to the various lines licensed with prestigious fashion houses. The past two years have been particularly intense globally.

De Rigo has worked hard to innovate the business model and re-think its organisation in order to intelligently address the challenges posed by contemporary markets.

With this new project, the company wanted to invest in the creation of value starting from its strengths. Not just skills, but also inspiration, resources and a profound and ever-updated knowledge of the market and trends.

Official UK viewings of the Yalea collection will be possible potentially by August – with deliveries from October 2021. Please contact your UK Yalea sales representative to enquire: • Ben Durand: UK South (West & East) 07590 845916 • Andrew Bowe: UK North 07718 645747 • Neville Hynes: Ireland & Northern Ireland 00353 877086053 • Steven Firth: Scotland & North East England 07851 309890 Alternatively, get in touch with the De Rigo UK office on 01923 249491 or email info.uk@derigo.com. Article supplied by De Rigo.

INTRODUCING

PRECISION1TM CONTACT LENSES:

THE LENS TO START IN AND STAY IN

NEW WEARERS WANT TO START, BUT FAIL TO STAY

72

%

OF PEOPLE AGED 15 TO 24 ARE INTERESTED IN WEARING CONTACT LENSES 1

42

%

OF NEW WEARER DROPOUT HAPPENS IN THE FIRST 3 MONTHS 1

MEET THE NEEDS OF YOUR PATIENTS WITH PRECISION1 TM CONTACT LENSES With precise vision,2 long-lasting comfort,2 and ease of handling 2 PRECISION1TM contact lenses help address the main causes of dropout: poor vision, poor comfort and handling issues.3

PRECISE VISION

0

10

OVERALL COMFORT 2*

9.5 5

0

*Based on the mean subjective rating of 69 subjects for overal vision, overall comfort and overall handling in subjects wearing PRECISION1TM contact lenses, measured at three-month follow-up visit.

10 RATINGS

BY WEARERS

OVERALL VISION2*

9.4 5

COMFORT

RATINGS

BY WEARERS

RATINGS

BY WEARERS

10

EASE OF HANDLING OVERALL HANDLING2*

9.2 5

0

REAL WORLD STORIES – FITTING PRECISION1

TM

CASE STUDY

Author: Sacchin Sharma, Optometrist and Director at Scott Waters Opticians, Newbury

My patient is a 24 yr old high myope of -8.00DS R+L and is an existing contact lens wearer using a silicone hydrogel monthly replacement lenses. Her contacts go in first thing in the morning and begin to feel dry by lunch. Currently she must use ocular lubricants by the afternoon. She reverts back to her spectacles as soon as getting home from a workday otherwise her eyes feel very dry and her vision can fluctuate. She leads a busy and active lifestyle, comprising of a 1+ hour train commute each way to work and long hours of screen work in an office environment. In addition to work, she is at the gym several times a week and plays competitive hockey most weekends. Her preference is to wear contact lenses when socialising or going to the gym but if this is after work in the evenings, she must wear her glasses during the day otherwise the required wear time is not achievable. She comments that very occasionally her contact lenses can fall out of her eyes of their own accord.

Aim – she would like to have lenses that she can wear on average for 12 hours, but up to 16 hours if required, preferably without having to use artificial lubricants.

Key points: • She has to wear her glasses during the day, if she has any evening activity planned. She can not wear contact lenses for the full day • Current wear time achieved 10 hours, however she has to use ocular lubricants after 6 hours to stretch to this

Slit lamp assessment: • Moderate diffuse punctate staining, potential solution intolerance • GD1 MGD • TBUT 8 seconds in both eyes

Contact lens Selection: The diffuse punctate staining could be a sign of contact lens solution intolerance, hence opted for a daily disposable to rule this out as a factor. The daily disposable also provides a fresh lens every day to prolong the comfort factor that she is looking for. I opted for verofilcon A (PRECISION1TM) silicone hydrogel daily disposable contact lenes which fitted her budget.

Firstly, we needed to tackle the corneal dryness and MGD, before trying a new contact lens option.

She was happy to cease contact lens wear for 2 weeks. Given a plan to use preservative free artificial lubricants 3x daily and use heat bag as a hot compress daily for 5 minutes, booked in for 2 week review.

2 week review: The punctate staining had almost fully resolved and no MGD noted. Eyes ok to re-fit.

Initial insertion – she comments positively that the lens feels very ‘soft on the eye’. I advised her, that she can now try the contact lenses for 1 week and see how long she can wear the lenses without using artificial lubricants.

3 week review: She is amazed that she can wear the PRECISION1TM contact lenses for 12 hours without needing to supplement with drops. She is pleased with the comfort and increase in wear time achieved with the new lenses. On reflection she realises she was using her ocular lubricants more frequently in week 3 & 4 of her contact lens wear and is much happier in a daily disposable contact lens format. Having tried the contact lenses for a week, she comments how secure and stable the contact lenses feel on the eye.

REAL WORLD STORIES – FITTING PRECISION1

TM

CASE STUDY

Author: Eleanor Hill, Contact lens optician, Benjamin’s Opticians, Skipton

Currently wearing Hydrogel Daily disposable R+L +1.75DS. My patient, age 27, attends her routine aftercare complaining of comfort issues and intermittent blurring. She has the occasional few days with comfortable hours of wear, but most days the lenses feel dry from the moment of application, progressively worsening throughout the day. She enjoys wearing her contact lenses for shopping and social occasions, as well as when out walking as a Duke of Edinburgh mountain leader.

Discomfort with her contact lenses mean she doesn’t enjoy leading these activities in the same way she used to.

The intermittent blurring also causes her to struggle to see a lot of the mountain tops, meaning she can’t enjoy the views and also leads to difficulties with orienteering. I question the intermittent blurring, and discover that after a few blinks her vision feels clear, but then goes off again within minutes. Because she occasionally has clear vision, this leads me to think that it isn’t a prescription issue, but more likely to be the tear film or the lenses themselves. I check her VAs to find R 6/6 and L 6/7.5. Not bad, but not as good as her spectacle VA of 6/5 R+L. I assess the lenses (WT today - 3 hours) on the slit lamp and the answer to my patients’ issues is right in front of me. I see that the lens surface hydration is poor; patchy dry areas all over the lenses, especially centrally. The intermittent blurring is answered for. Every blink would rewet the lens, but within a couple of seconds new dry patches would appear across the lens surface. This also accounts for her comfort issues.

