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{{Use British English|date=March 2014}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=September 2020}}
{{outdated|date=April 2023|reason=Financial information has not been updated in over 10 years}}
{{Infobox company {{Infobox company
| name = Optical Express Group | name = DCM (Optical Holdings) Ltd
| logo = ] | logo = Optical Express (logo).jpg
| trade_name = Optical Express Group
| type = Private
| type = Private
| genre =
| genre =
| foundation = 1991
| foundation = 1991
| founder = David Moulsdale
| founder = David Moulsdale (])
| location_city =
| location_city =
| location_country =
| location_country =
| location = ], Scotland
| location = ], Scotland, UK
| locations =
| area_served = United Kingdom<br />Ireland<br />Germany<br />Netherlands<br />France<br />Croatia<br />USA | area_served = United Kingdom<br />Ireland<br />Germany<br />Croatia<br />USA
| key_people = | key_people = David Moulsdale (])
| industry = Healthcare | industry = Healthcare
| products = Spectacles<br /> contact lenses<br /> refractive surgery<br />healthcare services
| products =
| services = | services =
| revenue = {{increase}} £204.67m (2011) <ref name="AA">DCM (Optical Holdings) Limited and subsidiaries, ''Financial statements for the year ended 1 January 2011'', approved 6/5/11.</ref>
| revenue =
{{decrease}} £188.22m (31 Dec 2011) <ref name="AB">DCM (Optical Holdings) Limited and subsidiaries, ''Financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2011''</ref>
| operating_income =
{{decrease}} £169.40m (29 Dec 2012) <ref name="AC">DCM (Optical Holdings) Limited and subsidiaries, ''Financial statements for the year ended 29 December 2012''</ref>
| net_income =
{{decrease}} £143.20m (28 Dec 2013) <ref name="AD">DCM (Optical Holdings) Limited and subsidiaries, ''Financial statements for the year ended 28 December 2013''</ref>
| assets =
| operating_income = {{increase}} £8.67m (2011) <ref name="AA" />
| equity =
{{decrease}} £0.12m (31 Dec 2011) <ref name="AB" />
| owner =
{{decrease}} -£13.25m (29 Dec 2012) <ref name="AC" />
| num_employees =
{{decrease}} -£4.85m (28 Dec 2013) <ref name="AD" />
| parent =
| net_income = {{increase}} £3.87m (2011) <ref name="AA" />
| divisions =
{{decrease}} -£3.21m (31 Dec 2011) <ref name="AB" />
| subsid =
{{decrease}} -£14.96m (29 Dec 2012) <ref name="AC" />
| slogan =
{{increase}} -£6.00m (28 Dec 2013) <ref name="AD" />
| homepage = http://www.opticalexpress.com
| assets =
| footnotes =
| equity =
| intl =
| owner = DCM (Optical Holdings) Limited
| num_employees = {{decrease}} 1,552 <ref name="AD" />
| parent = DCM (Optical Holdings) Limited
| divisions =
| subsid = Optical Express Ltd<br />Optical Express (Holdings) Ltd<br />Cruach Capital Ltd<br />The Frame Zone Ltd<br />Bridgewater Hospital (Manchester) Ltd<br /> & others <ref name="AA" />
| caption =
| website = {{url|https://www.opticalexpress.com}}
| footnotes =
}} }}
'''Optical Express''' is a ] ] company in the United Kingdom. Optical Express is part of the Optical Express Group, which operates in the optical, dental and cosmetic industries. It is the fourth largest ] retail optician in the UK,{{citation needed|date=September 2011}} which, combined, account for 55% of the optical goods market, of which Optical Express has a 6% share.<ref>Page 11 MINTEL Market Intelligence, February 2010.</ref> The company provides eye tests, spectacles, contact lenses and ].


'''Optical Express''' is a provider of ophthalmology services including laser eye surgery, cataract surgery and lens replacement surgery in the United Kingdom and Europe.
== Overview and history ==
===Foundations===
]


Optical Express is a trading name of ''DCM (Optical Holdings) Limited'' which operates as the Optical Express Group.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://beta.companieshouse.gov.uk/company/SC146610|title=DCM (OPTICAL HOLDINGS) LIMITED - Overview (free company information from Companies House)|website=beta.companieshouse.gov.uk|access-date=13 September 2016}}</ref> In 2013 the company was described by the ] as the market leader in ].<ref name="cc" /> As a chain of retail opticians, offering a number of healthcare services, the company once operated a private hospital in Manchester. This closed on 4 June 2015.<ref name="Britton">{{Cite web|url=http://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/news/greater-manchester-news/exclusive-jobs-lost-manchesters-private-9359822|title=Exclusive: Jobs lost at Manchester's private Bridgewater Hospital as takeover deal confirmed|last=Britton|first=Paul|date=1 June 2015|access-date=13 September 2016}}</ref>
Optical Express is part of the Optical Express Group, which aside from opticians, also operates in the optical, dental and cosmetic industries under the brand names The Cosmetic Clinic, The Dental Clinic and the Bridgewater Hospital. The group was founded in 1991 by David Moulsdale<ref>{{cite news |url= http://business.timesonline.co.uk/tol/business/specials/rich_list/rich_list_2009/article6160430.ece |title=David Moulsdale |first= |last={{err|}} |work=] |date= |publisher=] |location=] |issn=0140-0460 |accessdate=6 October 2011}}</ref> with one Optical Express branch based in ], ].<ref>{{cite web|last=Conroy |first=Harry |url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/spl/aberdeen/inside-business-clear-vision-from-optical-express-1.450158 |title=INSIDE BUSINESS Clear vision from Optical Express - Herald Scotland &#124; Sport &#124; SPL &#124; Aberdeen |publisher=Herald Scotland |date=17 June 1996 |accessdate=2 September 2011}}</ref> The company grew steadily following its establishment. It acquired Remocker Shapiro in 1995, and took over the latter's 11 stores.<ref>{{cite web|author=Harry Conroy |url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/spl/aberdeen/angel-who-put-pop-group-among-the-stars-1.453533 |title=Angel who put pop group among the stars - Herald Scotland &#124; Sport &#124; SPL &#124; Aberdeen |publisher=Herald Scotland |date=27 May 1996 |accessdate=2 September 2011}}</ref>
In January 1997, the group acquired Specialeyes Plc, including a UK-wide chain of 65 optical retail outlets, thus expanding into England for the first time.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://case-law.vlex.co.uk/vid/-55330016 |title=Optical Express (Southern) Ltd v Birmingham City Council, Court of Appeal - Lands Tribunal, April 11, 2005, [2005&#93; EWLands ACQ_109_2002 - ACQ/109/2002 - England and Wales |publisher=Case-law.vlex.co.uk |date= |accessdate=2 September 2011}}</ref>


