16 October 2025
Specsavers has announced a £7 million expansion and upgrade of its Vision Labs manufacturing facility in Kidderminster, Worcestershire.
The manufacturing facility produces prescription lenses for more than 900 Specsavers practices across the UK.
The investment of £7 million over a two-year period will rollout new technology to streamline manufacturing and make better use of space and materials to meet rising demand, the company said.
On completion, the additional capacity is expected to enable the production of bespoke manufactured ophthalmic lenses to increase from 140,000 to more than 170,000 per week.
Lee Timbrell, director of European manufacturing and distribution operations at Specsavers, said: “The announcement is an important milestone for Vision Labs and marks an exciting new chapter for the site and its 330-strong team, who work tirelessly to provide the very best service to our practices throughout the UK.”
Timbrell added that the investment “is a commitment to them, to our customers, and to the future of Specsavers in the UK.”
It is expected that the upgrades to the supply chain operations will result in environmental benefits, Specsavers suggested, such as more efficient use of electricity, reduced water consumption, and a reduction in the overall carbon footprint of the site.
The facilities will also feature improved working environments and amenities, the company added.
Robert Elliot, director of business engagement and policy at the Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce, remarked on the “long a proud history” of Specsavers in Worcestershire.
“This is a real vote of confidence in the local economy and workforce, and we look forward to continued close collaboration with Specsavers as they deliver this exciting next phase of growth,” he added.
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