I explain that every time she blinks over her contact lenses, friction is created between the lids and the lenses – hardly surprising she finds them uncomfortable. The lenses are removed so I can assess the ocular surface. The tear film is stable, the meibomian glands are healthy, and there is no corneal staining. So, with the contact lenses looking far from perfect I decide to trial her with an alternative lens. I sent her away with PRECISION1, instructing her to wear them every day and see me the week after.

She returns with a beaming smile, telling me she has had great success with PRECISION1TM. “They are so comfortable I forget they’re there!” she says. She reports that they feel comfortable on application and they don’t feel dry even after 12 hours. Visual quality is described as “excellent” and the intermittent vision has stopped. I record her vision as 6/5 R+L – an improvement from her previous lenses. I assess the contact lenses and note a central fit, smooth vertical movement on blink, and it was clear to see that the lens surface was uniformly hydrated – no patchy dry areas (lenses in for 7 hours at this point). I see a smooth surface maintaining hydration between blinks. There is no corneal staining and no conjunctival irritation.

She is delighted with her new contact lenses, and is excited to go back to her Duke of Edinburgh mountaineering being able to see clearly and comfortably all day long.

*Left: Habitual lens – poor surface wetting. Right: PRECISION1TM hydration.

All views, comments and opinions expressed belong to those making them and are not scripted.

Eye care practitioners involved received compensation for their time in creation of their case study.

See instructions for use for wear, care, precautions, warnings, contraindications and adverse effects.

Find at: https://ifu.alcon.com PRECISION1 and Alcon are trademarks of Alcon Inc. 14727 © 2021 Alcon Inc. 06/21 GB-PR1-2100022

SMARTSURFACE® TECHNOLOGY4

PRECISION1TM contact lenses feature a permanent, microthin, high performance layer of moisture on the lens surface exceeding 80%.4 This technology is designed to support an optically precise tear film.4

MATERIAL

CENTRE THICKNESS (-3.00D,mm)

CORE WATER CONTENT

0.09

51%

DIAMETER (mm)

HANDLING TINT

CORE MODULUS

14.2

VISITINT®

0.6

BASE CURVE (mm) 8.3

Dk/t

SMARTSURFACE® TECHNOLOGY SURFACE WATER CONTENT >80%

a

PACK SIZE 5 pack (trials), 30 pack

UV ABSORPTION**

100 @ -3.00D

POWER RANGE (Diopter) -0.50 to -6.00 (0.25D steps), -6.50 to -12.00 (0.50D steps), +0.50 to +6.00 (0.25D steps), +6.50 to +8.00 (0.50D steps)

CONTACT YOUR ALCON® REPRESENTATIVE FOR MORE INFORMATION.

**UV-absorbing contact lenses are NOT substitutes for protective UV-blocking eyewear such as UV-blocking goggles or sunglasses because they do not completely cover the eye and surrounding area.

References: 1. Vision Needs Monitor 2018. 2. Cummings S, Giedd B, Pearson C. Clinical performance of a new daily disposable spherical contact lens. Optom Vis Sci. 2019;96:Eabstract 195375. 3.

Retention rates in new contact lens wearers. Eye Contact Lens. 2018;44(Suppl1):S273-S282. 4.

Please refer to relevant products IFU for complete list of indications, contraindications and warnings. Find at: ifu.alcon.com 14700 © 2021 Alcon Inc. PRECISION1, Alcon and the Alcon logos are trademarks of Alcon Inc. UKIE-PR1-2100045

NEG BUILDING FOR SUCCESS 2021

Tools for success Following our programme preview in May, this month we look at what the exhibitors have planned for NEG’s 2021 Building for Success Conference...

and address the most common reasons for discontinued contact lens use: poor vision, poor comfort and handling issues. According to Alcon, the contact lenses offer precise vision, long-lasting comfort and easy handling. Available in sphere and toric parameters, discuss all the options with the team at the conference.

retinal visualisation; complete visualisation of the anterior chamber and improved structure and function analysis, comparing 10/2, 24/2, 30/2 visual field results from Optopol’s range of PTS Visual Field Analysers. Also on show will be AIR8 air sanitisers promoting a ‘safe air space’ for practitioners and patients alike.

BAUSCH & LOMB (HEADLINE SPONSOR) NEG is back in the live conference game with its 2021 Business for Success Conference, themed ‘The tools for success’.

Taking place at the De Vere Staverton Park Estate in Daventry on 26 and 27 September, the event will explore the ever-changing reality of optical commerce – with a central focus on promoting a strong and vibrant independent optical sector.

As always, thanks to the support of sponsors, the conference and exhibition are free of charge for NEG members to attend.

The only cost is for the hotel accommodation, will include the Sunday evening dinner, hotel room and breakfast.

This can be booked at the time you register to attend the conference and exhibition.

ALCON Alcon will be focusing on its Precision1 daily disposable contact lenses, the latest addition to its daily disposable portfolio.

Precision1 daily disposable contact lenses have been specifically designed for people who want to embrace the freedom of life

One of Bausch + Lomb’s latest launches

Bausch + Lomb, ocular specialists in eyecare for more than 165 years, are excited to be supporting the NEG conference and exhibition. Visit the company’s stand to find out how Bausch + Lomb has become “a global hallmark for innovation and quality with the introduction of revolutionary new contact lens and lens care technologies and innovative materials”. The company’s contact lens offering spans the entire spectrum of wearing modalities and includes well-known brand names such as Bausch + Lomb Ultra, Biotrue ONEday, PureVision, SofLens and Zenlens. Its lens care products include Biotrue, ReNu and Boston brands. Representatives from the company will be on hand to talk about all the products available.

