versatile.

comprehensive.

prestigious.

sophisticated.

distinctive.

simple.

smart.

small.

speed.

sensible.

My way.My .

3132

22-0

01 U

K.B

E18

© H

eide

lber

g En

gine

erin

g Gm

bH

www.LoveYourOCT.com

Call 01442 502330 today to choose the SPECTRALIS that is right for you, your practice and your patients.

Register early toexperience the power of

and Meet the Experts to discuss all your imaging

requirements.

OptrafairStand B20

d M h E

VV

V

APRIL 2018

Vision Now magazine

E Y E W E A R

Discover the world of ELLE on elleboutique.com

is a

trade

mar

k ow

ned

by H

AC

HET

TE F

ILIP

ACC

HI P

RESS

E SA

, Par

is, F

ranc

e.EL

134

42

BR

Vision Now APRIL 2018 3

VV

VInside

28

13

15Vision Now magazine is published by Peekay Publishing Ltd for The PK NationalEyecare Group Ltd, the UK’s largestpurchasing group for independent opticians.

VISION NOW is published by Peekay Publishing Ltd for The PK National Eyecare Group Limited, Clermont House, Cranbrook, Kent TN17 3DNVISION NOW is printed by P&P Litho Ltd, Ashford, Middlesex TW15 1AB

Editor’s commentCommunication goes a long way but it must always be two-wayand targeted, as Phil Mullins explains in this month’s DevelopingThoughts (page 17). Using the latest technology in both theconsulting room and dispensing area should make your patients’experiences worth sharing as far and as wide as possible in thissocial media age of ours. And if the experience is not so good,

give them the means to tell you why directly, and not via the internet.

Talking of the internet (of things), if you’re heading to Optrafair this monththere’ll be some exciting technology to ‘grab’ you in the new Independents’Lounge, of which NEG is a proud sponsor along with SPECS network, VSP andLloyds Bank. Turn to page 27 to read up about the eGRAB radio frequencyidentification system, which is being used by optical practices to count theirinventory, provide in-store marketing and manage their supply chains. Then seethe system in action in the Lounge.

Fresh from her latest European trade show, Joan Grady reports on Mido 2018where our intrepid eye style hunter discovered an abundance of imaginative andindividualistic eyewear designs. Also in this issue, read about the British ContactLens Association’s 2018 BCLA UK event which, for the first time, will be heldacross two cities – with a special session for optical assistants enabling them tobetter support your contact lens practice.

Optrafair celebrates its 40th anniversary this month and I for one am lookingforward to catching up with members and industry friends and colleagues. I’msure there’ll be lots to see, hear and discuss – not least where the future ofoptics may take us in these uncertain times.

Nicky Collinson Editor

The Editor welcomes letters, articles and other contributions for publication in the magazine and reserves theright to amend them. Any such contribution, whether it bears the author’s name, initials or pseudonym, is acceptedon the understanding that its author is responsible for the opinions expressed in it and that its publication doesnot imply that such opinions are those of The PK National Eyecare Group Ltd. Articles submitted for publicationshould be original, unpublished work and are accepted on the basis that they will not be published in any otherjournal. Acceptance of materialfor publication is not a guarantee that it will be included in any particular issue.Copyright © 2018 for Peekay Publishing Ltd. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced ortransmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying and recording, without the written permissionof the publishers. Such written permission should also be obtained before any part of this publication is stored ina retrieval system of any nature.

News 4 CooperVision expands monthly toric line 7 Presbyopia days planned by Alcon 9 Ortho-k world-first from Menicon 11 Noville releases new auto lensmeter 13 VAO calls for urgent action in developing world 15 Ground-breaking AMD study at Moorfields

15 An independent view Eye Promise to launch

17 Developing thoughts Life’s all about the experience

25 BCLA events Tale of two cities

27 Retail optics Getting smart with retail

28 Style Spotlight Mido magic: eyewear odyssey

30 Suppliers’ directory

Editor Nicky Collinson BA (Hons)ncollinson@nationaleyecare.co.uk

Editorial PA Sharon Hickss.hicks@nationaleyecare.co.uk

Fashion Editor Joan Gradyjgparischats@wanadoo.fr

Business Editor Phillip Mullins FBDOp.mullins@nationaleyecare.co.uk

Design andProduction Rosslyn Argent BA (Hons)

Publisher Michael C Wheeler FCOptom DipCLP FSMC FAAO

@PK_NEG

The significance of macular nutrition for good eye healthwill be brought into sharp focus at Optrafair with a CETlecture from Professor John Nolan who leads internationalresearch in this field. Sponsored by Heidelberg Engineering,the insight into current understanding of macular pigmentsignificance takes place on Sunday 15 April. Following severalyears of research, Professor Nolan will share his findings ofhow the macular pigment influences ocular health andcognitive function. Guidance on how to interpret clinical trialdata and the impact on visual and cognitive performance willbe covered, as well as how assessing macular nutrition couldmotivate patients to consider positive lifestyle changes.

Christopher Mody, Heidelberg Engineering director of clinical affairs, said: “There is a lot ofclinical noise about macular nutrition, but we are bringing to Optrafair a world class authorityon the subject who will provide much needed clarity. Professor Nolan will summarise thenovel protocol for using dual wavelength auto-fluorescence for assessing macular nutrition.Using data from the European Research Council funded CREST clinical trials he will makerecommendations on using this knowledge to take a more holistic approach to patient care.”

CooperVision has expanded its AvairaVitality monthly product portfolio with theaddition of a new toric lens. Featuring anadvanced design, CooperVision’s uniqueOptimised Toric Lens Geometry used inAvaira Vitality toric is the same provendesign as found in Biofinity and MyDaytorics and helps to provide predictable,consistent visual acuity, said the company.The naturally wettable silicone hydrogelmaterial of Avaira Vitality toric, combinedwith a high water content, provides “long-lasting comfort” whilst the Class 1 UV filterblocks more than 90 per cent of UVA and 99per cent of UVB rays.

Mark Draper, head of marketing andprofessional services at CooperVision,commented: “We’ve received such positive

feedback from practitioners since welaunched Avaira Vitality sphere. We’reexcited to add a toric version to the family,allowing more patients to experience thelens’ comfort, health and vision benefits. Itsperformance speaks for itself, meeting theneeds of today’s patients and practitionersby delivering a remarkable level ofconsistency – particularly important forastigmatic patients.”

4 Vision Now APRIL 2018

NEWS Rodenstock1

Best of both worlds with new material and coating

Heidelberg Engineering4

Professor John Nolan

Newly-available from Rodenstock is thehigh-tech material PRO410 and thepremium coating Solitaire Protect PRO 2.PRO410 is said to protect against potentiallyharmful, high-energy blue light whilstproviding 100 per cent UV protection. Incombination with the premium coatingSolitaire Protect PRO 2, the new material is,according to Rodenstock, the optimumsolution for extensive light protection andsupreme aesthetics.

“Above and beyond the functionalproperties of Solitaire Protect Plus 2, thenew finish provides a 60 per cent improvedanti-reflection coating compared to currentpremium coatings,” stated Rodenstock. “Thisresults in a higher transmission value,which benefits spectacle wearers with littleambient light (e.g. at dusk or in the night).In addition, with Solitaire Protect PRO 2, theeyes are visible through the lenses withoutany colour changes thanks to the naturalbronze colour of the coating. The result isclear vision and exceptional aesthetics anda natural appearance.”

Advanced design for new toric

CooperVision2

Prescription sunglass wearers looking for aconvenient way to make the most of thesunshine this spring and summer need lookno further than new MagnaShades fromNorville. With a choice of designs andcolours, the lightweight magnetic polarisedovershade snaps on to the front of theframe via concealed magnets offering analternative to carrying additional spectacles.The lightweight, TR90 polycarbonate framesare available in three colours and fivedesigns, suitable for plus prescriptions up to+4.00 with no restrictions for minus

prescriptions. The MagnaShades kit includesa glazeable frame, polarising clip plus zipcase to carry the frame and clip.

New MagnaShades

Norville3

TX5/Titanium

STEPPER (UK) Limited11 Tannery RoadTonbridgeKentTN9 1RF01732 375975www.stepper.co.uk Frame style shown: SI-30116

Contact lenses that feel like nothing2

1. Maissa C, et al. Evaluation of the Lubricity of DAILIES TOTAL1® contact lenses after wear. Opt Vis Sci Annual meeting 2014. 2. Pérez-Gómez I, Giles T. European survey of contact lens wearers and eye care professionals on satisfaction with a new water gradient daily disposable contact lens. Clinical Optometry. 2014;6:17-23. Opt Vis Sci Annual meeting 2014. 12612 © 2018 Novartis. DAILIES TOTAL1, DAILIES TOTAL1 logo, Alcon and the Alcon logo are trademarks of Novartis AG. GB/VC/DAI/12/17/0152

16HOURS OFAmazing

COMFORTABLE EYES FROM

1

ALSO FOR PRESBYOPES

A 5-DAY TRIAL

7Vision Now APRIL 2018

NEWS

Alcon5

Alcon has announced new dates for itspresbyopia education days at the AlconAcademy for Eyecare Excellence in Surreyand venues across the country. Designedprincipally for optometrists and contact lensopticians, completion of the course will earnattendees eight CET points, with dispensingopticians also open to attend and earn fiveCET points. Working with the UK and IrishSchools of Optometry to gain access to theirfacilities, the newly announced dates willtake place at venues in Dublin, Plymouth,Manchester and Ulster with more to berevealed later in the year.

