The arrival of OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography) and the introduction of dispensing appointments due to the COVID pandemic are the key innovations of the last 12 months, according to a new survey by the organisers of 100% Optical.
The survey of over 700 industry professionals also found that over 70% of respondents had permanently adopted measures initially introduced during COVID, while two-thirds (65%) felt positive about the post-pandemic recovery of the high street.
The largest optical event in the UK, 100% Optical will take place at ExCeL London from 23rd to 25th April 2022 and will be the first major optical event since the start of the global pandemic.
Further survey findings included:
- 33% of respondents said their customers were still nervous about face-to-face appointments
- The biggest challenges in the last 12 months were the NHS going online; online sales; low NHS fees; and extra paperwork created by the COVID pandemic
- The biggest changes in working practices were the introduction of PPE, additional sanitisation, and introducing a ‘locked door’ policy
Optician comments included: “Overzealous and politicised attitudes regarding vaccination in the workplace are a cause of considerable tension. Fear of proximity between patients and dispensing opticians has caused difficulty with regards to the accuracy of measurements, resulting in a higher rate of remakes and non-tolerances.”
Nathan Garnett, 100% Optical show director, commented: “Our survey reinforces the massive impact of COVID on the optical industry, just as it’s affected so many sectors. However, it’s heartening to see how it’s also spawned a great deal of innovation, and how the majority of respondents are optimistic about the future.
“We can’t wait to welcome everyone to 100% Optical in the Spring, when the impact of the pandemic will be one of the many topics being discussed across the three days of workshops and seminars.”
The UK’s only show for the sector, 100% Optical is backed by all of the industry’s leading organisations, including AOP, ABDO, OSA and AIO.
The AOP will deliver all CPD content at the show, including The Optical Academy – a key part of 100% Optical, it will feature a schedule of seminars with accredited education.
Europe’s fastest-growing optical fashion event, 100% Optical brings together nearly 10,000 optical professionals from across the globe and will be the first opportunity in two years for the industry to get back together again.
Key show features include:
- Future Practice Hub – four rooms dedicated to delivering industry leading content
Dispensing Workshop – a space for visitors to experience the making and fitting frames first-hand - Design Arcade – an area to discover the latest trends from both emerging and established eyewear brands
- Live Catwalk shows – showcasing the latest trends provided by exhibitors and their amazing brands three times a day