BIB will display the latest Revo OCTs

BONDEYE Bondeye is looking forward to joining NEG’s many other preferred suppliers at its eagerly-anticipated conference. With a

BIB OPHTHALMIC INSTRUMENTS

Latest addition to daily disposable portfolio

BIB Ophthalmic will be displaying Revo optical coherence to tomographers from Optopol Technology. New features include: improved retinal scan capability from 12mm to 15mm line scans; a 25 per cent increase in

Browse Roav frames and more at the Bondeye stand Vision Now JULY 2021

21

OUR AMAZING OUR

SCHEME 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

Simple no quibble agreement and immediate delivery No Middle Supplier Postage hidden in cost Order 9 jobs and have the 10th order Free of Charge (Lens Choice conditions apply)

Our very competitive package pricing comes complete with SV Lenses lower than list price of the Frame

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

Unit 8, Bedwas Business Centre Bedwas, Caerphilly CF83 8DU

17 Twyford Business Centre London Road Bishop’s Stortford Hertfordshire, CM23 3YT

1 Clayton Wood Court Leeds LS16 6QW

T: 02920 883 009 F: 02920 889 798 E: LenstecCC@lenstec.co.uk

T: 01279 653785 F: 01279 658308 E: TantCC@tantlabs.com

T: 01132 883094 F: 01132 883095 E: RawdonCC@rawdonoptical.co.uk

MANUFACTURED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE MEDICAL DEVICES DIRECTIVE

BS EN ISO 13485:2016

NEG BUILDING FOR SUCCESS 2021 continued focus on quality and value, Bondeye’s key brands – SO cleaning solutions, Macushield, SeeSoo personalised cleaners and Roav folding frames – will be on display for delegates to explore. “Our lovely team will be there to discuss your business needs and see how we can play a part in securing future business for you,” said a spoekesperson. “In advance you can browse our products online at www.bondeyeoptical.co.uk.”

and will make the lives of children easier by relaxing their eyes and providing great vision and blue-violet light protection.”

Visitors can also demo the recently launched Vision-S 700. Its compact design saves space in practice and allows a refraction to be carried out in three minutes whilst maintaining academic accuracy.

Police x Lewis sunglass style SPLC51 from the SS21 collection

DE RIGO COOPERVISION (TITLE SPONSOR)

De Rigo UK will present the new collections of its brand portfolio including Police and the Police x Lewis Hamilton collection, Furla, Fila, Mulberry, Lozza, Chopard, Nina Ricci and many other exciting projects and campaigns coming up.

DOCMAIL

Mediflex: exclusive to NEG members from CooperVision

“When you prescribe contact lenses, you prescribe freedom,” said a spokesperson from title sponsor, CooperVision. “At this year’s NEG conference, we’re celebrating the freedom you prescribe to your patients.

We’ll be focusing on the innovations that bring you the freedom to go beyond vision correction with: myopia management solutions including Brilliant Futures with MiSight 1 day; new Mediflex Max 1 day multifocal for managing presbyopia; and the Mediflex portfolio, exclusive to NEG members. Let’s celebrate freedom. We look forward to welcoming you.”

OH23021-HB-mediflex-VN-Cover-Wrap-V5-FINAL.indd 2 OH23021-HB-mediflex-VN-Cover-Wrap-V5-FINAL.indd

12/01/2021 16:01 12/01/2021

Docmail is perfect for automated recalls, appointment reminders and promotional marketing materials. As a supplier to the NEG, members can now benefit from invoicing via their NEG account, removing the need to top up accounts and pay in advance. Docmail is also fully integrated with Optinet practice management software, providing full automation at no additional cost. Sign up is free, there is no minimum letter or postcard volume, and users only pay for the mailings they send.

Find out more at the exhibition.

ESSILOR Essilor will be showcasing a new children’s lens and its latest equipment at the NEG conference. Eyezen Kids will be showcased on-stand to coincide with its September launch. Designed using DualOptim technology, it positions target points for distance and near vision. Dr Andy Hepworth, professional relations manager at Essilor, said: “It is independently tested

Focusing on the innovations that go beyond vision correction

Try out Essilor’s new Vision S-700

EYEPLAN “We emerge from a remarkable and extraordinary time in optical business,” said a spokesperson from Eyeplan, “and it is fair to say that those practices with a contracted Eyeplan income had a more comfortable time than perhaps some others. Eyeplan’s growth since has been a reflection of that.

Please come and talk to us at the NEG conference and find out how you can build your revenue and business security through the Eyeplan Business Model and our advanced eyecare scheme software – Opti.”

EYEWEAR DIRECT Eyewear Direct prides itself on building long-lasting collaborative relationships with its customers. “Central to this,” commented a company spokesperson, “is delivering the highest value for money in all our collections. Our collections include Ashton Riley, Hook LDN, Invu and Redele – optical frames and sunglasses made from premium materials. Beta titanium, premium acetate, stainless steel and our exclusive material TR2R all feature, with new styles added weekly across our collections.”

High-tech Invu eyewear, available from Eyewear Direct Vision Now JULY 2021

23

1,2,3,4

AVAILABLE

NEW

IN STOCK AND READY TO SHIP

SEAMLESS1

S TA B L E 2

S I M P L E 3,4

3-Zone Progressive Design™ seamless vision near, far and in-between1

OpticAlign™ Design ≤5˚rotation on 95% of patients

Easy to fit* 3,4 In stock and ready to ship

Available in stock and ready to ship so you can reduce your patients’ waiting time and fulfil their vision needs sooner.

Call now for your Fitting Guide and to order Trial Lenses

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.

Please read the Instructions for Use (IFU) for risks associated with Bausch + Lomb ULTRA® contact lenses. ®/™ are trademarks of Bausch & Lomb Incorporated or its affiliates. ©2021 Bausch & Lomb Incorporated or its affiliates.

