If you’re a trained and qualified optometrist you might decide to go into business on your own, instead of joining an already established practice or a chain like Specsavers or Boots.

So, what do you need to think about before you can open?

 

  • Location

You will need a popular location with a lot of footfall, like a high street, or retail park with public transport routes close by so you don’t rule out non-drivers.

You may need to lease your shop to begin with. This makes size an important factor as you may have to pay per square foot of floor space, meaning space usage is essential, as your frames will need a large space as they are what you are primarily trying to sell. However, you still need room for a consulting room and the devices that go alongside eye tests.

 

  • Costs

As well as the rent on a lease for your practice, you will need to buy or fund your equipment. Hire Purchase can be an ideal solution for devices that will last for years, or using finance options for the newest technology can help spread costs for high ticket items. We suggest using finance partners such as Performance Finance, Braemer Finance, SnowBird Finance. Other finance options are available.

 

Technology advances have also allowed for machines to have many uses in 1 device without having to pay for multiple separate machines. For example the Tomey MR-6000 has 6 functions in 1, replacing the need for lots of different machines taking up space. The functions include Topography, Refraction, Keratometry, Tonometry, Pachymetry and a Dry eye analysis tool. Separately these machines would cost over £30,000, however the Tomey MR-6000 is nearly half the price, and can be leased or financed.

 

  • Space

The use of space is really important, especially if you are paying per square foot in an expensive city or town centre, you want to utilise as much of the space as possible to make your sales grow. This means having the majority of space on the floor for frames and glasses styles. Your consulting room needs to have all the equipment in to be able to perform an eye test to a decent standard. Machines can take up a lot of room and table space, so if you can get machines that combine tests and products, the more space you save!

 

To read more about the 6 in 1 Tomey MR-6000 Multifunction Unit, the ultimate space-saving and time-saving device, click here!