Jonathon Bench, Alcon head of professionalaffairs, said: “At Alcon, not only is it ourmission to help people see better byproviding innovative products, we alsoensure that we support and educate eyecare practitioners and their support teamsacross the country. That’s why we’veannounced new training days at the AlconAcademy and in key cities, providingopticians with more opportunities to attendand learn how to handle presbyopia in theirpatients.” To find out dates and to book aplace, practitioners are advised to contacttheir Alcon business development manager.

Dunelm6

Dunelm’s 2018/19 glossy eyewear collectioncatalogue features more than 140 new UKdesigned optical and prescription sun frames.Premium designer brands Lyle & Scott andPaul Costelloe have added a number of newframes to their range, whilst Dunelm’shouse brands also hit the fashion spot withpops of colour, cool designs and edgy stylesincluding understated elegance from itsJulian Beaumont collection and vintagevibes from the popular Retro range.

Peter Beaumont, CEO, said: “Our 2018/19eyewear collection is outstanding and weare incredibly proud of the quality, designand the extensive selection we have to offerour customers. This year’s collection sets aprecedent for high quality products, attentionto detail and continues to complementtoday’s fashion and culture whilst coveringall price points. There really is somethingfor everyone.” All frames from the newcollection will be on show at Optrafair.

Premium brand, Lyle & Scott

Synergeyes7

Following a successful pre-launch pilot in theUS last year, SynergEyes UK has expanded itsDuette Progressive hybrid line of contactlenses with a customisable centre distancelens for emerging to advanced presbyopia.The lens features the company’s proprietaryCentre Distance FlexOptics technology, withan adjustable centre distance zone sizeranging from 1.8 to 4.0mm, driven byphotopic pupil size, with add powers from+0.75 to +5.00D.

The new hybrid design is said to eliminaterotation issues experienced with soft toriclenses, while providing stable centration forexcellent visual acuity. The Tangible Hydra-PEG coating provides increased lubricity,with the majority of Duette wearersreporting increased comfort compared totheir previous contact lenses. Additionally,the SoftCushion Comfort Technologyenhances tear exchange and lensmovement. SynergEyes’ president and chief executive, optometrist James K.Kirchner, said: “This exciting lens enablespractitioners to have the completepresbyopic package for the entire range ofpresbyopic needs.”

New hybrid lens design

Shamir UK8

Making the most of multifocals

Thanks to support from staff, industrycolleagues and others, Shamir UK hasexceeded its target and raised thousands of pounds for Breast Cancer Care. PhilBareham, general manager of Shamir UK,said: “We’re delighted to have raised£4,619.13 for such a great charity. Wereceived immense support from theindustry as well as the team here at

Cambridge, holding our own sweepstakeand bake sale. We hope that our moneyallows the charity to continually providecare, support and information to the 62,000people diagnosed with the most commoncancer in the UK every year.”

Pictured from left are Sue Chambers, ShamirUK customer services manager, Louise,manager of Peterborough’s Breast CancerCare shop, and Jo Smith, Shamir UK salesand marketing coordinator.

FRA

FRA

FRA

FRA

RAA

FRA

FRA

RA

FRA

FRA

FRA

FRA

FRA

FRA

FRA

RRFFFM

E:

ME

:M

E:

ME

:M

E:

ME

:M

E:

ME

:M

EM

EM

EMMMM

Ma

Ma

Ma

Ma

Ma

Maa

Ma

Ma

Ma

Ma

Ma

Ma

Ma

Ma

Ma

MMMi-Zi-Zi-Zi-Zi-Z-Zi-Zi-ZZ-Zi-ZZ-Z--

ee

ee

ee

ee

ee

ee

ee

eeeeeeeeeeeM

Z0M

Z0M

Z0M

Z0Z0Z0M

Z0M

Z0M

Z0Z0M

ZMMM

36

36

3636

36

366

36 6c1

c1

c1

c1

c1

c1

c1

c1c

/ R/ R/ R/ R/ R/ R/ R/ R/ RR/RR/ea

cea

cea

cea

cea

cea

cea

cea

cea

caceacaceaa

tol

tol

tololtololtol

tol

tototototoiteteiteiteiteteteiteteiteiteeiteeee

Br

Br

Br

Br

Brr

Br

Brr

B ow

now

now

now

now

now

now

now

now

now

now

noooo

For more information

Email: sales@norville.co.uk • Tel: 01452 510321View online: www.norville.co.uk70 YEARS’ OPTICAL LENS MANUFACTURE

See us at

OPTRAFAIR

14–16 APRIL 2018

on Stands

A25 & A30

See us at

OPTRAFAIR

14–16 APRIL 2018

on Stands

A25 & A30

RReactolite A4 Feb18.indd 1Reactolite A4 Feb18.indd 1Reactolite A4 Feb18.indd 1Reactolite A4 Feb18.indd 1Reactolite A4 Feb18.indd 1Reactolite A4 Feb18.indd 1Reactolite A4 Feb18.indd 1Reactolite A4 Feb18.indd 1Reactolite A4 Feb18.indd 1Reactolite A4 Feb18.indd 1Reactolite A4 Feb18.indd 1Reactolite A4 Feb18.indd 1Reactolite A4 Feb18.indd 1Reactolite A4 Feb18.indd 1Reactolite A4 Feb18.indd 1Reactolite A4 Feb18.indd 1Reactolite A4 Feb18.indd 1Reactolite A4 Feb18.indd 1Reactolite A4 Feb18.indd 1Reactolite A4 Feb18.indd 1Reactolite A4 Feb18.indd 1Reactolite A4 Feb18.indd 1Reactolite A4 Feb18.indd 1Reactolite A4 Feb18.indd 1Reactolite A4 Feb18.indd 1Reactolite A4 Feb18.indd 1Reactolite A4 Feb18.indd 1 007/02/2018 13:5107/02/2018 13:5107/02/2018 13:5107/02/2018 13:5107/02/2018 13:5107/02/2018 13:5107/02/2018 13:5107/02/2018 13:5107/02/2018 13:5107/02/2018 13:5107/02/2018 13:5107/02/2018 13:5107/02/2018 13:5107/02/2018 13:5107/02/2018 13:5107/02/2018 13:5107/02/2018 13:51

9Vision Now APRIL 2018

NEWS

Menicon has launched the world’s firstorthokeratology lens in a material with ahyper Dk of 189 and US Food and DrugAdministration clearance for 30 days’continuous wear. Menicon Z Night featuresfenestrations to assist with lens removal andprevent lens binding, promoting “completecontrol” over lens centration with tangent

curve lens geometry. It is fitted using thecompany’s Easyfit software, which optimiseslens fit based on corneal topography whilstallowing for any interpolation of data andensuring central corneal clearance.

“The lenses are worn overnight to effectivelyflatten and sphericise the cornea resulting in

excellent vision in the daytime without theneed for glasses or contact lenses duringthe day,” stated the company. “Research hashighlighted the success of using ortho-klenses in myopia management with childrenand the unique selling points of Menicon ZNight make this lens the ideal first choice inorthokeratology treatment options.”

embossed patterning on the temples and ahidden flexible bridge giving wearersPerfect Fusion Technology (PFT).

International Eyewear is pleased tointroduce seven “smarter, tougher andlighter” models to the TitanFlex collection.Technology eyewear from German eyewearengineers, the new launches are said toincorporate high tech design with first-classcomfort. Key designs, 820763 and 820764,form part of the ultra-thin Urban rangecomposed of a delicate and lightweightconstruction to enhance the technicalcapabilities of the TitanFlex brand. Dynamicdesigns 820762, 820761 and 820759 utilisethe bespoke TitanFlex hinge design,combined with modern, masculine coloursfor technical frames with a sporty aesthetic.Finally, models 820774 and 820772, feature

Essilor/Transitions9

Menicon12

International Eyewear10

Style Colours coming to varifocals

On 28 May, Essilor will launch Transitions Signature Style Colours collection in its Varilux Eand X series. Transitions’ colourful collection is comprised of four style-driven lens colours –Amethyst, Sapphire, Emerald and Amber. Like all Transitions lenses, the collectionseamlessly adapts from clear to dark when exposed to UV light. As well as offering aunique way for patients to express themselves, the product is designed to bring Transitionslenses to a younger consumer. Colours can be selected to either match or complement thechosen frame in line with each patient’s individual style.

Get high-tech with TitanFlex

Positive Impact11

HydraMed eye drops, now available fromPositive Impact, use a natural formulationto rapidly relieve the sensations of drygritty eyes. Its advanced formulation utilisesthe interaction between its two functionalingredients, sodium hyaluronate (hyaluronicacid), which restores and retains hydrationand tamarind seed polysaccharide (TSP),which helps repair the surface of the eyes.Their dual action results in a new natural bi-polymer unique to HydraMed, displayingincreased water absorption compared to thesingle polymers. HydraMed increases ocularcomfort for the patient by reducingosmolarity, remaining longer on the cornealsurface and increasing tear break-up times.