UMT.0033.IE.20

NEG BUILDING FOR SUCCESS 2021 year’s Building for Success Conference. They said: “Our team will be on hand to guide you through our range of frame styles and amazing digital lens designs, including the Exceed Easy progressive with Camber technology and our Office Vision occupational lenses. Join us to welcome some new products such as the Scene & Scene Plus digital single vision lens, our new Univet safety eyewear collection and new to Lenstec as sole UK distributor, the E-Scoop lenses for sufferers of age-related macular degeneration.”

Find out more about Hoya’s Miyosmart lenses

LUNEAU TECHNOLOGY

the original binocular refraction system now upgraded with extra features.

MENICON (SPONSOR)

Become a myopia management expert with Menicon Bloom

Menicon will be showcasing a range of products at this year’s conference, from daily disposables and rigid gas permeables all the way through to Menicon Bloom, the company’s myopia management package that practitioners can offer to patients.

Menicon will also showcase its new Time XL mini scleral contact lens, which is said to offer “instant comfort and exceptional vision”. Speak to the team on stand about any of these products or discuss the company’s educational package as detailed in the December 2020 issue of Vision Now.

HOYA (SPONSOR) “With your help, Hoya are on a mission to raise awareness and curb myopia,” stated the company. “As your partner, we want to provide you with the most advanced products to help your patients’ vision. Our latest innovation is Miyosmart, an ophthalmic lens developed for myopia management – a rapidly growing market need. Our lecture on myopia management will explore the latest insights related to the proposed mechanisms that drive myopia, its consequences and management interventions and their reported efficacy.”

MYERS LA ROCHE

IRIS VISIONCARE Iris Visioncare’s fully-tailored membership programmes for independent opticians are described as “unique, the same as your practice, providing a predictable monthly reoccurring income from your patients”. The company claims to enjoy a proven record of helping practices flourish and grow in the face of local competition and uncertain times – supporting them to achieve financial stability with a predictable monthly income, growing profits and increasing patient loyalty.

Iris Visioncare provides practices with access to zero per cent finance, comprehensive eyewear cover, marketing, training and much more. Discover the programmes available at the NEG conference.

LENSTEC The Lenstec Optical Group is looking forward to joining NEG members at this

The brand new VX650 Multi Diagnostic

A pioneer in wavefront technology for the optical industry, Luneau Technology Operations manufactures and distributes products under the Visionix, Briot and Weco brands. On show in the UK for the first time, at the NEG conference, will be the brand new VX650 Multi Diagnostic, which incorporates 11 pre-screening functions including auto-refraction, topography, tonometry, pachymetry, aberrometry, cataract screening, dry eye assessment and grading and now a fully automated fundus camera. Also on show will be the VX40 fully automated lensmeter and Eye Refract Plus,

Consult the experts at Myers La Roche

Business growth, exit planning and practice sales specialists: Myers La Roche is excited to share details of its new Practice Pulse service, exclusively for Optinet Flex users, at this year’s conference. Practice Pulse is said to offer high value, low cost management support to underpin the operational and financial stability and promote the growth of independent practices. The objective is to help practice owners determine and achieve business goals, whether they be financial, lifestyle, practice positioning or range of services.

NORVILLE 20/20

Vision with – and without – E-Scoop AMD lenses from Lenstec

NEG conference exhibitor Norville 20/20 is inviting members to view the company with fresh eyes, saying: “We welcome you all to look at us in a new light, where you are at the centre of everything we do.

Norville 20/20 brings the DNA of over 120 years’ knowledge and expertise into the Vision Now JULY 2021

25

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

NEG BUILDING FOR SUCCESS 2021 modern optical industry to exceed the everyday and complex needs of our customers: to produce and glaze high quality lenses; to work at the core of the Inspecs Group; to deliver a beyond exceptional product and experience.”

Accidental Damage Assistance with every Seiko lens, to add value to your lens offer; and Specs Network, a collaborative online marketing platform with hundreds of independent opticians throughout the UK.

STEPPER (SPONSOR) NO 7 CONTACT LENSES EyeDream, now indicated for myopia management, has for the last 15 years had a profound and positive effect on thousands of lives, according to No7 Contact Lenses.

“During that time, the benefits for practice owners have been just as compelling,” said a spokesperson. “Visit No7 on-stand to find out how you can join our network of over 350 EyeDream fitters. And why not ask for a demonstration of the new Medmont Meridia, an all-in-one diagnostic tool that includes industry-leading topography, dry eye, and lens fitting functions?”

Focusing on dry eye products at the Positive Impact stand

PRACTICE BUILDING (TITLE SPONSOR)

OPTINET Optinet will be once again proudly supporting the NEG conference in September. Visitors to the Optinet stand will see the latest version of Flex practice management software, incorporating all aspects of practice management including patient recall, practice sales, patient dispensing, eGOS and much more. Staff training is provided along with remote support should it be needed. Visit Optinet’s stand for an informal chat and a free, noobligation demonstration: NEG members can sign up for a 12-month free Flex trial.

Explore management strategies with Practice Building’s Big M programme

Practice Building will be showcasing strategies that are “reshaping optics in the post-pandemic practice”. The company says its VIPx platform is enabling practices to communicate with their patients much more effectively, thereby encouraging them to purchase more frequently and take the best care of their eyes with premium optometry.

In addition, hear about Big M – an on-the-job programme of training and development for practice managers that gives them the tools training and support that they need to manage a busy independent practice.

SEIKO OPTICAL UK View the latest version of Flex in action

POSITIVE IMPACT (INC. GLASKLAR) Positive Impact will be majoring on its Dry Eye Zone product portfolio and demonstrating its latest launches, including the handheld electronic lid cleaning device NuLids and the periocular lid hygiene solution, Purifeyes. The company also offered a teaser about a new product launch from Glasklar, its customer loyalty concept utilising the simple mechanic of bright and colourful refillable lens cleaning bottles, simply saying it’s ‘going large’. To find out more delegates need to visit the Positive Impact stand.

