National Optical Care founder and Managing Director, Tomas Steenackers and George and Matilda CEO, Chris Beer.
The George and Matilda Eyecare network is set to grow exponentially with the acquisition of all 26 practices in the National Optical Care group.
Now in its eighth year of operation, at the completion of this latest acquisition, the George and Matilda Eyecare network will comprise over 120 practices, servicing over 140 communities through their various outreach programs, with a team of over 600 people across Australia.
the George and Matilda Eyecare network will comprise over 120 practices, servicing over 140 communities… with a team of over 600 people across Australia
While business ownership will change, all National Optical Care practices will retain their local brand identities and there will be no changes to the team or their employment conditions.
George and Matilda CEO, Chris Beer said he was “delighted to announce the merger” which will create “a much larger community of like-minded optometry practices”.
He said investment in National Optical Care by the Australian owned optometry group “allows our partners to continue to grow, while giving them access to back-end support like best-available technology, data analytics, targeted marketing, human resource support, increased buying power and supply chain support”.
“Our partners maintaining their local clinical independence is something which we fully support, everyone is unique and independent and that is just the way we want it to stay,” Mr Beer added.
National Optical Care founder and Managing Director, Tomas Steenackers said, “Having explored various options, George and Matilda Eyecare is a business that is most aligned to our values and our passion for delivering the highest possible standard of specialised eye care to our patients and local communities. This is a merger of two aligned, patient-focussed optical businesses and the merger will be good for the future of our employees, our patients and our communities”.
The 26 National Optical Care practices are located across the east coast of Australia, with 15 practices in Queensland, six in New South Wales, three in Australian Capital Territory and two in Tasmania.
Mr Beer said George and Matilda Eyecare is currently in discussions with more prospective partners across Australia and further announcements are expected in the near future.
George and Matilda’s acquisition of National Optical Care remains subject to key terms of the transaction being met.
