In the beginning
Conlons Opticians was founded in 1882 by Bernard Conlon, who opened his first practice in Mount Pleasant, Liverpool, conducting eye tests and dispensing high quality frames including high quality gold.
The 2nd generation
Bernard's sons Bill and Alf joined him in the business, and Bill who was a Dispensing Optician eventually took over the family firm in 1909. Bill died in 1946 and was the last "Mr Conlon". Having 3 daughters meant that in the context of the business the name died out, though it still remains in the same family today.
The 3rd generation - A time of great change
Bill's eldest daughter, Winifred, managed Conlons from 1946. Winifred Harbord was at the helm when the NHS was formed. Everyone became entitled to a free sight test and spectacles overnight, but the industry wasn't geared up for it. At this time demand was high and it took over a year for new glasses to be made up. Winifred, with the help of her brother-in-law Tony Barton expanded the company with new practices in Widnes, Colwyn Bay, Shotton, Garston and Huyton.
The 4th generation - Innovation is the key
Winifred retired as Managing Director in 1970, and Mike Barton, Tony's son, joined Conlons as Managing Director having trained in contact lenses at Moorfields Eye Hospital, London. Mike embarked upon a programme of modernisation and acquisition, introduced contact lenses to Conlons, and expanded the company to become the largest independent optician in the North West. Mike noted:
"Innovation was the key! Conlons were the first to really embrace disposable contact lens technology, and easy payment by direct debit. We were first to offer home delivery for contact lenses and we introduced interest free credit for spectacles and sunglasses".
John Welsby succeeded Mike in 1997 and began an investment programme to put Conlons practices amongst the very best in terms of shop fittings and, perhaps more importantly, eye examination equipment.
Today, over 130 years on
Peter Barton, Mike's son joined the Board of Directors in January 2008, after gaining his experience and acumen working as a business consultant with Accenture. Peter quotes:
"Our mission is to provide a top quality eye care service to all our customers so that they are delighted to return and recommend their friends and family in the future. I am proud to be the 5th generation to join the company." |