Voting opens in the AOP Awards 2019
The Association of Optometrists (AOP) is inviting patients and practitioners to support excellence in the optical profession by casting their vote in the AOP Awards 2019.
Following shortlisting by a panel of industry experts, 11 AOP Award categories are now open to public vote including two new accolades, Locum of the Year and Audiology Practice of the Year. A further two categories, Frame of the Year and Product of the Year, will be chosen exclusively by the Association’s members, with voting opening on 1 November.
AOP Chief Executive, Henrietta Alderman described the AOP Awards as a welcome opportunity to celebrate achievement in optics: “All our finalists have demonstrated exceptional passion and professionalism to get this far. We are delighted that in 2019 the Awards will also recognise the essential contributions of locum optometrists, and the unique role of optical practices incorporating hearing care. With finalists representing areas across optics, I hope the profession will join me in showing their support and casting their vote.”
Commenting on the 2019 finalists, head judge, Dr Ian Beasley said: “The quality of entries was extremely high, the finalists not only demonstrate commitment and hard work but real innovation. Working in optics, I know the level of dedication in providing excellence in patient care there is in the sector – so it’s fantastic to be able to recognise that in the AOP Awards.”
The AOP Awards 2019 are supported by headline sponsor CooperVision. The ceremony will take place at leading trade and education event, 100% Optical, with finalists, sponsors and guests enjoying a night of entertainment as the winners are announced.
Commenting on the Awards being held at 100% Optical for a third year, Ms Alderman said: “The AOP Awards highlight those leading the way in optics. It therefore feels right that the Awards are hosted at 100% Optical – which showcases the latest insights, technologies and trends in the optical profession.”
Voting is open until 5pm on Wednesday 12 December and will be facilitated by online voting specialist Mi-Voice. A voting link for the members’ choice Awards will be emailed directly to AOP members on Thursday 1 November. More information on all finalists and the voting process is available at www.aop.org.uk/education-and-events/aop-awards/aop-awards-2019.
The Lifetime Achievement Award is selected by the AOP Chair of the Board, Michael George, and AOP Chief Executive, Henrietta Alderman.
Ends
For more information, please contact Emily Campbell, Interim PR and Media Manager, at the Association of Optometrists, [email protected] or telephone 020 7549 2040.
High resolution images can be found in this drop box folder.
Notes to Editors
Association of Optometrists
The Association of Optometrists (AOP) is the leading representative membership organisation for optometrists in the UK. We support over 80% of practising optometrists, to fulfil their professional roles to protect the nation’s eye health. For more information, visit www.aop.org.uk
AOP Awards
Now in its eighth year, the AOP Awards, supported in 2019 by headline sponsor Cooper Vision, has become a highlight of the optical calendar. Taking place at ExCeL, in London on Sunday, 13 January 2019, the ceremony will recognise achievement in 14 categories. Of these, 11 categories are open to public vote from 1 October, while voting for the two members’ choice awards will open on 1 November. All voting closes at 5pm on 12 December.
The following awards are now open for nominations:
- Audiology Practice of the Year
- Charity of the Year, Sponsored by Essilor
- Contact Lens Practitioner of the Year
- Dispensing Optician of the Year, sponsored by Millmead Optical
- Lecturer of the Year, sponsored by Specsavers
- Locum of the Year, sponsored by Johnson and Johnson Vision
- Newly-qualified Optometrist of the Year
- Optical Team of the Year, sponsored by Lloyd and Whyte
- Optometrist of the Year, sponsored by OCuSOFT
- Practice of the Year, sponsored by Optos
- Student of the Year
- Frame of the Year – Members’ choice award
- Product of the Year – Members’ choice award
Following recommendations from a panel of expert judges the following award will be decided by the AOP Chief Executive and Chair:
- Lifetime Achievement Award, sponsored by Alcon
For more information about the AOP Awards, and to nominate, visit www.aop.org.uk/awards
100% Optical
100% Optical is delivered in partnership with the AOP and our journal Optometry Today. Attracting over 8,000 UK and international visitors, the vibrant must-attend event takes place between 12-14 January at ExCeL, London. It's Europe's fastest growing optical event for industry professionals including optometrists, dispensing opticians, contact lens practitioners, ophthalmologists and undergraduates. Working alongside award-winning events company, Media 10, 100% Optical has become the industry’s flagship annual, international event – combining creativity and innovation to expand the delegate experience. For more information visit www.100percentoptical.com.