If ever there was a reason why the optical profession and business should gather around a single event of educating, exhibiting and rewarding excellence then last weekend was it.
Over three days in Birmingham Optician presented 18 awards, Optrafair filled the halls of the NEC with exhibitors and visitors while ABDO held its AGM and annual dinner. Delegates caught up with colleagues and networked in the NEC’s cafés under the spring sunshine.
For a few days competition was set aside and a desire to drive the whole of optics forward took over. Awards were presented to optometrists, DOs, CLOs optical assistants, companies and products in front of an audience of multiples, independents and optical bodies from all of the above. A true sector event.
Senior management team members from the three major multiples sat down together with regulators and leaders of the professional associations to discuss the issues of the day and network with peers and employees. The atmosphere on the night was exciting and positive.
Those 7,000 plus attending Optrafair will know what a great looking show it was, and will have enjoyed the breadth of product on display and the depth of education available. For 40 years the FMO has laid on Optrafair for the retail optical business. A show by the optical industry for the optical professions. Profits are ploughed back into the sector.
That mutually beneficial model has been eroded by a plethora of niche events. Optics enjoys an arrangement whereby the industry funds exhibitions and education, but its funds are not limitless and practitioners can only afford so many days away from the practice.
As the reviews of Optrafair take place decision makers, particularly those from outside the sector, should take a long term view. A view to safeguard that covenant of trust optics has long enjoyed for the benefit of the industry, business and the professions.