Specsavers Joins IAPB to Advocate for Better Eye Health

LONDON—The International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness (IAPB), a global eye health alliance with over 250 organizations in more than 100 countries, has announced the addition of Specsavers, an optometry and audiology provider with more than 2,500 stores across the U.K., Europe, Australia, New Zealand and Canada, as a new member. The organization joins IAPB in the fight against avoidable sight loss, furthering one of the company’s key pillars to improve quality of life outcomes for disadvantaged members of society, the announcement stated.

“For more than four decades, Specsavers has been driven by a singular vision: to change people’s lives through better sight and hearing,” said Dame Mary Perkins, who founded Specsavers with her husband Doug more than 40 years ago. “We believe everyone, regardless of their circumstances, deserves access to quality eye health services. That’s why we’ve invested heavily in initiatives like optical coherence tomography (OCT) scans, allowing for early detection of conditions, such as diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma—directly aligning with IAPB’s mission to eliminate preventable blindness.” 

Peter Holland, CEO of IAPB, added, “We are delighted to welcome Specsavers to IAPB as a Group A Member. They join a global alliance of over 250 organizations working toward a world where no one experiences unnecessary sight loss and everyone can reach their full potential. Specsavers’ expertise in optometry and commitment to making a difference align with our mission and will strengthen our collective efforts to improve eyecare accessibility globally.”

“We can learn an enormous amount from Specsavers’ innovative approaches, from diagnostic technology to community outreach,” Holland continued. “Their data-driven research and expanded access to care are vital tools in our shared mission. The rollout of OCT scans, for example, is a game-changer in early detection, directly supporting our goal of reducing the burden of preventable blindness. Their mobile clinics and home visit services are reaching underserved populations, ensuring that no one is left behind. These initiatives not only improve individual lives but can also strengthen our collective advocacy efforts.”

Through this partnership, the two groups look to take a powerful step forward in the global fight for better eye health in the U.K., Europe, Australia, New Zealand, Canada and beyond, the announcement stated, with the goal of bringing innovative solutions and increased access to care to those in need.