The effectiveness of the new eye drops wassupported by the results of a multi-centre,practice-based study of contact lenswearers in the UK, who used HydraMed onthe inside of their contact lenses duringapplication. The study was coordinated byNick Atkins, Positive Impact’s director ofmarketing and professional services, whosaid: “I’ve been aware of the clinicalperformance of this exceptional dry eyedrop for some time and have coordinatedUK studies into its clinical performance withgreat results. HydraMed is already sellingwell in ophthalmology and so I’m verypleased that Positive Impact can now makeit available to high street optometry.”

Soothing dry, gritty eyes

The high performing lens at an affordable price.*

Avaira Vitality™ toric contact lensesNEW

New Avaira Vitality™ toric contact lenses offer everything your patients need at an

affordable price*. Naturally wettable silicone hydrogel lenses for excellent performance,

long-lasting comfort, great vision and our unique Optimised Toric Lens Geometry.™

Plus, Avaira Vitality™ toric is enhanced with higher water content and Class 1 UV protection.1

Visit www.coopervision.co.uk

*Based on CooperVision's Recommended Retail Price. Retail price is solely at the discretion of the retailer at all times and we do not seek to influence the price of any retailer charges.

1. Warning: UV-absorbing contact lenses are not substitutes for protective UV-absorbing eyewear, such as UV-absorbing goggles or sunglasses, because they do not completely

cover the eye and surrounding area. Patients should continue to use UV-absorbing eyewear as directed.

55% WATER CONTENT + CLASS

1 UV FILTER

EXTENDED SPHERICAL

PARAMETER RANGE -10.00 TO +8.OO

11Vision Now APRIL 2018

NEWS

Dispensing optician Ed Fox has joined ABDOin the newly-created post of membershipofficer. Ed qualified through City and IslingtonCollege in 2015, and has been working inpractice since 2007. Speaking about his newrole, established to support ABDO’s head ofmembership services, Katie Docker, Ed said:“I’m excited to be working with ABDO tocontinue supporting the development of theprofession.” Katie added: “It’s fabulous tohave such wonderful support from a highly-qualified individual who has a great attentionto detail and the ability to think on his feet.”

The Association has also appointed AntoniaChitty as its head of communications. Antoniahas been working with the Association in afreelance capacity since 2009 and now istaking on responsibilities previously held bythe late Michael Potter. ABDO CEO and generalsecretary, Tony Garrett, said: “I am delightedthat Antonia has accepted the position ashead of communications at ABDO. As both aqualified optometrist and an experiencedjournalist, she brings a unique skill set tothe Association which will further improveour communication with members, theoptical sector and the public.”

Marchon13 Association of British Dispensing Opticians15

Iconic Carlina with a twist

Continuing the success of one of the brand’s most coveted styles, the iconic Chloé eyewearCarlina sunglass has been reinterpreted for 2018. The newly designed frame is encircledwith an unconventional twist motif on intertwining metal filaments, creating a 3D effectaround the ‘floating’ lenses. The slender temples feature a droplet-shaped cut-out – thebrand’s new signature detail, which serves as an embellishment as well as a functionalelement to attach the jewellry-inspired chain accessory. The lightweight, metallic sunglassfeatures coloured lenses including a rainbow option and a flash effect. Carlina comes inGold with Peach lenses, Gold with Rainbow lenses, and Gold with Flash Brown lenses.Chloé eyewear is produced under license by Marchon Eyewear.

Ed Fox

The new generation VX36 automaticlensmeter (pictured) from Norville has beendesigned to allow eyecare practitioners toperform lens measurements simply andeasily due to its intuitive user interface. TheVX36 features both a measuring and opticalcentre marketing functions, and displaysthe PD and PH measurements. It canmeasure both uncut single lenses andglazed spectacles, as well as contact lenses. Furthermore, it provides automaticdetection of multifocal lenses. A wide tilting angle colour LCD display, a simpleand intuitive GUI and a printer, complete the package.

Norville14

Research commissioned by Alcon has shownthat only eight per cent of spectacle wearersin Europe use contact lenses – and that 35per cent of under 24-year-olds would like totry lenses in the future. The company issubsequently investing in the 16 to 24-year-old new contact lens wearer category in2018, describing the sector as a “massivegrowth opportunity” for opticians. Thecompany has launched its initial ‘My first

lenses’ consumer campaign in Germany,focusing on Dailies AquaComfort Plus, witha campaign for the UK to follow.

The company is also continuing to invest inthe multifocal contact lens category in 2018,with an additional £750,000 going to a varietyof direct-to-consumer promotional activities.An advertising campaign, which ran untilthe end of March, was designed to educate

40 to 55-year-old patients about presbyopiaand multifocal contact lenses. Ray Pasko,Alcon Business Unit head of vision care,said: “Through our range of advertisementsand promotional activity, carefully chosenfollowing our market insight, opticians can beassured that Alcon is committed to driving themultifocal category forward in 2018, providingthem with further opportunities to maximisetheir revenue streams in the process.”

Alcon16

Call: 0121 772 3888 Web: www.bondeyeoptical.co.uk

Call Bondeye to become a stockist

Hot Pink Electric Blue Jet Black Grape Jelly Red Hot

Ages 0-3

Classic Range with Polarized Grey Lenses. RRP: £14.95 each

Ages 3-7+ Powder Pink Baby Blue Black Satin Little Lilac

68 x 45cmOptician POS Display

13Vision Now APRIL 2018

NEWS

College of Optometrists17

The College of Optometrists welcomed morethan 780 attendees to Birmingham lastmonth for its annual conference and AGM.Held at the Hilton Metropole Hotel,Optometry Tomorrow 2018 saw delegatesattend cutting-edge lectures, seminars,peer discussion and hands-on clinical anddiscussion workshops. The programme, inwhich delegates could obtain up to 16interactive CET points, saw optometristsdiscussing hot topics such as the reality ofliving with severe AMD, dry eye and theTFOS DEWS II report, VMT macular holes andmyopia control. It also gave delegates theopportunity to hear Dr Andrew Bastawrousspeak about providing wider access to eyecare.

Dr Bastawrous, Peek Vision CEO, assistantprofessor of International Eye Health at theLondon School of Hygiene and TropicalMedicine and TED fellow, said: “Theoptometry sector is critical in bringingbetter vision and health to everyoneworldwide, and I’m delighted to have hadthe opportunity to speak at the UK’s leadingclinical optometry event.” Following thelecture, delegate Kathryn Gabbatiss said:“This was a truly inspirational lecture froman amazing doctor. It’s the first time I’vebeen so moved that I cried.”

Dr Andrew Bastawrous

Vision Aid Overseas18

Vision Aid Overseas (VAO), a range of international development charities, MPs, the privatesector, donors and high commissioners gathered at the House of Commons last month to callfor an urgent increase in resources to improve access to affordable eyecare in developingcountries. This includes eye exams and appropriate treatment such as spectacles and isparticularly focused on poorer communities and children.

Speakers Professor Rupert Bourne of the International Agency for the Prevention ofBlindness’ Vision Loss Expert Group, Nicola Chevis, VAO CEO, Chipo Mweemba, a VAO-trainedZambian optometrist, and Professor Kovin Naidoo from the Our Children’s Vision Campaign,called on everyone at the event to commit to: support universal eye health coverage(UEHC) by 2020; allocate resources to achieve UEHC; and form innovative partnerships toenable UEHC. Read about the event and the campaign at www.visionaidoverseas.org

VAO CEO, Nicola Chevis, (second from left) and Chipo Mweemba (far right) with guests

Stripes or dots, edgy or soft? The new Espritsunwear collection offers a range of stylesfor women, men and kids including differentprofiles from modern takes of round vintageshapes to contemporary angular shapes.Patterns are another favourite of the season,with stripes and dots making a chic statementin several attractive styles. The combination ofmaterials comprises of acetate, very thin

metal and lightweight engineering plastics. Model ET17950 for men (pictured) is a vintage-inspired round acetate ideal for both casual and business occasions. It comes in black, green,Havana and a version with a light brown front, green temples and green polarised lenses.

Charmant19

Retro Esprit shape for men

Johnson & Johnson Vision ( JJV) has launcheda new consumer campaign highlighting theeveryday struggles of presbyopes, such aslong-arming to read food menus or texts. Asurvey conducted in the UK on behalf of JJVin February 2018, with 2,000 respondentsaged 45+, found that 76 per cent haddifficulty reading small print and nearly halfhad problems seeing in low or dim light.The campaign, which runs across digital,

print and search platforms, represents asubstantial marketing investment for JJVand builds on the success of last year’spartnership with TV and radio star, Sara Cox,who continues to act as a brand ambassador.

The aim is to motivate people to speak totheir practitioner about trialing 1-DayAcuvue Moist Multifocal contact lenses. JJVUK marketing director, Ross Campbell, said:“Our new campaign centres on theobservation that people experiencingpresbyopia often resort to ‘long-arming’ in

an attempt to bring things into focus, suchas restaurant menus, or their smartphones.These new ads depict this in a humourous butsympathetic way and show that people nolonger need to suffer ‘long-arm syndrome’.”

