Euan McGinty: Relaxed and Informal Eye Examinations, With Leading Technology and a Special Interest in Dry Eye Management and Care

Ocean Optometry started with a passion for the finest eyewear available and an unrivalled level of eyecare. We selectively choose collections from the best independent eyewear manufacturers in the world and bring them to the heart of Downtown Halifax, the largest city in Atlantic Canada. Offering relaxed and informal eye examinations, with leading technology and a special interest in dry eye management and care.

We want to build lasting relationships with our patients and, crucially, within our brigade at work. We have an emphasis on continuing professional development and recognising unique and special moments which create wows for our staff and our clients.

Tell us about yourself?

My father was an optometrist and although I didn’t initially think of following in his footsteps, I am very glad that I eventually did. Optometry has been a real passion since my very first day at university and a career long dedication to independent practice has led to a career in two continents and successful business creations, including many cold start practices.

If you could go back in time a year or two, what piece of advice would you give yourself?

In chaos there is opportunity. People may think that things seem to fall into your lap, it is important that you work and dedicated to position yourself so that when opportunity presents itself, you are ready to take it.

What problem does your business solve?

We offer time to listen and get to know our patients, rather than treating them like items on a conveyor. We provide unique eyewear solutions to our clients.

What is the inspiration behind your business?

A series of experiences and meetings over the year with people, places and events within our industry and the desire to learn from great experiences from outside our industry and thinking about how they could be applied. It creates a solution for clients who are looking for an exceptional experience and a real sense of care.

What is your magic sauce?

An open and honest level of management and recognition that everyone within our team has an important role to play, no one has all the answers and input from all is always appreciated.

What is the plan for the next 5 years? What do you want to achieve?

Continued growth of our business, with a remodeling internally to create an improved experience for our patients and continually develop the individuality of Ocean Optometry compared to the other options available. To continue to develop our special interest in dry eye care.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced so far?

The last two years of the Coronavirus pandemic have been, by far, the greatest challenge. With heart breaking moments of having to close our office and lay off all of our staff, to the recovery and re-opening, with new challenges to overcome and procedures needing integrated. This also allowed time for us to step back from the day to day operations and focus on working on the business, rather than in.

How do people get involved/buy into your vision?

We are willing to have discussions with anyone who wishes to work with a unique, passionate and dedicated business that wants to evolve eyecare and eyewear from the dominance of multi-national global entities to being something fun, unique and exceptional.