{
  "id": 15812745,
  "title": "Specsavers founders get lifetime retail award",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/20/specsavers-founders-get-lifetime-retail-award",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-10-20T21:44:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "MyJoyOnline Ghana",
    "slug": "myjoyonline-ghana",
    "url": "https://www.myjoyonline.com/specsavers-founders-get-lifetime-retail-award/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Specsavers founders, Douglas and Dame Mary Perkins, have been honored with a lifetime retail award for their significant impact on \"transforming access to optical and audiology care\". The duo launched the global company in 1984 in Guernsey, starting from a table-tennis table in their spare bedroom. Today, Specsavers boasts over 2,600 stores spread across 11 countries. The Lifetime Contribution Award was presented to them at the Retail Gazette Awards last week, recognizing individuals who shape the industry's future. Despite being genuinely surprised by the recognition, Dame Mary expressed her delight, calling it a \"real honour to be recognised\". She further highlighted the importance of her partnership with Douglas, noting that they have dedicated 60 years to the optics industry. However, she emphasized that the company's success is a testament to the passion and commitment of their partners and colleagues. These associates have played a crucial role in shaping the business since its inception and continue to make a difference for customers daily.",
  "summary": "Specsavers' founders have been given a lifetime award for their role in \"transforming access to optical and audiology care\".",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}