Specsavers Optical Services & Products

Brand History and Origins

Specsavers was founded in 1984 by Doug and Mary Perkins in their spare bedroom in Guernsey. The brand was established following the deregulation of the UK optical market, allowing for more competition and affordable eyewear. Since its inception, Specsavers has grown through a unique joint-venture partnership model, where local opticians and audiologists own and run their own stores as directors, supported by a central corporate infrastructure.

Manufacturing and Logistics

As a global provider, Specsavers does not rely on a single manufacturing site. Their eyewear frames and contact lenses (often sold under the 'easyvision' private label) are sourced and manufactured in various locations across Europe and Asia, including major hubs like China and Thailand. They operate large-scale regional distribution centers and lens glazing labs to ensure rapid turnaround times for their customers.

Ownership Structure

Specsavers remains a privately held family company. It is not listed on the stock market, which has allowed the Perkins family to maintain control over its long-term strategy. The business is headquartered in Guernsey, a British Crown Dependency, and operates across the UK, Ireland, the Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Finland, Spain, Australia, and New Zealand.