Johnson & Johnson Vision20

Oceans of knowledge in every drop

Biotrue® Multi-Purpose Solution is brought to you by Bausch + Lomb, one of the largest global providers of eye care products.

· Innovative dual disinfection system for exceptional kill rate1

· Protein management system maintains natural tear protein function2

· Provides all-day comfort for your patients3

· Biotrue® Multi-Purpose Solution has a pH of 7.5, which matches

the pH range of healthy tears4

9 out of 10 consumers agree that Biotrue® Multi-Purpose solution is gentle on the eyes

and naturally cleans and disinfects3

1. Results of in vitro study following FDA/ISO standalone procedure for disinfecting products modified with organic soil added to create a more rigorous test condition. Primary criteria for effective disinfection are defined as a reduction in the number of bacteria by a minimum of 3 logs (99.9%) and a reduction of mould and yeast by a minimum of 1 log (90%) within the recommended disinfection time. Competitive Multi-Purpose Solutions tested included OPTI-FREE® ReplenISH®, OPTI-FREE®, Express®, COMPLETE® EASY RUB® and AOSept.

2. Wright EA, Payne KAP, Jowitt TA et al. Preservation of Human Tear Protein Structure and Function by a Novel Contact Lens Multipurpose Solution Containing Protein-Stabilizing Agents. Eye Contact Lens 2012; 38(1): 36-42.

3. Millward Brown. Biotrue Product Test. 2010. A survey of 400 consumers and 20 Eye Care Professionals. Consumers were shown the Biotrue™ concept and asked to complete a short self-completion paper questionnaire. They were then given Biotrue™ to use for 7 days before completing an online survey to evaluate its performance. The product was dispensed in the intended market packaging. In addition, Eye Care Practitioners were also asked to complete a survey based on their impressions following the consumer’s exit appointment.

4. A study was conducted to determine the comparative pH of different soft contact lens care disinfecting products in comparison to the pH range reported for healthy human tears. The pH range of tears from healthy human eyes is reported to be 7.3 to 7.7 and the mean pH of tears as measured via fluorophotometrics is 7.5 +/- 0.23. The pH of soft contact lens care products was determined to be in the range of 6.7 to 7.8, while Biotrue Multi-Purpose Solution falls within the pH range for healthy human tears at a pH of 7.5, which is reported to be the mean for tears. Three separate lots of Biotrue, CIBA Clear Care, AMO COMPLETE Easy Rub, Alcon OPTI-FREE Express and Alcon OPTI- FREE RepleniSH were compared using a Fisher Scientific accumet excel XL25 pH meter. Five pH measurements for each solution were taken, averaged and evaluated in comparison to the pH range of healthy tears, as determined by Adler’s Physiology of the Eye, Clinical Application 7th edition.

15Vision Now APRIL 2018

NEWS

AN INDEPENDENT VIEW

Eye Promise to launch

The issue of how to help the general publicidentify where to go for high quality, long-termeye health care has been prominent on the AIO’sagenda for some years now. The first attemptto address this issue through the introductionof the Independents’ Code (IC) was taking toolong to gain adoption by practices.

Therefore, the AIO decided to take stock, reviewthe IC and consider how best to move forward.This review found that the code needed to besimplified, made less bureaucratic and morepatient focused, with better branding. The resultis the new Eye Promise quality mark, which willbe launched at Optrafair.

Eye Promise entails signing up to five key‘promises’ in respect of patient care and they arepromises which good independent practices willroutinely provide their patients with every day.Practices that sign up will be supported withpromotional and marketing materials and mediapacks to help launch Eye Promise in their localcommunities. The intention is that Eye Promisebecomes the mark of quality for great eyehealth care across the UK.

The ultimate objective is to try and help educatethe public that not all optical practices are thesame and that long-term eye health care isextremely important. To find out more, comeand visit the AIO stand at Optrafair, which islocated right beside the Independents’ Lounge.

We look forward to seeing you there.

CooperVision has expanded its MyDay toric parameters with plus spherepowers. MyDay toric now comes in a range from +6.00DS to -10.00DS, in 10

axes, across three cylinder powers, and sixaxes in the highest cylinder power. MyDaytoric lenses feature the same OptimisedToric Lens Geometry found in Biofinity toric,providing uniform horizontal ISO thickness,

an optimised ballast band design, large toric optic zone and a smooth,continuous surface to make it an easy-to-fit, stable toric lens.

Senior marketing manager at CooperVision, Lara Drury, commented:“Following a successful launch last year, we are delighted to be able toprovide the only daily disposable toric contact lens that goes up to a +6.00DS,allowing more astigmatic patients to benefit from the high performance ofMyDay toric. Offering outstanding comfort, health and vision withoutcompromise, we are committed to providing eyecare professionals with theparameters they need to fit even more of their astigmatic patient base.”

CooperVision21

Later this month, the General OpticalCouncil (GOC) will launch a full publicconsultation on its draft Standards forOptical Businesses. The new standards havebeen developed as part of the GOC’songoing standards strategic review, which

saw the introduction of the Standards ofPractice and Standards for Optical Studentsin April 2016. The new business standardswill replace the existing Code of Conduct forbusiness registrants and are intended toprovide clarity on what the GOC expects

from optical businesses. They willcomplement and be consistent with theGOC’s other standards. The consultation willseek input from a wide range of stakeholders,including patients, employers and thoseworking within optical businesses.

The first patients to receive anew treatment derived fromstem cells for people withwet age-related maculardegeneration (AMD) haveregained reading vision. Theresults of this ground-breaking clinical study,published in Nature Biotech,described the implantation ofa specially engineered patchof retinal pigment epithelium

cells derived from stem cells to treat people with sudden severe sight lossfrom wet AMD. It is hoped that it will also help treat dry AMD in the future.

It’s the first description of a complete engineered tissue that has beensuccessfully used in this way. The study is a major milestone for the LondonProject to Cure Blindness, a partnership between Professor Pete Coffey fromUniversity College London and Professor Lyndon da Cruz, a retinal surgeonat Moorfields. The two patients, a woman in her early 60s and a man in his80s with wet AMD and declining vision, went from not being able to readat all even with glasses, to reading 60-80 words per minute with normalreading glasses after 12 months.

Professor Coffey said: “This study represents real progress in regenerativemedicine and opens the door to new treatment options for people withage-related macular degeneration. We hope this will lead to an affordable‘off-the-shelf’ therapy that could be made available to NHS patients withinthe next five years.” Read the full story at www.moorfields.nhs.uk

Moorfields Eye Hospital22

General Optical Council23

Prof Lydon da Cruz (second from left) with studypatient, Douglas Waters and his wife Freda, andOdysseas Georgiadis from Moorfields

FOR HEALTH

FOR CONVENIENCE

FOR VISION

FOR COMFORTWhen your astigmatic patients demand high

performance, recommend MyDay® toric –

powered by Smart Silicone™ chemistry

and Optimised Toric Lens Geometry™.

PERFORMANCEEXTENDING

* Based on manufacturer’s published values, ACLM Yearbook 2017.

MyDay® is a registered trademark of The Cooper Companies Inc. and its subsidiaries. © CooperVision 2018.

MyDay® toric daily disposable is now available in an even wider sphere power range, from

-10.00 all the way up to +6.00DS across four cylinder powers in up to ten axes.

THE ONLY DAILY DISPOSABLE TORIC LENS THAT GOES UP TO +6.00DS*

-10 +4+2-2-4-6-8 0 +6

17Vision Now APRIL 2018

PRACTICE MATTERS

It’s quite customary nowadays for people togo on Facebook or TripAdvisor to sharewhat they’ve been up to and whether itwas good, bad or ugly. Undoubtedly, it’sparticularly enticing for customers to spreadthe word about the bad and the ugly. Forinstance, I recently read a post fromsomeone who had had a problem with apetrol pump, when the price came outhigher than the actual fuel dispensed. Thestation server insisted that they pay the fullamount and then take it up with themanager, who wasn’t there at the time. Thestation was named and shamed tohundreds of people as the story was sharedand commented on, and shared and sharedand commented on again.

The predicament with our predominantlyinternet-centric culture is that people arenow very quick to write bad comments andshare experiences of poor service. But itseems almost impossible for companies toreceive a good review unless they ask forone, offer an incentive, or provide anexperience so exceptional that it just has to be shared. To make it even morecomplicated, different sectors elicitdifferent expectations.

For instance, if someone gets past thecheesy TV advert for the £6 internet specs,provided the glasses actually turn up andthey can see through them, they’re happy.Offer a comprehensive eye exam with ahigh quality dispense then every tinyaspect offers an opportunity for complaint.So how do we go about ensuring thatpatients are happy, and that some of themare so happy that they recommend you toothers, even to the extent of posting onsocial media?

TARGETED COMMSFirstly, communication. In all aspects ofwhat you do, you need to communicate

with your patients: ask questions, explainwhat you are doing, give feedback andmake sure that your recommendations fitwith their needs. Patient questionnaireswork well with this, as you can refer tothem when making recommendations anddispensing products. Communication is notjust restricted to the inside of the practice;anything you send your patients in recallsor marketing must follow the sameprinciples, with everything complementingeach other.

