May falls continue

There is a further fall in results from the figures reported for May. However, reflection-free coats, new contact lens fits and turnover are still showing positive growth compared to last June and on average over the year. Sales per eye examination are at their highest ever, the last high point being December 2004, and are increasing on average at 3 per cent a year. Dispensing rate is down slightly this month, but in general is averaging around 67 per cent.

Total sight tests are down 8 per cent from last month. The trend is still negative. The average for the last 12 months, June 2005 to June 2006, is down 5 per cent from the average for the previous 12-month period. Just looking at the last year, however, a line of best fit through the points shows an increase from last June of 6 per cent, so it is important to know what data you are comparing.