Visit the Seiko Optical UK stand for information about the Seiko Vision Specialist Partner Programme. This programme includes: a unique second pair offer, to support a return to practice strategy;

Seiko’s partner programme includes Specs Network access

The Stepper SI-93683

Stepper believes it has achieved its “enviable reputation for outstanding fit via professional expertise and a close relationship with opticians and their clients”. Established in 1970 by Hans Stepper, a German Master Optician, from his workshop in Stuttgart, Stepper continues in its pursuit of delivering frames that help people live their lives, enabling them to create their own stories. “Discover how Stepper Eyewear can become part of your business’s success story by visiting our booth and starting a discussion with one of our business development managers,” said a spokesperson.

THÉA PHARMACEUTICALS

Chance to claim a free pack of Nutrof Total

Théa Pharmaceuticals is proud to be a part of this year’s NEG conference and looks forward to meeting attendees. Meena Puar, an optometrist and the company’s sales and education lead, will be delivering a CET lecture during the conference covering a pragmatic approach to nutritional advice using fictional patient case scenarios to demonstrate the key learning points. Visit the Théa stand to claim a free one-month pack of Nutrof Total when you correctly answer a question from Meena’s article in September’s edition of Vision Now. Register for the 2021 NEG Building for Success Conference and Exhibition at www.negconference.co.uk Vision Now JULY 2021

27

®

The mediflex max 1 day family just got MUCH bigger.

Patient loyalty builds practice success.

Keep patients and business coming back with mediflex® 1 day contact lenses, with new innovations for this summer; expanded parameters for mediflex® max 1 day toric and NEW mediflex® max 1 day multifocal.

Both exclusive to National Eyecare Group members.* Offering unsurpassed comfort and excellent vision, mediflex® max 1 day is a family of high-performance one-day lenses with built-in UV blocker† that meet the needs of today’s patients who demand quality without compromise. mediflex® max 1 day is the exclusive House Brand version of MyDay® daily disposable; available at the same price but with branding exclusive to NEG members.

mediflex®

max 1 day

All mediflex® max 1 day lenses are powered by Aquaform® Technology** – to create a naturally wettable lens that delivers incredible long-lasting comfort. It's also our softest-ever one-day lens*** and allows 100% of oxygen to reach the eyes.1

† Warning: UV-absorbing contact lenses are not substitutes for protective UV-absorbing eyewear, such as UV-absorbing goggles or sunglasses, as they do not completely cover the eye and surrounding area. Patients should continue to use UV-absorbing eyewear as directed. *Exclusive within the UK&I market. mediflex® is only available to NEG members. **Re-brand from Smart Silicone™ Chemistry. No change to lens material or performance. ***Compared among CooperVision® one day silicone hydrogel contact lenses.

1. Brennan NA: Beyond Flux: Total Corneal Oxygen Consumption as an Index of Corneal Oxygenation During Contact Lens Wear. Optom Vis Sci 2005. 2. CVI Data on File 2021. Around-the-clock axes available in 10⁰ steps from Plano to -6.00D in -0.75DC, -1.25DC and -1.75DC. 3. Prescription option combinations of sph, cyl, axis. mediflex® max 1 day toric power range of sph component +6.00D to -10.00D extends at least +2.00D beyond competitor products, and at least -1.00D beyond competitor products.

Based on prescription option combinations (sph, cyl, axis) available across all daily disposable toric soft lenses from CVI, JJV, B+L and Alcon in UK, France, Germany and Italy Oct 2020. Cosmetic & Photochromatic CLs not included. Multiple base curve variants not included. 4. CVI data on file, 2020. Prospective, double-masked, bilateral, one-week dispensing study UK with mediflex ® max 1 day multifocal; n=104 habitual multifocal contact lens wearers; 5. CVI data on file, 2021. Prospective, subject-masked, randomised, bilateral, two-week dispensing study at five US sites with mediflex ® max 1 day multifocal; n=58 habitual multifocal contact lens wearers.

mediflex®

max 1 day toric NEW AXES FROM 01.07.21

Now with around-the-clock axes2 from Plano to -6.00D plus additional 0.25D steps in +0.25 to +6.00D. With 2,580 parameters, mediflex® max 1 day toric offers the largest number of prescription options of any one-day toric lens.3

mediflex®

max 1 day multifocal NEW FROM 01.07.21

Introducing the CooperVision® Binocular Progressive System™ – an evolution in lens design and fitting approach, built into a high-performance one-day lens that makes NEW mediflex® max 1 day multifocal easy to fit, easy to establish and easy to optimise.4,5 Join one of our 45min mediflex® max 1 day multifocal launch webinars 7pm on 30th June, 7th July, 14th July.

Talk to your CooperVision® Business Development Manager today. www.coopervision.co.uk

BUSINESS MATTERS

Is going fully private right for you?

Dominic Watson

IS IT TIME TO STOP TRYING TO BE EVERYTHING TO EVERYBODY, AND INTRODUCE A BETTER OPERATING MODEL FOR YOUR PRACTICE? asks Dominic Watson Trading under Covid conditions has forced practice owners to change the way they operate. As a result, a small but significant number have ditched their NHS contracts and gone 100 per cent private. In this article, we look at the facts to help you address the question of whether it is it time for you to follow suit, or if there is a better alternative business model you should consider to future-proof your operation.

IS IT FEASIBLE OR JUST A FAD? I first worked with an owner to take their practice private six years ago. The owner approached Myers La Roche in a state of near burn-out. He had been seeing increasing numbers of older patients attracted by his clinical reputation and unrushed, 40-minute eye examination. However, a relatively high number of these customers had more limited budgets, or a price focused mentality. This meant that, despite his best efforts and a great customer journey, they were still buying their glasses elsewhere.

Delivering a 40-minute NHS eye examination to customers who then went on to buy their glasses round the corner at Specsavers was not only loss making for him, it was boosting Specsavers’ efficiency and profitability.

Indeed, when we investigated it further, it became apparent that Specsavers was actually referring some of its customers with more challenging pathology to him.

At the time, taking his practice fully private was quite a pioneering move. The practice was located in an affluent, but relatively ordinary town. The owner had no key contacts referring from local hospitals, no specialisms and decent, but not revolutionary or cutting edge, testing equipment. The first 12 months proved challenging, but as the diary became quieter as the price-focused patients evaporated, he stuck to his guns.

