Northern Ireland

Specsavers to reopen shops to public from Monday

Specsavers are reopening their stores for general appointments from Monday
Specsavers are reopening their stores for general appointments from Monday Specsavers are reopening their stores for general appointments from Monday

Specsavers is to reopen its outlets to the public from Monday, June 29.

The optical chain has only been open for urgent or essential cases since the coronavirus pandemic began in March.

Customers can now book routine eye and hearing tests, contact lens consultations and other services.

However, the company said it will prioritise emergency cases.

READ MORE: Ormo owner Premier's sales soar in wake of stay-at-home cookingOpens in new window ]

Specsavers Northern Ireland regional chair Sean McCauley said: "With lockdown measures easing, we’ve now extended our services in line with the latest government and health guidelines.

"This means that, for the first time since lockdown, customers are able to book eye and hearing tests."

Stores are encouraging customers to book appointments in advance to allow staff to manage social distancing.

Specsavers staff will use personal protective equipment.

Only a limited number of customers allowed into a shop at any one time.

Customers are also asked to pay by card, where possible.

Mr McCauley added: "We would ask customers to be patient with us as we welcome them back.

"The guidelines, which are designed to keep customers and colleagues safe, will mean fewer people are allowed in our stores and maintaining high levels of cleanliness may mean testing takes a little longer," he said.

"But we want to encourage anyone who has had any eye or hearing concerns during lockdown to book an appointment as soon as possible, so our teams can return to providing the highest levels of care throughout Northern Ireland."