How did you feel upon taking over as chairman at the FMO luncheon in December?
Andy Yorke I have been involved in the FMO for almost 20 years and I was honoured to take over as chairman in December last year. I am extremely proud to head up an organisation that represents this sector that is now 100 years young and I really hope I can be a part of driving a new vision for the FMO and what it stands for.
What do you hope to achieve during your time as chairman?
AY As well as trying to do everything I can to bring together the wide range of diverse views amongst our members, I want to establish a new set of aims and objectives for the future. The members are the FMO and it is really important that we seek their views on the role of the FMO so we can shape the organisation for the future. We need to add tangible benefits for every member and create opportunities for new members to join the federation, so we positively continue to represent the manufacturing and distribution arm of optics.
What challenges are your members reporting across the frames, lenses and equipment sectors?
AY Brexit is still a source of concern for many of our members as costs increase on many of the inbound products and services we all purchase. Along with these additional price pressures, margins are being squeezed further and we are all working hard to keep control of our costs and overheads, while offering a competitive proposition across the sector to our customers.
Optrafair is upon us – what are you looking forward to most at the show?
AY The atmosphere at Optrafair always gives me a buzz and I can’t wait to get into to the halls to meet up with old colleagues, friends and customers.
What improvements to the show can visitors expect to find?
AY There’s a new feel to the show this year and I very much hope the vibrancy of the of the new hall locations will add to the atmosphere. We have an outstanding education programme and the centenary bar area celebrating 100 years of the FMO will be centre stage of the show.
How has the education schedule been tailored to meet the needs of practitioners?
AY The education programme will offer something for everyone, from latest trends in eyewear fashion and design, to what’s new in technology, contact lenses and business management. And not to be missed will be a brilliant question time ‘Women in Optics’ where a number of very well- known guests will add to what will be a very interesting debate.
Some people have argued there are too many optical conferences – why is Optrafair unique?
AY I completely agree but Optrafair is provided by the industry for the whole optical sector and any profits that FMO make are ploughed back into the industry for the benefit of all. The accessibility of Optrafair is also a major benefit and the NEC is probably one of the easiest locations in the UK to get too and is accessible to almost 70% of the population. Optrafair is a cross sector show and many of the key suppliers to the profession, small and large, will all be under one roof along with many of the professional bodies that represent the profession.
What will Topcon be bringing to Optrafair and what message will the company look to convey?
AY As always Topcon will play its role in making the show a fantastic event for everyone, including our customers and competitors. Competition is healthy and I really hope we create a positive competitive atmosphere that we can all prosper from.
What technology will be most talked about on the show floor?
AY Well I have to say OCT, as the boundaries of this technology are pushing our diagnostic abilities to levels never seen before. That said, we must not forget that lens technology continues to evolve and the frames and contact lens side of the industry continues to develop new and exciting products.
The FMO turns 100 this year, how will this be marked at Optrafair?
AY This is an incredible milestone to reach and the forefathers of the FMO would be extremely proud of what the world of optics have a achieved across this period. The centenary bar at this year’s Optrafair will celebrate these 100 years and hopefully we will be able to provide an insight into some of the key events and individuals who have shaped the last 100 years in optics.