Guernsey's Specsavers founders get lifetime retail award

Specsavers' founders have been given a lifetime award for their role in "transforming access to optical and audiology care".

The multinational company was started in Guernsey by Douglas and Dame Mary Perkins on a table-tennis table in their spare bedroom in 1984. The company now has more than 2,600 stores in 11 countries.

They were recognised with the Lifetime Contribution Award, at the Retail Gazette Awards last week, which seeks to honour people shape the future of the industry.

Dame Mary said she was "genuinely surprised" to receive the award, and described it as a "real honour to be recognised".

She said: "It's a real honour to be recognised by the industry, especially as Doug and I approach 60 years in optics.

"What makes it even more special is knowing that Specsavers has only ever been possible because of the passion and commitment of our partners and colleagues.

"They've helped shape the business from day one and continue to make a difference for our customers every day."

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