Optical Industry News

We separate industry news into its own section where you will find information about companies, their promotions and their personnel. International news on optically related businesses is also displayed in this section.

Companies wishing to promote their plans, personnel changes and inform the profession should send their PR to info@primaryhealthnet.com

Exhibitors taught to exhibit in Masterclass

Hoya launches long life coating promotion

New area sales manager at Hoya

Optrafair 2011 space selling fast

FMO promotes Carbon Trust loans

Optrafair 2011 launched

New territory manager for Hoya

FMO launches membership benefits brochure

Fabris Lane appoints new Optical Sales Manager

FMO to focus on employment law and marketing

New Operations Manager Appointed at Nidek

Dibble forms Liaison with Nidek

New Ophthalmology Business Manager appointed by Nidek

Norville Bolton – Increased UK Based Surfacing Capacity

Eurom Report calls for fresh approach and gives some signs for optimism

Neil Townsend appointed MD of Birmingham Optical Group

WECO Edge 650

KeraSoft® introduced to the Elite

FMO re-brand

FMO to form closer links with overseas companies by widening membership category

DX to host FMO meetings

BSI standards available from FMO

FMO appoints European Advisor

PROENZA SCHOULER recipient of the "CFDA Accessory Designer of the Year 2009 Award"

UltraVision beats previous records at BCLA conference

Rodenstock's new combi refraction unit

New Norville frame directory for 2009

FMO meeting to take place in Paddington

Sean Collins looks for new horizons after leaving Maui Jim

J&J at the BCLA

New ColorMatic® Campaign launched to tempt consumers

FMO attends opening of new parcel service facility

FMO announces masterclass for all exhibitors with reductions in cost for FMO members. The class entitled Secrets of Successful Exhibiting: is aimed at those planning how to maximise their investment in next April’s NEC show, and takes place on Thursday 11 November at the NEC.

This is a date for all exhibitors, who are keen to draw a crowd, to put in their diary.

“Creating a buzz and ensuring that the right people are attracted to a company’s stand is not something to be left to chance. Booking the space and expecting customers to arrive is not the best way to maximise the opportunity. It is important to plan a six-month marketing campaign in the build-up to engage with the audience before the event,” said Jenny Chalmers, Optrafair Sales Manager.

“Setting objectives, and fully exploiting the opportunity with creative ideas to drive marketing activity, making the stand more enticing and ensuring that the show lasts through the following months, is the key to success,” she added.

Keynote speaker will be Austin Hawkins, a director of the Association of Exhibition Organisers, who has led tremendous growth in a number of trade shows. The training day will cover

Planning your way to exhibition success

Lights, camera action!
The doors of the exhibition hall open and thousands of people rush in, but what are the do’s and don’ts of staff behaviour:

Reaping the rewards
The essential guide to following up show leads

Hi-Vision LongLife, the world’s toughest anti-reflection coating available, is now supported with an exciting “healthy long life” themed scratch card promotion in which every sale wins.

Highlighting the durability of the internationally award-winning Hoya coating* the new promotion is open to all Hoya’s independent and prescription labs customers.

“Any orders placed with a Hi-Vision LongLife coating during July and August will receive a guaranteed winning scratch card. The prizes include Wii fit games consoles, balance boards, Ipod Shuffles and thousands of Love 2 Shop vouchers or One4All vouchers for our Eire customers,” said Rachel Edwards, Hoya Marketing Assistant.

Focusing on a ‘healthy long life’, the activity-inspired prizes reflect the superb performance of Hoya’s coveted coating.

All winning Scratch cards must be returned to Hoya by 20th September 2010 when all of the prizes will be dispatched.

Hoya has appointed Victoria Spencer as Area Sales Manager for the North-East, following nine years of optical experience as a branch manager.

Promoting the extensive support that Hoya offers to independents who wish to differentiate their practices, Victoria has much experience in dispensing and maximising sales.

“The quality of our lenses, short delivery times, backed with superb sales and business support, are key benefits of using Hoya,” said Victoria.

“I am particularly keen to promote the Hoya PNX 1.53, a lens which is extremely tough with high impact resistance. It comes with a two year anti-breakage guarantee and is fantastic for rimless, supras and children’s glasses,” she added.

A record-breaking 40% of space has been reserved by companies wishing to exhibit at Optrafair 2011, just a month after the order book opened.

Never before has so much space been reserved so long before the show opens, reflecting the importance which the industry attaches to the biennial event and its role in launching new products and creating awareness of market advances.

