Comment: Show of support benefits optics

Optician is often honoured with an invitation to the various meetings, gatherings and lunches held by the optical associations. As the year draws to a close these always take on a greater poignancy. There is a tangible sense of belonging at these events demonstrated by those who take a pride in their profession and genuinely care about their work. Most markets like to think they are different but optics is one of the few that actually is. For many it’s not a job but a lifelong vocation, optics is a community.

The Federation of Manufacturing Opticians’ AGM and lunch in London last week was one such occasion. The 200 or so people attending have contributed thousands of years’ service to the optical industry in its role of providing service to the optical profession. Readers of Optician will count many present as friends.