Sector information: optician/opticians

There are different types of optician stores and opticians, each with their own specialties and services. Here are some common types of optical stores and opticians:

• General optical stores: These are standard optical stores that offer a wide range of glasses and contact lenses for people with different visual needs. They perform eye measurements and help customers choose the right glasses or lenses.
• Designer eyewear stores: These stores specialize in designer eyewear and sunglasses from well-known brands. They cater to customers looking for fashionable and high-quality eyewear.
• Optometrists: Optometrists are healthcare providers who specialize in eye care. They perform eye exams, diagnose eye problems and write prescriptions for glasses or contact lenses. Some optometrists have their own practice.
• Contact lens specialists: These specialists focus on contact lens care and fitting. They can help customers find the right contact lenses, learn how to wear and maintain them, and perform contact lens-related eye exams.
• Children's Opticians: Children's opticians specialize in providing children with the right eyewear or contact lens solutions. They understand the unique needs of children and can help children feel comfortable during eye exams.
• Low Vision Specialists: These specialists focus on helping people with severe visual impairments. They offer magnifying devices, visual aids and advice to support people with reduced vision.
• Optical chains: These are national or international chains of optical stores that offer a wide range of eyewear and lenses. They often have multiple locations and offer branded glasses and lenses.
• Online opticians: Online opticians sell eyewear and contact lenses over the Internet. Customers can choose glasses based on online eye measurements or prescriptions and have them delivered.
• Sports opticians: These specialists focus on athletes and offer sports glasses and sunglasses designed for specific sporting activities, such as cycling, skiing, golfing and running.
• Ophthalmic clinics: Some ophthalmic clinics also offer optical services in addition to ophthalmic treatments and surgery. They can offer a full range of eye care services.

What to look out for when buying a shop/optician

When acquiring an optical store or optician's practice, there are several important factors to consider to ensure that the transaction is successful.

• Stock and Suppliers: Check the optician's stock and review existing relationships with suppliers and evaluate supplier contracts.
• Lease and location: If the optical store has a physical location, review the lease and consider the location. Make sure the lease terms are favorable and that the location is suitable for your business needs.
• Eye measurement equipment and technology: Assess the condition of the eye measurement equipment and technology used in the practice. Consider whether upgrades or replacements are needed.