Ultralase expands into Ireland
YORKSHIRE-BASED laser eye survey business Ultralase has acquired Belfast-based Allclear Clinic.
The purchase marks the first phase of the Leeds-based group's expansion following its acquisition by venture capital group 3i for £174.5m in February.
The first clinic to introduce laser eye treatments to Northern Ireland, Allclear was established in 1992 to provide vision correction procedures to clients throughout the region.
Led by surgeon-owner, Gerry Kervick, the clinic was acquired by the Quality Healthcare Group in 2004.
Allclear will add to Ultralase's 19 existing UK treatment clinics and build the foundations of the group's ambitious expansion strategy.
Ultralase chief executive, Tony Veverka: “For Ultralase, the chance to work with specialists like Gerry and the Allclear team is an exciting opportunity. We are keen to bring the expertise and reputation of Ultralase to Northern Ireland and are eager to work with Allclear to make two strong companies even stronger by combining our joint passion for enhancing lives by correcting people's vision.”
Gerry Kervick said: “I am thrilled at the future for Allclear. We have been highly successful in the province to date, transforming the lives of many people. However, this marriage with Ultralase, a company that shares our commitment to professionalism, expertise and the very best quality service, will give us the resources to help even more. I welcome the help they can give us to become even better.”
Ultralase is the longest established provider of laser eye treatment in the UK, operating through a nationwide chain of corrective eye laser clinics and was founded by former chief executive Christopher Neave.
Chris Tang, from the Leeds office of Cobbetts LLP, advised Ultralase's management team on the deal, assisted by Agata Walton.
Other advisers to the deal included Enda Newton of BCM Hanby Wallace, who advised Quality Healthcare, and Chris Guy of Mills Selig, Belfast counsel for Ultralase.
