Retail challenge must be met, says Cameron

Donald Cameron, shortly to step down from his role as chairman of the Association of Optometrists, has warned that the AOP needs to be prepared to foresee these changes and prepare for inevitable change. Writing in the AOP's 1999 annual report, Mr Cameron said: 'On the horizon are economic forces which, while we may feel they have little to do with professional optometry, will have a significant impact on our ability to survive in an increasingly competitive environment.' Mr Cameron commented that Wal-Mart, Tesco and other big players would bring a new approach to spectacle sales and the internet would make an increasing impact on contact lens supply. 'The profession can either stand against these forces like a huge dam against a river in spate,' he said, 'or else it can make available channels to guide and control the flood in ways which will minimise damage to the profession and danger to the public.' The major task of the AOP board, Mr Cameron stated, was to recognise the changes ahead, and prepare members to accept, 'and indeed embrace the need for a progressive response to inevitable change'. Mr Cameron will step down as chairman at this month's AGM, which is scheduled to be held at the New Connaught Rooms, London, on May 17. London optometrist Rosie Gavzey will take over.