Vision Now March 2021 by Vision Now

VV MARCH 2021

Vision Now magazine

LAUNCHING APRIL 2021

Biofinity® toric multifocal Prescribe freedom for your astigmatic patients with presbyopia.

Reliable fit, exceptional vision. Optimised Toric Lens Geometry™ for a stable and reliable fit. success rate on initial lens ﬁtting.1

Balanced Progressive® Technology for exceptional vision at all distances. patients preferred their vision with Biofinity® toric multifocal over Proclear® multifocal toric contact lenses.1*

Powered by Aquaform® Technology for natural wettability, high breathability and proven comfort.1 Available in over 200,000 custom prescription options.2 coopervision.co.uk 1. CVI Data on file 2018. Non-dispensing, subject masked, randomized, bilateral, cross-over short-term clinical evaluation. 27 subjects at 2 sites (UK & US) fitted using CVI fit guide. *70% vs 15%; subjective vision assessed approximately 1 hour post-insertion. 2. CVI data on file 2019. Based on total number of prescription option combinations manufactured (for sphere, cylinder, axis, and add–including D & N combinations). Aquaform® Technology, Balanced Progressive® Technology, Biofinity®, Optimised Toric Lens Geometry™ and Proclear® are registered trademarks and trademarks of The Cooper Companies Inc. and its subsidiaries. © CooperVision 2020.

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.

Inside

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

News 4 7 9 11 13 15

Biofinity family to expand Alcon launches Precision1 daily disposable FMO rebrands as OSA Louis Stone to distribute Volk ClearPods New face for Porsche Design New chair for GOC

15 An independent view Driven to distraction

17 Developing thoughts Are you ready for what comes next?

19 Product profile Precision1: meeting the dropout challenge

22 Company profile Stepper: change is our only certainty

25 Business matters Mastering the new High Street ‘rules’

28 Style spotlight Spring into optical style

30 Suppliers’ directory

Editor’s comment Whether it’s ‘mastering the new rules of the High Street’ or being prepared for ‘what comes next’, this issue provides plenty to reflect upon as we begin to emerge from lockdown. In Developing Thoughts, Phil Mullins encourages members to consider what actions – rather than reactions – to take next based on a shift in practice procedures including longer appointment times and a reduction in routine recalls. In his dissection of the pandemic-fuelled decline of High Street retail, and the inexorable shift to e-commerce, Dominic Watson of Myers La Roche pulls out some positive property strategies for leaseholders (page 25). Both of these articles raise the issue – and potential impact – of introducing private-only eyecare. If this is something you are considering, or have already implemented, then we’d be interested to hear from you. Following last month’s launch of the NEG/CooperVision Mediflex contact lens product range, there’s yet more opportunities to grow your contact lens patient base this spring. We have a Product Profile on Alcon’s new Precision1 daily disposable with SmartSurface technology (page 19), and a report on the imminent launch of CooperVision’s Biofinity toric multifocal (page 4). Keeping frames ‘in the frame’ is Alex Davis from Stepper, who outlines the company’s long tradition of innovation and evolution, with pointers on adapting your practice to new circumstances (page 22). In Style Spotlight, Joan Grady presents a beautiful spring eyewear selection – with other product launches featured in News. Finally, don’t miss the AIO’s latest column (page 15) as it takes on the DVLA on behalf of the independent sector... Nicky Collinson

Editor

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

Editorial PA

Sally Spicer s.spicer@nationaleyecare.co.uk

Fashion Editor

Joan Grady jgparischats@wanadoo.fr

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

Rosslyn Argent BA (Hons)

Publisher

Michael C Wheeler FCOptom DipCLP FSMC FAAO

Editor The Editor welcomes letters, articles and other contributions for publication in the magazine and reserves the right to amend them. Any such contribution, whether it bears the author’s name, initials or pseudonym, is accepted on the understanding that its author is responsible for the opinions expressed in it and that its publication does not imply that such opinions are those of The PK National Eyecare Group Ltd. Articles submitted for publication should be original, unpublished work and are accepted on the basis that they will not be published in any other journal. Acceptance of material for publication is not a guarantee that it will be included in any particular issue. Copyright © 2021 for Peekay Publishing Ltd. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying and recording, without the written permission of the publishers. Such written permission should also be obtained before any part of this publication is stored in a retrieval system of any nature.

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

Vision Now MARCH 2021

NEWS 1

Eyespace

CooperCompanies/ EssilorLuxottica

CooperCompanies and EssilorLuxottica have entered into a 50/50 joint venture agreement to accelerate commercialisation of spectacle lenses from SightGlass Vision, designed to reduce the progression of myopia in children. SightGlass Vision Diffusion Optics Technology (DOT) lenses are said to modulate peripheral contrast with no impact to on-axis vision; contrast modulation is quantified and controlled, and the amount of contrast reduction is not vergence dependent. “With the SightGlass Vision technology from this collaboration, MiSight 1 day and orthokeratology contact lenses from CooperVision, and Stellest lenses from Essilor, ECPs can create a comprehensive optical intervention portfolio to treat the growing number of children impacted by myopia,” said Daniel McBride, president of CooperVision. In June 2020, DOT lenses received CE mark declaration, allowing commercialisation across the EU, UK and other EEA countries.

Continental Eyewear

Cocoa Mint CM9110 in teal

A new capsule collection of six frames within Eyespace’s signature women’s brand is now available. The Cocoa Mint Colour Edit showcases vibrant, thoughtfully curated colours, as exemplified by CM9110. A highly technical production process of layering ensures each frame is unique. The rounded eye shape is complete with Italian branded flex hinges and tonal marble colours. Cocoa Mint signature branding features on the temple of the frame, designed in line with one of the brand’s founding principles: the intelligent use of colour. Sized at 54-18-140, the frame is available in a bold blend of red and violet toned marble (C1), and a teal tortoiseshell with a tropical turquoise lamination (C2).

CooperVision

New addition to the family Reykjavik Eyes Black Label model Aria

Three new styles have been added to the Reykjavik Eyes Black Label collection of lightweight Japanese titanium frames, available from Continental Eyewear. Model Aria (pictured) is a contemporary, minimalist take on the classic cat-eye. Fredrik is a large rectangular shape with a two-tone front, while Rikhard features a geometric square front with a double bar bridge along the brow line.

Vision Now MARCH 2021

Next month will see the launch of CooperVision’s Biofinity toric multifocal contact lenses, combining the comfort and design of Biofinity toric and Biofinity multifocal for both astigmatic and presbyopic patients. Krupa Patel, CooperVision head of professional services UK, said: “Practitioners throughout the UK and Ireland will soon have an easy-to-fit, familiar lens design they can count on, to help keep toric wearers satisfied in contact lenses as they age into presbyopia. “With a 93 per cent success rate on initial fitting and more than 200,000 unique prescription options, Biofinity toric multifocal will soon be a valuable tool for addressing patients’ evolving vision needs,” Krupa added. The lenses recently received CE marking in Europe and approval from the US Food and Drug Administration. Lens parameters and other details will be announced in the coming months.

Sponsored by

www.policelifestyle.com

NEWS 5

De Rigo alongside a plasticiser derived from vegetable sources. This acetate is phthalate-free and is biodegradable under proper conditions. In addition, some 40 per cent of the nylon lens is produced from castor plants.