== Financial history ==
In 1998, the ''Sunday Herald'' reported that Optical Express had 32 court judgements against it for failure to settle debts owed to a wide number of companies. A senior financial analyst{{Who|date=August 2011}} at the time commented that it appeared to be a policy of Optical Express to pay debts late, however "since the company has been trading without interruption, most of these amounts must by now have been paid." An Optical Express spokesperson implied that the company's problems stemmed from the January 1997 takeover of Specialeyes, in which the accountants ] were claimed to have underestimated the true level of debt at Specialeyes that Optical Express had adopted. A PriceWaterhouseCoopers spokeperson denied this was the case.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_qn4156/is_19990425/ai_n13936816/ |title=Creditors don't see eye to eye with high-flying Optical Express boss &#124; Sunday Herald, The Newspaper &#124; Find Articles at BNET |publisher=Findarticles.com |date=25 April 1999 |accessdate=2 September 2011}}</ref>


Accounts filed at Companies House for the calendar year 2011 reported a loss of £1.5 million, the previous year the company made a profit of nearly £6.9million.<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.heraldscotland.com/mobile/business/company-news/optical-express-posts-15m-loss.19745769?_=ed7b8be68eb0840ce06aa52d98275dbf19000149 |title=Optical Express posts £1.5m loss &#124; Herald Scotland |last=Greig Cameron |work=heraldscotland.com |year=2013 |access-date=25 January 2013}}</ref>
===Expansion===
Optical Express has been growing its presence on the high street. Its spectacle ranges cover the mid-market. It has also expanded into other healthcare sectors including cosmetic treatments and dentistry.<ref>Page 58 MINTEL Market Intelligence, February 2010.</ref>
Laser eye surgery in the UK is dominated by three main players—Optical Express, ] and ]—which, in total, account for approximately 56% of clinics in the UK<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.opticianonline.net/Articles/2010/11/26/26744/Ten+years+of+trends+in+UK+refractive+surgery.htm |title=Eye Health Problems and Eye Health Care Features from Optician Online - Ten years of trends in UK refractive surgery |publisher=Optician Online |date=26 November 2010 |accessdate=2 September 2011}}</ref>


In November 2012, Optical Express closed a subsidiary with 83 stores placed into administration and 40 store closures. In December 2012, Optical Express said it would open 40 new sites as laser consultation/treatment centres in 2013, which it later went on to do.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/business/13085711.display/|title=Optical Express posts £1.5m loss|website=Herald Scotland|date=22 December 2012 |access-date=13 September 2016}}</ref> Landlords expressed dismay that this closure happened two days after quarterly rents were due.<ref name="telegraph.co.uk">{{cite news| url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/finance/newsbysector/retailandconsumer/9582592/Landlords-furious-over-JJB-Sports-and-Optical-Express-administrations.html | location=London | work=The Daily Telegraph | first=Graham | last=Ruddick | title=Landlords furious over JJB Sports and Optical Express administrations | date=2 October 2012}}</ref> Optical Express said it was consolidating its retail portfolio to "focus resources on its flagship locations and online business".<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/business/13075404.Optician_chain_to_shut_one_quarter_of_stores/|title=Optician chain to shut one-quarter of stores|website=Herald Scotland|date=3 October 2012 |access-date=13 September 2016}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.opticianonline.net/news/restructure-complete-says-optical-express|title=Restructure complete says Optical Express - Optician|website=Opticianonline.net|date=10 October 2013 |access-date=13 September 2016}}</ref>
In 2001, Optical Express acquired the Co-op Eyecare chain of 34 shops,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.lasik-eyes.co.uk/News/NewsDetails.aspx?NewsId=14 |title=Optical Express owner turns Blind Eye to slump in Profits |publisher=Lasik-eyes.co.uk |date=29 March 2003 |accessdate=2 September 2011}}</ref> followed by the purchase of Specdeals in 2002 with a further 14 Scottish stores.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://business.scotsman.com/6983/BUSINESS-IN-BRIEF.2349150.jp |title=BUSINESS IN BRIEF - Scotsman.com Business |publisher=Business.scotsman.com |date= |accessdate=2 September 2011}}</ref>


1 October 2013: Accounts filed at Companies House show DCM (Optical Holdings) recorded a pre-tax loss of £15.1m in the 12 months to 29 December 2012, wider than the £1.5m loss in the prior year. Founder David Moulsdale unveiled the intention to appoint an administrator for DCM Optical Clinic and then buy back 16 of the 19 stores.<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.heraldscotland.com/business/company-news/optical-express-founder-in-new-restructuring-move.22300969 |title=Optical Express founder in new restructuring move &#124; Herald Scotland |first=Greig |last=Cameron |work=heraldscotland.com |year=2014 |access-date=19 April 2014}}</ref>


Accounts filed for 27 December 2014 show a total revenue of £134m and an operating profit of £13m.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://beta.companieshouse.gov.uk/company/SC146610/filing-history|title=DCM (OPTICAL HOLDINGS) LIMITED - Filing history (free information from Companies House)|website=beta.companieshouse.gov.uk|access-date=13 September 2016}}</ref>


In December 2017 Optical Express recorded a turnover of £101.9 million. In December 2019, the company recorded a turnover of £117.1 million and in 2020 recorded a turnover of £99.1 million with an operating profit of £20.8 million.
In 2004 and early 2005, Optical Express acquired the dentistry and laser eye surgery services of ]. The dental services business trades under the name The Dental Clinic. {{As of|2012|1}}, there are 13 locations advertised on the company website.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thedentalclinic.com/find-your-nearest-clinic.html |title=Find A Dentist |publisher=The Dental Clinic |date= |accessdate=2 September 2011}}</ref>


2021 saw Optical Express record a turnover of £157.4 million during the year, pre-tax profits rose to £52.1m against £20.8m in the prior year.<ref>{{Cite news |author=Kristy Dorsey |title=Demand for laser eye surgery boosts revenues and profits at Optical Express |newspaper=The Herald |location=Glasgow |url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/business_hq/22893429.demand-laser-eye-surgery-boosts-revenues-profits-optical-express/ }}</ref>


