Independent celebrates fifth birthday

An independent opticians in Portsmouth has celebrated five years since it opened its doors with a celebratory event that was attended by more than 100 people.

Anne Gill Eyecare was established in January 2013 by dispensing optician Anne Gill. With 35 years experience in the profession, Ms Gill was made redundant in 2011 after the practice she worked for in the city was taken over by a large company. Locuming for a number of years thereafter, she gained business confidence and decided to open her own practice.

The practice opened with three employees, and in the last five years has doubled its staff. The practice now employs two optometrists, two apprentices and a receptionist.

Speaking about the practice’s success, Ms Gill said: “The growth of the business has been down to the incredible encouragement and support we have received from the local community and various partners, which was clear to see at our party. When I look back on the past five years, we have achieved more than I ever imagined.”

Reflecting on her decision to open her own practice, the dispensing optician shared: “I never thought I would enjoy the business side as much as I do. I don’t think you can ever fully appreciate all the elements that go into a business – looking after staff, identifying the best marketing opportunities and monitoring all the financial aspects – but my advice is to surround yourself with the right people and just go for it.”