Sustainable eyewear from Chopard

Chopard has launched a sustainable eyewear collection, produced in Italy using plant-based materials. Around 70 per cent

Alcon

New Precision1 daily disposable silicone hydrogel contact lenses, available in sphere and toric form, are the first-and-only mainstream contact lenses with Alcon’s proprietary SmartSurface technology. This permanent, micro-thin, high-performance layer of moisture at the lens surface is said to help support a stable tear film to deliver lasting visual performance from morning to night. “With the launch of Precision1, we now have a daily disposable contact lens option that meets the needs of new and existing

SmartSurface technology for tear film stabilisation

of the acetate used is of natural origin. Cellulose acetate, derived from wood and cotton, is used to create the frames

The new line includes both sunglasses and prescription frames, with four styles for women and four for men. The women’s collection takes inspiration from the Ice Cube jewellery collection, with square faceting on the titanium temples. The men’s collection is inspired by Chopard’s Alpine Eagle watch collection. The signature compass rose features on the inner part of the functional hinge and on the temple tips. The collection is available from De Rigo.

Heidelberg Engineering

contact lens wearers and delivers an outstanding wearing experience,” said Jonathon Bench, head of professional affairs, Alcon UK and Ireland. “Precision1 will help eyecare professionals address the root causes of contact lens dropout.” To support the launch, Alcon has introduced a unique patient support programme powered by augmented reality (AR). Designed to work alongside eyecare practitioners, it supports new and existing contact lens wearers at the touch of a button. When scanning the contact lens pack or QR code via a smartphone, the wearer will enter an immersive experience where they will be supported on key areas like how to apply and remove their lenses, myth busting, and hints and tips for successful contact lens wear. Turn to pages 19-21 to learn more about Precision1 and the AR patient support programme.

British Contact Lens Association

Non-members of the British Contact Lens Association (BCLA), who register by 10 March for the Association’s virtual conference on 13-14 June, will receive a hard copy of Contact Lens Evidence-based Academic Reports (CLEAR) – the global consensus report delivering guidance on all aspects of prescribing and fitting contact lenses. CLEAR will be published in issue two of the BCLA journal, Contact Lens and Anterior Eye, and will feature work from panels of globally respected experts. Register at www.bcla.org.uk

Online CET courses available

The Heidelberg Engineering Academy has launched a new Online CET Course Room. Available free of charge, it provides one CET point for each online course completed, including a multiple-choice quiz. The first course is, ‘Learning the Eyeway Code’ with Mark Holloway and Tim Cole. Aimed at beginners, it will help participants confidently identify and describe pathology in OCT scans. “The Heidelberg Engineering Academy began a highly successful programme of live, CET-accredited, webinars in 2020, which continue into 2021,” said Emily Malbon, head of UK marketing and education.“ When the Covid-19 pandemic forced the cancellation of exhibitions and events nationwide, we decided to continue to provide education in innovative ways virtually. The Online CET Course Room will make our informative library of recently recorded webinars accessible and engaging.” Visit the Online CET Course Room at www.HE-Academy.com/CET Vision Now MARCH 2021

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NEWS 9

Optical Suppliers Association

The Federation of Manufacturing Opticians has rebranded as the Optical Suppliers Association (OSA) with a new website at www.osa-uk.co.uk. In conjunction with the Association of British Dispensing Opticians, there will now be benefits for the employees of member companies, along with a new fee structure. OSA chair, Stuart Burn, said: “The reason for the name change is to better convey exactly who we are and what we stand for. Our revised mission statement reinforces our message, and our financial restructure gives us the platform to re-energise the Association and provide the financial muscle to deliver lasting tangible support to optical suppliers and their staff.”

10 General Optical Council The General Optical Council (GOC) has approved new education and training requirements for GOC-approved qualifications leading to registration as a dispensing optician (DO) or optometrist, following its Education Strategic Review. These will replace the current Education Quality Assurance Handbooks for optometry (2015) and ophthalmic dispensing (2011), and it is anticipated that most education providers will work towards admitting students to approved qualifications that meet the new outcomes and standards from the 2023/24 or 2024/25 academic year. A key change is that a candidate on their journey to registration will acquire a single, GOC-approved qualification, rather than the two qualifications currently required for most candidates. And for the first time, qualifications in optometry will have a specified minimum Regulated Qualification Framework of Level 7. For DOs, this has been increased from Level 5 to Level 6. The latter has been welcomed by the Association of British Dispensing Opticians, whose FBDO qualification is set at Level 6. Read the full report on the GOC website.

11 Charmant

Young at heart Ad Lib model AB3323

Ad Lib is Charmant’s dynamic titanium eyewear collection for anyone who feels young, or young at heart. Upside down nylor frames, beta-titanium hinges and lively colour effects are at the heart of the latest designs inspired by current directions in fashion, technology and sports. Full-rims come in a variety of shapes, from edgy or oversized square to octagonal, round and cat-eye, while temples are thinly formed with dynamic cut-outs or striped effects. Wearer comfort is reinforced by the weightless titanium composition and a uniquely flexible hinge made of beta-titanium in selected models.

12 Hoya Hoya Vision Care UK has launched the Miyosmart lens, developed in collaboration with the Hong Kong Polytechnic University, following a two-year clinical trial. The lens features Hoya’s Defocus Incorporated Multiple Segments (DIMS) technology, which creates a myopic defocus effect to slow myopia progression and axial elongation in children. It also has a waterrepellant multi-coating, and provides UV protection and impact resistance. Results from the two-year randomised clinical trial conducted in Hong Kong demonstrated that myopia progression reduced by 60 per cent in children wearing DIMS lenses compared to those wearing single vision lenses. Andrew Sanders, professional services director at Hoya UK, said: “The introduction of such an effective

Smart technology to reduce myopia

treatment only emphasises Hoya’s innovatory stance within the optical industry, and we truly can’t wait to see the difference it will make.” Webinars and full training on Miyosmart are available to those planning to dispense the lens.

13 100% Optical Plans to stage a 2021 100% Optical show in London have been abandoned. The next 100% Optical will now take place on 29-31 January 2022. “With restrictions likely to stay with us for longer than we had all hoped and anticipated, we feel it would be better for all of our loyal and supportive delegates, clients and partners to postpone the event,” said show director, Nathan Garnett. Instead, there will be a two-day virtual event, 100% Optical Online, on 23-24 May. This is designed to offer practitioners the chance to network and ‘meet’ suppliers as well as gather CET points. Details can be found on the event website. Vision Now MARCH 2021

Every frame tells a story

TX5/Titanium Stepper (UK) Limited 11 Tannery Road Tonbridge Kent TN9 1RF 01732 375975

www.stepper.co.uk

Frame style shown: SI-20113

NEWS 14 Essilor

15 Silhouette

Men’s Sun Lite model 4078

Online and in-practice support packages

Essilor has extended its Varilux Lens Specialist loyalty scheme as part of a Covid-19 support package for independent practices affected by the pandemic. Points that were due to expire at the start of February can now be put towards extra marketing support over the next 12 months. Points can also be exchanged for discounts on a selection of instruments, including the newly launched Vision-R700 phoropter. Essilor is continuing to offer training and virtual business consultations, and recently launched a Take Two multi-pair promotion and a customer satisfaction guarantee. Lens equipment discounts and deals are available to obtain rebates against monthly payments if extra financial support is needed. Essilor’s CET platform is also available for gaining CET points before the end of the current cycle. Content is uploaded regularly with current sessions covering, ‘The truth about blue light’ and ‘Protecting the eye from long-term photo chemical damage’. Visit https://cet.essilor.co.uk to register.