He was right to hold his nerve and the

30

Vision Now JULY 2021

Many practices have ditched NHS contracts and gone private

move proved incredibly successful – both from a financial and an operational/ease of ownership perspective. Within two years, he was seeing fewer patients, but making more money. Patients frequently began to comment about how much younger and less stressed he looked under the new regime.

We don’t have access to full statistics for the sector, but whilst they are growing in number, 100 per cent private practices are still relatively rare. Going private is still a bold decision – a leap of faith – and certainly not a magic bullet for everyone.

Yet with clinic availability restricted across the sector, current Covid trading conditions offer a uniquely favourable opportunity for the right practice to make the transition – and to enjoy the benefits immediately. So how do you determine whether it is right for you or, indeed, what your optimal operating model is?

UNDERSTANDING YOUR PLACE IN THE SECTOR Having worked in the independent optical sector and watched it evolve for more than 20 years now, it is more apparent to me than ever before that it is richly diverse in terms of both its audience and service delivery. This means that there is no ‘’one size fits all’ perfect operating model. So when it comes to choosing the appropriate

model, it is very much horses for courses.

Key variables include practice location in terms of: • Demographic profile (age and affluence) and size of local catchment population • Quality and positioning of local competition (core testing and dispensing services) • Quality and location of providers of specialist services in the wider catchment area; specialist services are scarce and therefore the size/radius of the catchment population for such services may be considerably wider than that for core services • Maturity, scale and profitability of practice • The key self-actualising driver for the owner, i.e. is their motivation more commercial or more clinical?

• The ability of the practice owner to create and delegate clear and effective systems for triaging patients (this is not an inherent skill, it is something that can be taught/learnt) • NHS sight test remuneration and regulations; there is significant variance between who is entitled to a free NHS eye examination and the amount a practice is remunerated, between the fixed fee regime in England, for example, and the much more generous and flexible ‘patient needs’ model in Scotland, making the economics of the models very different • Specific remuneration for local schemes such as Covid urgent eyecare services (CUES) or community ophthalmic services where a practice in one location may be rewarded far more generously than another in a different location for delivery of ostensibly the same service And the common denominators for going private? Normally we need to drill down into the numbers, to look at things like chair time revenue generation cross-referenced by service and patient profile, to be able to

BUSINESS MATTERS

Demographic profile and local catchment size are key variables

confidently make a recommendation.

However, in general terms, to successfully go private requires an affluent catchment population of sufficient size, an attractive practice environment and a superb customer journey. Yet going private is just one of many ways to change your practice model to improve both profitably and ease of ownership. There are many other ways to improve your practice’s business model.

operating some form of monthly eyecare scheme, and the percentage of the practice’s annual revenue achieved from the schemes as a percentage of net revenue, were both increasing year on year. With practice management system suppliers now offering to facilitate direct debit schemes alongside the incumbent third party value added suppliers, we expect both of these trends to continue.

SEGREGATED/RATIONED AND ANCILLARY SERVICES

Over the last decade, private dental practices have increasingly introduced ancillary services, such as teeth whitening, Botox injections and adult braces, providing opportunities to gain existing and new high spending patients and to utilise existing fixed overheads better. Similarly, many more of the larger optical practices are likely to incorporate other services, such as dry eye clinics and in-house audiology (fully owned, rather than via a third party provider). To this end, Myers La Roche has begun to successfully sell small audiology practices to optical practices in the same towns. We can expect to see more of this type of multidisciplinary mergers and acquisitions activity.

I don’t want to get bogged down in the legal or ethical aspects of this next point – but many practice owners have confided in me that during the Covid crisis, it has been tempting for them to selectively recall and prioritise patients who historically have shown reliability in attending appointments and have been good spenders. And, in some cases, to restrict NHS clinics and offer more private appointments at a higher yield.

We can expect these trends and altered operating models to become the new normal post Covid. For many up-market practices, patients are shared with a similar local up-market dental practice. This means that patients are used to paying higher prices for core services and for extras. In private dental, you pay for X-rays, therefore, the same patients in private optics are unlikely to be surprised by paying extra for OCT or Optomap for example.

There are several other relevant parallels with dentistry in relation to diversified income streams too. Patient plans have achieved significant penetration in dental practices. Myers La Roche’s data shows that pre-Covid, both the percentage of practices

WHAT ABOUT SHARED CARE SCHEMES? The latest data from the Local Optical Committee Support Unit for England shows a 24 per cent increase in the number of clinical commissioning groups (CCGs) in England with either a minor eye conditions service (MECS) or CUES commissioned. In April 2020, 84 of 135 CCGs had a MECS service. By November, that number had risen to 104 having an urgent service.

Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales all offer their own system of shared care. So if you are in an area where there is a new service, is it right for your business?

Over the last few years, we have analysed the results on practices where shared care schemes have been rolled out with incredibly varied results in terms of practice profitability and impact. We found the following: • For quieter, less profitable practices, the impact may be positive, utilising spare capacity and bringing in valuable new patients and revenue • For some optometrist operators, the introduction of shared care – at least on a self-actualising level – is a welcome development affording the opportunity to utilise clinical skills without the normal commercial pressures of dispensing optics • For busier practices and for more commercially driven owners, there is a very real danger of schemes like MECS – unless very carefully managed – displacing higher yielding, more profitable activities and reducing annual revenue and profitability For practices that already have a shared care scheme, and whose owners are commercially motivated, the answer to this question is academic and lies in the practice’s financials and chair time capacity data. For practices considering introducing shared care, it is a more difficult question to answer.

SUMMARY AND KEY TAKEAWAYS For savvy operators, shared care and the NHS eye examination price conundrum are helping to highlight the true cost and value of chair time in its different uses. For switched on practice owners, the natural extension of this process is to establish a much clearer idea of their practice’s ‘ideal’ customer and to quantify the potential market size. For practices where the numbers add up, it pays to build your pricing, customer journey and marketing to revolve around serving this ideal customer avatar in order to greatly improve the profitability and ease of ownership of your practice.