==Operations==
Optical Express moved into the international market with the acquisition of Free Vision Euro Eyes laser vision correction clinics in Amsterdam and The Hague.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_qn4156/is_20040725/ai_n12589736/ |title=Optical Express goes Dutch in bid to conquer Europe &#124; Sunday Herald, The Newspaper &#124; Find Articles at BNET |publisher=Findarticles.com |date= |accessdate=2 September 2011}}</ref> The deal marked the first large-scale UK optical chain to extend its laser vision correction business in Holland.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.lasik-eyes.co.uk/News/NewsDetails.aspx?NewsId=46 |title=Optical Express - Europe Expansion &#124; Laser Vision Correction Clinics |publisher=Lasik-eyes.co.uk |date=16 August 2009 |accessdate=2 September 2011}}</ref>
]
The Optical Express group of companies formerly operated in a range of healthcare services including the optical and cosmetic industries under the brand names Optical Express, The Dental Clinic, The Cosmetic Clinic and Bridgewater Hospital. The company now focuses on refractive treatments and is the largest private provider in the UK and Ireland.<ref name="Britton"/>


In late 2022 the Optical Express clinics in Glasgow,<ref>{{Cite web |website=www.opticianonline.net |access-date=2023-09-15 |title=Optical Express rated by HIS |date=5 December 2022 |url=https://www.opticianonline.net/content/news/optical-express-rated-by-his}}</ref> Dundee<ref>{{Cite web |website=www.thecourier.co.uk |access-date=2023-09-15 |title=Dundee opticians graded 'exceptional' by health inspectors |date=4 October 2022 |url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/fp/lifestyle/health-wellbeing/3750133/optical-express-dundee/}}</ref> and Inverness<ref>{{Cite web |website=www.inverness-courier.co.uk |access-date=2023-09-15 |title=Inspectors praise 'exceptional' service at High Street optician |date=26 November 2022 |url=https://www.inverness-courier.co.uk/news/inspectors-praise-exceptional-service-at-high-street-optic-294637/}}</ref> were each rated “Exceptional” following inspections by HIS (Healthcare Improvement Scotland). In November 2022 the Birmingham Clinic received an “outstanding” rating from the CQC<ref>{{Cite web |website=www.birminghammail.co.uk |access-date=2023-09-15 |title=Clinic working to prevent life-threatening falls rated outstanding in Birmingham |date=17 October 2022 |url=https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/clinic-working-prevent-life-threatening-25286343}}</ref> (Care Quality Commission).
===Since 2007===


In January 2023 the Optical Express clinic in Aberdeen was also rated “exceptional” by HIS.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Healthcare Improvement Scotland rates Optical Express' Aberdeen clinic 'Exceptional' |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230104133423/https://aberdeenbusinessnews.co.uk/healthcare-improvement-scotland-rates-optical-express-aberdeen-clinic-exceptional/ |website=aberdeenbusinessnews.co.uk |date=4 January 2023 |access-date=2023-09-16 |archive-date=4 Jan 2023 |url=https://aberdeenbusinessnews.co.uk/healthcare-improvement-scotland-rates-optical-express-aberdeen-clinic-exceptional/}}</ref>
Optical Express experienced a 48% growth in UK retail distribution of optical goods and eyecare in the period 2007 to 2009, the largest increase of all the four large UK opticians.<ref>Page 57 MINTEL Market Intelligence, February 2010.</ref>


The group was founded in 1991 by David Moulsdale<ref>{{cite news |url= http://business.timesonline.co.uk/tol/business/specials/rich_list/rich_list_2009/article6160430.ece |title=David Moulsdale |work=] |publisher=] |location=] |issn=0140-0460 |access-date=6 October 2011}}{{dead link|date=September 2024|bot=medic}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}}</ref> with one Optical Express branch based in ], ].<ref>{{cite web|last=Conroy |first=Harry |url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/spl/aberdeen/inside-business-clear-vision-from-optical-express-1.450158 |title=INSIDE BUSINESS Clear vision from Optical Express - Herald Scotland &#124; Sport &#124; SPL &#124; Aberdeen |publisher=Herald Scotland |date=17 June 1996 |access-date=2 September 2011}}</ref> The company grew steadily following its establishment, acquiring the 11 stores of Remocker Shapiro in 1995,<ref>{{cite web|author=Harry Conroy |url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/spl/aberdeen/angel-who-put-pop-group-among-the-stars-1.453533 |title=Angel who put pop group among the stars - Herald Scotland &#124; Sport &#124; SPL &#124; Aberdeen |publisher=Herald Scotland |date=27 May 1996 |access-date=2 September 2011}}</ref> and the 65 stores of Specialeyes PLC in 1997.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://case-law.vlex.co.uk/vid/-55330016 |title=Optical Express (Southern) Ltd v Birmingham City Council, Court of Appeal - Lands Tribunal, April 11, 2005, [2005&#93; EWLands ACQ_109_2002 - ACQ/109/2002 - England and Wales |publisher=Case-law.vlex.co.uk |access-date=2 September 2011 |archive-date=31 March 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120331015050/http://case-law.vlex.co.uk/vid/-55330016 |url-status=dead }}</ref> These were followed in 2001 by 34 stores from Co-op Eyecare, and 14 more Scottish stores from Specdeals in 2002.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://business.scotsman.com/6983/BUSINESS-IN-BRIEF.2349150.jp |title=BUSINESS IN BRIEF - Scotsman.com Business |publisher=Business.scotsman.com |access-date=2 September 2011}}</ref>
In 2007, Optical Express formed a partnership with Glasgow-based charity organisation, The Caring City.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thefreelibrary.com/Gift+of+sight+for+world's+needy%3B+Specs+bring+kids+a+vision+of+the...-a0234530289 |title=Gift of sight for world's needy; Specs bring kids a vision of the future. - Free Online Library |publisher=Thefreelibrary.com |date= |accessdate=2 September 2011}}</ref> Donated spectacles are categorised, tested and distributed free of charge via local clinics returning sight to the most at risk communities within Burundi.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.glasgowthecaringcity.com/projects/optical_express.htm |title=Special Projects - Matthew's Farms |publisher=Glasgow The Caring City |date= |accessdate=2 September 2011}}</ref>


Optical Express entered the refractive eye surgery market in 2002 when it acquired The Health Clinic which offered general ophthalmic procedures across slightly less than 20 locations in the UK. In 2004 it acquired the ophthalmic treatment assets of Boots Group plc from nine sites in the UK. As a result of the acquisitions, the 700 employees were transferred to Optical Express bringing the total number of employees to 2,300 for Optical Express.<ref>{{Cite journal|date=1 November 2004|title=Optical Express buys Boots dental business|journal=Vital|volume=1|issue=5|pages=8|doi=10.1038/vital197|issn=1741-7511|doi-access=free}}</ref> The company did not acquire Boots' other optician assets.<ref name="cc">{{cite web|url=http://www.competition-commission.org.uk/assets/competitioncommission/docs/2013/optimax-ultralase/final_report.pdf|title=Optimax Clinics Limited and Ultralase Limited - Competition Commission Report 20 November 2013|access-date=30 December 2013|url-status=usurped|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131230234602/http://www.competition-commission.org.uk/assets/competitioncommission/docs/2013/optimax-ultralase/final_report.pdf|archive-date=30 December 2013}}</ref>
Since 2007 Optical Express has been engaged in a dispute with Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs (HMRC) about VAT. A figure of £10.9 million pounds was quoted as the disputed amount. An appeal to the original case dismissal is scheduled for September 2011.<ref>http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/vat/vat-appeal-update.pdf</ref><ref>http://www.heraldscotland.com/dcm-embroiled-in-pound-10-9m-tax-dispute-1.856119</ref><ref>http://business.scotsman.com/retail/Optical-Express-has-sights-set.5127379.jp</ref>


