Making plans for Batemans

Once the news leaked out in the first week of May that the Batemans optical chain, a 100-year old family concern, had filed for bankruptcy, speculation was rife as to who might launch a rescue bid to acquire its 75 stores situated largely in small market towns.

Then just days later came the surprise confirmation that Vision Express (VE) had acquired the family run firm for an undisclosed sum. The acquisition baffled some in the optical sector. VE represented the latest in 21st century trading with top-of-the-range consulting rooms, attracting the younger and more brand-conscious customer. In contrast, it was no secret that the Batemans practices attracted the more mature and conservative customer.