If you’d like to know more about the importance of understanding the true value of your business, please do get in touch on 0161 929 8389 or email dwatson@myerslaroche.co.uk Dominic Watson has more than 20 years’ experience in the optical sector as a management and marketing consultant, business analyst and specialist business broker. His debut book, Retirement Planning, Rockstar Retirement Programme, was an Amazon bestseller in two categories and is now available as an audiobook narrated by the award-winning actor Michael Maloney.

Vision Now JULY 2021

31

STYLE SPOTLIGHT

In the

KIDZ-ZONE COOL CHILDREN’S EYEWEAR

BY JOAN GRADY Loty Dimension Next by Götti Switzerland

From charming and whimsical trends, imaginative, innovative technology, to lively patterns that skip from smart to sassy – children’s eyewear commands an important position for both frame creators and independent opticians.

Today’s babies, toddlers, pre-school, school age, tweens and teenagers are tomorrow’s adult consumers. Parents who allow their children to select the frame they want to wear can immediately help overcome any hesitation, and with the eyecare practitioner’s expertise for the correct fit, children easily learn to love their frames.

Nowadays, wearing spectacles is something really ‘cool’.

With such a myriad of smart designs available from designers and brands, children will delight in making their selections. Kids respond positively to colour, texture, flowers, stripes and patterns. The latest frame designs for youngsters offer diversified choices plus an extensive range of colours – truly a concerto of opportunities. Favourites include solid tones from pastels to vivid tones; electric hues; bi-colour selections; and the preppy-chic look of tortoiseshell, plus cultivated grey, black and navy blue.

Rectangle, small round shapes, plus diminutive cat-eyes and oval silhouettes

Irving by Lafont Paris

32

Vision Now JULY 2021

are imbued with contemporary details.

Safety, quality and durability also enhance the appeal of eyewear styles for the young set. With back-to-school soon on the horizon, a shopping spree for new ophthalmic frames and an excursion to the eyecare practice is an event to look forward to – for both parents and their offspring.

STYLE AND SUSTAINABILITY Among the creative developments for children’s eyewear is the sleek collection of frames for youngsters by Götti Switzerland.

In 2016, Götti launched the 3D Printed Dimension Collection for adults, followed by minimalistic, contemporary designs for children with Dimension Next. Smart shapes are delicately contoured to accurately and fashionably suit young faces.

The designs also support sustainability – and are crafted in Switzerland under Götti’s eagle eye to ensure superb quality.

The latest additions to the collection include Loty in sophisticated Moss Green and Electric Pink, plus an additional 11 desirable colours. Children can play a creative part in the design as well; the temple tips and pad colours can be mixed and matched in colours that children choose.

special corner to play, read or use colouring books. The soothing atmosphere of the nook dismisses any anxiety a child may have about trying on glasses. Lafont, with international distribution of its children’s designs, creates a varied collection of ingenious frames for babies to young adults.

Irving is amongst the new contemporary looks from Lafont and shows off its unique colour mix with aplomb. The French label, whose frames are designed in Paris and made in the Jura region of France, has the distinction of the coveted French Origin Guarantee – the hallmark of true authenticity for the designs.

COOL COLOURS Dynamic and varied colour selections with superb kid appeal are among the current children’s Hi designs from Louis Stone Optical in Cardiff. Exuberant, lively colours or creative combinations ensure captivating young spectacle wearers – with fun names like Lilly the Pink, Robot Blue, Rap Jack and Jungle Green.

The latest designs include diverse shapes that can be easily adjusted to accommodate

Where space permits in the Paris boutiques of Lafont Paris, children can enjoy their own

Hi 8 by Louis Stone in Orange Jean

STYLE SPOTLIGHT

Matrix Kid in Rose

the changing morphologies that occur rapidly as youngsters grow. Frame materials include TR90, the innovative lightweight thermoplastic created with Swiss technology that is comfortable, safe, extremely durable and damage resistant.

Rectangle and oval shapes at Matrix Kids by Continental Eyewear are among six new optical models. Matrix Kids 003 – a twotone design – creates distinctiveness with sophisticated Black and Grey, sleek Black and Red; and smart Black and Blue. Young girls will appreciate the cheerful oval frame that boasts lovely floral patterned temples in solid tones of pastel Rose, Sky Blue and Purple.

Avril by Rock Star

changing tastes of the young set.

Contemporary design, unexpected and custom colour schemes, original patterns, ultra-refined graphics and attention to detail harmonise the collection. Smile for boys aged 12 to 16 years is available in five great acetate colours, while Violette is a beautifully silhouetted rectangle metal design for girls in five pretty colourations.

say in what they wear. Tête à Lunettes is Abram’s deliciously stylish, classy and colourful interpretation for frames that express the pulsation attractive to young spectacle wearers. Bright colours as well as rich sophisticated tones, plus subtle pastels are included in the collection. Caroline Abram launched Tête à Lunettes in 2014, and won a Silmo d’Or award that year for the best kid’s collection.

FASHION AND FUN Worldly-wise children will discover many frame options in the Whiz Kids Collection by Dunelm Optical. The Apache frame merges a classical shape and urbane colours that include a tortoiseshell/turquoise mix, a rich blue, and distinctive grey.

JF Rey announces a new colourful, joyful collection for kids and teens that is appealing to youngsters. With full acetate, metal and creative acetate/metal combinations, the collection features a selection of original and easy-to-wear shapes for youngsters from four years of age to 16 years.

Rock Star by Eyespace Eyewear offers fashion forward frames that style-aware kids will appreciate for the colours, shapes and all-round cool appearance. Since its debut, Rock Star has captured the spirit, energy and fashion cues that are important to youngsters. Avril is a new arrival that combines a touch of punk with individuality in a streamlined, easy-to-wear style that emphasises excellent fit and flex hinges for durability. A revolutionary acetate technique enriches Avril with an ombre colour palette in vivid tones transitioning to soft crystal.

