The Association of British Dispensing Opticians (ABDO) has published a special commemorative supplement marking 100 years of the dispensing optics profession, as part of its year-long centenary celebrations.
Included with the September issue of Dispensing Optics journal, the souvenir publication celebrates a century of professional achievement, innovation and patient care, bringing together historical reflections, contemporary perspectives and a comprehensive timeline charting the evolution of the profession from 1926 to 2026.
The supplement forms part of ABDO's wider campaign to celebrate the profession's centenary throughout 2026. As part of the milestone year, ABDO has undertaken an ambitious programme of visits to 100 optical practices across the UK. The visits have provided an opportunity to meet members, hear their personal journeys into the profession and learn first-hand what they value most about working as dispensing opticians and contact lens opticians.
The publication highlights the profession's rich heritage while showcasing its continued relevance and expanding role within modern eyecare services.
Features include:
- A curated 100-year timeline documenting landmark moments in the development of the dispensing optics profession, including key regulatory, educational and industry milestones
- Reflections from long-standing ABDO members, including some of the 245 members celebrating more than 50 years in the profession during the centenary year
- Articles exploring the evolution of dispensing techniques, equipment and professional practice from the early 20th century to the present day
- Case studies demonstrating the growing clinical contribution of contact lens opticians, including their involvement in delivering minor eye conditions services
- Perspectives from sector leaders on the role of dispensing opticians and contact lens opticians as part of a multidisciplinary approach to meeting increasing demand for eyecare services
- A tribute to internationally renowned dispensing optician Professor Mo Jalie, whose influence on ophthalmic lens innovation helped shape modern practice
Nicky Collinson, editor of Dispensing Optics, said: "The history of the dispensing optics profession is both fascinating and extraordinary, and it has been an absolute pleasure to collate just a fraction of the memories and stories that exist for this souvenir supplement. We hope members will share the supplement within their practice teams, and perhaps even with patients in their front-of-house areas."
ABDO president Brenda Rennie said: "To mark the 100th anniversary of the dispensing optics profession, we are delighted to present this special souvenir supplement celebrating an extraordinary milestone.
"Through a collection of historical and contemporary articles, alongside a timeline highlighting key regulatory, professional and cultural milestones from 1926 to 2026, we celebrate the rich heritage and enduring contribution of dispensing opticians, past and present.
"Members of ABDO, and its predecessor organisations dating back to the early 20th century, have a proud history of serving the public with professionalism, expertise and care. Our commitment to multidisciplinary working, lifelong learning and the continued expansion of the profession's scope of practice will ensure dispensing optics continues to thrive for generations to come.
"As we celebrate the first century of our profession, we also look to the future. We hope this publication inspires the next generation of dispensing opticians and reflects the innovation, dedication and excellence that will shape the profession for the next 100 years."
For a digital copy or PDF version of the centenary supplement to share with colleagues, practice teams or patients, contact ncollinson@abdo.org.uk. A limited number of additional print copies are also available.
