At this year’s Opticians Awards in April, Vision Optique received the award for Independent Practice of the Year, sponsored by Hoya.
The West London based practice has been open since 2012 and has around 2,000 patients on its books. Optometrist Archana Somani is the owner and describes the practice as ‘a boutique optician that has the flexibility to provide customers with a choice of lenses and frames from a wide range of suppliers to suit every requirement and budget’.
The staff also commission bespoke frames and lenses to ensure the best fit and comfort for customers.
Diagnostic tests that the practice offers include OCT scanning and dry eye assessments, and Somani says it is the only practice in the area to offer Blephex treatment. She also has a special interest in laser eye surgery and the practice offers consultations for patients who are considering having the procedure.
Somani says patients will always see the same optometrist at every appointment to ensure continuity, and the same dispensing optician to complete the prescription. Eye examinations typically last between 30 and 50 minutes and the individualised eye care service the practice offers, an eyewear styling consultation, can last for 45 minutes. This is so patients do not feel rushed when choosing their frames.
The practice carries an extensive collection of more than 600 frames, but only ever has a selection on show for patients to not overwhelm them. Staff travel to eyewear shows in Paris and Milan every year to find unique products. Brands available at the practice for patients to try on and purchase include William Morris, Lindberg, Maui Jim, Savile Row and S.A.L.T.
Somani says patients’ well-being is a top priority for the practice’s optometrists and they like to guide patients through the process of choosing eyewear, using their knowledge to assist them in making the right decision.
The practice is highly praised by its patients. One says: ‘I haven’t received such personal and dedicated attention before in an opticians, which was really useful and refreshing. The range of glasses is also very different from the usual chains. My glasses were also ready the next day. Definitely better to go to an independent optician.’
Another patient says: ‘Thank you so much for providing me with my new frames and for giving me the correct prescription (as my previous optician got it wrong). A very friendly and professional service – I’ll definitely recommend your opticians.’
Vision Optique is active in its community and works hard to maintain a strong profile and reputation with patients. Its eye health awareness initiatives focus on businesses and schools in the area, where the two-person team attend Business Network International meetings, take part in a volunteer service called Eye Heroes in local schools and establish a shared care scheme with a practice based in Wimpole Street, where the practice provides follow up care for post-surgery laser and cataract patients.
The practice also works with its local Virgin Active Health Club by giving talks on the importance of eye health to members and it has participated in GE Capital’s Health Ahead day for the past two years, where staff tested more than 100 employees during the day.
Other award wins for the practice include the Hammersmith and Fulham Brilliant Business Awards and being voted Hammersmith’s top optician each year since 2015 in the Three Best Rated Awards.
