Deb Lake, Louise Tetlow, Maree Herman, Peter Nicholls and Mark Collman

Mark Collman is now the sole owner of Phoenix Eyewear after purchasing the shares of long-standing optical industry participants and Phoenix’s co-founders Peter Nicholls and Deb Lake.

“It’s very exciting, but it’s also just a natural progression for us all,” says Mark.

Phoenix Eyewear commenced operation just over eight years ago with two ranges, Jono Hennessy and Mayhem. Since then the business has grown significantly and now represents more than twenty ranges and employs seven people.

Though the sale is a step towards retirement for Lake and Nicholls - both have worked in New Zealand’s optical industry for nearly 40 years, formerly with Optical Holdings Limited (OHL) - neither is stepping down just yet. “Naturally there will be a transition in some responsibilities and roles as a result of this transaction, but Peter will continue in a financial advisory role as long as I need him and will be invaluable to me during the next few months while the new structure takes shape,” explains Collman.

Meanwhile, Lake will be helping new appointee, Maree Herman, take over as office manager. Herman joins the Phoenix team from Pristina Holdings (Dermalogica skincare products) where she was a senior PA and customer service manager for eight years. “Maree comes to us with a very strong and successful background in administration and office management. She has a great sense of humour and can-do attitude and real empathy with clients, and will be a fabulous addition to our team,” says Collman.

As for any actual changes to the business itself, nothing’s planned for the short term, he says. “I plan to continue the fantastic progress that we have all achieved. Phoenix Eyewear is in very good health with an outstanding team who will remain with me. Yes, new brands are paramount to keep the business moving ahead, but good ones are not easy and take time to find. What I can promise is that we will remain strongly customer and service focused!”

Nicholls and Lake say they have thoroughly enjoyed their time with Phoenix. “One of the things we have most enjoyed most about being part of the optical industry are the fantastic people we met along the way, the wonderful support we have had from our suppliers and practice staff alike,” says Nicholls. “We will miss them all but will enjoy the opportunity to spend a little more time with family and maybe tick a couple of things off the ‘bucket list’.

“We are both very pleased to see the Phoenix Eyewear team continue forward under Mark’s stewardship and we are excited for him, and for his longer-term plans for the business. We are sure Phoenix will continue to grow and evolve under his management.”

Collman says he knows it’s going to be a challenge when Nicholls and Lake move on as their industry knowledge and reputation in New Zealand is so strong, but says everyone needs to push the boundaries some times to see what can be achieved.

“There is no doubt that there are changes ahead in the New Zealand market, but we are up for it. I honestly believe we are one of the best frame suppliers locally, but we will have to be creative and innovative to continue to lead the way. It’s not meant to be easy, but it can still be fun!”

Phoenix's brands include Ben Sherman, Jono Hennessy, William Morris, Cat, Kate Sylvester, Monoqool, O’Neill and Radley.