Optical pundits predict difficult year ahead

A difficult 2011 was envisaged by trade associations and practice support groups when asked how UK optics would fare over the course of the year.

The Association of British Dispensing Opticians general secretary Sir Tony Garrett reflected a common opinion among professional bodies when he said: 'Optics will face another tough year and the public sector cuts could hit retail practices.' Yet he added that recovery in the private sector 'may go some way to compensate'.

A joint statement from the Optical Confederation suggested that '2011 could well be a make or break year for UK optics'. It predicted that while consumers 'will still require sight tests, spectacles and contact lenses, they will increasingly look for quality, value and clinical reassurance'.