24 February 2026
Asda Opticians has announced a £2.5 million investment programme with plans to support practice refits, upgrade diagnostic technology, and introduce new training for staff.
The investment was unveiled at the company’s annual conference this month to support the continued development of Asda’s optical business, enhance clinical services, and strengthen colleague training and progression opportunities.
Plans for the investment include refitting 18 optical units to modernise facilities and improve the clinical environment, as well as to upgrade equipment including expanding access to optical coherence tomography and pre-test technology.
Asda Opticians has plans to launch a suite of technical, leadership, and personal development training for optical colleagues to refresh their knowledge and strengthen confidence working with patients and products.
The company highlighted its committment to the continued development of its Level 6 Dispensing Optician apprenticeship, with a third cohort starting in September 2026, along with plans to double its 2026 pre-reg intake.
Asda Opticians also confirmed two senior leadership appointments.
Joe Huntford has been appointed head of optical, bringing multi-site retail experience and three years spent within Asda’s field operations team.
Peena Govind has been appointed superintendent optometrist, following 18 months as deputy superintendent and nearly 20 years in the industry. Govind will lead professional standards and clinical excellence.
Huntford explained that the Asda Opticians 2026 conference focused on: “looking ahead – celebrating the strengths of our optical community, while setting clear ambitions for the future.”
Optometrists, dispensing opticians, contact lens opticians, pre-registration optometrists and second-year student dispensing opticians participated in sessions designed to elevate patient care and strengthen clinical standards.
The conference was supported by more than 30 suppliers from the optical sector.
Huntford continued: “Asda Opticians has a clear strategy to continue growing, and through our continued investment in our facilities and colleague development, our focus remains on delivering accessible, high quality, great value eye care for every patient who walks through our doors.”
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