About us
Welcome to First Contact, your dedicated supplier of contact lenses tailored specifically for independent optical practices. Since 2003, we’ve simplified contact lens ordering by offering a centralised service that covers all patient needs. Instead of working with multiple suppliers you can rely on us for a seamless, efficient ordering process.
Our Mission
At First Contact, we’re committed to supporting independent practices by ensuring a reliable and convenient supply of contact lenses. Our goal is to help eye care professionals build long-lasting relationships with their patients by providing them with dependable service, so that they can focus on patient care.
Our Story
Our journey began in 1979 when Martin Simpson started a new business called Martin Optical, supplying contact lens solution to independent Opticians. His son Lionel joined the business on leaving school in 1992 and worked on adding contact lenses to the range, as demand for traditional lens care products declined. In 2003, the business was split and First Contact was born. Martin Optical later rebranded to Three Sixty in 2006, now run by Lionel’s brother, Peter. Martin is still actively involved as a consultant in all the family businesses, which involve another 3 sons and a presence in the packaging and commercial furniture markets.
Since 2003, we’ve grown our inventory and refined our services to become the leading wholesaler of contact lenses to UK independents.
Why Choose Us?
With over 70,000 contact lens units in stock, we are proud to offer fast, reliable shipping that supports the demands of busy practices.
Orders for stock items placed before 4:30pm are shipped the same day with next-day delivery, while Toric lenses and Multifocal lenses typically arrive within 3-5 days.
We keep shipping costs low: practice orders under £35.00 are subject to only a £3.50 handling fee, while those over £35.00 ship free. For added convenience, home delivery is available for just £3.50. Above all, we maintain a commitment to transparency with no hidden fees or additional charges.
Practices also benefit from straightforward electronic monthly invoicing, which consolidates all orders into one, saving time and reducing administrative work. Our easy-to-use website offers convenient features like an automatic replacement service, allowing you to set up recurring deliveries to the practice or directly to patients. Whether you’re looking for efficiency, reliability, or outstanding customer support, First Contact delivers.
Who We Serve
Our customers are independent optical practices of all sizes, from single-location practices to multi-location chains. We also supply NHS hospitals and locum optometrists, always providing the same high standard of service regardless of order size. Whether you need a single, streamlined source for all orders, lack an account with a specific manufacturer, or face stock challenges, we offer flexible solutions to meet your needs
Go one step further for your patients and register them on our automatic replacement scheme and we will send their contact lenses on a regular basis.
Meet the Team
Based in the scenic town of Newtown, Mid Wales, our small, friendly team is here to help from 8am to 5pm, Monday through to Friday. With years of industry experience, we’re passionate about supporting independent practices and building strong relationships. When you call us, you’ll connect with someone who genuinely cares about your needs.
Let’s Get Started
Register on our website today to access our online ordering portal or give us a call to discuss how First Contact Lenses can help streamline your contact lens supply, save time, and reduce costs—so you can focus on what matters most: your patients.