A new, streamlined lens laboratory in Chipping Norton, Western Sydney, has been opened by OSA (Optical Supply of Australia) and City Optical to house three key capabilities – prescription lenses, fitting facilities and customer service.
The new development has been 18 months in the making and, according to the company, carefully planned with a goal to provide the best outcomes for customers.
Speaking at the laboratory launch, Pierre Longerna, Essilor CEO said, “We know our customers need good products and that’s what we offer them, but they also need a very strong local service.”
He said the significant investment in resources, equipment and technology would deliver exactly this. “This is a great example of what can be achieved when we respect the DNA of a brand and support it with global assets,” he said.
Mr Longerna acknowledged the effort of people from all the company’s divisions, including human resources and marketing, who had worked to make the project come to fruition.
The laboratory footprint has increased by almost 30%, allowing for more flexibility and increased capacity for OSA’s customers’ specific needs and customisations.
Additionally, workflows have been reconfigured and optimised around a ‘one piece’ flow methodology, moving from process by batch to a streamlined operation. The latest lens edging technology has been installed, including a fully automated dual head MEI with integrated auto blocking system, and integrated production system, which allows for quality, flexibility and rapid execution. New motorised conveyors have been installed to replace manual handling, focused on commitment to continuous improvement and safety. The laboratory is certified with ISO 9001:2015 (Quality Management System) and ISO 1337.6:2012 (Prescription Eye Protectors).
The OSA laboratory includes a new customer service area, flooded with natural light and complete with meeting rooms and a board room, all of which will be led by Customer Relations Manager, Charmaine Schneider, who has been with the company for over 11 years.
The New Laboratory address is Unit 4A / 43 Riverside Road, Chipping Norton, NSW, 2170. Contact details, including phone numbers and opening hours remain unchanged.