Silhouette’s new Sun Lite collection for 2021 brings a revival of retro shapes, nostalgic colour palettes and well-loved shapes. Three new frames combine a full-rim design with Silhouette’s signature lightness. Traditional colours have been refreshed with mirrored lenses, while popular shapes have been brought up-to-date with softened edges. For men, Sun Lite offers a soft rectangular style in an extended wayfarer shape. Two of the four colourways feature contrasting tortoiseshell rims, whilst a blue gradient design and all-black model deliver subtle nostalgic looks. The women’s model is an elongated cat-eye shape available in four fresh colourways, including pastel lavender fading into soft pink. Finally, the unisex style is a well-loved panto shape available in four colourways, including a mustard toned lens teamed with a transparent rim.

16 Louis Stone Anti-fogging Volk ClearPods for the Volk Superfield, 90D, Widefield and 78D are now available to order from Louis Stone. Volk Clearpods have specially-designed wing and flange features to direct warm air currents away from the optical path. The ledge on the inside acts as a backstop to guide the lens into the right position, while the shape and fit allows the practitioner to securely clip the lens whilst maintaining a natural grip.

‘Lifesaving’ optical device

Clare Gaba, Louis Stone head of marketing and communications, said: “We only just started spreading the word about the ClearPods, and already we have had a number of orders. I have had social media

followers stating how much they need them and that they’ll be a ‘lifesaver’ in practice and clinics. The difference in clarity they make is incredible. It is a slick, beautiful product that really speaks for itself.”

to manage dry eye disease, meibomian gland disfunction and blepharitis. Designed for use in the practice, or by the patient at home, a cleansing foam is applied to the eyelid, which NuLids then electronically massages – exfoliating the lids and stimulating the meibomian glands.

from a multi-centre clinical study in the US showed the device was safely used by patients whilst delivering a statistically significant improvement in the signs and symptoms of dry eye disease.” NuLids comes in a practitioner pack containing 300 daily disposable soft tips, or a patient pack with 30 tips. There is an introductory offer for the patient pack of a free Eye Doctor Premium Eye Compress and box of Lid Wipes.

17 Positive Impact

Making lids as good as ‘nu’

Positive Impact (PI) has introduced NuLids to the UK: a massage and cleaning therapy

“NuLids offers massage and cleaning in one go,” said PI director of marketing and professional services, Nick Atkins. “Results

Vision Now MARCH 2021

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NEWS 18 Rodenstock

20 International Eyewear

Face of Porsche Design

Vintage style POS available

Porsche Design has teamed up with Hollywood star Patrick Dempsey to launch a new campaign for its 2021 eyewear collection. As well as being a successful actor, Dempsey has completed several 24 Hours of Le Mans races in addition to co-founding his own racing team, Dempsey-Proton Racing. He will be featured wearing four models of sunglasses and prescription frames throughout the year. “The goal of the global campaign and the partnership with Patrick Dempsey is to entice and excite the consumer and thereby raise the demand in the stores of our exclusive retail partners,” said Günther Herrmann, vice president and head of eyewear at Rodenstock. “Our priorities are innovation and quality. It has always been reflected in our products and will from now on be a more integral part of our customer communications.” Digital content, multiple window campaigns and point-of-sale material are available to support the campaign, which includes extensive PR and social media activities.

21 General Optical Council

19 Proven Track Record

The General Optical Council (GOC) has published an anti-racism statement as part of its wider commitment to embed antiracism and Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) within the organisation and its processes. The statement forms part of the GOC’s EDI strategy, which sits within its fiveyear Fit for the Future strategic plan, and is published on the GOC website.

Proven Track Record (PTR) has plans to run its Independents Day business symposium on Sunday 4 July at the National Motorcycle Museum in Birmingham, supported by an iShow exhibition. The event will focus on ‘The business of myopia’ with keynote speaker Dr Gary Gerber, US optometrist and co-founder of myopia management clinic Treehouse Eyes. He will share his experiences with UK practitioners, highlighting the challenges in establishing the business which currently boasts 20 locations in the US. PTR’s Nick Atkins said: “We are tapping into the zeitgeist to focus on one of the most significant changes in paediatric optometry since the inception of the NHS. This will be the first meeting held in the UK dedicated to myopia progression management, and is possibly the first meeting anywhere

The spring/summer 2021 Lulu Guinness eyewear collection from International Eyewear features six new optical styles and six new sunglass styles. The latest designs draw inspiration from the classic Lulu Guinness heritage, encompassing distinctive style with bold colours and statement making designs. All styles are individually supplied with a chic, branded Lulu Guinness case and cloth. A vintage point-of-sale package, including a three-piece display stand, A1 poster and showcard, is available with every 12 Lulu Guinness frames purchased.

Dr Gary Gerber

focused on commercialising this new approach to treating myopic children.” Bookings will be available from early spring at www.independentsday.co.uk

Lesley Longstone, GOC chief executive and registrar, said: “Over the past several months, we have been reflecting on our commitment to anti-racism and EDI and how we can ensure it is embedded in everything we do. We are setting up an anti-racism group, which will review our structures, processes and practices. There will be opportunities to involve our wider community in conversation and we hope you will get involved.” Vision Now MARCH 2021

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NEWS 22 Fight for Sight Fight for Sight has launched a fundraising appeal to support research into Charles Bonnet Syndrome (CBS). In a recent survey of people with sight loss, the charity found that 19 per cent of respondents – and half of those with severe sight loss – had CBD in the soap spotlight experienced visual hallucinations associated with CBS. The condition recently featured in a storyline on Coronation Street, with character Johnny Connors experiencing hallucinations as his eyesight slowly deteriorated. He was diagnosed with CBS on the soap last month. Fight for Sight is calling for more funding to be invested in CBS research, as it can sometimes be mistakenly confused with the onset of dementia. Together with Blind Veterans UK, Esme’s Umbrella and Health and Care Research Wales, the charity is funding two research projects at Cardiff University and the University of Oxford to investigate the cause of the visual hallucinations associated with CBS, with the hope of eventually finding a cure. Find out more about the research and how to donate on Fight for Sight’s website at www.fightforsight.org.uk

23 General Optical Council Dr Anne Wright CBE has taken over from Gareth Hadley OBE as chair of the General Optical Council (GOC). Dr Wright was chair of the National Lottery Commission for eight years until 2013, and a member of the Bar Standards Board from 2012 to 2017. Her most recent appointment was as member and lay vice chair of the Dr Anne Wright CBE Nursing and Midwifery Council. In 1997, she was awarded a CBE for services to higher education.

AN INDEPENDENT VIEW Driven to distraction The AIO has a number of serious concerns about the DVLA. First is the level of understanding (or lack of it) at the DVLA about what constitutes a comprehensive eye examination as against a routine Esterman visual field test (VFT). A recent letter sent by the DVLA to drivers who are required to have a sight test (against the backdrop of the pandemic) suggests that, at the very least, the person who drafted the letter has no idea. For the recipients of the letter, the danger is that they believe a VFT in a Specsavers practice constitutes an ‘eye examination’. The AIO has called for the immediate re-wording of the letter. Second is the possible perception by the public that only Specsavers can provide an Esterman VFT for the DVLA’s purposes. The reality is that patients can choose to pay their own optometrist to perform the test and submit the results to the DVLA. It is only if the patient wishes to have the taxpayer pay for the test that they need to visit a Specsavers practice. It seems remarkable that the Department for Transport (DoT) would not try to minimise taxpayer spend by ensuring that people are fully aware of the paid-for option. We have made sure that its members – and the wider independent sector – are aware of the choice open to their patients. This begs the question: why does the government pay for the test at all? It does not pay for a car’s MOT. We are also concerned over the conduct of the DVLA contract tender in 2019, and has called for an independent review by the Competition and Markets Authority. The government’s policy and action plan in respect of small and medium enterprises, not to mention the DVLA’s inclusivity policy, appear to have been totally disregarded in the awarding of the tender. And so we have also submitted an official complaint to the DoT. The UK has one of the least robust sight testing regimes for drivers in Europe, and no apparent intention to conduct a long overdue review (the current standards were set in 1991). The AIO council has called for a complete review of the sight testing requirements for drivers to deliver a proper ‘driving vision test’. Two questions arise: 1) Is the DVLA fit to be responsible for driver and public safety in respect of sight testing?; and 2) Why is the AIO the only representative body that is apparently taking them to task?

