Norville Opticians reopens after ‘transformative’ refurbishment

Norville Opticians has celebrated its ‘grand reopening’ with an event attended by the Mayor of Gloucester.

The historic business, which was established in the city in 1898, has undergone an extensive refurbishment after joining the Hakim Group.

‘Significant investment’ has been made in the practice’s city centre location over the past 18 months, including an upgrade to the clinical technology, an overhaul of the interior, and the creation of a “relaxed, boutique environment with unique eyewear from around the world.”

The practice invited guests to see its new look for themselves during the event, which took place on 22 October.

In attendance was the Mayor of Gloucester, councillor Collette Finnegan, who cut the ribbon alongside former Norville Group chairman Frank Norville OBE, who grew up in the building above the practice.

The then 122-year-old retail arm of the Norville Group was saved from administration in June 2020, after being acquired by the Hakim Group. The sale involved shared ownership opportunities for staff members and an investment and transformation programme.

Optometrist Gavin Rebello, one of the practice owners, said: “It was very important to us that the refit respected the local traditions of the business and the importance of the landmark building, whilst also safeguarding its future by modernising it with the latest technology and the most sought-after luxury brands.

“To say it’s been a rollercoaster over the last few months is an understatement; to get where we are now is a testament to the hard work of our team members, the support of Hakim Group HQ and the loyalty of our patients.

“This is a significant investment not just in the practice itself - it’s also an investment in our patients. The technology we have introduced will help provide them with the best possible eye care available.

“We can’t wait to show off the practice to all of our patients on their next visit.”

Frank Norville wished the new practice team well, adding: “I have many fond memories of time spent in this practice over the decades.

“The transformation of the premises by the new team, whilst protecting the memories and heritage, gives me great belief that the Norville name will continue to flourish whilst serving the Gloucestershire community for many years to come.”

Lead image: Pictured L-R are new Norville Opticians practice owners: Becci Zawadski, Emily Lyth, Jonathan Best, Gavin Rebello, Dan Zawadski and Lisa Jinks