Secondly, use technology to enhance yourpatients’ experiences and I don’t just meana fancy consulting room set-up, althoughthat certainly helps. A key aspect is yourmanagement software. A good practicemanagement system will enable you tosend text messages which, if you includeyour phone number, makes contacting you a matter of just a single click. Use thesearch function to make sure yourmarketing messages are targeted andappear to be individual to the patient. Whydo you think the emails you receive fromTesco or Amazon seem to be directed rightat you? It’s merely a simple use of the right software.

TECHNO TOOLSBut technology doesn’t have to end there;it can really enhance the dispensingprocess too and help patients make choicesthat will result in higher dispensing values.For this reason, April sees the addition oftwo companies to the NEG fold that offeradvanced technological answers to age-oldproblems. Fitting Box offers virtual try-onsoftware that allows patients to try onframes of different styles and colours, evenif you don’t actually have them in thepractice. This software will open up endlessoptions and choices, without you having togo through the cost and logistics involvedwith stocking thousands of frames. It even

allows your patients to virtually try onframes in the comfort of their own homes.

The second company is Digitact, which usesradio-frequency identification(RFID) technology to not only make stocktaking a lot easier, but also to enable youto link different frames together and informyour patients of the choices that are available(turn to page 27 to find out more). Both ofthese enterprises will increase and improveyour interaction with patients and theiroverall experience in the practice, whilstalso helping you to stand out from thecompetition – always a good thing whenpatients are talking with friends or sharingon social media.

Finally, do the simple things well: make iteasy for patients to contact you, offer optionswhen it comes to appointments, make sureyour pricing is clear and easy to understand,ensure the practice looks its best, includingkeeping point-of-sale material up-to-date,with window displays refreshed regularlyand everything clean and tidy. Above all,remember to always under-promise andover-deliver. If someone is happy withwhat you do, ask them to share on socialmedia; you’ll be surprised how impressivelythis can help grow your business.

Developing thoughtsNow that our lives revolve around social media, it’s all about rating the experience,writes Phil Mullins

Life’s all about the experience

0845 3130233sales@optinetuk.comwww.optinetuk.com

Advanced Practice Management Software

Fashion’s always evolvingSo is our software

For further information and to book your no obligation, in practice demonstration, please call 0845 3130233 or email sales@optinetuk.com

Intuitive dashboards, intelligent reports and individual staff permissions. Optinet FLEX keeps your business at the cutting edge.

19Vision Now APRIL 2018

Beth Ralph, a contact lens optician (CLO)from Sheffield, says: “The priority for allmy patients when it comes to lenses iscomfort first, vision next and price last.”

Beth is a busy working mum, CLO, and part-business owner at her practice Elliott &Heath Optometrists, which she shares withher husband. Like most working mums, lifefor Beth is busy and her hours are long, soshe needed a lens that could complementher busy lifestyle.

“The lenses I originally tried were souncomfortable and after four hours of wear Ihad to remove them. It was at this point thatmy husband brought home DAILIES TOTAL1 – Ihave never looked back since. The comfortwas a huge improvement as I didn’t feel thelenses in my eye. Now I recommend thesame contact lenses for my patients – 16hours of total comfort.

”Beth tells us what it’s like in the eyes ofa DAILIES TOTAL1 wearer…

7AM: MY BUSY DAY BEGINSI put my contact lenses in and spend amanic morning rounding up my children,ready to ship them to breakfast club beforeschool. I like to arrive early each day andlook through the files of my patients to findout what they are currently wearing andwhat’s new that I can offer them.

9-11.30AM: CONSULTATIONS AND ADVICEOne lady I have seen recently was goingthrough a divorce and wanted to renew herimage, as soon as I removed her glassesand swapped them for lenses she grew inconfidence. In another case, I saw a patientwho is a keen sportsman and enjoys tennis.Wearing glasses compromises hisperipheral vision and gets in the way. Iimmediately suggested DAILIES TOTAL1knowing these lenses will provide him withexcellent vision and long wear. I trulybelieve anyone that wears glasses shouldhave the option to use contact lenses.

11.30AM – 2PM: FITTING WITH CONFIDENCEWhen I fit DAILIES TOTAL1, I no longer askmy patients ‘are your lenses comfortable?’ Inow say, ‘can you feel your lenses?’confident in the knowledge that they feellike nothing. Other times, I’ll put a highquality lens such as DAILIES TOTAL1 in oneeye and an alternative lens in the other andask which they prefer. Almost every time,they will choose DAILIES TOTAL1.

When I fit an existing contact lens wearerwith DAILIES TOTAL1, the response I get is‘why haven’t I been given these before?’. Inthe past, they have typically been used as asecond option or ‘the problem solver’ if theydon’t get on with their current lenses. Thisshouldn’t be happening as it’s our duty aseye care professionals to recommend thebest product for our patients.

2PM – 5PM: A RANGE OF PATIENTSYesterday an eight-year-old and her mothercame to me for advice on contact lenses forwear after school. Many parents are unawarethat contact lenses are an option for theirchildren. My only criteria for offering contactlenses to children is that they can fit them

and remove them themselves. My 11-year-old and six-year-old daughters are bothextremely active. They take part in lots ofactivities after school and I believe no childshould miss out on any activity just becausethey wear glasses. Neither need a visioncorrection yet, but should either needanything in the future, I wouldn’t hesitatewith fitting DAILIES TOTAL1.

6PM: REFLECTIONAfter a busy day tending to between 12 and14 patients, my drive home is spentreflecting on the patients I’ve seen andfeeling extremely fortunate to have the jobI have. My ultimate priority at the start ofevery working day is to improve the eyesight of each of my patients, and in turn,enhance their lives. I sometimes see a childwearing glasses with no confidence,looking at the floor, the second thoselenses are in, they are a different person.

11PM: 16 HOURS OF AMAZINGBy the time I am preparing to go to bed, Irealise I have lasted a full 16 hours withouteven thinking about my lenses or noticingthem there. No need for solutions beforebed as these get binned, just a new pair forthe next day.

REFERENCE

1. Independent third party usage and attitudes study conducted on 1,083 lens wearers. Alcon data on file, 2016.

All views, comments and opinions expressed inthis advertorial belong to those making them,and are not scripted. Beth Ralph has been paidas a consultant to Alcon.

According to research, 78 per cent of patients agree that they can trust theiroptician to recommend the best contact lens for them1

‘Over one in three

eyecare professionals

who prescribe DAILIES

TOTAL1, also wear

them themselves1’

DAILIES TOTAL1That’s the one I wear

To hear from another optometrist whowears and recommends DAILIES TOTAL1,visit the News section atwww.nationaleyecare.co.ukto watch the video.

ADVERTORIAL

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT

OUR NEW PARTNER PROGRAMME

Precision is a promise of great things to come. And when it comes to this, no one is more dedicated to precision eyewear than Seiko. It’s a promise of excellence that can be experienced in all we do and all you see. Now you know!

BUT IT IS THE FIRST THING YOU MISS.PRECISION THE LAST THING YOU NOTICE ISSOMETIMES,

For more information email info@seiko-optical.co.uk or call 01452 638 292

Marketing Support for Independent Opticians

Punch above your weight with SPECS network

Connect with us

For more information, please email info@specsnetwork.co.uk

• Quarterly Eye Health campaigns

• Professional website & e-mail marketing

• Unique optician locator and practice video

• Reach people through on-line search engines

• Reach people through competitions

• Reach people through social media

• Your team of industry experts

www.specsnetwork.co.uk

Calls may be monitored or recorded. Please note that any data sent via e-mail is not secure and could be read by others. FDs’ Excellence Awards supported by Real Business. For more

information visit lloydsbank.com/bankoftheyear

lloydsbank.com/business

By your side

Find out how we can help.

Vision Now APRIL 2018 23

John Ferrier is a contact lens optician(CLO), businessman and a busy workingdad. Customer care, satisfaction andtrust is imperative for John and as acontact lens wearer himself, he willonly prescribe lenses that will offer hispatients exactly what they need andmore. John prescribes a lens that notonly does he trust, but one that hewears himself: DAILIES TOTAL1.

John opened his first part-owned practice,Ferrier & MacKinnon in 1992. Today, Ferrier& MacKinnon stretches across sevenindividual practices in Scotland, providingseveral communities with honest andpersonal advice and care.

This is John’s day, in the eyes of a DAILIESTOTAL1 wearer…

I started wearing lenses two years ago foraesthetic and practical reasons. It rainsalmost 60 per cent of the time in Scotlandand I found glasses impractical for my

morning runs and long working days. As anoptician, I have the luxury of being fullyinformed about the benefits of every lens

on the market. The ‘must-haves’ for mewere: comfort, a lens I could wear all dayand a lens that would offer crisp, clearvision. I tried DAILIES TOTAL1 and I’ve wornthem ever since. I can honestly say, fromthe moment I put them in, they really dofeel like nothing.

My busy working day begins at one of mypractices that I own with my friend andbusiness partner, Charles MacKinnon.Whether I am re-fitting my patient with alens or introducing a patient to contactlenses for the first time, DAILIES TOTAL1 isalways the pack I reach for.