She said: “I am delighted to have been appointed as the chair of the GOC. With transformative projects such as the Education Strategic Review and the introduction of a new continuing professional development model as well as future legislative reform, it is an exciting time to be joining the council. I look forward to working with my fellow council members, staff and stakeholders to deliver the highest standards of public protection.” Vision Now MARCH 2021

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PRACTICE MATTERS

Developing thoughts As we navigate our new roadmap out of lockdown, it’s time to start thinking longer term, writes Phil Mullins

Are you ready for what comes next? We have all heard the expression, ‘Every action has a reaction’, which is a very simple summary of Newton’s Third Law of Motion. Although it was originally covering the distribution of forces, it has become a widely-used phrase to cover many elements in life. Basically: whatever you do has a reaction or consequences. This has never been more noticeable than in the last 12 months. All the actions we’ve had to take to stop the spread of the coronavirus have had consequences for individuals and businesses across the world, which we won’t be able to quantify for many years to come. But what comes next? What is the reaction to the Covid-19 pandemic? With the effects of lockdown reducing the spread, and the fantastic work of vaccinating the population, what is the ongoing reaction from us as an industry and as individuals?

WHEN LESS EQUALS MORE Although things have been very tough over the last year, and some optical businesses have closed, the industry has kept on moving. Indeed, you could argue we have not suffered as badly as some other industries. That’s not to say the pandemic hasn’t forced us to make changes to how we work. For instance, many practices now triage patients before booking them an appointment – and are only seeing those with urgent eyecare issues. Because of this, not many practices are sending recalls – meaning there is an increasing pool of patients who haven’t been seen for their routine eye examination. But does this mean that you are now just going to send out all your recalls and book people in? Will this reverse

the increased conversion rates and higher dispensing values that you have seen in recent months, caused by only booking urgent eyecare patients? Or are all these patients so far past their routine eye exam date that they are more than likely to need their spectacles replaced? An additional reason for higher conversion rates and increased dispensing values is that more time is being spent with patients. Although this is mainly for PPE and cleaning reasons, many practices are enjoying the extra time and reduced pressure of knowing the next patient is sat waiting. So, will there be a return to examining every 20 to 30 minutes once the PPE requirements can be relaxed? Or will it be a case of less is more, particularly as during these last 12 months there has been a move away from prescribing standard lenses. There has been an increase in coatings, occupational lenses and better progressive lenses dispensed. Much of this has been driven by the changing needs of patients (Zoom has a lot to answer for). But it has been partly due to the practitioner being able to spend longer with their patients once they are in.

TIME TO DIG DEEP This is a very simplified take on a very complex issue, but the pandemic has had a major effect on how optical practices work. The issues now are: what is the long-term effect on the industry; and are we ready for what comes next? Are you happy to change your business model forever, or is there a halfway house? Have we now learnt to adapt quickly to changing circumstances? Is it finally time to say goodbye to the NHS and go private? The answers to these

All of our actions have consequences

questions will vary for every independent practitioner, but they are questions that everyone must ask themselves. There is a backlog of patients who need to be seen sooner or later, and many will have changing eyecare requirements. So, are we ready for them? Do you have plans in place that can grow your business? Are you in a position to make the most of the growing ‘Zoom’ eye generation? Are you up-to-date with the latest occupational lenses? Do you have plans to move more patients to a subscription fee-based option? Although there is a drive towards private eyecare, have you thought about all your patients who have been financially affected by the pandemic and are now worse off? Many thousands of people have lost their jobs or seen their businesses suffer. Let’s hope we don’t just leave them to the multiples and the internet. We may not be totally sure what the next 12 months will bring, but make sure you are ready to be successful. Vision Now MARCH 2021

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PRODUCT PROFILE

Meeting the dropout challenge with Precision1 New Precision1 contact lenses are a great choice for both new and existing wearers, writes Jonathon Bench

lens dropout. Retain them with the opportunity to experience a lens designed for comfort, vision and handling. Precision1 contact lenses are available in a wide range of powers, from -12.00D to +8.00D. They also offer Class I UV blocking – the highest level of UV blocking available for contact lenses5. With all these features, it’s easy to see why Precision1 contact lenses are a great option for new daily disposable and existing contact lens wearers.

As we continue to practise in a pandemic, I have heard many eyecare professionals comment that they are ever-more aware of the importance of contact lens patients feeling safe and happy in their lenses. And when introducing patients to contact lenses for the first time, it is vital that both practitioner and patient are confident they have a contact lens they can start in – and stay in.

Precision1 has already been enjoyed by eyecare professionals and their patients in Australia, New Zealand and North America – and they are now available in the UK and Ireland. We spoke to some of those practitioners who have been fitting Precision1 routinely – and they strongly suggested they fitted new contact lens wearers, and those switching into daily disposables, with Precision1 contact lenses.

At the same time, practitioners are recognising more than ever the importance and value of their contact lens practice to their overall business. In other words, they want to ensure that they and their practices have the best contact lens retention rate possible. To address retention, practitioners need to understand the reasons for contact lens dropout. The most cited reasons for dropout are consistent across many different reviews and they are: comfort, vision and handling1.

REFERENCES

UNIQUE WATER SURFACE TECHNOLOGY Precision1 contact lenses are the latest innovation from Alcon, designed with the dropout challenge – or retention opportunity – in mind. The lenses offer excellent comfort, vision and handling2 to daily disposable contact lens wearers. Designed to support a stable tear film, Precision1 contact lenses feature SmartSurface Technology – a water surface inspired by the water gradient technology of Alcon’s Dailies Total1 contact lenses. The lens surface of Dailies Total1 provides a thick cushion of moisture that gradually transitions from 33 per cent water near the lens core, to nearly 100 per cent water at the

Comfort, vision and handling are key to retention

outer surface3,4. In contrast, the SmartSurface Technology of Precision1 features a silicone hydrogel lens core of 51 per cent water, which steps up to a thin surface layer made of more than 80 per cent water. Additionally, the surface layer of SmartSurface is uniform, not a gradual change5. Apart from Dailies Total1 and Precision1 lenses, no other contact lenses have water surface technologies.

