Birmingham Optical Group acquired

Birmingham Optical Group’s Arran Fewkes

Advancing Eyecare (AEC), a leading provider of ophthalmic instruments in North America, has acquired the Birmingham Optical Group.

The transaction is set to significantly expand AEC’s global footprint – and establish it with a strong presence in the UK. Birmingham Optical will, in turn, seek to broaden its customer base through AEC’s infrastructure, proprietary product lines and global manufacturer relationships.

Following the transaction, financial details of which were not disclosed, Birmingham Optical will continue to be led by Arran Fewkes and the current management team. It will operate as a division of AEC, reporting to AEC CEO Jim McGrann.

“As we continue to thoughtfully grow the AEC platform, Birmingham Optical’s scalable solutions, track record of exceptional service and deeply embedded supplier and customer relationships across the UK market will be a strong complement to our leading North American capabilities,” said Jim McGrann. “We are thrilled to be working with Arran and the entire team as we join forces to establish one of the largest networks of reliable service in the ophthalmic equipment industry in North America and Europe.”

Arran Fewkes commented: “This is an exciting next chapter in Birmingham Optical’s storied history. Our partnership with AEC will enhance our reach, product offerings and the best-in-class service our customers and partners expect. I look forward to collaborating closely with Jim and the world-class AEC team to build on the momentum across the business and grow our reputation as the partner of choice for the optical industry on both sides of the Atlantic.”