First priority for bookings has been given to 2009 exhibitors who were offered first refusal on their previous stands. The floor space has now been opened up to new exhibitors, many of whom are interested in the specialist areas of the show.

“For as little as £1,000 companies can have a presence at Optrafair, and we have a choice of shell schemes which enable companies to walk onto the space knowing that all costs are covered. The Fashion Quarter and Contact Lens Pavilion are also attracting a lot of interest,” said Jenny Chalmers, Optrafair Sales Manager.

The stand packages start at £145pm² for space only, while the standard shell scheme, which brings walls, carpet and name board is priced at £168pm². Additional options are available with the premium shell scheme, which includes an electrical supply within the total price, and the premium plus shell scheme which includes an electrical supply and furniture budget.

“Companies may also like to look at exhibiting within the Fashion Quarter, Small Business Area and Contact Lens Pavilion. Many of the stand options have been designed to make exhibiting easy with little more to do than bring the products along and lay them out. We are creating a real opticians’ market with far greater opportunity for smaller companies to exhibit,” added Jenny.

Optical businesses wanting to invest and make the most of new energy saving technology should explore the opportunities of interest free Carbon Trust Loans, believes The FMO.

Providing loans of between £3,000 and £100,000 for energy saving advances, Carbon Trust Loans are currently available over a one to four year period. Funding is confirmed for the financial year to March 2011, but will be subject to budgetary changes after this period.

“Government money is committed to this scheme until March 2011, but there are limited funds and those interested in exploring the loans should not delay. The scheme has been extremely successful with new technologies particularly for heating and lighting with biomass boilers being a popular choice for loan-financed purchases so far,” said Pierre Dufour, Head of Loans, Carbon Trust.

The Government funded loans to cut energy bills and finance new equipment are part of a national plan to cut UK emissions by at least 80% by 2050.

Get the best for less! Companies wishing to secure the best spaces at Optrafair 2011 are now able to reserve their stands, with an enticing 20% discount off the listed prices for FMO members.

The FMO’s biennial show of all that is new in the world of optics, will run from 9-11 April 2011 at The NEC, Birmingham. Combining unrivalled opportunities to meet the entire optical community under one roof, with the chance to see world class technology and the most advanced CET, the show is geared to lift the industry well and truly out of recession.

“Ideally timed, Optrafair 2011 will see all the deferred purchases coming to market, with a tremendous amount of pent-up demand for new technology in the lab and in the dispensing room, not to mention the desire to see the latest in frames, sunglasses, lenses and contact lenses,” said FMO Chief Executive Malcolm Polley.

With a comprehensive package of three levels of shell schemes, space only, and specialist interest areas, the show provides a wealth of opportunities to exhibit from just under £1,000. In addition, CET and show sponsorship opportunities, plus Optrafair TV, offer more scope to reach the thousands of decision makers who visit the show. Rolled out for the first time in 2009, a greater number of TV screens will be placed around the entrance and exhibition halls to entice visitors to learn more about the products and services on offer.

“Optrafair is the largest optical show in the UK and our experience in staging this exhibition and in embracing the whole of optics ensures that it is an event not to be missed. Customers from across the spectrum of our industry come to the show to buy and those who do not attend certainly miss out,” added Malcolm Polley.

Hoya Lens UK has appointed Mark Culshaw, FBDO, as Area Sales Manager for the North-West.

Mark, who started his career in optics as a laboratory technician and later qualified as a dispensing optician at City and East London College, is delighted to have joined the company.

“Hoya is exactly the company for which I want to work. The fantastic, market leading, service reputation was key to me joining Hoya. My territory, which stretches from Liverpool to the Lake District, is relatively small and enables me to give greater time to my customers,” said Mark.

Having spent five years in lens sales in the North-West, and several years as a senior dispenser with both a multiple practice and small independent group, Mark understands the market well.

“The Hoyalux iD MyStyle has generated a tremendous amount of interest, particularly since winning Optical Product of the Year. It is a lens which factors in the patient’s previous lens option and their lifestyle for time spent on near work, golf, reading, and so on. Our point-of-sale material and Hoyanet have been of great interest and I look forward to introducing these tools to more Hoya lens users.”

Advances in diagnostic and spectacle manufacturing technology, understanding compliance with European and world standards, relevant legal and insurance advice, the long established Bad Payers’ List, networking, optical training, and discounted rates on a number of service providers are all part of the FMO benefits package.

