Specsavers to invest £5m in manufacturing facility

Specsavers has unveiled a “significant” investment in its UK supply chain, with plans to invest £5m over a two year period in its Vision Labs manufacturing facility in Kidderminster.

The investment will fund the expansion and upgrade of the Worcestershire site, which produces prescription lenses for more than 900 Specsavers stores throughout the UK. 

According to the group, the expansion will enable additional capacity and see the site’s production increase incrementally from 140,000 to more than 200,000 lenses per week upon completion.

The upgrade will see the rollout of new, “state-of-the-art” technology that will streamline the manufacturing process, making better use of space and materials.

It is also expected to result in a number of environmental benefits, including more efficient use of electricity, reduced water consumption and a reduction in the site’s overall carbon footprint. 

Lee Timbrell, director of European Manufacturing and Distribution Operations at Specsavers, said: “Today’s announcement is an important milestone for Vision Labs and marks an exciting new chapter for the site and its 350-strong team, who work tirelessly to provide the very best service to our stores throughout the UK.

“This investment is a commitment to them, to our customers and to the future of Specsavers in the UK.”

Robert Elliot, director of Business Engagement and Policy, Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce, added: “Specsavers has a long and proud history in Worcestershire, and we’re delighted to see the business make such a substantial investment in its operations here in Kidderminster.

“This is a real vote of confidence in the local economy and workforce, and we look forward to continued close collaboration with Specsavers as they deliver this exciting next phase of growth.”