Indicators for success

As the nation’s health is increasingly protected by vaccination, it is perhaps tempting for independent practices to think their financial health is also secure. After all, conversion rates and average dispensing values have risen as more patients choose more expensive eyewear.

This is being noticed by optical suppliers. Julian Wiles, UK manager of Younger Optics, which supplies independent laboratories, says: ‘Some are now reporting very strong demand. They all have one thing in common. The lenses being ordered are of much higher value.’

His view of the market is echoed at Norville, now part of the Inspecs Group, which has an account with mostly independent practices. Paul Jones, head of sales and marketing at the company, has seen an increase in demand for higher specification lenses.