“Most importantly, The FMO provides the opportunity for members to appreciate the bigger picture of optics. Our regional meetings around the country are highly valued for bringing optical suppliers together, sharing camaraderie and learning more about other aspects of the industry in which we work,” said FMO Chairman, Barry Dibble.

“With three specific focus groups for frame suppliers, lens suppliers and equipment suppliers, and of course, the leading biennial trade show, Optrafair, The FMO has a firm finger on the pulse of optics,” he added.

Recently launched was an overseas membership category for companies around the world who would like to benefit from the expertise within The FMO.

Sean Collins, who has extensive experience in the UK market, has joined Fabris Lane as Optical Sales Manager.

Supporting independent practices is the primary focus for Sean and he is delighted to use his previous experience within optics to promote this leading UK eyewear company.

“Fabris Lane has a great heritage as a dedicated eyewear design house, and is completely focused on creativity, quality and service. I am committed to bringing these benefits of an independent producer of eyewear to UK opticians”

Fabris Lane are recruiting a sales force of seven to provide support, backed up by good supply and service.

“One of the delights for me in joining Fabris Lane is the positive attitude of the company. We are looking to build strong partnerships with independents, whose opinions we value greatly in the development process of our product and support material” said Collins.

Fabris Lane is scheduled to spend £1m on consumer marketing and advertising in leading fashion titles within the next twelve months which will ensure a higher profile for the brand.

Sean who came to optics from an artistic background previously worked for Maui Jim, Marcolin, Safilo and OWP.

February 2010

The FMO spring meeting, to be held on Wednesday, March 10, will bring together the specific interest groups that focus on frames, lenses and technology where current market conditions and developments will be discussed.

Relevant optical presentations on marketing, with a guest speaker from The Institute of Marketing will be made. Discrimination and Employment Law will also be discussed with advice from industry experts.

“Our growing membership greatly values the support that joining forces with others within the industry brings. Gaining knowledge about other aspects of the market and keeping up to date with new technology is extremely important and the FMO is well placed to provide this support,” said Malcolm Polley, FMO Chief Executive.

To be held at the FMO’s London offices at 199 Gloucester Terrace, Paddington, the day commences at 10.45am.

To register please call 020 7 298 5123 or email sfisher@fmo.co.uk

Birmingham Optical’s commitment to after sales care and customer support is enhanced with the appointment of Lisa Field as Operations Manager, with responsibility for overseeing servicing and client care for Nidek technology.

With twelve years’ experience within the company, mostly in customer services, Lisa is well placed for the important role. Having started her optical career sixteen years ago in independent practice she understands the demands and need for an efficient response from suppliers.

“Our recent roll-out of the CMS support, which brings immediate access to more than 200 highly trained engineers for our customers, has been fantastic. Response times have increased dramatically with customers mostly seeing an engineer within 24 hours.

“We are the first optical company to have taken this route and are delighted that it has brought such a wide range of highly skilled experience throughout the UK, with the engineers all going through our own Nidek training programme,” she said.

Birmingham Optical Group has recently announced its first co-management partner, Barry Dibble of Dibble Optical Supplies, as part of its five year business plan for the UK and Ireland. Nidek’s full range of diagnostic and edging technology, Oculus, CSO and Frastema products will now be available from Barry’s company in the south-east region.

Barry’s background in manufacturing optics and extensive knowledge has been widely welcomed by Birmingham Optical CEO, Chris Tyler.

“I first brought Barry into optics in the late 1980s, when we established Nidek in the UK, so it is very fitting that we are working together again with this tremendous technology. I have great respect for Barry’s understanding of the demands of the market, his technical knowledge and the regard with which he is held in manufacturing optics. We are delighted that he is to partner us in this joint venture, where he will have a particular focus in the south-east of the country,” said Chris.

Confident of Nidek’s continuing innovation, Barry added:

”It is a real pleasure to work with a company that is looking to the future. While others have stagnated, Nidek’s research and development has been fantastic, hence the international reputation that the company holds.”

Key product for the joint venture is the Nidek RS 3000 advanced OCT system, providing great ease of use, tremendous speed, and results that move practices into new realms of clinical excellence.

Nidek‘s advanced technology for ophthalmologists is set to take a higher profile in the UK with the appointment of an internationally experienced business manager who has worked with Nidek innovation for more than 20 years.

