In business in Portlaoise for 21 years, Infocus Opticians has just relocated from 52/53 Mercantile house, Bull Lane, to a bigger brighter premises at 45 Main Street.
The practice was founded in 2002 by John Fogarty and Breen McManus who are both members of CORU, the State body responsible for regulating health and social care professionals along with the Association of Optometrists.
When the business first opened, they started off with 20 frames and one staff member, Cathariona Mulligan.
Over the years, along with loyal customers, the business welcomed longstanding staff Marie Brennan and Siobhan Ryan.
Following on from the success of the Portlaoise practice, subsequent practices opened in Naas and Kilkenny.
In 2019 Infocus Opticians welcomed Vicarstown native Rebecca Stapleton to the team in Portlaoise.
Rebecca, who is now the Optometrist of the Portlaoise outlet, is also a member of the Association of Optometrists Ireland and is also registered with CORU.
She has brought a wide variety of experience to the Portlaoise practice, having worked in a busy city centre practice as well as the laser eye department at the Blackrock Clinic.
From the initial eye test to the collection of finished spectacles, Infocus works to deliver a personal and professional service to patients. Quality aftercare is always assured.
The practice participates in the ongoing continuous programme of development designed by the Association of Optometrists Ireland and keeps abreast of new practices and technologies in the world of optometry.
One such new technology is in the area if myopia management whereby using specialised corrective lenses we can slow down or even halt progression of short-sightedness in children.
“Everyone should have their eyes tested every two years, and more often if they have a family history of eye conditions such as glaucoma and macular degeneration,” Rebecca said.
Infocus Opticians has a vast selection of frames in stock from those aimed at medical card and PRSI patients to those seeking designer looks.
Currently fashionable are bolder looks for both women and men, according to Breen McManus.
He said: “Statement styles that are larger than life are very much in evidence, with lots of colour. Vintage boxy looks and cats’ eye frames are giving vintage vibes.”
The days when glasses were seen as a hindrance are over, with some people now having multiple frames and using them as fashion accessories.
At the other end of the spectrum are rimless glasses, favoured by those who prioritise comfort and lightness. The range stocked at Infocus Opticians ensures there is a frame to flatter everyone.
Brands available include Ray Ban, Tom Ford, Mulberry, Max Mara, Vogue eyewear, Carolina Herrera, Kate Spade, Guess, and Esprit.
The team at Infocus guide patients through the process of choosing frames to suit individual face shapes, personalities and lifestyles. “We like to spend a lot of time with both children and adults to ensure they find the frames that suit them.”
Rebecca and the staff are happy to advise on UVA/UVB protection and polarised sunglasses. They also offer a range of sports eye wear.
John, Breen and Rebecca expressed thanks to their loyal staff and customers and look forward to welcoming new patients.
“People often have the misconception that they need to have an appointment but that’s not the case. Drop in, browse and have a chat.”
