Urquharts invests in three more practices

From left: Peter Telfer, Neil Gray, Linda Dempsey and Alistair Duff

Urquhart Opticians has added three more optical practices to its existing five, through the acquisition of MacGregor Opticians in West Kilbride, Saltcoats and Stranraer.

Peter Telfer, managing director of Urquharts, said: “We have always stressed that maintaining our values is the most important part of any acquisition, and in the three MacGregor practices, we have found an excellent fit.

“Like our existing practices in Kilmarnock, Ayr, Troon, Prestwick and Kilwinning, the new locations are already strongly embedded within their local communities. This is very important to us, as we seek to play an active part anywhere we have a professional presence.”

Optometrist Linda Dempsey who has been with Urquharts for four years, has been appointed director of the Stranraer practice and has invested in the practice as a co-owner. Neil Gray, director and co-owner of the Kilwinning practice, adds responsibility for Saltcoats and West Kilbride.

Urquharts has operated within Ayrshire for more than 100 years and recently launched a Care & Community Fund worth £1,000 each month to assist local charities and good causes,for which the three new locations are now eligible.

The MacGregor Opticians practices were established in Saltcoats in 1988 with the sale arising this year through the retirement of the founder’s son, Brian Macgregor.

Brian said: “I could not be happier to be passing my father’s legacy and my own life’s work on to the Urquharts team. Both sides have taken time to ensure it’s an exciting development for staff, clients and the community at large.”

The six figure purchase of the MacGregor’s chain will be doubled over the next two years, as all three new practices will be refitted with upgraded facilities.