Alfredo Alberto, Nidek UK Ophthalmology Business Manager, is part of the company’s expansion and has been warmly welcomed by Chris Tyler, CEO of Nidek UK. “Alfredo brings an international understanding of what is driving the most advanced ophthalmology markets. He is very familiar with the technology produced in both the USA and Japan and this experience is highly valued,” said Chris.

Support is an important priority, as well as having the most advanced technology, believes Alfredo. “I am keen to promote and support the technology that is best placed to enhance the most exacting clinical skills. At Nidek we are looking to enlarge our range of products and the vital after sales service.”

October 2009

Norville Directors are pleased to announce the up-scaling of Norville’s Bolton laboratory to an extended shift operation.  At a time when more Rx lens production would seem to be moving to overseas sources, Norvilles believe UK customers require quality and quicker service lens deliveries. Frank Norville added “that for 35 years our Bolton location has benefited from a dedicated and skilled local workforce.  We are delighted to announce that we have been able to find positions for a complete team of redundant BBGR Manchester surfacing staff who bring with them a total of 103 years of surfacing experience.  These new team members will bring an increased tempo to Bolton operations under Martin Walters Branch Manager and the established management team of Sandra, Helen, Bernie & Becky.” 

Norville Bolton as a specialist protection spectacle lens centre is particularly experienced at producing Polycarbonate and lately Trivex lenses.  The installation of additional equipment enables all resin surfacing capacity to be increased supplemented by the installed WECO robotic edging equipment ensures Norville Bolton retains its reputation as a leading North West Rx Laboratory.

Eurom Report calls for fresh approach and gives some signs for optimism

“We are facing a new world scenario where effort, talent, and reaction capacity must play an even more crucial role than ever before: the economic map has been redrawn. New pricing policies, new approaches to advertising, new ways of brand development and ways of regaining profitability are required. We must be efficient when it comes to our processes and organisational structure to improve our delivery times, to be quick to react, said Mr Antonio Olivella, Chairman of EUROM 1, the collective European optical body.

Speaking at the 2009 EUROM 1 Convention in Athens, he said: “A year ago at the FMO-hosted assembly in Windsor we foresaw a difficult future ahead, but the reality has surpassed all predictions. As people prioritise their consumerism the optical industry has seen a decrease in activity with remarkably fewer consumers buying our products. Particularly hard hit are products priced over €120.

“Sunglass sales have fallen by up to 40% as consumer stay with what they have, and yet 75% of Europeans with corrective lenses do not own prescription sunglasses. Conversely, the average European woman owns seven pairs of shoes,” he added.

The frames sector has been less affected than the sunglass market, Mr Olivella reported, but manufacturers still have to accept contracted consumption as people buy less and retailers reduce their inventories to increase liquidity. In the first quarter of 2009 European lens sales dropped by 14%.

“The equipment sector is demonstrating the worst performance in terms of contraction of turnover due to difficulties in obtaining financial backing; the reduction in the numbers of new optical outlets and the decline in modernisation in existing practices. We evaluate the slump in this sector to be between 25-40%, an unprecedented drop in our industry,” he added.

Optimism

However, there are signs for optimism according to Olivella who listed that:

*21% of consumers are reported to have increased their spending and have not considered cutting down, according to the Boston Consulting Group

*There is more than $115billion of optical business to be fulfilled, according to the World Health Organisation

*There is a huge potential market from the new eyesight test for drivers, with approximately 40m drivers in Europe with poor, or no, correction at all

“This is a moment of prime opportunity to reinforce our business activity. This is a moment to approach Brussels with a strong voice and the join forces and collaborate with other related organisations,” added Mr Olivella.

EUROM 1 also drew attention to the opportunities:

*A major lens manufacturer estimates that 450m Europeans have not visited an optician for three years. In the world today there are 2 billion presbyopes and in 20 years time there will be 3 billion

*In a world where 1 billion people are connected to the internet 60% suffer some form of vision fatigue

*In France, typical of many countries, 30% or drivers have non-corrected vision defects, meaning that 1m people would be prohibited from driving

EUROM’s activity within the past year has included lobbying Brussels, ensuring that EUROM 1 is recognised as a responsible European organisation; counterfeiting has been a major focus with new initiatives emerging for greater co-operation and greater protection of the optical market. It was reported that the French government had launched a campaign against counterfeiting and French customs had recently seized 6.5m products including 4,000 pieces of eyewear which had been destroyed.