In 2004, Optical Express acquired two Free Vision Euro Eyes laser vision correction clinics in Amsterdam and The Hague,<ref>{{cite news|url=http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_qn4156/is_20040725/ai_n12589736/ |title=Optical Express goes Dutch in bid to conquer Europe &#124; Sunday Herald, The Newspaper &#124; Find Articles at BNET |publisher=Findarticles.com |access-date=2 September 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://group.opticalexpress.com/news/71.html |title=Optical Express Announce Expansion into Europe - Optical Express Group |publisher=Group.opticalexpress.com |access-date=16 September 2012 |archive-date=15 April 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140415141729/http://group.opticalexpress.com/news/71.html |url-status=dead }}</ref> marking the first large-scale UK optical chain to extend its laser vision correction business in the Netherlands. Optical Express acquired the dentistry and laser eye surgery services of ] in 2005, trading under the name 'The Dental Clinic'.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://group.opticalexpress.com/our-brands/the-dental-clinic.html |title=The Dental Clinic - Optical Express Group |publisher=Group.opticalexpress.com |access-date=16 September 2012 |archive-date=14 September 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120914075509/http://group.opticalexpress.com/our-brands/the-dental-clinic.html |url-status=dead }}</ref> These assets were sold in 2013.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.cqc.org.uk/location/1-196206311|title=Optical Express - The Dental Clinic|website=Cqc.org.uk|access-date=13 September 2016}}</ref>
In 2007, the Optical Express store at Cross Street in Manchester was given the largest ever fine for city centre ] by Manchester City council after a large amount of rubbish was dumped behind the store. The company did not turn up to the court case, and was assessed a £25,000 fine. An Optical Express spokesperson said 'This is a ludicrous case. We were never served a summons so it's hardly surprising we weren't in court. Our lawyers are lodging an immediate appeal.'.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.opticianonline.net/Articles/2007/09/21/19448/Magistrates+fine+multiple+%C2%A325k.html |title=Optometry and Eye Health Care News from Optician Online - Magistrates fine multiple £25k |publisher=Optician Online |date=21 September 2007 |accessdate=2 September 2011}}</ref> A legal appeal overturned the decision and the fine was subsequently dropped.{{Citation needed|date=August 2011}}


November 2013: A ] report into the merger of two rival companies reported that Optical Express share of the ] market was nearly twice the size, and in intraocular lens surgery six times as big as both ] and ] combined, the report concluded that the merger of ] and ] would not lessen competition in the market.<ref name="cc"/>
In 2008, Optical Express announced a €10 million investment to increase its number of Irish operations to six creating up to 60 new jobs.<ref>{{cite web|author=Advertiser.ie |url=http://www.advertiser.ie/galway/article/3505 |title=Optical Express open eyes with news of three new Irish start-ups |publisher=Advertiser.ie |date=23 October 2008 |accessdate=2 September 2011}}</ref>


April 2014: A complaint by the company that rival ] had funded a protest website <ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.opticalexpressruinedmylife.co.uk/index.php/forum/index.html|title=Optical Express Ruined My Life :: Category Index|website=Opticalexpressruinedmylife.co.uk|access-date=5 June 2015|archive-date=31 May 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150531124156/http://opticalexpressruinedmylife.co.uk/index.php/forum/index.html|url-status=dead}}</ref> owned by My Beautiful Eyes Foundation campaigner Sasha Rodoy was dismissed by ].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theguardian.com/society/2014/apr/05/optical-express-ruined-my-life-ruling|title=Optical Express loses bid to close laser eye surgery critic's website|author=Daniel Boffey|date=5 April 2014|website=Theguardian.com|publisher=Guardian News and Media Limited}}</ref>
In August 2009, Optical Express revealed its working practices to its refractive surgery competitors in a supplement published in the July edition of the Journal of Refractive Surgery<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.opticianonline.net/Articles/2009/08/26/23974/OE+shares+clinical+data+with+laser+eye+sector.htm |title=Optometry and Eye Health Care News from Optician Online - OE shares clinical data with laser eye sector |publisher=Optician Online |date=26 August 2009 |accessdate=2 September 2011}}</ref><ref>http://www.opticalexpress.co.uk/docs/journal_of_refractive_surgery.pdf</ref> the first of its kind by a corporate provider.<ref>{{cite web|author=April 13, 2010 |url=http://healthandfitnesstimes.com/optical-express-provides-strong-presence-at-ascrs-annual-meeting/205/ |title=Optical Express Provides Strong Presence at ASCRS Annual Meeting — Health and Fitness Times |publisher=Healthandfitnesstimes.com |date=13 April 2010 |accessdate=2 September 2011}}</ref>


January 2015: The Medicine and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) announced they were investigating claims that an artificial lens (MPlus X manufactured by Oculentis<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.oculentis.com/newsdetail40.html|title=Oculentis - Competency in Intraocular Surgery|last=Oculentis|date=25 July 2011|website=Oculentis.com|access-date=7 March 2015|archive-date=2 April 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150402104436/http://www.oculentis.com/newsdetail40.html|url-status=dead}}</ref>) implanted into the eyes of thousands of patients had caused serious problems with distance vision.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theguardian.com/society/2015/jan/03/top-eye-clinic-faces-claims|title=Top eye clinic faces claims over 'faulty' model of lens|author=Daniel Boffey|date=3 January 2015|website=Theguardian.com|publisher=Associated Newspapers Limited}}</ref> Oculentis released a statement refuting allegations made in articles in the UK media about the lens causing severe vision loss, citing "significant factual innaccuracies" in the articles, claiming them to be "untrue" and "highly defamatory".<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://eyewiretoday.com/2015/01/08/oculentis-responds-to-claims-related-to-safety-of-the-lentis-mplus-x-iol|title=Eyewire Today {{!}} Oculentis Responds to Claims Related to Safety of the Lentis Mplus X IOL|date=8 January 2015|website=Eyewire Today|access-date=13 September 2016}}</ref> As of September 2016, no official inquiry into the lens has been launched in the UK.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.opticianonline.net/news/oe-fights-back-intraocular-lens-claims|title=OE fights back over intraocular lens claims - Optician|website=Opticianonline.net|date=7 January 2015 |access-date=13 September 2016}}</ref>
In 2009, Optical Express, along with fellow laser eye surgery providers Optimax and Ultralase, were criticized by Which?, a consumer organisation, who investigated the consultations customers received prior to potential laser eye surgery. The main focus of concern was that laser councillors consistently downplayed the risks of surgery<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.which.co.uk/documents/pdf/laser-eye-surgery-195167.pdf |title=Microsoft PowerPoint - Laser eye surgery |format=PDF |date= |accessdate=2 September 2011}}</ref>