Being able to help people every day is reallyfulfilling. Some patients have even told methat wearing lenses means that their visionis as clear as it was when they were a child.By the time I get into bed at night, I realisethat despite looking through slit lamps andat computer screens all day, I haven’t evenbeen aware that my lenses are in. I wouldusually expect to feel some dryness ordiscomfort, but this has never been myexperience whilst wearing DAILIES TOTAL1.

1. Independent third Party U&A study conductedon 1,083 lens wearers. Alcon data on file, 2016.

All views, comments and opinions expressed inthis advertorial belong to those making them,and are not scripted. John Ferrier has been paidas a consultant to Alcon.

The perfect match…over three quarters of patients trust their optician torecommend the lensthat best suits theirindividual lifestyle1

DAILIES TOTAL1That’s the one I wear

ADVERTORIAL

Over 1 in 3 eye care professionalswho prescribe DAILIES TOTAL1contact lenses also wear themthemselves1

John shares why he recommendsDAILIES TOTAL1:• Patient feedback: It’s not just what I say about DAILIES TOTAL1, it’s what my patients say. The more I receive positive feedback, the more I will continue to recommend them.• Exceptional comfort: A lot of my new patients experience dry eye and discomfort, so as DAILIES TOTAL1 is the first and only water gradient contact lens on the market, this is an easy switch for them.• No longer the problem solver: When I started fitting DAILIES TOTAL1, I prescribed them because they seemed to solve most people’s problems with comfort, dry eye, longer wearing time, etc. Now I don’t think twice about recommending them the first time.• Sixteen hours of wear: In a generation of ‘work hard, play hard’, people need a lens that gets them through the whole day – from morning to night.

DAILIES TOTAL1 gets John through his busy working days

To hear from another practitionerwho wears and recommendsDAILIES TOTAL1, search NationalEyecare Group on YouTube andwatch the DAILIES TOTAL1 video.

John Ferrier: CLO, businessman, dad

An offer that could save you money?Look no further

As the preferred payment acceptance partner of the National Eyecare Group, we’re here to help you give your customers more ways to pay. And give you better rates when you do. Keeping them happy and helping you boost your business.

• Quick & easy – our dedicated team will arrange a seamless set-up

• Fast transactions – all our card machines are contactless and accept Apple Pay and Android Pay

• Secure – proactive fraud monitoring and dedicated data security team

Now available – an exclusive membership deal

Call 0800 056 5569

Calls to 0800 numbers are free if made from a UK landline. Calls may be monitored and/or recorded. Barclaycard is a trading name of Barclays Bank PLC. Barclays Bank PLC is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority (Financial Services Register Number: 122702). Registered in England No. 1026167. Registered Office:1 Churchill Place, London E14 5HP.

25Vision Now APRIL 2018

BCLA UK will be split over two cities for thefirst time this year, with the first eventtaking place on Monday 4 June at theConference Aston, Birmingham, and thesecond on Sunday 10 June at the IET Savoyin London. The line-up includes a numberof prestigious speakers, including ProfessorPhillip Morgan and Professor JamesWolffsohn. CET lectures will featureaudience participation within an interactivegrading session, communication guidancefor success with contact lenses for childrenand parents, and ‘Aftercare: what haschanged?’ An update will also be deliveredon choosing the right contact lens materialfor the right patient.

A track dedicated to Ocular Surface Healthwill be delivered for the first time tosupport the newly launched BCLA Dry EyeCertificate. Spaces are limited and earlybooking is advised. In addition to lecturesand the dry eye track, a series of hands-onworkshops will be staged at each event,including sessions on fitting irregularcorneas to include keratoconus, successwith presbyopia and how to include a focuson fitting children in your practice.

BCLA president, Keith Tempany, commented:“We’re thrilled to be bringing BCLA UK tomore people than ever before this year. Thetwo-site format will give eyecarepractitioners from across the country theopportunity to access the very latestinformation and advice on the biggestissues affecting the profession, preparingyou for the future and making a realdifference to your patients. We are puttingtogether a comprehensive programme ofinteractive, hands-on learning with a high-quality team of world-renowned experts.Demand is likely to be high so werecommend booking early to reserve yourspot at what promises to be the must-attend event of the year.”

SPECIAL COURSE FOR OASA course dedicated to Optical Assistants(OAs), focusing on the ‘ins and outs’ ofapplying lenses, will make a welcomereturn at this year’s BCLA UK. The all-daysession, run by Sarah Morgan, will be heldon both days and will need to be bookedseparately. OAs will benefit from expertadvice and pick up invaluable tips on howto ensure success for new lens wearers,while learning more about different lenstypes, cleaning solutions, why aftercare isso necessary and applying and removingsoft and rigid contact lenses.

Sarah said: “Are you concerned about usingup yet more chair time with teaching newwearers how to apply, remove and care fortheir lenses? This role is ideally suited toconscientious front-of-house staff and alsoelevates their role in the practice with contactlens wearers. Experience with new wearersmakes staff more able to engage in questionsabout contact lenses when the practitioneris holed up in the consulting room.”

The course is suitable for any member ofstaff, especially those wanting to furthertheir knowledge and expertise in contactlenses and to develop their skills for

instructing patients on how to wear andcare for their lenses. Delegates will receiveinsight and guidance about how best tocommunicate with children and theirparents during what can be a critical time intheir introduction to contact lenses.

EAST MEETS WESTThe BCLA has also released details of thisyear’s BCLA Asia conference to be held inpartnership with the Singapore OptometricAssociation (SOA). The two-day event,sponsored by Alcon, CooperVision andMenicon, will take place on September 18and 19 at the Singapore PolytechnicConvention Centre. BCLA officials will workwith the SOA to deliver sessions blendingthe latest research and clinical guidance onrelevant topics. In addition, there will be arange of hands-on workshops coveringclinical skills, business andpresentation/research skills.

The joint meeting replaces the SOA’sstandalone event and organisers hope thenew format will attract upwards of 700delegates – meaning a far bigger audienceand increased reach. Keith Tempany said:“The conference is an opportunity tocontinue the growth of the eye healthindustry in the region and we are thrilled tobe heading to Singapore – a city known forits thriving business sector and a pioneeringcommitment to innovation. Growth in thecontact lens market is particularly strong inSingapore and across Asia as a whole andthe event will aim to continue to build theconfidence of eyecare practitioners toprescribe contact lenses with a focus onprescribing to the presbyope, fittingchildren, speciality lenses and managingdry eye disease.”

Register for all BCLA events atwww.bcla.org.uk

Tale of two citiesRegistration has opened for BCLA UK with a new two-city format making iteven more accessible

BCLA EVENTS

Sarah Morgan returns with her OA course

Dr Janis Orr speaking at last year’s BCLA Asia

27Vision Now APRIL 2018

RETAIL OPTICS

The Internet of Things (IoT) in its simplestform is centered on enabling ‘things’ orobjects to be smarter. Smart objects arethose that via the cloud are able tocommunicate with other objects and withus. One such technology enabling the IoTis radio frequency identification (RFID).This technology is having huge impacts on how retailers are counting theirinventory, providing in-store marketing to their customers and managing theirsupply chains.

SMART BARCODES AND INVENTORY COUNTINGRFID is a form of ‘smart barcode’ technologywhere tiny microchips are embedded intoprice labels, enabling retailers to count hugevolumes of inventory in just a few minutes

using specialRFID scanners.Digitact, thedeveloper ofeGRAB – anRFID systemdesigned forthe opticssector – recentlyrevealed that

the average sized optical location performsa complete inventory count in around 10minutes using its eGRAB mobile appconnected to an RFID handheld scanner.

Opticians using the system are able to gainmuch greater visibility on the stock theyhave, how it is selling, how long they’vehad it, and from a labour resourceperspective make the painful task ofconducting a stock take both time efficientand minimally disruptive to trading. Mostopticians using the technology haveimplemented weekly stock checks toensure that their inventory is always up-to-date, with the knock-on effect being adramatic improvement to revenue/stockturns as well as reduced shrinkage.

RFID adoption rates have soared with mostmajor retailers now making the switch from

barcode based systems to RFID/barcodecombination systems that allow muchgreater flexibility. The optical sector hashistorically lagged behind other retailverticals in technology uptake, but thependulum is swinging as technologyproviders like Digitact start to see thebenefits of bringing RFID to the opticalmarket. Many independent and enterpriseoptical retailers are now investing in thetechnology, particularly in the US, Nordicsand Benelux countries.

However, innovation is underway in the UKwith London-based Kite Eyewear investingin the technology across all their businessfunctions with an eGRAB RFID installation.Kassir Hussain, COO of Kite Eyewear, says:“We made the decision to invest into RFIDtechnology using eGRAB because we sawhuge benefits – not only in the speed atwhich we could manage our inventory, butalso in the data we could capture to help usbetter manage our supply chain and delivera better customer experience.”

RFID SMART DISPLAYAs well as being a fast inventory tool, RFIDis useful for embedding into retail displaysas a mechanism for triggering responsebased digital marketing (via built-inscreens) and generating inventory analytics.Using RFID-enabled displays, retailers areable to trigger digital content related totheir customers’ inventory selections (whatthey are trying on), and the activity datagenerated by the smart display can helpretailers understand the journey a stockeditem goes on before it is sold.