COMFORT TRIED AND TESTED In a clinical trial, wearers rated the end-ofday vision, end-of-day comfort and overall handling of Precision1 contact lenses superior to 1-Day Acuvue Moist lenses6. In addition, five times as many wearers “strongly preferred” Precision1 lenses versus Acuvue Moist6. With SmartSurface Technology, Precision1 contact lenses are a great choice for new contact lens wearers, and existing contact lens wearers who might be experiencing some of those causes of potential contact

1. Sulley A. Retention rates in new contact lens wearers. Eye & Contact Lens 2018;44: S273-S282. 2. Cummings S, Giedd B, Pearson C. Clinical performance of a new daily disposable spherical contact lens. Optom. Vis. Sci. 2019;96:E-abstract 195375. 3. Angelini TE, Nixon RM, Dunn AC, et al. Viscoelasticity and mesh-size at the surface of hydrogels characterized with microrheology. Invest. Ophthalmol. Vis. Sci. 2013;54:E-abstract. 4. Thekveli S, Qui Y, Kapoor Y et al. Structure-property relationship of delefilcon A lenses. Contact Lens & Anterior Eye 2012;35(Suppl 1):e14. 5. Precision1 Contact Lenses. Instructions for Use [package insert]. Fort Worth, Tx: Alcon Vision LLC; 2019. 6. Cummings S, Brobst A. Clinical assessment of a new silicone hydrogel daily disposable and a HEMA-based daily disposable contact lens. Poster presented at the American Academy of Optometry Annual Conference, October 23-26 2019; Orlando, Florida. Jonathon Bench BSc (Hons), MCOptom, FBCLA is head of professional affairs, Alcon Eyecare UK and Ireland. Vision Now MARCH 2021

INTRODUCING

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

PRECISE VISION1

LONG-LASTING COMFORT 1

EASE OF HANDLING1

Reference: 1. Cummings S, Giedd B, Pearson C. Clinical performance of a new daily disposable spherical contact lens. Optom Vis Sci. 2019;96:E-abstract 195375.

01/21 GB-PR1-2100001

PRE- AND POST-FIT SUPPORT

PRECISION1™ AUGMENTED REALITY PATIENT SUPPORT PROGRAMME With the launch of PRECISION1™ we are introducing a unique patient support programme designed to help 3 different patients types: Those that have never tried contact lenses Those that are trying PRECISION1TM for the first time Current contact lenses wearers whose lenses are not meeting their needs

The patient support programme contains 4 key areas: The Fact not Fiction area Designed for patients thinking about contact lenses • Including videos to help bust the myths about contact lenses and overcome the fear of trying lenses The Learning lab Designed for all patients • Here we help to bring the science of contact lenses and PRECISION1TM to life PRECISION1TM lowdown Designed for all patients • PRECISION1TM low-down contains videos to help patients understand what it is like to wear PRECISION1TM lenses, directly from the experts Rock your lenses Designed for patients who are trialling PRECISION1TM • Here we host video support on how to handle contact lenses, answer key questions about contact lens wear and cover the main mistakes to avoid as a wearer to help support better trial success The PRECISION1TM patient support programme is powered by AUGMENTED REALITY. Once patients have been introduced, they can simply scan their PRECISION1TM box or the QR code to access this support 24/7.

Please scan the QR code on your screen to access the augmented reality experience for yourself and understand how you can use this with your patients as they are introduced to PRECISION1™.

Please refer to relevant products IFU for complete list of indications, contraindications and warnings. Find at: ifu.alcon.com PRECISION1, Alcon and the Alcon logos are trademarks of Alcon Inc. 14596 © 2021 Alcon Inc UKIE-PR1-2100011

COMPANY PROFILE

Change is our only certainty The Stepper Eyewear story began with one man’s determination to create change, writes Alex Davis Hans Stepper’s approach to change has always been forward-thinking

Hans Stepper’s approach was to identify possibilities and opportunities to develop innovation in frame making whilst the world carried on as before. His approach to change created a business that is significantly different from its peers; a business that has garnered fans across the world and ensured the brand has been able to ride the good times with the bad times for more than 50 years.

Stepper frames are sold in more than 60 countries

Hans had the idea to create high quality injection moulded frames as long ago as the 1960s. Going against the advice of his contemporaries, who continued with cutting and shaping frames in acetate, Hans pursued his idea to create quality injection moulded spectacles from a new, emerging family of plastics. What then materialised in 1970 was the beginnings of the TX5 Stepper Eyewear frames we know today. These were frames that fit, held their shape, could be easily adjusted, and were designed and coloured with ease to suit trends. In addition to initiating change, change has been forced upon the company too. When world demand swung almost overnight from plastic to metal frames in the 1990s,

Vision Now MARCH 2021

Stepper Eyewear began creating titanium frames, and the ingenious combination TX5/titanium models followed. This healthy approach to change has served the business well, and today Stepper frames are sold in more than 60 countries. It remains one of the few true ophthalmic companies – and it grows, year on year. Frames continue to be designed from the revolutionary Original German Design concept. Change is all around us and it is continuous. Some change is imperceptible, some change is dramatic; it can be foreseen or come out of the blue. But what is certain is that change is going to happen. In the autumn of 2019, I presented at a conference where ‘change’ was the theme. Now, as I look back on my presentation, I realise that so much contained within my message is so relevant to where we found ourselves less than six months later. The 2020 pandemic hit fast and without warning. The degree and scale of the change that we experienced was outside the living memory of most of us.

Use change as a catalyst to develop your business, or find parts of the business that best fit the change. At Stepper UK, we took the active route when the pandemic hit. For example, our longstanding method of connecting with customers, via regular visits, had to stop. We decided that through supportive email communications, we could unobtrusively hold out the hand of support, maintain a sense of community, and reduce the isolation many of our customers were feeling. Through email communications, we promoted the ‘making choices’ response to change. One message was the importance of opticians within the local community and becoming the ‘local hero’. It has been well documented by the media that throughout the pandemic, people have been looking to smaller, local businesses that deliver excellence – from butchers to farm shops to homeware boutiques. This was an opportunity for independent opticians.

NEW PRIORITIES AND VALUES RESPONDING TO CHANGE One part of my presentation was how we respond to change; the theory being that you gain some control of change through your response to it. There are two options: 1) you can either ‘react’; or 2) ‘make choices’. The pandemic has forced us all to respond in one of these two, very disparate ways. To react to change is a passive response. In reacting to the pandemic, you might sit tight, try to hold on to everything you had before, and wait for life to return to normal so you can carry on as before. On the other hand, to ‘make choices’ is an active response. By making choices, you assess the change you are facing to find the positives and opportunities it may bring.

The trauma of the pandemic has also refocused our priorities, resetting what is important and their order – with an emphasis on true needs. Early in the pandemic, Stepper recognised a realigned value proposition for the ‘new normal’ – believing that the consumer would be empathetic with this shift. To communicate this, we launched our ‘Love value’ campaign. This campaign recognised that individuals’ priorities had changed, with an emotional message delivering on ‘needs’ rather than ‘wants’. It focuses on understanding and offering exactly what a customer wants, as their sensibilities have evolved as a result of the pandemic – and it is of worth to both patient and eyecare professional. Now,

COMPANY PROFILE TIME TO TAKE STOCK Creating a business roadmap in a post pandemic world to deliver long-term benefits is crucial. Some experts predict a mini boom. Do you cash-in short term, or invest for longevity? Stepper frames are often the unsung heroes of any practice; quietly and reliably working hard for a business. Now is not the time to ignore the strongest players in your business for the opportunity of a quick injection of cash.

more than ever, we all are thinking about the things that truly matter to us. When we launched our ‘Love value’ message, it was clear the pandemic had made everyone re-evaluate their personal and business lives. Change had been forced upon all of us at great speed, and so many things we took for granted were now a challenge – or seemed impossible. The things that are truly important have become clearer. Coronavirus has caused us to reassess what we value as we come to accept a ‘new normal’, and focus on what we really need. Our values have changed; we are more receptive to products and services that meet more fundamental needs. Also, a more insular outlook has meant things within our immediate surroundings bring us pleasure. For these reasons, quality food suppliers and homeware items have increased in popularity. Good eyecare and eyewear fills the same need. This can build on an optician’s strengths. We know it has for our frames.