January 2015: following an article in the Observer newspaper and The Guardian online,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theguardian.com/society/2015/jan/03/top-eye-clinic-faces-claims|title=Top eye clinic faces claims over 'faulty' model of lens|first=Daniel|last=Boffey|date=3 January 2015|website=The Guardian}}</ref> the Daily Mail published an article claiming that blindness could result from lens implant surgery.
In 2010, Optical Express invested US$12 million (£8.1 million) installing iFS ] technology in all its laser clinics.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.optometry.co.uk/news-and-features/news/?article=1037 |title=Huge sum is invested in Optical Express clinics |publisher=Optometry.co.uk |date=4 June 2010 |accessdate=2 September 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.clickpress.com/releases/Detailed/231622005cp.shtml |title=Optical Express invests $12 million to enhance patient care |publisher=ClickPress |date= |accessdate=2 September 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.glassesdisplay.co.uk/archives/116 |title=Next generation laser eye surgery |publisher=Glasses display |date=5 June 2010 |accessdate=2 September 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.mynewsdesk.com/uk/view/pressrelease/5-deerdykes-road-optical-express-invests-12-million-to-enhance-patient-care-421562 |title=UK Technology - Optical Express: Optical Express invests $12 million to enhance... |publisher=Mynewsdesk |date=8 June 2010 |accessdate=2 September 2011}}</ref>


The company provides home eye tests for patients with complex disabilities and low vision across most of Scotland.<ref>{{cite news|title=Optical Express expands domiciliary services in Scotland|url=http://www.opticianonline.net/optical-express-expands-domiciliary-services-scotland/|access-date=12 July 2015|publisher=Optician onLine|date=9 July 2015}}</ref>
In October 2010 Optical Express offered shared venture partnerships (SVP) for many of their retail outlets.<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.opticalexpress.co.uk/shared-venture-partnership.html |title=Shared Venture Partnership - Optical Express UK |first= |last= |work=opticalexpress.co.uk |year=2011 |accessdate=11 September 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.optometry.co.uk/business/?article=1231 |title=With Optical Express, excellence is everything |first= |last= |work=optometry.co.uk |year=2011 |accessdate=11 September 2011}}</ref>


Currently the largest provider of laser eye surgery, lens replacement surgery and private cataract surgery in the UK, Optical Express continues to open new clinics and treatment centres including in Edinburgh and Belfast in 2022 with more planned throughout 2023 and beyond.
In January 2011 Optical Express opened its flagship Sports Vision clinic in Renfield Street, Glasgow City Centre.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://goliath.ecnext.com/coms2/gi_0199-14366376/Optical-Express-Sports-Vision-Clinic.html |title=Optical Express Sports Vision Clinic Opens on the High Street. &#124; Goliath Business News |publisher=Goliath.ecnext.com |date= |accessdate=2 September 2011}}</ref>


==Advertising==
In May 2011, the BBC '']'' programme ran a feature on Optical Express including hidden camera footage of laser eye surgery consultations in ten different Optical Express clinic locations.<ref name="Wg">{{cite web|author=Elham Rizi |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/watchdog/2011/05/optical_pricing.html |title=Watchdog: We've been keeping an eye on Optical Express |publisher=BBC |date=3 May 2011 |accessdate=2 September 2011}}</ref> Although it is standard procedure adopted by laser eye clinics worldwide that the surgeon is seen on day of surgery, the programme was critical of Optical Express and particularly emphasised that in seven out of ten consultations, the prospective patient was not offered the opportunity to see the surgeon before the day of surgery, contrary to Royal College of Ophthalmologists standards. The expert witness that appeared on Watchdog, as well as being a consultant at the NHS Moorfields Eye Hospital, and the hospital's director of refractive surgery, is also employed by the hospital's private clinic.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.moorfields-private.co.uk/Consultants/davidsgartry |title=Moorfields Eye Hospital - David S Gartry |publisher=Moorfields-private.co.uk |date= |accessdate=2 September 2011}}</ref> Optical Express responded to the allegations made in this programme on the programme website.<ref name="Wg"/>
In 2007, the Advertising Standards Authority rejected a complaint that the claim "from only £395 per eye" featured in an Optical Express TV and leaflet campaign was misleading,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://asa.org.uk/ASA-action/Adjudications/2007/12/The-Optical-Express-Group/TF_ADJ_43706.aspx |title=ASA Adjudication on The Optical Express Group - Advertising Standards Authority |publisher=Asa.org.uk |date=19 December 2007 |access-date=2 September 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120323102430/http://www.asa.org.uk/ASA-action/Adjudications/2007/12/The-Optical-Express-Group/TF_ADJ_43706.aspx |archive-date=23 March 2012 }}</ref> and in 2011, the authority upheld a complaint about television advert featuring ], which was later replaced by one featuring the voice of ].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.retailgazette.co.uk/articles/01304-optical-express-launches-new-ad-campaign |title=Optical Express launches new ad campaign - Retail Gazette |work=retailgazette.co.uk |year=2011 |access-date=7 September 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120328104800/http://www.retailgazette.co.uk/articles/01304-optical-express-launches-new-ad-campaign |archive-date=28 March 2012 }}</ref>


In 2011 the ] upheld 17 complaints about brochures.<ref name="bill">{{cite web |last=Westminster |first=Department of the Official Report (Hansard), House of Commons |title=House of Commons Hansard Debates for 20 Nov 2013 (pt 0002) |url=https://publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm201314/cmhansrd/cm131120/debtext/131120-0002.htm#13112092000001 |website=publications.parliament.uk}}</ref>
In 2011 the consumer magazine ] rated Optical Express as the worst performing optical chain after an undercover investigation into the quality of general high street eye examinations. An Optical Express spokesperson said they were unable to comment on the allegations without more information.<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.opticianonline.net/Articles/2011/08/26/28111/Multiples+respond+to+Which+mystery+shop.htm |title=Optometry and Eye Health Care News from Optician Online - Multiples respond to Which? mystery shop |first= |last= |work=opticianonline.net |year=2011 |accessdate=13 September 2011}}</ref>


