A well established Armagh business is setting up site in a new location after 20 years.
Originally from Tassagh, Liza Dunleavy, Owner and Optometrist at Dunleavy Opticians, always had strong roots to Armagh and knew it would be the ideal city to start her business venture.
Liza attended University of Ulster, Coleraine before completing her studies at King Edward VII hospital, Windsor. Keen to develop her portfolio further, Liza then went on to complete a Masters degree at Queen’s University, Belfast before taking opening the opticians just one year after finishing her studies in what she describes as a ‘let’s try this’ moment.
And what a business venture it was, as Dunleavy Opticians took residency at 15 Market Street for 20 years before making the decision to move premises in November, 2024.
The move marks a significant milestone for the longstanding opticians with Liza saying it was an opportunity to grow the business and one which “better suited their needs.”
With their patient list expanding, Liza decided it was now or never and, when the newly refurbished Upper English Street units became available, said it was a “no brainer.”
“Optometry is constantly evolving and the expansion has brought the opportunity of expanding our services and investing in more equipment,” said Liza.
“Along with routine eye tests, we are now able to offer cataract post-operative care, visual stress testing and much more.”
Working hand in hand with healthcare services, Dunleavy’s are part of the PEARS programme, which offers patients with acute eye problems referral to the clinic instead of going to their GP to help take the strain off the health service.
Working alongside Liza are Amanda Pinkerton, Ciara Leonard, Cliodhna Ward and Caomhán Ward.
Testimony to the incredible service they provide, Dunleavy Opticians won ‘Opticians of the Year’ at the Healthcare and Keyworkers Awards, 2023.
Speaking of the win, Liza said: “It was an honour to be recognised for our hard work after 20 years in business, it gave me a great sense of achievement that I made the right decision to open all of those years ago.
“When I first opened the doors 20 years ago I never expected to still be here doing what I love in the heart of Armagh city and I can only thank my patients for that.
“It’s lovely because patients I have been seeing from they where children are now bringing their children”.
She added: “We are conscious that in this day and age people have a lot of demands in their pockets so we try to keep our prices accessible for all.
”We pride ourselves on having something for everyone and stock a vast array of frames ranging from budget styles to a large selection of designer eyewear”.
Dunleavy Opticians are opening their books for new patients in 2025.
Get in contact today on 028 3751 8866 to arrange an appointment.
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