A Morecambe based advanced manufacturing company that supplies lenses to opticians has grown their business with the introduction of a new product.
Optimum Coatings Limited provide a range of lens services to the ophthalmic industry all over the UK, including lens tinting and anti-reflection coatings for well known retailers, and have an investment value of just over £1 million.
A major aspect of their business plan was to research new product opportunities. Optimum recognised that they could grow their business by developing a new lens coating utilising technologies developed for use within the aviation and military markets.
Optimum’s Managing Director Paul Bailey contacted Regenerate Pennine Lancashire, who helped develop a specification for the technology needed to produce the lens coating and evaluate suitable suppliers through their Lancashire Innovation Network service, which is supported by the European Regional Development Fund. Regenerate also supported the project with grant funding.
As a result, a new job has been created and a further 3 jobs are expected by September 2014.
Paul has his sights on developing Optimum even further through the use of digital marketing and social media. A new website and online tools have been specifically developed to enhance customer service. The website will also provide customers with specialist advice and guidance to help them grow and improve their businesses.
Paul Bailey said:
“The support from Regenerate has allowed us to exploit new products and market opportunities. Their business advisor took time to learn what our business needed to grow and offered tailored advice, particularly on where to source the required technology.”
Increased business has led to investment in additional capital equipment. Production capacity has been increased with the installation of an additional coating machine and the company is actively recruiting additional technicians to join the production team.
Paul added:
“Optimum has always held a strong position in the market, but that doesn’t mean we’re complacent. As well as our commitment to customer care, we’ll continue to provide a truly flexible lens coating and lens manufacturing service, with offers and initiatives to help our customers increase profitability.”
Regenerate’s Managing Director Steve Hoyle said:
“Our role is to help companies identify and evaluate new technologies and processes. Optimum are set for further business growth thanks to their new coating product and we are pleased we were able to help them to identify the right solution.”