In the months ahead EUROM 1 will mainly focus on drivers’ vision and intends to look at the cost of car accidents and the benefits of the new driving licence. Internet sales of eyewear and UV protection will also be important topics. The organisation has been strengthened by a new member: the Dutch optical organisation, NAB.

Now in his 14th year with the Group, Neil was part of the Management Buy Out in 2006 and is committed to improving customer service and aftercare for the company’s Nidek and Oculus customers.

His broad understanding of manufacturing optics follows experience, starting 21 years ago, as Production Manager for Phillips Optical; General Manager of Norville’s specialist Gloucester laboratory, followed by the move to the Birmingham Optical Group.

“We are proud to have built the company up to be one of the largest suppliers of ophthalmic surgical and diagnostic equipment. In addition our highly respected retail and industrial lens edging systems have produced record trading figures year on year since the MBO. As a shareholder I have a great commitment to ensuring that we exceed the expectations of our customers. We are very proud to be the exclusive UK distributors for Nidek and Oculus equipment and we are striving to give the very best service that is possible,” said Neil.

Suitable for all lens materials including polycarbonate and Trivex lenses, it allows the operator to select the individual parameters based on material and coating, as Buchmann UK Technical Director Malcolm Smith, explained:

“Working with high index materials has never been easier. It leaves you in control with the ability to adjust any of the settings to your preference although it will automatically adjust the groove depth and width according to each frame.”

The WECO Edge 650 provides:

*Unlimited option of standard angle drill holes
*Rectangular function for blind and elongated holes
*Adjustable contour grooving and chamfering
*Smooth mode and Groove Clean mode
*Adjustable edge cycles
*Sense touch keyboard
*High Curve mode for 8 base frames (optional)

“In chamber drilling and edging not only increase productivity and accuracy but also eliminate the risk of manual drilling. All of the options available on this model leave you in complete control,” added Malcolm.

KeraSoft® Silicone Hydrogel contact lenses, for Irregular Corneas including Keratoconus, continues to receive international recognition from Ophthalmologists. At a recent Ophthalmic Conference more than 140 Syrian Ophthalmologists were introduced to the various features and benefits of KeraSoft®.

The KeraSoft® family has been developed by UK based contact lens manufacturer UltraVision. The lathe-cut Silicone Hydrogel lenses provide increased comfort, corneal health and improved vision to patients suffering with a variety of conditions related to Irregular Corneas, Keratoconus and Post-Laser treatments.

UltraVision’s Syrian Distributor, Fouad & Diab Zaza Trading Co., attended the 33rd Ophthalmic Conference and showcased the KeraSoft® family to the elite of Syrian Ophthalmologists and key academic personnel. His Excellency, Dr. Rida Saed, the Minister of Health for Syria also visited the stand, which is deemed a great honour, and commented on the good impression he received from the product and wished Fouad & Diab Zaza Trading the best of luck.

Diab Zaza commented “The most significant discussion was around the capability of a soft lens to manage Keratoconus related problems. Opticians in Syria are used to treating these kinds of patients with GP lenses, and were pleased with the excellent performance of the KeraSoft® family of contact lenses when comparisons with GP lenses were made. Finding positive results and feedback in the marketplace leaves us very optimistic for the future of KeraSoft® in our market”

KeraSoft®3 and KeraSoft® IC are carefully designed to enable even the most complex irregular corneas to be fitted successfully; making these life-changing contact lenses for many wearers. The benefits of good levels of vision combined with high comfort levels mean that patients who have previously only been able to wear their GP lenses for short periods of time, are now able to wear contact lenses providing them with quality vision for up to 18 hours a day!

This year the FMO has re-branded and produced a new logo which has been added to their page on this site. The re-branding is one of a number of new initiatives that are being rolled out this year at the FMO.

24th August 2009

The UK’s Federation of Manufacturing Opticians (FMO) is launching an overseas membership category following requests from international companies wanting to know about developments in UK optics.

“Manufacturing and frame distribution news, standards and benchmarking are all of great interest to many of our overseas colleagues and for those who would like a closer view of how the optical market operates in the UK they have a chance to join and benefit from our vast pool of experience,” said Malcolm Polley, FMO Chief Executive.

The FMO’s membership of EUROM 1, the collective European optical body, and its close links with optical lobbyists in Brussels, are of particular interest to many companies wishing to enter the UK market.

