Campaign group welcomes spotlight on independents

December 19 2011

Chief executive of Sight Care, Paul Surridge, has welcomed the publication of Mary Portas’s government-commissioned review into the British High Street last week.

“The review published by retail expert, Mary Portas, should be welcomed by all businesses that continue to occupy a position on Britain’s high streets today,” Mr Surridge said.

“Portas’s report puts the High Street in the spotlight and importantly raises awareness of the independent sector, something which our dedicated campaign has been successful in doing, specifically highlighting the benefits of independent opticians to consumers.”

The review recommends that businesses, and especially independent retailers, focus on the three core elements of retailing; experience, service and specialism.

Mr Surridge added: “Instead of attempting and failing in the areas which independents struggle to compete with larger brands, Portas emphasises the need for businesses to focus their efforts on the three core elements.

“As part of the Eye Love My Local Independent Optician campaign, we encourage all practices to promote such values and that as opticians they are highly skilled professionals who take time to offer a quality and specialised service. As a result, with more and more businesses on the High Street coming under pressure to survive, it is evident independent opticians are thriving by offering great eye care and excellent customer service.”