BECOME AN EYEWEAR HERO Stepper Eyewear frames have always answered the basic need for good vision; holding lenses correctly before the eyes in a way that feels natural and allows daylong comfort. Aesthetics are important, but the attributes of a frame’s functionality, reliability and quality have been heightened by recent events. By offering a personalised service, independent opticians are best placed to meet the eyecare needs of their communities. Customers who may have found eyecare solutions further away will now be looking for local services. Now is the time to win – and keep – these new patients. A comprehensive frame offering with tangible benefits is an essential part of ensuring your business delights these new customers in the unique way you can look after them. Having an outstanding local optician adds value to a community. We have learnt to reassess the relationships we have with local businesses to discover the true value

Stepper’s ‘Love value’ campaign recognised the shifting landscape

they can add to our lives. The last year has made us all consider our business model, and think about how we can now be more valuable to our customers. Independent opticians are in a unique position to meet these new challenges and opportunities. With a scale, a freedom of thinking and the ability to react to local needs, these challenging times can be viewed positively. By delivering exactly the right vision care and solutions to meet your community’s needs, you can reaffirm the trust they have in you. Stepper Eyewear is a frame collection created by professionals for professionals. The comprehensive collection allows opticians to offer eyewear with intrinsic wearer benefits. In turn, this reflects on – and enhances – the ophthalmic expertise of the dispensing optician.

The lockdown has meant a painful period of little or no money coming into the business, with money continuing to go out. The thought of any expenditure now is the last thing in many businesses’ minds. Over the last year, frame stocks have represented a large amount of cash tied up without bringing any return. As patient volumes increase, an option is to liquidate as much of this stock to generate income. However, Stepper recommends you make some considerations first. Now is the time to consider how your business meets the new challenges of 2021, and how it aligns with a refocused consumer. This applies across all parts of a practice – from the consulting room to staff to products. Think about frame stock to ensure it will meet the needs of patients as they return. Stepper doesn’t encourage unnecessary stock levels, recommending buying only the frames required and having them arrive just as they are needed. Review your stock in terms of: having the right frame profile to meet the needs of your patients; and having the right quality and price profile of frames to reflect the value and economic impact of the lockdown. Choose flexible and reliable suppliers. With 97 per cent of Stepper frames delivered next day (for orders before 4pm), a good supplier can be your stockroom, allowing you to order only the frames needed. Consider: • • • •

Is there a minimum order quantity? Are there minimum volume contracts? Is there a next day delivery service? Is there an ‘on approval’ facility?

So, ‘make choices’ and don’t ‘react’. Plan on how you can deliver quality and valued eyecare to your community. Reinforce the reason people come to you; and become the optician of choice for your community.

Consider how your stock meets patients’ needs

Alex Davis is head of brands and marketing at Stepper Eyewear. Vision Now MARCH 2021

BUSINESS MATTERS

Mastering the new High Street ‘rules’ Dominic Watson discusses the decimation of the High Street and the property cost benefit that proactive independent practice owners can gain from the situation Dominic Watson

Many High Streets are being decimated. Retail as we know it is dying. The lockdowns and the economic fallout of the pandemic have compounded what was already underway. The recent demise of High Street giants such as Debenhams and the Arcadia Group have demonstrated that although their brands and websites are valuable to prospective purchasers, their High Street property is not so desirable. We live in a world where most consumers have now become comfortable with virtual transactions; shopping, banking and a whole range of other activities happen online. Thankfully optical practices – with their unique blend of healthcare service, provision of medical devices and fashion and lifestyle elements – are significantly better insulated from the paradigm shift in consumer behaviour than most of their neighbours. But where is your local High Street heading? Is there a chance of you eventually becoming one of the last quality traders standing? Could you become a retail ‘island’? For some, this is a genuinely realistic scenario. For others, it may not be quite so extreme. But this does not mean you can afford to be complacent. The changing landscape around you needs to be understood, monitored and your property

Consumers are now comfortable with virtual transactions

Don’t be one of the last traders standing on your High Street

strategy adapted to suit. If trading conditions on your High Street deteriorate and devolve, the proactive practice owner needs to evolve.

LEVELLING AN UNFAIR PLAYING FIELD The problems for High Street retailers have been compounded by the UK tax system failing to keep up. Traditional retailers have had to continue to operate under an archaic rates system, and a practice of upward-only rent reviews based on floor space – not turnover. Likewise, bricks and mortar businesses have to pay significant corporation tax during profitable parts of the economic cycle, making it hard to build cash reserves to help ride out the more challenging times. In contrast, Google and Amazon play an offshore tax avoidance game – and the pure online retailers using their platforms have significantly lower fixed property costs. Rather than take a pragmatic view to support their tenants, many landlords have remained inflexible and immovable. Institutional landlords, in particular, have

desperately sought to avoid crystallising losses in their portfolios.

WHAT IS YOUR LOCATION’S FUTURE? The fate of the High Street is at a watershed moment and the ultimate outcome is far from certain. Much depends upon government policy. To date, most Whitehall initiatives have been grants for physical improvements to buildings and the occasional temporary rates reduction measure. There has also been an amnesty on commercial tenant evictions during the current crisis. Whilst any support for the High Street is welcome, these measures are mere sticking plasters. The key to tackling the inequality problem, and levelling the playing field between bricks and mortar and online retail, are threefold: 1. The government needs to undertake a major overhaul of the business rates system. 2. The government needs to impose some form of new taxation for online retailers, based on transactions or turnover rather than profit. Vision Now MARCH 2021

VIRTUAL PERSPECTIVES 2021 Sunday 18th April 2021. Contact lenses – today, tomorrow and beyond.

A FREE one-day virtual event with world-renowned global speakers. Prof. Nathan Efron

Prof. Phil Morgan

Paul Chamberlain

Join us for a day of science and education. Virtual Perspectives 2021 is a free one-day virtual conference event for Eye Care Professionals. Main stage presentations* include: - Latest clinical thinking on modern lenses for modern lives. - Year 6 results of the MiSight® 1 day myopia management study. - Perspectives on the younger and older contact lens wearer. - Upgrading the contact lens patient journey in today’s practice. Discussion lounge: - Bioﬁnity® toric multifocal. - Category campaigns. - Product information. Research showcase area: - Presentation of 30 scientiﬁc posters and papers. Register your place: www.coopervision.co.uk/practitioner/virtual-perspectives *CET applied for

Prof. Lyndon Jones

BUSINESS MATTERS 3. Rents need to come down in line with the reduced footfall. Anecdotally, we are increasingly experiencing market forces finally manifesting themselves in the form of lower High Street rentals and greater flexibility/less onerous tenant responsibilities. One thing remains clear, there has been a paradigm shift in consumer shopping habits, and High Streets are never likely to go back to the way they used to be. When the government finally puts in place the radical reforms required, there is still likely be a surplus of retail space available in our town centres. Mindful of this, the government has proposed sweeping reforms to the planning system to allow vacant buildings in town centres to be converted for residential use. This initiative is designed to support the construction industry, speed up rebuilding and to breathe new life into declining areas. These measures will be disruptive to neighbouring premises in the short term, but will add new local footfall and demand for the remaining commercial enterprises. It is important to understand that it is not a single playing field. Some of the UK’s High Streets and shopping centres are faring considerably better than others. The reasons behind this are complex, but key factors include: • Proximity to major regional out-of-town shopping centres • Ease of transport and access, parking availability and cost • Level of affluence. In more wealthy areas, consumers can afford to make decisions based on perceived ‘value’ rather than purely on price. As a result, they will often prefer to ‘shop local’ and will actively seek out more ‘exclusive’ independent retailers who provide a better quality product or service and crucially a better overall experience • Regional, historic centres that draw from a wider catchment population and offer a wider cultural ‘experience’