Excellent networking opportunities of the FMO are supported by a host of member benefits:

• The Bad Payers’ List
• Discounted rates on British Standards for optical appliances
• EC Reporting
• Equipment, lens and frame focus groups
• Market data
• Optical standards data

5th August 2009

Keeping the world of optics moving is the theme of the FMO’s autumn meeting, to be held on 8 October at DX’s new north London distribution facility.

Giving FMO members the opportunity to see and hear how the optical distribution company fulfils its deliveries each day to keep the optical world moving, the Staples Corner centre boasts state of the art technology for tracking parcels throughout the UK and Europe.

Commencing at 11am with the FMO’s frame, lens and equipment divisions meeting together, this will allow the group to keep abreast of market developments in each sector.

The DX tour, with the opportunity for questions, will be followed by lunch.

Places are limited, so reserve your space by calling the FMO: 020 7298 5123

BSI Standards for all optically related products are now available at a discounted rate for FMO members. Spectacle lens tolerances, eye protection for leisure activities including skiing and racquet sports, sunglass lenses and optical instruments all attract BSI standards to which suppliers and distributors of optical goods must adhere.

“As part of the FMO’s commitment to extend member benefits we have negotiated discounted rates for the purchase of all optically-related standards which includes all specifications and test methods. This includes the latest on the important aspect of nickel release for coated frames,” said Malcolm Polley, FMO Chief Executive.

The FMO’s team of specialist advisors has been strengthened with the appointment of Andy Hepworth of Essilor UK as a consultant on European matters, particularly for new legislation relating to medical devices.

“Andy’s acceptance of the role will be for the benefit of the entire optical community as he helps us to keep up to date with new legislation. It is excellent to have someone with such a good knowledge of both the profession and the optical industry,” said Malcolm Polley, FMO Chief Executive.

As Professional Relations Manager at Essilor, and with a degree in optical management, Andy is in touch with the needs of practice.

“Through the FMO I plan to keep optical manufacturers, including in-practice glazers, up to speed with the Medical Devices Directive,” he said.

17th June 2009

Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez, of Proenza Schouler, are the recipients of the "CFDA Accessory Designer of the Year 2009 Award".

This is the third time Proenza Schouler has been honored with a CFDA Award. Proenza Schouler was the recipient of the "Swarovski Perry Ellis Award" in 2003 and the "CFDA Womenswear Designer of the Year Award" en 2007.

Despite the apparent world-wide recession, the BCLA’s recent 33rd Annual Clinical Conference and Exhibition proved to be one of the busiest so far for Premium Exhibitor, UltraVision. “We had a record number of visitors to our stand this year and were delighted with the interest shown in all our leading products”, commented J Keith Lomas, UltraVision Group CEO.

UltraVision showcased their world-leading KeraSoft® lenses, including the popular KeraSoft®3 SiH contact lens for Keratoconus. KeraSoft® IC, for all irregular corneas, the latest addition to the KeraSoft® family was introduced at the show and drew a lot of attention from both UK and international delegates. HydroWave® proved to be very popular with visitors, along with UltraVision’s full range of lathe-cut SiH lenses for Hospitals.

Keratoconus Consultant, Lynn White, presented a 15 minute workshop on the benefits of Silicone Hydrogel lenses for Keratoconus. The talk was very well attended and generated further interest in the ever popular KeraSoft® range of lenses.

Gill Narramore, UltraVision Group Operations Manager said “We were delighted to receive delegates to our stand from many countries across the world with representation from Hospitals, High Street practices and Academia. Our professional and friendly staff enjoyed catching up with our customers, taking the opportunity to gather feedback and discussing new ideas regarding our full range of products and services.”

5th June 2009

Rodenstock raises its Combi Refraction Unit to new levels

Rodenstock Combi 100 and 200 refraction units have been raised to new levels with the added feature of electronic height adjustable tables.

For optometrists who like to have an easy to use central working platform with everything at their finger tips, this new enhancements allows all the tests to be performed while the optometrist is standing, without having to stoop to operate the instruments.

Explained Buchmann UK Sales Manager, Paul Hampshire, “This development will be good news to many optoms who prefer to complete much of the eye examination in a standing position. The Rodenstock Combi units have always catered for a variety of situations with chairs that can swivel, recline, move backwards and forwards. They now have the option of the table having electronic height control. Of course, it can be used while the optom sits, too.”

