Achievements celebrated at Aberdeenshire opticians
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A director duo are celebrating their success at an Aberdeenshire high street opticians.
Stefanie Carnaby and Niamh Shaw-Moir, retail and ophthalmic directors respectively at Specsavers Peterhead and Fraserburgh stores have hit a four-year milestone together.
The duo have proudly served as directors of Specsavers Peterhead store since November 2019, and successfully opened the doors of their second store, located in Fraserburgh in 2023.
The success achieved in Peterhead has been the driving force behind the expansion to Fraserburgh.
Stefanie and Niamh attribute their achievements to a steadfast commitment to customer satisfaction, but also to tireless dedication to staff development.
The duo, alongside the more recently joined optometrist director Janet Renfrew, have a vision of offering the most robust optical and audiological service in north Aberdeenshire.
Niamh said: "The work we have put into the Peterhead store over the last number of years has paid off.
"The feedback we get from the community was the driving force behind the new store in Fraserburgh, and the number one thing people always comment on is the professionalism and warmth of the whole team. It’s something we put a lot of work into.
"We are immensely proud of the team, and love that we can offer lots of professional development in the area.
"A lot of schools look past the profession, but our doors are always open to any young person who isn’t sure about what path they want to take yet.
"The team will happily talk you through some of the options available close to home."
Both stores are currently on track to have all their optometrists become qualified independent practitioners by May this year, allowing them to dispense medicines for eye-related issues without the need for a GP.
Store colleagues Amber, Caitlin, and Hana are currently on the path to becoming clinical technicians, receiving comprehensive training in cutting-edge technologies such as OCT scan capture, digital retinal imaging and pathology.
Amber is also undergoing specialised training in ear wax removal, expanding the range of services offered by the Fraserburgh team, a service seeing a significant increase in demand.
In addition, Nicola is in the process of completing a Certificate 4 BTEC. This blended programme provides an advanced level of knowledge and understanding of dispensing procedures, positioning individuals on a path to becoming a dispensing optician.
Meanwhile, Ebony in Fraserburgh and Steffi in Peterhead are making strides towards completing a Certificate 3 BTEC. This programme offers in-depth insights into the anatomy, physiology and pathology of the visual system.
Stefanie added: "Our store is not just a place of business; it's a hub for care and community and we aim to be a trusted partner in the health and happiness of the community."
Stefanie, Niamh and Janet are celebrating what has been achieved so far, but they are excited about what is to come over the next few years, and the staff they are bringing along for the ride.
To book an appointment or reach out about career development, visit the Peterhead store at 17 Marischal St, or call 01779 873570.
