CooperVision Acquires GP Specialists, Expanding Specialty EyeCare Business and Ortho-K Options

CooperVision has acquired C&E GP Specialists, a customized orthokeratology contact lens manufacturer and distributor. The move expands CooperVision’s Specialty eye care business.

Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

“CooperVision is committed to providing eye care professionals with advanced lenses and services, deep expertise and educational resources vital to expanding their options for managing myopia. This acquisition further improves our ability to meet ECPs’ needs, and ultimately the quality of vision and life for their patients,” Juan Carlos Aragón, OD, President of CooperVision Specialty Eye Care, said in a company news release. “Adding the tremendous experience of GP Specialists builds upon what we have created with the acquisitions of Blanchard, Paragon, Procornea and Soflex in recent years.”

Founded in 2003, GP Specialists designs and manufactures ortho-k lenses for use by ECPs worldwide, including the iSee design. In addition, it manufactures and distributes a large portfolio of lens designs such as the OK-GOV series brands and OrthoTool’s designs. It will also continue as a distributor of Paragon CRT leprocorneanses.

“We’ve been focused for many years on addressing myopia, and we take great pride in the significant number of design options we offer in the North America and Asia-Pacific markets. Our team has always viewed myopia as a serious health issue, so I’m pleased this effort will continue as we become part of CooperVision, which is a clear leader in the market,” said Steve Wagner, GP Specialists’ former President and key principal.

Mr. Wagner will serve as a consultant to the company over the next several months to assist with a smooth transition. Industry veteran Mark Cosgrove will remain as GP Specialists’ General Manager, responsible for daily operations. Rich Jeffries from CooperVision Specialty Eye Care’s senior management team will provide additional guidance, working across functions to help develop and deliver current and future offerings.

Like CooperVision’s other Specialty Eye Care entities, GP Specialists will retain its name and operate as a complementary business, headquartered in San Diego. GP Specialists’ customers should continue to work with their current representatives.