From a retailing sense, the goal of the IoT isto create a more intelligent world wherecompanies can acquire data from physicalretail inventory in the same way they canfrom inventory listed on their online stores;

such as how many times items are viewedbefore being purchased (conversion rate),how long to customers spend browsingitems (consumer brand time) and evenwhat colours are popular to try on butunpopular to purchase? This type ofgranular data taken from RFID-enabledenvironments promotes better inventorycontrol, smarter merchandising and asignificantly improved customer experience.

One of the primary influences behindincreasing adoption rates of RFID in theoptics sector has been a need to keep pacewith changing consumer expectations ofwhat represents a good in-storeexperience. Whether customers are buyingfootwear, clothing, luxury goods oreyewear, RFID has enabled retailers toensure the right product mix and associatedvisual promotions are always available.

Kassir from Kite Eyewear adds: “As part ofour commitment to being a technologyleader in optics we’re integrating eGRABinto our ecommerce and our CRM platforms.We’re also looking at activating some veryexciting in-store customer experienceprograms using RFID-enabled displays”.

Digitact CEO, Ben Gibson, comments: “Theoptical market can’t really ignore change,and RFID is now reaching a pivotal point inits adoption rates globally. I recently gotback from Vision Expo East in New York,and our optical distribution partner therehas some really excellent clients alreadyusing our software. I believe that the UKoptical market could do more to embracetechnology in the way other regions are, andI am very excited to be part of that push.”

Visit the Independents’ Lounge at Optrafairto see the eGRAB system in action. Articlesupplied by Digitact.

Getting smartwith retailIn this feature, we look at how RFID and the Internet of Thingsis shaping the future of optics

28 Vision Now APRIL 2018

STYLE SPOTLIGHT

Milan buzzes with positive energy andenthusiasm. The city’s cultural attractions,architecture and wonderful Italian cuisinealso highlighted the atmosphere of Midoheld in February during Milan FashionWeek, adding to a glamorous encounter.The eyewear event attracted a record-breaking attendance, as well as settingthe stage for imaginative andindividualistic eyewear.

Louise Brunton, general manager atCharmant, was attending her final Mido, asshe is retiring after 20 years with thecompany. However, her enthusiasmcontinues: “Mido feels like a home-comingfor the industry and continues to thrive.Charmant is always very proud to exhibit atMido and 2018 was no exception. Our standwas buzzing and we were especially happyto see the reaction to our new Line Artcollection, Vivace. It was great to see somany visitors from the UK and Ireland andthis was a good opportunity for us towelcome both new customers and catch upwith our established customers.”

Dunelm Optical also experienced a busyMido exhibition, as Peter Beaumont noted:“We continue to come to Mido every year,because it’s the number one show in the

optical calendar. We now supply to morethan 60 countries worldwide, which is quiteremarkable. Mido has been extremelysuccessful for us.” Dunelm also showcasedits new stand with a sleek, contemporarystyle and impressive graphics.

INNOVATIVE NUANCESThe eyewear sector has acclimatised totechnical advances with frames that areinfused with the latest approaches andinnovations. Designs with extremely thin,lightweight construction, and lenses withdistinctive, unique shapes that includegeometric planes, triangles, round andangular dimensions prevail in collections by Götti Switzerland, Lindberg, Silhouetteand the new Compositions series by TimVan Steenbergen at Theo Eyewear. Retroinfluences are referenced in frames,characterised with contemporaryapplications and accents, particularly intortoiseshell, black acetate or mixed with metals.

Textures, cutouts, layering, applications ofpearls, Swarovski crystals and metal rivetscreate exceptional frames with an edgyattitude. L.a.Eyeworks champions cutoutswith Palomar in Black Mint acetate,handmade in Italy. Paul Costelloe’shandsome frames include contrasting inner

rim and temple details. Anna-Karin Karlssonindulges in abundant Swarovski crystals forher dramatic new interpretation of thePantheress. Fleye Copenhagen, Vera Wangand Lafont Paris have superb frames thatcombine contemporary naturalness withindividuality to underline the wearer’spersonality. Olivier Goldsmith observes its90th anniversary with a stunning range of10 sunglasses that salute the trends ofprevious decades.

Stainless steel, acetate, titanium variations,aluminum, smooth matt finishes, cut-outsin two-tone unusual patterns, and theintertwining of materials is all possible –

Style legacy: 1970 Oliver Goldsmith Decades

By Joan Grady

Eyewear indulgence: Pantheress by Anna-Karin KarlssonIntricate cut-outs: Palomar by l.a.Eyeworks

Midomagic:eyewearodyssey

Contemporary composition: Paul Costelloe

29Vision Now APRIL 2018

driven by innovation and revisitedcraftsmanship skills.

FESTIVAL OF COLOURS Colour customisation enables eyeweardesigners the freedom of expression increating their collections. Preferencesinclude subtle pastels in soft pinks, coolblues and citron yellow. A passion for purpleis seen throughout the collections – royallyhighlighted on its own, or complementedwith contrasting colours. Forest green isrichly interpreted in optical and sunglassstyles; while forever favourites –sophisticated black and amazing variationsof tortoiseshell – appeal to all generations.

A 1950s style statement is re-examinedwith crystal clear acetate silhouettes atGötti, l.a.Eyeworks, Sol Sol Ito, Karmoie andLafont Paris. Luminous, translucent designsin both pale and bold colourations provide atantalising play of light in striking framesilhouettes. The Kaleidoscope Collection atKirk & Kirk includes the new addition Orla ingossamer burnt orange. Matt finishes onacetate and metal are smooth and refined.

Impeccably chic, futuristic and stylishframes accentuate Alyson Magee’s designs.The Aurora Collection emphasisesarchitectural references with stunning

shapes in Mazzucchelli acetate andstainless steel, with Alyson’s signature wingtip on every design. The complexconstructions are bold and vibrant and willdelight eyewear connoisseurs.

Award-winning British fashion brand LKBennett, founded by Linda Bennett in 1990,launched its first eyewear collection inJanuary, distributed by Continental Eyewear.Flattering styles in tortoiseshell, as well assolid colours accented with pearlised temples,are contemporary as well as fashionable. TheDuchess of Cambridge and Helen Mirren,plus international customers who appreciatestyle and confidence in their wardrobe, wearLK Bennett fashion designs.

INSPIRING IDEASDesigners in various realms are inspired bymany sources, and the eyewear sector isfascinated by numerous concepts:architecture, cuisine, music, food, fashion ofcourse, history and so much more. Cocktails,cuisine and music were among the intuitiverealisations at Mido. Oliviero Zanon atRes/Rei served tempting Cocktails – adelicious blending of colours and materials insleek shapes. A traditional round shape inslim two-tone rose pink Mazzucchelli acetatedistinguishes the frame Cosmopolitan fromthe premium Italian brand, handcrafted inthe Res/Rei atelier near Venice.

Desserts are the theme at Theo Eyewear inBelgium. Sweet indulgences should not beconfined to the palate alone – so Theo hasdeveloped frames with an explosion oftextures, tastes and aromas. Fancy a

helping of Trifle? It’s deliciously transformedinto eyewear in layered acetate in dramaticcolours with light and illumination. This is adessert that can be savoured without anycalories. The Dessert models also includeParfait, Tiramisu and Mille-feuille.

Music is the charismatic influence for theharmonious, fluid designs from the Line ArtCharmant Collection. The latest composition isVivace – a contemporary expression of charmand elegant understatement, crafted in thefinest titanium for streamlined elegance.Giving his final thoughts on Mido, PeterBeaumont pointed out: “More UKindependent opticians are visiting Milan tostay up-to-date with the latest fashiontrends in eyewear, and this is recognition ofthe global standing of the show.”

The 2018 edition of Mido was particularlyoutstanding with an in-depth representationof diversified designers and brands,underscored with innovative, imaginative andpremium quality designs. Mido demonstratedwhat an exciting and all-encompassinguniverse is possible with eyewear. Forindependent opticians, the potential islimitless with dynamic designs to establishyour practice with a leadership position.