Designed to the highest standards, the affordably priced Rodenstock Combi units feature a deluxe motorised chair with an integral halogen lamp in an aesthetically pleasing design. They are complemented by Rodenstock slit lamps, keratometers and a full range of ophthalmic instruments.

Norville’s new 82 page frame directory, bringing together a host of new designer names and some firm favourites. The new directory has the latest fashion frames from BEBE for fashion conscious young women, elegantly sparkling jewel looks from Laura Ashley and a host of exciting designer names including Jeff Banks and STVDIO ranges from one of the UK’s best known male designers, Vera Wang the refined celebrity designer with a penchant for posh frocks.

Details of the latest Polaroid sun collection. Further additions to the Columbia range as well as new contemporary styles within their own Norville Collection range. Including Microlite rimless, an extension to the popular Superlite range which features “Grillamid” a lightweight material perfect for rimless spectacles.

All individual frames are available to be viewed at www.norville.co.uk and by using the zoomify digital imaging feature they can be examined in high detail.

For your copy call 01452 510332

Optical companies wishing to know more about the benefits of FMO membership are invited to come along to the June 23* meeting, which is to be held in Paddington, London.

Where is the internet heading? will be one of the issued discussed by IT specialist Simon Butterworth along with the latest update on computer viruses and internet security. Also, Patrick Myers of Myers La Roche will be making a presentation “The Optical Market in Recession” and handling questions from the audience.

These industry-specific speakers add to the value of FMO membership, reflecting the breadth of market related knowledge that is available from the leading trade association.

Closed FMO member sessions will start at 11.00am on 23 June and, following lunch at 1.00pm, the presentations will commence at 1.50pm, at 199 Gloucester Terrace, Paddington.

FMO members should reserve a place, or perhaps you should find out more about joining, please contact the FMO on 020 7298 5123.

Sean drew on his previous experience with Safilo sunglasses and Marcolin to set up the successful Maui Jim UK operation in 2003.

“I have the drive and enthusiasm to make things happen. A lot of companies are wondering about their future direction in the current market and I am in a good position to help them. I know the sunglass market very, very, well and the focus on customer care is paramount,” said Sean.

As published in our BCLA preview section Johnson & Johnson Vision Care are proud to be one of the inaugural Patron sponsors following 20 years of continual support to the Association. The Company will be delivering a series of presentations and workshops, focusing on themes that matter to Eye Care Professionals: innovation, education, eye health, patient retention and market insights.

One such presentation comes thanks to THE VISION CARE INSTITUTE™, recently opened in the UK, which will share valuable insights into the optical professions based on recent research, both from an Eye Care Professional and consumer point of view. It focuses specifically on continuing education and training needs and patient perceptions of the eye care professions, forming part of the Friday night reception.

Ian Davies, vice-president of THE VISION CARE INSTITUTE™ says, “We are looking forward to sharing this exciting new data with Eye Care Professionals at BCLA. We know that education is very important to practitioners and through sharing valuable insights into what they feel is needed, we will offer solutions to help further improve patient satisfaction.”

In addition to sharing this new research, the Friday night reception will also support the amazing work of the British Heart Foundation by making a generous £25 donation to the charity on behalf of every delegate who attends. Douglas Rouse from the British Heart Foundation will be attending to accept the donation and to highlight how the funding will help them continue the valuable and life-saving work that they do on a daily basis.

Throughout the weekend, Johnson & Johnson Vision Care will also be hosting further educational events for delegates. The Patron’s Showcase and Presentation sessions will reveal pertinent new data on a range of topics and Johnson & Johnson Vision Care will also be sharing their insights into how to retain patients and encourage good all-round eye health. The Patron’s Presentation will take place in the Exchange Auditorium at 10.30am on Friday 29th May, while the Patron’s 60-Minute Showcase will be in the Exchange Hall at 1.00pm on Saturday 30th May.

The theme of this year’s Patron’s Presentation is entitled “Driving Patient and Practitioner Satisfaction”. Ian Davies, Peter Ivins and David Ruston will be speaking about Johnson & Johnson Vision Care’s key priorities of innovation, education, eye health, patient retention and market insights. Exciting new research on patient loyalty will be presented. Additionally forthcoming product innovations and, new business support initiatives will be highlighted. There will also be a section of the presentation discussing THE VISION CARE INSTITUTETM and its educational programme.

