Collaboration between every aspect of UK optics was the key at 100% Optical for the OSA: 32 member companies exhibited at the three-day Excel event in London. Frames, lenses, contact lenses, diagnostics, lab technology, IT and AI insights, plus Finance were well represented. Dry Eye Disease diagnosis and treatment options were dominant, reflecting the tremendous potential for this aspect of care.
OSA Chair, James Conway, said the event had brought every aspect of optics together with a mutual respect for the importance which each company and organisation makes to the overall success of the UK optical sector –
“The choice of innovation in frames, lenses and technology was at an all-time high and we were delighted to engage with many new businesses seeing the benefit of joining the OSA. Our networking and advisory organisation, with so much specialist advice, reduces many of the headaches of running a business.”
Packed lecture theatre sessions on the OSA stand brought world class speakers including Professor James Wolffsohn, and news from a host of companies including EssilorLuxottica, Hanson Instruments, Keeler, Rodenstock and Scope.
OPTIC UK and OSA’s Strategic Partnership
For ophthalmology-focused companies there was good news – after eighteen months of discussion the deal was signed for a strategic partnership bringing the ophthalmology trade body, Optic UK and the OSA together.
Timothy Price, Optic UK Chair, was delighted that its members will forge a closer rapport with OSA member companies –
“Our industry segments have the same mission in aiming for improved eye care for patients, and to reduce the burden on hospital eye departments. With closer collaboration our industry is now bringing ophthalmology and optometry much closer together on a national scale. This deal demonstrates how closely intertwined the sectors have now become. Our combined experience is ready to support the national drive to improve care pathways and possibly forge new ones.”
Optic UK has been integral as the voice for unity with the industry and NHS for the past 43 years. The collaboration is expected to strength the voice of UK optics –
“We are working to ensure the stronger position for the profession. Optics is currently a standalone section in the NHS 10-year plan however contributes the highest volume of outpatient and surgical procedures. We need a stronger position in the NHS and government discussion. Eyes need to become a central part of healthcare,” added Timothy.
James Conway agreed –
“Together we have an unrivalled amount of clinical and industry expertise – we cannot progress with one or the other working in isolation. We have to work in unison to support the profession to move optics forward.”
Already much is underway with the DICOM, shared clinical imaging protocols set to be announced later this year.
“The pace of change within the optical industry means that better conversations are needed. It is more crucial to know what is happening across the board. Knowing about all the innovations in the equipment space is important to us and we are excited about the opportunities for business networking.”
David Twemlow, Sales Director, Scope Ophthalmics, which joined the OSA at 100% Optical
Picture show left to right: Andy Yorke, Optic UK ; Stuart Burn, OSA President; Timothy Price, Chair Optic UK; Nick Fitrzyk, Treasurer Optic UK; James Conway, OSA Chair.