Why Choosing an Independent Optician at Parkhurst & Co Matters More Than Ever

This morning’s news highlighted how many independent veterinary practices are being bought by large corporate groups — and how that shift is driving prices up for pet owners.

The reason? Once a business is backed by investors or private-equity firms, it’s no longer run purely for the benefit of its clients. The focus changes from care to returns, and from community to shareholder value.

It’s a story that’s also unfolding in the optical world.

Doncaster Branch Staff

The Corporate Shift in Optics and What It Means for Independent Optician Parkhurst.

Across the UK, hundreds of once-independent opticians have been absorbed into large national chains and investor-backed retail groups. While their shopfronts may look the same, decisions about pricing, suppliers, and appointment times are now often made by a central head office focused on profit margins rather than patient care.

For patients, that can mean:

• Higher prices to meet investor targets

• Shorter appointments to increase volume

• Reduced continuity as staff rotate between branches

• Restricted product choice tied to corporate supply contracts

• Less flexibility in how care is delivered

How Independent Optician Parkhurst & Co Puts Patients First

At Parkhurst & Co., we’ve chosen a different path. We remain a family-run independent practice, built on relationships, trust, and long-term care — not corporate ownership.

Our independence means we:

• Set our own standards, based purely on what’s best for each patient

• Invest in the latest technology and training, not shareholder dividends

• Choose our suppliers freely, offering the products and lenses we truly believe in

• Spend the time you need — for thorough eye care, eyewear styling, or a relaxed fitting

From our original Doncaster practice to our five thriving locations — Doncaster, Bentley, Mexborough, Goldthorpe, and Thorne — our values haven’t changed: honesty, care, and quality without compromise.

Bentley Branch Staff

Personal Care Without the Corporate Premium at Parkhurst & Co Matters more than ever

Corporate ownership often brings extra layers of management, marketing budgets, and investor repayments — all costs that ultimately appear in the price tag.

At Parkhurst & Co., your money goes where it should: into quality eyewear, advanced eye care, and professional expertise. We believe exceptional service shouldn’t come with a shareholder surcharge.

Independent optician Doesn’t Mean Small — It Means Accountable

Being independent doesn’t make us small; it makes us responsible. We answer directly to our patients, not investors — allowing us to:

• Introduce new services like Physiotherapy and Dry Eye Clinics

• Support local charities and community events

• Employ local people, keeping skills and spending in the region

• Build real relationships — many of our patients have trusted our family for decades

That’s something no corporate chain can replicate.

Mexborough Branch Staff

Choose Independent — Choose Care That’s Yours

Thorne Branch Staff

So when you book your next eye test, choose glasses, or explore lenses like ZEISS Precision Lenses, remember: independent opticians like Parkhurst & Co. exist because

personal care still matters.

📞 Call your local branch or💻 Book online: www.parkhurstopticians.com

Independent, family-run, and focused on you — not investors. That’s the Parkhurst & Co. difference.

Parkhurst and Co Styling Opticians with Face a Face Rep .JVG Rep and Tokai Rep