OPTICIANS Vision Labs manufacturing centre in Kidderminster, which employs 350 people, is set to undergo a £5million expansion and upgrade after Specsavers confirmed the investment.
Specsavers says the cash injection in the company’s supply chain operation reinforces its commitment to outstanding customer service and long-term sustainable growth.
The expansion will unlock additional capacity and mean the site’s production increase incrementally from 140,000 to more than 200,000 lenses per week, once the centre is completed.
The centre produces prescription lenses for more than 900 Specsavers stores throughout the UK.
The major upgrade to invest £5million over two years will roll out new, state-of-the-art technology that will streamline the manufacturing process, making better use of space and materials. This will enable Specsavers to meet, and get ahead of, rising demand across its growing UK business.
The upgrade 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.
And staff at the site will benefit from improved working environments and updated amenities.
Lee Timbrell, director of European manufacturing and distribution operations at Specsavers, said: “The 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, said: “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.”
