Co-operative offers to boost practice profile

Three Scottish optometrists have formed a marketing co-operative offering independent optical practices expertise in marketing and promoting their business.

Founders of Optico Network, Euan McGinty, Donald Goswick and Sean McCauley believe they can give an edge to businesses in a climate where multiples are increasing their market share.

The group has secured a £25,000 contribution to marketing costs from Seiko and said it was in negotiations with Safilo and CIBA Vision. In return for marketing contributions, companies will be given preferred supplier status and practitioners will be encouraged to use their products.

McCauley explained: 'There are a number of buying and advice groups available to opticians but Optico Network is something quite different. We're a marketing co-operative whose sole aim is to promote the benefits of independents to the public by working together to achieve the same goal.