Seven ways to boost student numbers

If as an independent practice owner or manager you think of your typical patient, chances are you are thinking of an older presbyope. And why not? Their optical needs are more complex, they buy and spend more, and with an increasing population, they are an ever-growing market. However, almost 10% of the population – and more in cities – are aged between 18 and 24. New research shows millennials spend an average of £738.96 a year on new clothes, shoes and accessories.

Here are a few tips on how to retain that crucial teenage/young adult demographic:

1 Realise the potential

There is a market that is being neglected by traditional optics. Don’t make the same mistake. That child you’ve looked after since their first eye test aged six, seen every six months since and taught how to wear contact lenses has now turned 18, is off to university and is buying online or visiting their local multiple. Identifying these individuals and making efforts to retain their custom can go a long way.