Vision Express has pledged to invest in Batemans to secure its future and the jobs of its staff following its acquisition from the receiver last week.
VE paid an undisclosed sum for the 75-strong practice group, which has branches across Southern England and had been a family concern for over 100 years. The addition of the practices brings VE's tally of stores to 300 and re-affirms its place as the second biggest group in the market.
A statement from the firm said one of the reasons for Batemans' bankruptcy had been the lack of investment. 'We will be looking at an urgent upgrading of the stores. Our immediate focus is injecting cash so employees, suppliers and landlords will be paid.'
The statement made the point that while Batemans' stores were more traditional than VE's its ethos of customer service and eye care fitted in well together.
Commenting on the acquisition, Vision Express chief executive officer Bryan Magrath said: 'This is a major step in the growth of Vision Express. It not only shows our strength and position within the market but also demonstrates our intent to invest in brands with the same vision and values in order to grow our business.