therefore imperative that your approach and tone when dealing with your landlord reflect the new landscape. • The default position for many owners, when their lease is up for renewal, should be to start off with the mindset that they are prepared to relocate unless the new terms offered reflect the reality of the current High Street trading environment. Your practice may be thriving, but this does not mean you should be passive and accept sub-optimal terms; you still need to protect yourself and get the best deal you can. If your practice is in a quieter part of the town, it may be prudent to move to a more central, up-market location. To succeed in the long-term, visibility and footfall are still important for most practices. With high numbers of empty units in all parts of most towns, rents are coming down and there are considerable concessions available, including rent free and additional half-rent periods. Find out what is available and do the maths. It may be possible to fund much of the cost of the move and a new shop-fit by negotiating such ‘signing on’ concessions. Even if your location is still right for you – you should be able to benefit from: • A third party acting for you in the negotiations to help depersonalise the discussions and allow you to take a firmer stance • All of the benefits being offered to you for relocating to a new unit, such as rentfree periods and lower rentals • A stronger hand to allow you to remove any personal liability, de-risk and ensure greater future flexibility. Use the opportunity to move your lease from your personal name into a limited

• •

The evolving High Street requires a change to your marketing. For many towns, footfall is destined to fall, as the High Street continues to decline. If fewer potential new patients are going to be walking down your High Street because it is less appealing with less to offer, you have to become the destination. It therefore makes sense to reinvest any savings in property costs you can achieve, to ensure footfall is attracted to you via other means.

CONCLUSIONS There is no hiding from the fact that the Great British High Street is changing. For practices within the independent optical sector, this comes with the threat of declining footfall but also the opportunity for fresh thinking and a different approach. It is no longer acceptable or reasonable to accept the status quo. With the potential benefits on offer in the current commercial property market – and the balance of power beginning to tip in the favour of tenants – it would now be a huge mistake not to approach lease arrangements with a whole new mindset. This article is part of a wider examination by Myers La Roche of the Five Megatrends set to shape the future of independent optics. The full report will be posted out in early March. If you would like to discuss any of the issues raised in this article, please do get in touch on 0161 929 8389 or email megatrends@myerslaroche.co.uk

EVOLVING YOUR PROPERTY STRATEGY Evolving High Streets require practice owners to thoroughly review their strategies in relation to their properties. Your immediate options as a tenant mostly depend upon how long you are tied into your current lease; but make no mistake, the balance of power has changed. In almost all locations, the upper hand has moved from landlord to tenant (although many landlords will fail to appreciate this unless you are prepared to take them to the brink). It is

•

company – or to remove any personal guarantees, look to insert several tenantonly break clauses into any new lease Use the opportunity to negotiate on dilapidations and repairing obligations Improve payment terms to ease business cash flow, for example, change from a ‘quarterly’ rental in advance to ‘monthly’ in advance Add a ‘Covid’ clause that suspends rental payments during any future lockdowns Start with a genuine fall-back position of being prepared to move. In other words, don’t negotiate exclusively with your existing landlord: have a plan B and a plan C negotiation on an alternative unit ongoing. Just as when it comes to selling your practice, use the power of competition to your advantage. It will make a massive difference to the deal you will ultimately be able to secure

For long-term success, visibility and footfall are still important

Dominic Watson is director of Myers La Roche, an industry leading consultancy that helps practice owners to make more money and enjoy a better day-to-day operational experience from their practices. Vision Now MARCH 2021

STYLE SPOTLIGHT

Spring into optical style By Joan Grady

“Spring is when life’s alive in everything,” Christina Rossetti Springtime is linked to brighter, longer and warmer days. With reawakened hope and flowers blooming, the potential exists for fresh concepts and new opportunities. For designers and companies passionate about eyewear, they are celebrating spring’s arrival with the launch of unique and distinctive spectacle frames. Rolf Spectacles’ eco-friendly Substance eyewear design

Trends are vast and varied, with shapes that range from vintage to contemporary, plus generous and glamorous silhouettes. The emphasis is on lightweight designs and sustainability features that are easy to wear, and exude personality plus. Graphics and architectural concepts also enrich frame designs. Colours range from subtle pastels to robust, vivid explorations – with new experimentations in tortoiseshell and playful mixed colour elements.

SUSTAINABLE SOPHISTICATION With growing concern about our fragile planet, the eyewear sector is using its creative resources to create frames to help relieve the global plastic crisis and the damage being done to delicate ocean reefs and coral. Born and raised in the Tyrolean Mountains in Austria, the Rolf brothers have always been aware of, and appreciated, the natural world that surrounds them and the importance of sustainability. Rolf Spectacles’ eco-friendly frames are constructed from the Euphorbiaceae plant family that is grown in tropical climates without genetic engineering. Rolf’s Substance Collection features diverse shapes and beautiful colourations for men and women.

Mediterranean ambience: Sandrine by Jisco

metal sides. The design is characteristic of the Jisco collection, which masterfully combines the best acetates with the best metals, ensuring maximum lightness and comfort in each pair of frames. Austrian brand Neubau’s sustainability goals take seriously the need to reduce the environmental impact of creative and production protocols. Neubau is among the

Sustainable style: Erin and Bill by Neubau

pioneering companies that entwine all aspects of their business with a sustainable philosophy. Frames are made with biobased plastics, titanium, stainless steel and oil from castor oil plants. Cleaning cloths are also recycled, and wrapped exclusively in recycled paper. To further reduce their carbon footprints, Neubau frames are designed, developed and manufactured in Austria.

Jisco founders, Francisco Marin and Joerdis Neubaer, believe that spectacle frames need to be a harmonious concerto of style and sustainability, be easy to wear and superbly crafted with refined details. The latest collection from the Spanish label unites acetate and titanium – bio and ethically sourced – in sleek styles and lively colourations that reflect a relaxed Mediterranean ambience. Jisco model Sandrine is made from a combination of acetate on the front and

Vision Now MARCH 2021

Natural interpretations: Wild Dog and Wool Bee by Fassungswerk

STYLE SPOTLIGHT

Contemporary chic: style 034 by Sol Sol Ito Switzerland

the creator’s desire for both glamour and pure aesthetics.

Spring colour boost: STS-30059 by Stepper Eyewear Maximum style: AH1436 by Ana Hickmann

The latest Neubau eyewear collection includes an elegant concerto of optical designs for men and women that combine the best of high tech, streamlined ingenuity, comfort and artistic expression. The colour range includes elegant shades of burnt red matte with gold, and deep ocean matte with graphite.

LINEAR EXPRESSIONS Manuel and Mara Iten at Fassungswerk in Switzerland savour and appreciate nature, their fabulous dogs and the overall beauty and fulfilment of outdoor life. Their eyewear creations are crafted sustainably in premium Mazzucchelli cellulose acetate, and produced in Switzerland. The latest designs shown here include Wild Dog and Wool Bee, worn by the female and male models respectively. Wild Dog is also available in eco-friendly buffalo horn on request. Entrepreneur, model and talk show host Ana Hickmann understands the demands of modern women, and her eyewear collection, distributed by Go Eyewear, unites streamlined shapes with unique detailing. Model AH1436 is a sleek, lightweight feminine frame with a hint of a cat-eye shape that radiates maximum style.

