In an open letter to Insight magazine responding to its coverage of Big W’s decision to close its in-store optometry practices, Optometry Australia has defended in-store optometrists. The organisation wrote:

We refer to an article published by Insight on 2/05/2019, written by Callum Glennen and headlined: "Lessons behind the demise of Big W Optical: 41 stores to close, 175 jobs affected" and we write on behalf of our members affected by this decision.

Mr Ryan's statement that, "Basing an optometry practice within a discount department store would have been ineffective in attracting high-level optometrists, and this filtered through to patients", is an affront to optometrists who work within these practices.

Likewise, to refer to optometrists working within Big W Optical as providing an "add-on sale", is also disingenuous to optometrists who strive to provide the highest possible optometric patient and clinical care possible.

Peter Ryan's clear assertion, whether intended or not, is that because Big W Optical sat within a business noted for discounting, that optometry would be offered in this environment as a cheap alternative, seeks to discredit optometrists. their professionalism and their role in community eye health.

Perhaps Mr Ryan, and Mr Glennen should have taken the time to interview some of the optometrists affected by this decision as they then would have received a much better understanding of some of the factors leading the the Big W decision and how much the decision has impacted them personally.

Since the announcement, Optometry Australia has been working closely with our members, along with Woolworths Group, to ensure the rights our our members and practice staff are met.

Yours sincerely

(signed)

Darrel Baker

“The Mr Ryan referred to in our letter, is Peter Ryan, director of retail consultancy firm Red Communications who provided commentary on the closure to Insight,” Insight added for clarification.