Musical inspiration: Vivace by Line Art Charmant

Textures and individuality: Trifle from Desserts by Theo

Vibrant colourations courtesy of Kirk & Kirk

Architectural references in the latest Alyson Magee styles

Cosmopolitan from the Cocktail Collection by Res/Rei

Timeless and refined: LK Bennett eyewear

STYLE SPOTLIGHT

Streamlined and linear: Dice by Götti Switzerland

Vision Now APRIL 201830

Preferred Suppliers’ Directory

ACCEPT CARDS Tel: 01422 382408Richard.west@acceptcards.co.ukwwwww.acceptcards.co.uk

ALCON UK Tel: 0371 376 0017Fax: 0871 351 1005www.uk.alcon.com

ARENA EYEWEAR Tel: 01952 820408www.arena-eyewear.co.uk

ASSOCIATED OPTICALTel: 01628 605433Fax: 01628 665077sales@assopt.co.ukwww.associatedoptical.com

BAUSCH + LOMBTel: 020 8781 2900www.bausch.co.uk

BIB OPHTHALMICINSTRUMENTSTel: 01438 740823sales@bibonline.co.ukwww.bibonline.co.uk

BONDEYE OPTICALTel: 0121 7723888Fax: 0808 2801865sales@bondeyeoptical.co.ukwww.bondeyeoptical.co.uk

BRULIMAROPTICAL GROUPTel: 0161 655 7000Fax: 0161 655 7002www.brulimar.co.uk

CENTRO STYLE LTDTel: 01923 239267Fax: 01923 253951sales@centrostyle.comwww.centrostyle.com

CHARMANT UK CO LTDTel: 020 8992 9222Fax: 020 8896 0287sales@charmant.co.ukwww.charmant.co.uk

CONTINENTAL EYEWEARTel: 0151 426 3907Fax: 0151 426 9340sales@continental-eyewear.co.ukwww.continental-eyewear.com

COOPERVISIONTel: 0870 9000 055www.coopervision.co.uk

DAVID THOMASTel: 01604 646216Fax: 01604 790366orders@davidthomas.comwww.davidthomas.com

DIBBLE OPTICALSUPPLIESTel: 01634 880885Fax: 01634 540530barry@dibbleoptical.co.ukwww.dibbleoptical.co.uk

DUNELM OPTICALTel: 01388 420420Fax: 01388 810101dunelm@dunelmoptical.co.ukwww.dunelmoptical.co.uk

ESSILORTel: 01454 281281Fax: 01454 281282 www.essilor.co.uk

EYESPACETel: 01527 870550Fax: 01527 837012info@eyespace-eyewear.co.ukwww.eyespace-eyewear.co.uk

GO EYEWEAR UK LTDTel: 0800 9178270www.goeyeweargroup.com

HEIDELBERGENGINEERINGTel: 01442 502 330Fax: 01442 242 386 www.HeidelbergEngineering.co.uk

HENRY BEAUMONTTel: 0116 251 8936Fax: 0116 262 4205info@henrybeaumont.comwww.henrybeaumont.com

HILCO EUROPETel: 0800 591150info@hilco.co.ukwww.hilco.co.uk

HOYA LENS UK Tel: 0845 330 0984Fax: 0845 330 0977enquiries@hoya.co.ukorders@hoya.co.ukwww.hoya.co.uk

INTERNATIONALEYEWEAR LTDTel: 0121 585 6565Fax: 0121 585 0954www.internationaleyewear.co.uk

LENSTECTel: 029 2088 3009Fax: 029 2088 9798office@lenstec.co.ukwww.lenstec.co.uk

LOUIS STONE OPTICAL LTDTel: 029 2073 5293Fax: 029 2073 1446info@louisstone.co.ukwww.louisstone.co.uk

LUXOTTICA (UK) LTDTel: 0808 165 8555www.luxottica.com

MARCHONTel: 0800 72 2020csuk@marchon.com

MARK’ENNOVYTel: 0800 3280610Fax: 0800 3280649mkservices@markennovy.comwww.markennovy.com

Preferred Suppliers are suppliers who, by prior arrangement, offer members of the PK National Eyecare Group preferential terms.For full details and terms offered to the membership, please call 01580 713698Directory listings are available free of charge to all preferred suppliers, with a larger listing available to Vision Now Advertisers.To make changes to the directory listings, please call Sharon Hicks on 01580 713698 or email s.hicks@nationaleyecare.co.uk

VV

V

ww

w.n

ati

onale

yeca

re.c

o.u

k

A refreshing perspectiveTo help you enhance your contact lens practice, CooperVision offers an extensive product range designed to meet the needs of even more of your patients.

For more information

0870 9000 055* www.coopervision.co.uk

*Calls cost 2p per minute plus your phone company’s access charge.

Over 75% of patients agree that they can trust their optician to recommend the best contact lenses for them, regardless of cost.

Designed for quality minded patients, DAILIES TOTAL1 is so comfortable that 1 in 3 of eye care professionals who prescribe DAILIES TOTAL1 also choose to wear this lens.

For more information:

Tel: 03713 760 017 uk.brand@alcon.com

VV

V

Vision Now APRIL 2018

MID-OPTICTel: 01332 295001Fax: 01332 295158orders@midoptic.comwww.midoptic.com

NATIONWIDEFRAME REPAIRSTel: 01706 369530Fax: 01706 628733Info@nfr.co.ukwww.nfr.co.uk

No7 CONTACT LENSESTel: 01424 850620Fax: 01424 850650info@no7contactlenses.comwww.no7contactlenses.com

OPTINET LTDTel: 0845 313 0233sales@optinetuk.comwww.optinetuk.com

ORANGE EYEWEARTel: 0161 773 5555Fax: 0161 773 5544info@orange-eyewear.co.ukwww.orange-eyewear.co.uk

PERFORMANCE FINANCETel: 01536 529696Fax: 01536 310033www.performancefinance.co.uk

POSITIVE IMPACTTel: 08446 696907glasklar@positiveimpactsales.co.ukwww.positiveimpactsales.co.uk

PRACTICE BUILDINGTel: 0115 989 9772andy@practicebuilding.co.ukwww.practicebuilding.co.uk

PRO-OPTICTel: 01884 266130sales@pro-optic.comwww.pro-optic.co.uk

RAWDON OPTICAL LTDTel: 0113 288 3094Fax: 0113 288 3095enquiries@rawdonoptical.co.ukwww.rawdonoptical.co.uk

RODENSTOCKTel: 01474 325555sales@rodenstock.co.ukwww.rodenstock.co.uk

SEIKO OPTICAL UKTel: 01452 610033Fax: 01452 638250orders@seiko-optical.co.ukinfo@seiko-optical.co.ukwww.seiko-optical.co.uk

SHAMIR UKTel: 01954 785100Fax: 01954 785101 info@shamirlens.co.ukwww.shamirlens.co.uk

SILHOUETTE UK LTDTel: 020 8987 8899Fax: 020 8987 2430office@uk.silhouette.comwww.silhouette.com

SPEC-CARE LTDTel: 01392 460806info@speccareservices.co.ukwww.speccareservices.co.uk

STEPPER UKTel: 01732 375975sales@stepper.co.uk

TANT LABORATORIESTel: 01279 653785www.tantlabs.com

THE NORVILLE GROUP LTDTel: 01452 510321sales@norville.co.ukwww.norville.co.uk

THEA PHARMACEUTICALSTel: 0845 521 1290Fax: 01782 717 944www.thea-pharmaceuticals.co.uk

THREE SIXTYTel: 01686 627595Fax: 01696 610015Kieran@calotherm.co.ukwww.calotherm.co.uk

ULTRAVISIONTel: 01525 381112Fax: 01525 370091info@ultravision.co.ukwww.ultravision.co.uk

XACTTel: 01698 574 655IMcGleish@xact.uk.comwww.xact.uk.com

YOUNGER OPTICS EUROPEUK Tel: 01242 578971UK Mobile: 0790 133 7530julian.wiles@youngereurope.comwww.youngeroptics.com

0845 3130233sales@optinetuk.com

www.optinetuk.com

Openyour

eyes to

T 01527 870550eyespace-eyewear.co.uk

www.HeidelbergEngineering.co.uk

Telephone: 01442 502 330

Alisdair Buchanan, Buchanan Optometrists

Only one comment,

WOW!“

“

3130

04-0

02 U

K.B

E16

© H

eide

lber

g En

gine

erin

g G

mbH

VV

V

The Norville Group Limited, Magdala Road, Gloucester GL1 4DG

Tel: 01452 510321Email: sales@norville.co.ukwww.norville.co.uk

NNorville 38 x 71mm ad.indd 2Norville 38 x 71mm ad.indd 2Norville 38 x 71mm ad.indd 2Norville 38 x 71mm ad.indd 2Norville 38 x 71mm ad.indd 2Norville 38 x 71mm ad.indd 2Norville 38 x 71mm ad.indd 2Norville 38 x 71mm ad.indd 2Norville 38 x 71mm ad.indd 2Norville 38 x 71mm ad.indd 2Norville 38 x 71mm ad.indd 2Norville 38 x 71mm ad.indd 2Norville 38 x 71mm ad.indd 2Norville 38 x 71mm ad.indd 2Norville 38 x 71mm ad.indd 2Norville 38 x 71mm ad.indd 2Norville 38 x 71mm ad.indd 2Norville 38 x 71mm ad.indd 2Norville 38 x 71mm ad.indd 2Norville 38 x 71mm ad.indd 2Norville 38 x 71mm ad.indd 2Norville 38 x 71mm ad.indd 2Norville 38 x 71mm ad.indd 2Norville 38 x 71mm ad.indd 2Norville 38 x 71mm ad.indd 2Norville 38 x 71mm ad.indd 2Norville 38 x 71mm ad.indd 2Norville 38 x 71mm ad.indd 2Norville 38 x 71mm ad.indd 2 226/05/2016 12:5626/05/2016 12:5626/05/2016 12:5626/05/2016 12:5626/05/2016 12:5626/05/2016 12:5626/05/2016 12:5626/05/2016 12:5626/05/2016 12:5626/05/2016 12:5626/05/2016 12:5626/05/2016 12:5626/05/2016 12:5626/05/2016 12:5626/05/2016 12:5626/05/2016 12:5626/05/2016 12:56

VV

V

VV

VVV

V

31

eyespace-eyewear.co.uk | 01527 870 550#GreatBritishDesign

Mo

d.

JN

B 7

08

T