In Focus: Bluewater opening signals John Lewis expansion bid

By 2018 John Lewis plans to have established 20 optical practices within its 32-strong UK department store network.

The news will ring alarm bells among those targeting mid-to-premium-level customers demanding the latest brands, and looking for a pleasant shopping experience and thorough eye check.

From its welcoming cafes to nifty click and collect service, John Lewis has outshone many of its high street rivals as a true all-rounder. But delivering eye care in the department store setting presents an entirely new challenge for the company, which has enlisted the help of optical partner Luxottica Group.