Two leading independents have joined forces to launch a re-branded optical practice in Dorset.
Leightons Opticians and Hearing Care agreed a merger deal with Optician Award-winning Tempanys Boutique Opticians and Contact Lens Specialists in Poole this week.
As part of the deal, Tempanys’ current location will be closed and moved to Leightons Poole, ahead of an ‘extensive refurbishment’ and re-branding as Leightons and Tempany Opticians & Hearing Care.
Following the deal, former Optician Awards Contact Lens Practitioner of the Year Keith Tempany will divide his time between the practice and the Leightons head office in Farnham, Surrey.
His expertise in contact lenses was expected to help expand Leightons’ current contact lens business and he planned to introduce new centres of excellence providing specialist lenses such as orthokeratology.
Tempany said: ‘My aim with the partnership is to grow the contact lens segment within the Leightons group by diversifying what we currently offer and, with our experience in specialist lenses, to inspire the group to look at contact lenses as a life changing opportunity for everyone, regardless of age or prescription.
‘The Practice in Poole will be the go to Opticians in Dorset for people who, not only take their eye care seriously but, also see their eyewear as a serious fashion statement, as the boutique stock is unique to us in this area.’
Leightons now has a portfolio of 34 stores employing 227 people.
Ryan Leighton, CEO of Leightons Opticians and Hearing Care, said: ‘We’re privileged and delighted to welcome Keith into our business, as he brings a great deal of specialist contact lens experience to Leightons. We’ll be working closely with Keith and our team in Poole to position the practice as a centre of excellence combining specialist optical, contact lens and audiology services.’