All eyes on multiples

Promoting the benefits of franchising and joint-venture partnerships was the focus for high-street multiples at Optrafair, with an upsurge in interest from visitors.

Specsavers, Boots Opticians, Vision Express and Dollond & Aitchison promoted the commercial strengths of their brands as well embarking on recruitment drives at all levels.

'With increased competition on the high street there is recognition that you have to operate and compete on a different level,' explained David Cartwright, director of professional services at Boots, which plans to expand its network by between 40-50 outlets in 2007. 'Partnering with a major brand like Boots means you benefit from brand loyalty, marketing spend and training opportunities,' he said.