The Patron Sponsor’s Showcase presented on the Saturday will reveal the latest insights into astigmatism and will be led by Karen Walsh, Anna Sulley and Paul Chamberlain. This lunch and learn session will review some of the latest research regarding the correction of astigmatism and soft toric lens design and performance. The research will also reveal new findings looking at the effects of eye movements, gravity and oxygen consumption and will include patient feedback regarding current contact lens options for astigmatism.

Johnson & Johnson Vision Care will also be opening their doors to the ACUVUE® lounge again this year, giving delegates the chance to relax, catch up with colleagues and enjoy the complimentary refreshments. For those looking for a bit more action, delegates should visit the ACUVUE® stand (No. 61), featuring a human gyroscope and showing that the new ACUVUE® OASYS™ for ASTIGMATISM lens will ensure that patients never miss a moment!

14th May 2009

Rodenstock have announced a National consumer advertising campaign for Rodenstock ColorMatic®, the fast fade-back photochromic,

There are almost 1,000 practices signed up to enjoy the photochromic promotion, and consumer awareness is higher than ever. The campaign is expected to further boost demand for this advantageously priced lens.

For some longstanding ColorMatic lens users this year has seen a marked increase in dispensing, as Charles Arnold, Dispensing Manager of Richard C. Arnold Opticians in Midhurst and Cowplain, explained -

“We always do very well with ColorMatic because it is such a great price point but so far, this year, we have dispensed three times the number of ColorMatic lenses over last year. It is significantly more affordable than other options and we have dispensed it to children as young as 14 through to all ages,” said Charles Arnold.

Like others, Arnolds began promoting the benefits of ColorMatic lenses to patients in February.

Rodenstock’s recent research reveals that 94% of photochromic wearers would select this lens option again and Rodenstock is keen for practices to extend this level of satisfaction to a wider market. The promotion, which runs until the end of September, includes the 1.67 option.

“Bringing relaxed vision in all light conditions, this is the fastest photochromic on the market. The pricing provides the opportunity to upgrade patients to higher index materials. Once patients have experienced higher index lenses they are unlikely to return to a 1.5 lens,” added Debbie.

Thanks to Rodenstock’s photochromic manufacturing process, ColorMatic lenses enjoy an enviously high aging resistance of up to three years.

Brown, grey and green ColorMatic lenses return to a totally clear state while ColorMatic Contrast Orange retains a residual tint for sports use.

100% UV absorbing, they can be promoted to patients for their comfort of vision and protection against the risks of cataracts and photosensitivity. Also suitable for driving, they can be supplied with Solitaire TopCoat®, Rodenstock’s easy to clean anti-reflection coating.

Eye catching posters, show cards, images for in-practice plasma screens and patient mailing leaflets are available from Rodenstock.

The Federation of Manufacturing Opticians was delighted to attend the opening of DX’s new north London facility that handles thousands of optical parcels every day.

DX, the FMO’s preferred service, is the UK & Ireland’s leading independent mail and courier company, and FMO members enjoy preferential rates for using the service. The latest addition to the DX network, near Staples Corner, represents an investment of £750,000 and was officially opened by three of DX’s long standing customers; Malcolm Polley of the FMO, Jeremy Dawe of the US Embassy and Jonathan King from Mailsource UK Ltd.

The 35,000 square feet service centre is the fourth largest in the DX network and handles around 45,000 mail and parcel items per night. It has enabled DX to consolidate the operations of two previous service centres and to reconfigure its operational infrastructure in and around London, improving both service levels and route productivity.

Explained Mike Stone, DX Chief Operating Officer - “We will continue to improve the existing services we offer to our customers and also have the capability to take on additional volume and add new services as customers’ needs change.”

DX has developed a close partnership with the optical sector, providing distribution and courier services for over 20 years, and ensuring that stock and customer orders reach retail outlets in time and in good condition. For example DX delivers up to a quarter of a million items per year for Vision Express; with 99% of deliveries arriving the next working day. DX also serves wholesalers and laboratories such as The Wholesale Lens Company (WLC), distributing lenses, frames and other retail materials to practices nationwide, often providing multiple collections each day.

“DX serves the large retail chains as well as providing the vital link in the supply chain between laboratories and independent retailers. This new centre represents a significant investment by DX in the relationship they have with the optical sector,” said Malcolm Polley, Chief Executive of the FMO.

Malcolm Polley is pictured scanning parcels and with a plaque to commemorate the opening.

PROENZA SCHOULER recipient of the "CFDA Accessory Designer of the Year 2009 Award"

Dx to host FMO autumnal meeting in its North London Facility