In 2012 another TV advert was removed due to misleading content.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.hansoninstruments.co.uk/blogs/optical_express_rapped_over_laser_advert |title=Optical Express Rapped Over Laser Advert |publisher=Hanson Instruments |access-date=16 September 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130726001445/http://www.hansoninstruments.co.uk/blogs/optical_express_rapped_over_laser_advert |archive-date=26 July 2013 }}</ref> and a complaint was partially upheld against the Optical Express website.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.asa.org.uk/ASA-action/Adjudications/2012/8/Optical-Express-Westfield-Ltd/SHP_ADJ_196086.aspx |title=ASA Adjudication on Optical Express Westfield Ltd - Advertising Standards Authority |publisher=Asa.org.uk |date=22 August 2012 |access-date=16 September 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120824033309/http://www.asa.org.uk/ASA-action/Adjudications/2012/8/Optical-Express-Westfield-Ltd/SHP_ADJ_196086.aspx |archive-date=24 August 2012 }}</ref>
] is a non-executive director on the board of DCM Optical Holdings,<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.parliament.uk/biographies/jack-mcconnell/32600 |title=Lord McConnell of Glenscorrodale |first= |last= |work=parliament.uk |year=2011 |quote=Non-executive Director |accessdate=4 October 2011}}</ref> Chairman and CEO David Moulsdale's Cumbernauld-based parent company.


In January 2015 the Information Commissioners Office sent Optical Express an enforcement notice following 4,600 complaints regarding unsolicited messages<ref>{{cite web |url=https://ico.org.uk/action-weve-taken/enforcement/optical-express-westfield-limited/ |title=Optical Express enforcement notice |publisher=ico.org.uk |access-date=6 January 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150122111158/https://ico.org.uk/action-weve-taken/enforcement/optical-express-westfield-limited/ |archive-date=22 January 2015 }}</ref>
==Advertisments==


==Charity==
In 2007, the Advertising Standards Authority rejected a complaint that the claim "from only £395 per eye" featured in an Optical Express TV and leaflet campaign was misleading.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://asa.org.uk/ASA-action/Adjudications/2007/12/The-Optical-Express-Group/TF_ADJ_43706.aspx |title=ASA Adjudication on The Optical Express Group - Advertising Standards Authority |publisher=Asa.org.uk |date=19 December 2007 |accessdate=2 September 2011}}</ref>
Optical Express have supported hundreds of humanitarian and philanthropic projects for more than 30 years, donating more than £33 million to causes both in the UK and abroad.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.opticalexpress.co.uk/corporate-social-responsibility|title=Corporate Social Responsibility {{!}} Optical Express|website=Opticalexpress.co.uk|access-date=13 September 2016}}</ref> In 2004, the group donated funds to the ] to open an employment skills and rehabilitation facility for blind and partially sighted people.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.rnib.org.uk/sites/default/files/this_is_working.pdf|title=This Is Working: How people with sight loss participate successfully in the world of work.|website=Rnib.org.uk|access-date=4 November 2021}}</ref>


In 2007, Optical Express formed a partnership with Glasgow-based charity organisation, The Caring City.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thefreelibrary.com/Gift+of+sight+for+world's+needy%3B+Specs+bring+kids+a+vision+of+the...-a0234530289 |title=Gift of sight for world's needy; Specs bring kids a vision of the future. - Free Online Library |publisher=Thefreelibrary.com |access-date=2 September 2011}}</ref> Donated spectacles are distributed free of charge via local clinics to communities within Burundi.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.glasgowthecaringcity.com/projects/optical_express.htm |title=Special Projects - Matthew's Farms |publisher=Glasgow The Caring City |access-date=2 September 2011}}</ref>
In 2011, the Advertising Standards Authority upheld 23 out of 25 complaints made by ] about an Optical Express brochure and television advert featuring ]. This is the fourth judgement against Optical Express by the ASA since 2007.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.asa.org.uk/ASA-action/Adjudications/2010/9/Optical-Express-Ltd/TF_ADJ_49002.aspx |title=ASA Adjudication on Optical Express Ltd - Advertising Standards Authority |publisher=Asa.org.uk |date=8 September 2010 |accessdate=2 September 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.asa.org.uk/ASA-action/Adjudications/2009/6/Optical-Express-Ltd/TF_ADJ_46417.aspx |title=ASA Adjudication on Optical Express Ltd - Advertising Standards Authority |publisher=Asa.org.uk |date=17 June 2009 |accessdate=2 September 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.asa.org.uk/ASA-action/Adjudications/2007/12/The-Optical-Express-Group/TF_ADJ_43706.aspx |title=ASA Adjudication on The Optical Express Group - Advertising Standards Authority |publisher=Asa.org.uk |date=19 December 2007 |accessdate=2 September 2011}}</ref>
In response to the ruling, Pádraig Harrington was reported to address the controversy.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.lasik-eyes.co.uk/News/NewsDetails.aspx?Newsid=110 |title=Optical Express TV advert "Clarified" |publisher=Lasik-eyes.co.uk |date=15 May 2010 |accessdate=2 September 2011}}</ref>
The ASA dismissed Optical Express' appeal on this adjudication on 17 August 2011.<ref>{{cite web|author=Mark Sweney |url=http://www.guardian.co.uk/media/2011/aug/17/padraig-harrington-tv-ad-banned |title=Padraig Harrington TV advert banned &#124; Media |publisher=guardian.co.uk |date= |accessdate=2 September 2011}}</ref>
Optical Express created and ran a new advertisement featuring the voice of British actor ], it replaced the Padraig Harrington advertisement.<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.retailgazette.co.uk/articles/01304-optical-express-launches-new-ad-campaign |title=Optical Express launches new ad campaign - Retail Gazette |first= |last={{err|}} |work=retailgazette.co.uk |year=2011 |accessdate=7 September 2011}}</ref>


Optical Express has also been a main supporter of the annual Glasgow Taxi Outing, having been so since 2007. This event sees over 150 taxi drivers in the city dress up in ] and take children with additional learning needs to the seaside for free, along with their parents and carers.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.scotsman.com/news/crowds-cheer-on-glasgow-taxi-outing-fund-s-annual-children-s-trip-1-4155809|title=Crowds cheer on Glasgow Taxi Outing Fund's annual children's trip|website=Scotsman.com|date=15 June 2016 |access-date=13 September 2016}}</ref>
==Charity==
In January 2011 Optical Express donated an Oculus Pentacam (worth £45,000) to optometry and dispensing optician students in Glasgow Caledonian University, which was the first of its kind in Scotland and allows students to use the technology as part of their optometry degree.<ref>http://www.science20.com/newswire/glasgow_eye_students_make_it_first-75438</ref>


