Simon Jones: Glasnost direct

While Westminster spirals out of control with warring factions, it’s nice to see optical sector stakeholders on the same page for a change.

The industry’s reaction to the recent Channel 4 Supershoppers episode that included a feature directing viewers to save money on glasses by going online, was swift and decisive. Many lodged complaints with Channel 4 and the programme’s production company, Firecrest Films. The College went one step further – registering its discontent with Ofcom. Given how stoically Channel 4 defended the programme’s content during conversations with Optician, it will be interesting to see how that plays out.

The timing of Which?’s report into buying glasses online (see News) is poetic, and I hope those involved with the production of Supershoppers have read the findings.