Established in 1946. Innovating for generations.

Founded by Walter Conway and Herbert Thorn in the Millmead area of Guildford, Millmead Optical Group carries a legacy of nearly 80 years in the eyewear, accessories and lens industry.

Now led by Walter’s grandson, James Conway, Millmead remains proudly independent and family owned, a testament to the craftsmanship, integrity and innovation that have defined the company for generations.

1946

Walter Conway and Herbert Thorn
moved to the quintessentially English
town of Guildford in Surrey, where they established the headquarters for
Optoplast Manufacturing Co. Ltd.
With an initial staff of six, surrounded by
rolling hills and cobbled streets, this small
team of workers were soon to make a name
for themselves within the optical industry.

1948

Optoplast worked closely with the National Health Scheme to launch the first range of optical frames for the NHS.

1951

The PIMO machine was launched and put into production, inserting metal reinforcements into acetate spectacle sides with absolute precision, an innovation that changed the way spectacles were manufactured worldwide. With 80 staff at work, Optoplast were able to produce 2 temples a second, exporting more than 5 million a year to 11 countries.

1968

Optoplast took over Sidecrafts and relocated
from Millmead to Sidecrafts premises in Surbiton.
Sidecrafts manufactured NHS temples as well as spectacle cases and lens cloths which was an important diversification opportunity.

1988

The business relocated to Liverpool and set up manufacturing in Manchester.
Gary Conway and Daniel Thorn were appointed Joint Chief Executives.

This was a milestone in the history of the company, now in the
hands of the second generation Conways and Thorns.

2007

James Conway is appointed joint CEO alongside
Daniel Thorn following the retirement of Gary Conway, marking the third generation of Conway leadership.