In 2014, Optical Express raised over £10,000 for the ]. In 2015, it raised over £100,000.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Optical-Express-Glasgow|title=Read Optical's story|website=Justgiving.com|access-date=13 September 2016}}</ref>
In September 2011 Optical Express donated the use of their customer contact centre to support the STV Appeal to collect public donations in support of children in Scotland affected by poverty.<ref>http://campaigns.stv.tv/stv-appeal-2011/fundraising-heroes/business-supporters/269555-optical-express-helps-stv-to-support-children-in-poverty/</ref>


Optical Express has a long-standing relationship with global vision charity, ]. In 2014, the company and its staff helped to raise over £10,000 for the charity's Christmas Appeal. In 2016, Optical Express staff from its Lister Gate clinic took part in the obstacle course race Wolf Run at ], ] and raised over £1,200 for people who are going blind, or at risk of going blind, from preventable conditions.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.aop.org.uk/ot/industry/charity/2016/07/08/optical-express-team-raises-more-than-1200-to-give-the-gift-of-sight|title=Optometry Today {{!}} Optical Express team raises more than £1200 to give the gift of sight|last=Moss|first=Robina|website=Aop.org.uk|access-date=13 September 2016}}</ref>
== References ==

{{Reflist|30em}}
In August 2016, Optical Express partnered with the charity ] to provide free eye care for children from the contaminated area around the nuclear disaster site.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.aop.org.uk/ot/industry/high-street/2016/08/19/chernobyl-children-receive-free-eye-care-boost|title=Optometry Today {{!}} Chernobyl children receive free eye care boost|last=Moss|first=Robina|website=Aop.org.uk|access-date=13 September 2016}}</ref>

In January 2020 Optical Express donated £100,000 to Race Against Dementia,<ref>{{Cite web |website=www.aop.org.uk |access-date=2023-09-15 |title=Optical Express raises £100,000 at charity dinner |url=https://www.aop.org.uk/ot/industry/high-street/2020/01/15/optical-express-raises-100000-pounds-at-charity-dinner}}</ref> the charity founded by Sir Jackie Stewart to fund breakthrough and innovative dementia research.

In Feb 2019 Optical Express promoted their Thanks a Million campaign<ref>{{Cite web |website=www.mirror.co.uk |access-date=2023-09-15 |title=NHS staff and emergency service workers can now get laser eye surgery for free |date=15 February 2019 |url=https://www.mirror.co.uk/money/nhs-staff-emergency-service-workers-13938169}}</ref> which would see them donated over £1 million of free laser eye surgery to NHS and emergency service workers across the UK, In April 2020 Optical Express treated their £1 million patient as part of their Thanks a Million campaign.<ref>{{Cite web |website=www.opticianonline.net |access-date=2023-09-15 |title=Optical Express reach million pound milestone |date=24 June 2020 |url=https://www.opticianonline.net/content/news/optical-express-reach-million-pound-milestone}}</ref>

==References==
{{Reflist}}


==External links== ==External links==
* {{Official website|http://group.opticalexpress.com/}} * {{Official website|https://www.opticalexpress.com}}

{{Use dmy dates|date=August 2011}}
{{Eyewear retailers}}


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Latest revision as of 05:25, 5 November 2024

This article needs to be updated. The reason given is: Financial information has not been updated in over 10 years. Please help update this article to reflect recent events or newly available information. (April 2023)
DCM (Optical Holdings) Ltd
Trade nameOptical Express Group
Company typePrivate
IndustryHealthcare
Founded1991
FounderDavid Moulsdale (CEO)
HeadquartersGlasgow, Scotland, UK
Area servedUnited Kingdom
Ireland
Germany
Croatia
USA
Key peopleDavid Moulsdale (CEO)
ProductsSpectacles
contact lenses
refractive surgery
healthcare services
RevenueIncrease £204.67m (2011)

Decrease £188.22m (31 Dec 2011) Decrease £169.40m (29 Dec 2012)

Decrease £143.20m (28 Dec 2013)
Operating incomeIncrease £8.67m (2011)

Decrease £0.12m (31 Dec 2011) Decrease -£13.25m (29 Dec 2012)

Decrease -£4.85m (28 Dec 2013)
Net incomeIncrease £3.87m (2011)

Decrease -£3.21m (31 Dec 2011) Decrease -£14.96m (29 Dec 2012)

Increase -£6.00m (28 Dec 2013)
OwnerDCM (Optical Holdings) Limited
Number of employeesDecrease 1,552
ParentDCM (Optical Holdings) Limited
SubsidiariesOptical Express Ltd
Optical Express (Holdings) Ltd
Cruach Capital Ltd
The Frame Zone Ltd
Bridgewater Hospital (Manchester) Ltd
& others
Websitewww.opticalexpress.com

Optical Express is a provider of ophthalmology services including laser eye surgery, cataract surgery and lens replacement surgery in the United Kingdom and Europe.

Optical Express is a trading name of DCM (Optical Holdings) Limited which operates as the Optical Express Group. In 2013 the company was described by the Competition Commission as the market leader in refractive surgery. As a chain of retail opticians, offering a number of healthcare services, the company once operated a private hospital in Manchester. This closed on 4 June 2015.

Financial history

Accounts filed at Companies House for the calendar year 2011 reported a loss of £1.5 million, the previous year the company made a profit of nearly £6.9million.

In November 2012, Optical Express closed a subsidiary with 83 stores placed into administration and 40 store closures. In December 2012, Optical Express said it would open 40 new sites as laser consultation/treatment centres in 2013, which it later went on to do. Landlords expressed dismay that this closure happened two days after quarterly rents were due. Optical Express said it was consolidating its retail portfolio to "focus resources on its flagship locations and online business".

1 October 2013: Accounts filed at Companies House show DCM (Optical Holdings) recorded a pre-tax loss of £15.1m in the 12 months to 29 December 2012, wider than the £1.5m loss in the prior year. Founder David Moulsdale unveiled the intention to appoint an administrator for DCM Optical Clinic and then buy back 16 of the 19 stores.

Accounts filed for 27 December 2014 show a total revenue of £134m and an operating profit of £13m.

In December 2017 Optical Express recorded a turnover of £101.9 million. In December 2019, the company recorded a turnover of £117.1 million and in 2020 recorded a turnover of £99.1 million with an operating profit of £20.8 million.

