From bifocals to progressives

A century of manufacturing optics has been brought together by a new book published by the Federation of Manufacturing Opticians (FMO).

The History of the 20th Century Optical Industry covers technical developments and the political scene and how this influenced the business of optics and drove progress.

It has been written by Shelagh Hardy, journalist and former editor of Optician, and Jacques Desallais, retired director of Essilor UK.

Hardy said: 'Highlights include the influence of the NHS, the advance from bifocals to progressives and the mid-80s move from a largely glass lens market to predominantly plastic. It has been interesting to note how history so often repeats itself in terms of the adaption of new technology.'