‘At one’s pleasure’ – Ad Lib by Charmant

Ad Lib, distributed by Charmant, marks its 10th anniversary with a special model – Bria. The company name is derived from the Latin phrase ad libitu, which in music and drama means ‘at one’s pleasure’. The

multicoloured ionic plating process is retrofuturistic with its gradient colourations. With this treatment, the colour variation changes randomly with each frame, because the ionic plating cannot be reproduced identically on each model. This provides a one-of-a-kind frame for the wearer. For more than 50 years, Stepper Eyewear has created eyewear with emphasis on function, fit, durability and comfort. New models for spring 2021 include multiple variations of streamlined, uncluttered designs in a material mix that includes titanium, stainless steel and TX5 material, which Stepper injection moulds to give the final, flexible shape. StepperS style STS30059 is available in a luscious raspberry shade in TX5 with stainless steel sides.

CONTEMPORARY AND SLEEK Timeless eyewear silhouettes are reinterpreted in many different forms that flourish with flair and fashion savvy. Suzy Glam in the Netherlands transcends past and present into refined, distinctive frames that stylishly connect to Flourish & flair: Suzy Glam the future, Studies Art by Suzanne Klemm with her innate ability to combine traditional spectacle making with technology. Graphic elements with 3D aspects provide frame structure with intriguing angles, and superb craftsmanship in Suzy Glam Studies Art. Glitter matte pink is a harmonising tone as thoughts turn to spring, and reflects quiet elegance and confidence. Suzy Glam designs, created by Suzanne Klemm, mirror

Travel, art, history, engineering and more excite the design team at Sol Sol Ito in Switzerland. Monika Fink and Sandra Kauffman integrate acetate and stainless spring steel with frames that capture a retro mood in dark Havana: a polished, refined design for artful spectacle wearers who cherish the beauty and history of tortoiseshell eyewear.

Garden fresh green: Icy Eyewear from Louis Stone

Garden-fresh green highlights the smart Icy Eyewear design by Louis Stone. The colour green has an undeserved reputation for being difficult to wear. Any concerns about it not being a flattering colour is solved with this Icy design, as the bottom part of the frame front is nuanced to a soft, translucent hue. Certain designs capture the imagination and make inroads into the history books. This phenomenon occurs in numerous design fields, including cars. Land Rover is a beloved British brand, and Eyespace has seized the contemporary feel of the car with an optical collection for men. Model Quinn sports a striking rectangular shape and is available in blue and black. Significant details include a matt exterior and a polished interior.

British tradition: Land Rover Quinn from Eyespace

Spring symbolises the start of something new, the blossoming of hope and moving forwards. Independent opticians can benefit from the season and its symbolism with diverse, distinctive optical designs that exhibit a magnetic appeal. Creative window displays depicting spring pleasures will also draw winter-weary patients to your practice to invest in desirable designs to welcome the new season. Vision Now MARCH 2021

Preferred Suppliers’ Directory

Preferred Suppliers are suppliers who, by prior arrangement, offer members of the PK National Eyecare Group preferential terms. For full details and terms offered to the membership, please call 01580 713698

ALCON UK

BONDEYE OPTICAL

DE RIGO UK LTD

GO EYEWEAR UK LTD

Tel: 0371 376 0017 Fax: 0871 351 1005

Tel: 0121 7723888 Fax: 0808 2801865

Tel: 01923 249491

Tel: 0800 9178270

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

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

www.goeyeweargroup.com

www.uk.alcon.com

CENTROSTYLE

DUNELM OPTICAL Tel: 01388 420420 Fax: 01388 810101

Tel: 01442 502 330 Fax: 01442 242 386

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

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

ATLANTIC OPTICAL UK LTD

sales@centrostyle.com www.centrostyle.com

Tel: 02920 362 136 Fax: 02920 362 137

CHARMANT UK CO LTD

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

Tel: 020 8992 9222 Fax: 020 8896 0287

www.essilor.co.uk

HOYA LENS UK

BARCLAYCARD

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

EYESPACE

Tel: 0845 330 0984 Fax: 0845 330 0977

CONTINENTAL EYEWEAR

Tel: 01527 870550 Fax: 01527 837012

Tel: 0151 426 3907 Fax: 0151 426 9340

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

ASSOCIATED OPTICAL Tel: 01628 605433 Fax: 01628 665077

Tel: 0800 056 5569

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

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

BIB OPHTHALMIC INSTRUMENTS

COOPERVISION

Tel: 01438 740823

Tel: 0870 9000 055

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

www.coopervision.co.uk

SO CLOSE YOU CAN ALMOST SEE IT

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

ESSILOR Tel: 01454 281281 Fax: 01454 281282

EYEWEAR DIRECT (EUROPE) LTD

HEIDELBERG ENGINEERING www.HeidelbergEngineering.co.uk

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

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

INTERNATIONAL EYEWEAR LTD

Tel: 020 7193 3334

Tel: 0121 585 6565 Fax: 0121 585 0954

eyewear-direct.net

www.internationaleyewear.co.uk

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coopervision.co.uk

T 01527 870550 eyespace-eyewear.co.uk

01580 713698

Directory listings are available free of charge to all preferred suppliers, with a larger listing available to Vision Now Advertisers. To make changes to the directory listings, please call Sally Spicer on 01580 713698 or email s.spicer@nationaleyecare.co.uk

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

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

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

LUNEAU TECHNOLOGY UK/IRELAND – VISIONIX

MICHAEL PACHLEITNER GROUP Tel: 07583 076 132 a.davies@michael-pachleitnergroup.com www.michaelpachleitnergroup.com

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

RAWDON OPTICAL

THE NORVILLE GROUP LTD

Tel: 01132 883094 Fax: 01132 883095

Tel: 01452 510321

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

Tel: 0845 521 1290 Fax: 01782 717 944

Tel: 024 7601 0103

www.thea-pharmaceuticals.co.uk

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

RODENSTOCK Tel: 01474 325555

Tel: 01424 850620 Fax: 01424 850650

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

info@no7contactlenses.com www.no7contactlenses.com

SEIKO OPTICAL UK

OPTINET LTD

Tel: 01452 610033 Fax: 01452 638250

Tel: 0845 313 0233

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

sales@optinetuk.com www.optinetuk.com

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

LUXOTTICA (UK) LTD

PERFORMANCE FINANCE

SILHOUETTE UK LTD

Tel: 0808 165 8555

Tel: 01536 529696 Fax: 01536 310033

Tel: 020 8987 8899 Fax: 020 8987 2430

www.performancefinance.co.uk

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

www.luxottica.com

MARCHON Tel: 0800 72 2020

POSITIVE IMPACT

csuk@marchon.com

Tel: 08446 696907

SPEC-CARE LTD Tel: 01392 460806

MARK’ENNOVY

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

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

PRACTICE BUILDING Tel: 0115 989 9772 andy@practicebuilding.co.uk www.practicebuilding.co.uk

MENICON UK LTD

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

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

THEA PHARMACEUTICALS

RETAIL EXPERIENCE DESIGN (RED)

No7 CONTACT LENSES

Tel: 07383 555659

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

20 20 OPTICAL SERVICES LTD Tel: 01460 929460 mark@2020opticalservices.co.uk www.2020opticalservices.co.uk

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

XACT Tel: 01698 574 655

Suppliers’ directory

LENSTEC EYEWEAR Tel: 02920 857122 Fax: 02920 920480

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

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

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

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

www.nationaleyecare.co.uk

SUPPLIER – OPTICIAN – PATIENT

OUR PARTNERSHIP

Open your eyes to

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

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

T: 01279 653785 E: TantCC@tantlabs.com

0845 3130233 sales@optinetuk.com

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

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

www.stepper.co.uk

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