2021 saw Optical Express record a turnover of £157.4 million during the year, pre-tax profits rose to £52.1m against £20.8m in the prior year.

Operations

An Optical Express store.

The Optical Express group of companies formerly operated in a range of healthcare services including the optical and cosmetic industries under the brand names Optical Express, The Dental Clinic, The Cosmetic Clinic and Bridgewater Hospital. The company now focuses on refractive treatments and is the largest private provider in the UK and Ireland.

In late 2022 the Optical Express clinics in Glasgow, Dundee and Inverness were each rated “Exceptional” following inspections by HIS (Healthcare Improvement Scotland). In November 2022 the Birmingham Clinic received an “outstanding” rating from the CQC (Care Quality Commission).

In January 2023 the Optical Express clinic in Aberdeen was also rated “exceptional” by HIS.

The group was founded in 1991 by David Moulsdale with one Optical Express branch based in Leith, Edinburgh. The company grew steadily following its establishment, acquiring the 11 stores of Remocker Shapiro in 1995, and the 65 stores of Specialeyes PLC in 1997. These were followed in 2001 by 34 stores from Co-op Eyecare, and 14 more Scottish stores from Specdeals in 2002.

Optical Express entered the refractive eye surgery market in 2002 when it acquired The Health Clinic which offered general ophthalmic procedures across slightly less than 20 locations in the UK. In 2004 it acquired the ophthalmic treatment assets of Boots Group plc from nine sites in the UK. As a result of the acquisitions, the 700 employees were transferred to Optical Express bringing the total number of employees to 2,300 for Optical Express. The company did not acquire Boots' other optician assets.

In 2004, Optical Express acquired two Free Vision Euro Eyes laser vision correction clinics in Amsterdam and The Hague, marking the first large-scale UK optical chain to extend its laser vision correction business in the Netherlands. Optical Express acquired the dentistry and laser eye surgery services of Alliance Boots in 2005, trading under the name 'The Dental Clinic'. These assets were sold in 2013.

November 2013: A Competition Commission report into the merger of two rival companies reported that Optical Express share of the laser eye surgery market was nearly twice the size, and in intraocular lens surgery six times as big as both Optimax and Ultralase combined, the report concluded that the merger of Optimax and Ultralase would not lessen competition in the market.

April 2014: A complaint by the company that rival Optimax had funded a protest website owned by My Beautiful Eyes Foundation campaigner Sasha Rodoy was dismissed by Nominet.

January 2015: The Medicine and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) announced they were investigating claims that an artificial lens (MPlus X manufactured by Oculentis) implanted into the eyes of thousands of patients had caused serious problems with distance vision. Oculentis released a statement refuting allegations made in articles in the UK media about the lens causing severe vision loss, citing "significant factual innaccuracies" in the articles, claiming them to be "untrue" and "highly defamatory". As of September 2016, no official inquiry into the lens has been launched in the UK.

January 2015: following an article in the Observer newspaper and The Guardian online, the Daily Mail published an article claiming that blindness could result from lens implant surgery.

The company provides home eye tests for patients with complex disabilities and low vision across most of Scotland.

Currently the largest provider of laser eye surgery, lens replacement surgery and private cataract surgery in the UK, Optical Express continues to open new clinics and treatment centres including in Edinburgh and Belfast in 2022 with more planned throughout 2023 and beyond.

Advertising

In 2007, the Advertising Standards Authority rejected a complaint that the claim "from only £395 per eye" featured in an Optical Express TV and leaflet campaign was misleading, and in 2011, the authority upheld a complaint about television advert featuring Pádraig Harrington, which was later replaced by one featuring the voice of Michael Gambon.

In 2011 the Advertising Standards Authority upheld 17 complaints about brochures.

In 2012 another TV advert was removed due to misleading content. and a complaint was partially upheld against the Optical Express website.

In January 2015 the Information Commissioners Office sent Optical Express an enforcement notice following 4,600 complaints regarding unsolicited messages

Charity

Optical Express have supported hundreds of humanitarian and philanthropic projects for more than 30 years, donating more than £33 million to causes both in the UK and abroad. In 2004, the group donated funds to the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) to open an employment skills and rehabilitation facility for blind and partially sighted people.

In 2007, Optical Express formed a partnership with Glasgow-based charity organisation, The Caring City. Donated spectacles are distributed free of charge via local clinics to communities within Burundi.

Optical Express has also been a main supporter of the annual Glasgow Taxi Outing, having been so since 2007. This event sees over 150 taxi drivers in the city dress up in fancy dress and take children with additional learning needs to the seaside for free, along with their parents and carers.

In 2014, Optical Express raised over £10,000 for the STV Appeal. In 2015, it raised over £100,000.

Optical Express has a long-standing relationship with global vision charity, Sightsavers. In 2014, the company and its staff helped to raise over £10,000 for the charity's Christmas Appeal. In 2016, Optical Express staff from its Lister Gate clinic took part in the obstacle course race Wolf Run at Stanford Hall, Leicestershire and raised over £1,200 for people who are going blind, or at risk of going blind, from preventable conditions.

In August 2016, Optical Express partnered with the charity Chernobyl Children's Life Line to provide free eye care for children from the contaminated area around the nuclear disaster site.

In January 2020 Optical Express donated £100,000 to Race Against Dementia, the charity founded by Sir Jackie Stewart to fund breakthrough and innovative dementia research.

In Feb 2019 Optical Express promoted their Thanks a Million campaign which would see them donated over £1 million of free laser eye surgery to NHS and emergency service workers across the UK, In April 2020 Optical Express treated their £1 million patient as part of their Thanks a Million campaign.

References

  1. ^ DCM (Optical Holdings) Limited and subsidiaries, Financial statements for the year ended 1 January 2011, approved 6/5/11.
  2. ^ DCM (Optical Holdings) Limited and subsidiaries, Financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2011
  3. ^ DCM (Optical Holdings) Limited and subsidiaries, Financial statements for the year ended 29 December 2012
  4. ^ DCM (Optical Holdings) Limited and subsidiaries, Financial statements for the year ended 28 December 2013
  5. "DCM (OPTICAL HOLDINGS) LIMITED - Overview (free company information from Companies House)". beta.companieshouse.gov.uk. Retrieved 13 September 2016.
  6. ^ "Optimax Clinics Limited and Ultralase Limited - Competition Commission Report 20 November 2013" (PDF). Archived from the original on 30 December 2013. Retrieved 30 December 2013.
  7. ^ Britton, Paul (1 June 2015). "Exclusive: Jobs lost at Manchester's private Bridgewater Hospital as takeover deal confirmed". Retrieved 13 September 2016.
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External links

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