21 July 2017
The organiser of an annual conference designed specifically for independent opticians has announced the latest line-up of expert speakers who will take to the stage during the one-day event.
Independents Day (iDay) will be held at the Ricoh Arena on 6 November, directly following the National Eyecare Group conference on 5 November at the same venue.
During the one-day event, founder of eyewear company Kirk & Kirk, Jason Kirk (pictured), will address delegates with a talk about best practice in optical retail. The eyewear designer will also use his talk to discuss how and where in the UK optical retail environments compare to the US and Europe.
Also on-hand will be CEO of Leightons Opticians, Ryan Leighton, who will demonstrate to practitioners how the ‘voice of the customer’ has shaped the new identity of the independent optical group.
Offering a first-hand insight in business ownership, optometrist Lynne Fernandes will share insight and tips on how she runs three successful, yet quite different, practices.
The trio of optical experts will be joined by managing director of independent maternity and babywear retailer JoJo Maman Bebe, Laura Tenison.
Reflecting on this year’s conference, programme co-ordinator, Nick Atkins, said: “I’m delighted at the quality of the speakers we’ve secured at this year’s event. Following the success of last year’s Retail champion theme, delegate feedback was to delve a bit deeper into some of the subjects covered. With the vast majority of independents relying on the bulk of their income being derived by retail product sales, we wanted to continue to delve into how to be a successful independent optical retailer in today’s marketplace.”
For more information and to book visit the iDay website. An early bird rate is available until 28 August.