In Focus: GOC surveys optical businesses for first time

A new survey commissioned by the General Optical Council focusing exclusively on business registrants has found high levels of innovation throughout the profession.

Research agency Impact Health carried out the survey between December 7, 2023 and January 31, 2024 and was completed by 214 registered businesses. The majority of businesses were based in England (83%) with 8% in Wales, 7% in Scotland, 4% in Northern Ireland and 1% outside of the UK.

Businesses were predominately based in towns (72%), rural locations (27%) or in a city (25%), and have been providing services for over 10 years (80%), five to 10 years (8%) or two to five years (9%). Staff size was significantly associated with business structure as independents were more likely to have nine or fewer staff (79%) whereas multiples were more likely to have 10 or more (76%).