Q&A: Deepak Oberai, Albert Road Opticians

How did you come to acquire Albert Road Opticians?

Deepak Oberai Prior to acquiring Albert Road Opticians I worked as a locum optometrist to get a feel of what my options were. I did the lot – domiciliary eye care, laser vision correction, mobile clinics, worked in high street multiples and independent opticians. What excited me however was the prospect of my own independent practice.

I was locuming at what is now Albert Road when the previous owner invited me to play a round of golf. Despite having never played before, I knew this was the perfect opportunity to bring about the conversation about purchasing the business. During the game I floated the idea and he came up with an unusual reply, ‘Only if you buy me a car as part of the deal.’ I obliged and Albert Road Opticians was born.