Opticians eyes bright future with new store

A Sunderland-based opticians has expanded after relocating to larger premises.

Gardners Opticians, the last remaining independent opticians in Sunderland city centre, has opened a new store at 41 Blandford Street after relocating from its previous site nearby.

The business, which has served customers in the city for more than 50 years, has taken on the entire 1900sq ft building, creating space for a wider product range and new technology.

The move to a ground-floor location is also expected to improve accessibility for customers, particularly elderly and visually impaired visitors, while helping the business attract new footfall.

Since acquiring the practice in 2024, third-generation optician Simon Gardner has invested in a new brand, website and expanded services, including a partnership to offer hearing care.

The store has also introduced new designer eyewear collections alongside its own North See label.

Simon said: “The new store has been really well received since we opened in May.

“Our previous unit, which was upstairs at number 17 Blandford St, was hidden and was quite challenging for some of our customers to access.

“By being on the ground floor, we have seen a lot more people pop in and we’ve been pleasantly surprised by how busy and friendly the street is. 

“We’ve even had people stop us on the street to help us out when carrying items to the new store. Everyone has just been so lovely and supporting.”

Simon added: “Growing up in a family of opticians, optometry is in my blood, so I was keen to ensure the city centre retained its last remaining independent opticians as soon as I heard Mr Gardner was retiring.

“We’ve really tried to bring the business into the 21st century with a new website, branding, social media presence and product range, all of which have been really well received, particularly the stocking of Canada Goose, which has been a huge hit. 

“One of the most important things I think we have achieved however is retaining the independent, family-feel on which the business has been built and has served it so well over the past 50 years.

“A main part of this has been our fantastic staff who really build a rapport with our customers, and this is evident in the number of people who stop by just for a chat, even when they don’t need their eyes testing.

“It’s a really unique business which is hopefully now in a position to serve the people of Sunderland for another 50 years.”

Support for the relocation was provided through Sunderland City Council’s business investment team, which signposted the company to grant and high street support programmes funded by the North East Mayoral Strategic Authority.

Councillor James Jackson, cabinet member for business, housing and regeneration at Sunderland City Council, added: “It’s fantastic to see Gardners Opticians continuing to invest in Sunderland and benefiting from the business support offer that is in place to help the city’s firms realise their potential.

“It's always really positive when homegrown businesses such as Gardners choose to continue to invest in the high street, creating a stronger offer for customers and helping to regenerate the area. 

“Small businesses are key to the city’s economy, and it’s important we do whatever we can as a council to ensure the city’s businesses have everything they need to grow and prosper.”

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