About The Optic Shop,
South Wales

Two independent opticians, with several practices across the South Wales region, have joined forces under new leadership to uphold the bright future of independent eyecare in the local community.

The Optic Shop, first established in Bridgend in 1991 by Russell Evan-Jones, has since amassed several additional practices located in Carmarthen, Crosshands, Porthcawl and Swansea. Over the years, the practice has garnered an exceptional reputation for providing the highest standards of clinical excellence while nurturing enduring relationships with patients in the local area.

The long-standing opticians recently entered a new chapter, now under the leadership of fellow independent practice Directors, Lewis Richard and Heddwyn Davies, as the current owners of the Optic Shop, Russell and Helen, take the opportunity to retire.

Lewis Richards and Heddwyn Davies, who will be taking on the role of Directors following the current owners’ retirement, bring a wealth of experience to the team. As Directors and optometrists across four Evans & Hughes Opticians locations within South Wales, the duo are well versed in upholding high standards of clinical excellence across multiple independent practices.

Previous owner, Russell’s daughter, Claudia Evans-Jones, will also be continuing in her role as area manager across all five practice locations.

Speaking on their roles at their new practice, Heddwyn said: “Myself and Lewis are really honoured that Russell and Helen have entrusted their practice to our leadership.

I know we share the same high values and ethics and we will endeavour to uphold the highest standards of eyecare as we move forwards, ensuring that patients continue to receive the personalised independent service that they have come to expect at the Optic Shop.”

Heddwyn Davies has been with Evans & Hughes Opticians for over 30 years, since attaining his professional certificates in Glaucoma, Medical Retina and Low Vision, as well as recently securing an Independent Prescribing accreditation.

Lewis Richards joined the team in 2009 and has brought a wide array of professional certifications alongside Independent Prescribing and providing sessional work at Glangwilli Hospital for the local eye department.

Next year will mark 35 years of establishment for The Optic Shop, the team hope to further improve their impact on the local community under their new leadership by introducing new services such as post-cataracts examinations.

Practice Manager, Gina Ozzati, commented: “Being a part of an independent company that has been in business for this long is truly amazing, and the whole team is passionate about the work that we do.

“We’re really looking forward to this exciting new chapter and hope to continue to build on the legacy that Russell and Helen created to provide exceptional independent eye care in South Wales.”