Inspiration is drawn from the boundless energy, cheerfulness and optimism of youngsters, while understanding the

As a mother of young children, Caroline Abram is aware of kid’s likes, dislikes and how important it is for youngsters to have a

Imaginative, colourful, and dynamic styling enrich children’s eyewear collections. For independent practices, young spectacle wearers can be the foundation for future business. These are challenging times, however, presenting fun, diverse, recognised and authentic brands can set the stage for new business and instil in youngsters the value and importance of eyecare – and its stylish connections.

Smile by JF Rey Kids and Teens

Acetate luminosity by Caroline Abram Tetes à Lunettes

Apache from Dunelm Optical’s Whiz Kids collection Vision Now JULY 2021

33

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 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

ALCON UK

BONDEYE OPTICAL

COOPERVISION

Tel: 0371 376 0017 Fax: 0871 351 1005

Tel: 0121 7723888 Fax: 0808 2801865

Tel: 0870 9000 055

EYEWEAR DIRECT (EUROPE) LTD

www.coopervision.co.uk

Tel: 020 7193 3334

www.uk.alcon.com

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

CENTROSTYLE

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: 01923 249491

GO EYEWEAR UK LTD

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

Tel: 0800 9178270 www.goeyeweargroup.com

DUNELM OPTICAL

HEIDELBERG ENGINEERING

Tel: 01388 420420 Fax: 01388 810101

Tel: 01442 502 330 Fax: 01442 242 386

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

www.HeidelbergEngineering.co.uk

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

ESSILOR

Tel: 0800 591150

Tel: 0800 056 5569

CHARMANT UK CO LTD

Tel: 01454 281281 Fax: 01454 281282

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

BAUSCH + LOMB

Tel: 020 8992 9222 Fax: 020 8896 0287

Tel: 02920 362 136 Fax: 02920 362 137 info@atlanticoptical.co.uk www.atlanticoptical.co.uk

BARCLAYCARD

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

BIB OPHTHALMIC INSTRUMENTS

CFH DOCMAIL

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

CONTINENTAL EYEWEAR

Tel: 01438 740823

Tel: 0151 426 3907 Fax: 0151 426 9340

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

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

V

VV

SO CLOSE YOU CAN ALMOST SEE IT

www.essilor.co.uk

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

When you prescribe contact lenses, you prescribe freedom.

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

COMING SOON

©2020 Alcon Inc

34

eyewear-direct.net

Vision Now JULY 2021

coopervision.co.uk

HILCO EUROPE

HOYA LENS UK Tel: 0845 330 0984 Fax: 0845 330 0977 enquiries@hoya.co.uk orders@hoya.co.uk www.hoya.co.uk

01580 713698

ASSOCIATED OPTICAL Tel: 01628 605433 Fax: 01628 665077

DE RIGO UK LTD

INTERNATIONAL EYEWEAR LTD

MENICON UK LTD

(FORMERLY DAVID THOMAS) Tel: 01604 646216 Fax: 01604 790366

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

LENSTEC EYEWEAR

enquiries@menicon.co.uk www.menicon.co.uk

PRO-OPTIC

TANT LABORATORIES

Tel: 01884 266130

Tel: 01279 653785 Fax: 01279 658308

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

RAWDON OPTICAL

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

THE NORVILLE GROUP LTD

Tel: 01132 883094 Fax: 01132 883095

Tel: 01452 510321

Tel: 07583 076 132

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

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

LENSTEC OPTICAL

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

RETAIL EXPERIENCE DESIGN (RED)

Tel: 02920 883009 Fax: 02920 889798

MID-OPTIC

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

Tel: 01332 295001 Fax: 01332 295158

RODENSTOCK

20 20 OPTICAL SERVICES LTD

LOUIS STONE OPTICAL LTD

orders@midoptic.com www.midoptic.com

Tel: 01474 325555

Tel: 01460 929460

Tel: 029 2073 5293 Fax: 029 2073 1446

No7 CONTACT LENSES

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

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

info@louisstone.co.uk www.louisstone.co.uk

Tel: 01424 850620 Fax: 01424 850650

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

Tel: 024 7601 0103 dean@retailexperiencedesign.co.uk www.retailexperiencedesign.co.uk

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

SEIKO OPTICAL UK

ULTRAVISION

info@no7contactlenses.com www.no7contactlenses.com

Tel: 01452 610033 Fax: 01452 638250

Tel: 01525 381112 Fax: 01525 370091

OPTINET LTD

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

Tel: 0845 313 0233

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

sales@optinetuk.com www.optinetuk.com

SILHOUETTE UK LTD

Tel: 01698 574 655

PERFORMANCE FINANCE

Tel: 020 8987 8899 Fax: 020 8987 2430

IMcGleish@xact.uk.com www.xact.uk.com

www.luxottica.com

Tel: 01536 529696 Fax: 01536 310033

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

MARCHON

www.performancefinance.co.uk

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

LUXOTTICA (UK) LTD Tel: 0808 165 8555

Tel: 0800 72 2020 csuk@marchon.com

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

Tel: 01392 460806

Tel: 08446 696907

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

STEPPER UK

PRACTICE BUILDING

Tel: 01732 375975

Tel: 0115 989 9772

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

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

XACT

SPEC-CARE LTD

POSITIVE IMPACT sales@positiveimpact.co.uk www.positiveimpact.co.uk

MARK’ENNOVY

Suppliers’ directory

MICHAEL PACHLEITNER GROUP

Tel: 02920 857122 Fax: 02920 920480

www.nationaleyecare.co.uk

SUPPLIER – OPTICIAN – PATIENT

PRACTICE MANAGEMENT SIMPLIFIED

V

OUR PARTNERSHIP

VV

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

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

T: 01279 653785 E: TantCC@tantlabs.com

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

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

sales@optinetuk.com www.optinetuk.com

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

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

www.stepper.co.uk

Vision Now JULY 2021

35

PRACTICE MANAGEMENT SIMPLIFIED @

eGos Stock

SMS/ Email

Diary

Order

Business Intelligence

Till

Clinical

Patient Manager

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

Call us today to book your no obligation, demonstration.

0800 310 2400 sales@optinetuk.com • www.optinetuk.com