Olly Beadsworth, optometrist, performing LLLT to treat dry eye in Yeovil
If you've ever had your vision or hearing tested in Dorset or Somerset, there's a good chance you'll recognise the name Robert Frith, with practices across the two counties, as well as the original in Twickenham.
Although the majority of practices are based in the South West today, the company was founded 100 years ago by Robert's uncle, John Frith, who opened Frith Bros in Twickenham, combining optometry, photography and pharmacy. As the business expanded, it was handed to John's three nephews, each specialising in a different trade. Eventually the ventures separated, and Robert, the optometrist, continued the practice next door, where it still thrives today.
By 1976, Robert opened a second practice in Shaftesbury and relocated his family to nearby Marnhull. Described by colleagues as a charismatic man who cared deeply about staff and patients, his expertise and dedication to service quickly earned the trust of the local community. During this period, chain opticians began to dominate, but Robert recognised the opportunities of a partnership model, with each practice run by a committed local professional who shared
'Robert's vision was a group of independent practices, each with an invested partner at the helm, that benefit from being a group while still having their own autonomy, says Ben Williams, practice partner.
After opening various practices across the region and the acquisition of the IJ Brown Partnership in 2016, the Robert Frith group now comprises 12 independent practices, and, after Robert passed away in 2021, his founding principles and strong values continue to shape how teams care for patients.
Robert Frith performing sight test in the '70s (left). Jacinda Powell, practice manager, performing OCT scan in Yeovil (right).
Supporting the practices behind the scenes is Robert Frith Services, a management company based in Gillingham, North Dorset. Formed to provide business management, financial, marketing, HR and administrative support to each of the practices, the company allows the group's eye care professionals to focus on what they do best: looking after their patients.
Another practice partner, Simon Frackiewicz, adds: 'Robert was driven and motivated to do the best by his patients, and it's that legacy which underpins the philosophies of the group today.
While the warm welcome customers receive at Robert Frith Optometrists hasn't changed over the last century, the services certainly have. From the introduction of plastic contact lenses in the 1930s to the many additional enhanced services offered today, as well as the latest digital retinal imaging and OCT retinal scanning, all practices have continually embraced the latest developments in eye care.
That innovation continues today with treatments for early AMD and dry eye, alongside digital dispensing technology designed to help patients find their ideal frames and lenses with greater precision.
Claire Galloway, practice partner, adds: 'There are far more personalised solutions available than ever before. Improvements in lens technology, coatings, contact lenses and diagnostic equipment mean we can better tailor eye care to suit each patient's lifestyle?'
Much as the services have changed, so too have the eyewear trends. From customers flocking for cat-eye frames and browline glasses in the '50s to the power-dressing era of the '80s. By the '9Os, the trend for understated professional eyewear brought rimless frames and tiny oval lenses, while recent years have seen a return to vintage styles and a greater focus on sustainability.
A practice in the late '80s (left). Robert Frith in Blandford (middle). Yeovil's original site in the Quedam Centre (right).
Step into a Robert Frith practice today and you'll find designer frames from brands including Ray-Ban, Tom Ford, Oakley and Maui Jim, alongside knowledgeable staff who take pride in serving their local communities.
'I think the personal approach is what makes us special, says Beverley Blandamer, practice partner. 'We really get to know our patients and build long-term relationships with them and their families?
A century since this story began, Robert's legacy of exceptional eye care lives on in all of the Robert Frith practices. The group is marking its 100-year anniversary throughout 2026 with special events, competitions, open days and exclusive offers across its practices.
To experience the personal service and expert care that have defined Robert Frith Optometrists for generations, visit your local practice or book on the website.