Mackie Opticians enters an exciting new chapter as founder retires after 30 years

After more than three decades of dedicated service to patients across Lanarkshire, founder Dr Scott Mackie is retiring from full-time practice at Mackie Opticians, marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the long-established Bothwell practice.

The practice will now be led by experienced optometrist Neil Gray, ensuring patients continue to benefit from the same personalised care, advanced clinical expertise and community-focused approach that have defined Mackie Opticians, a Hakim Group independent practice, since its doors first opened.

Importantly for patients, Scott’s wife Roisin will continue to support the practice as a part-time locum optometrist, providing continuity alongside the existing clinical team.

Throughout his career, Scott has earned a reputation as one of Scotland’s leading optometrists, combining exceptional patient care with an unwavering commitment to advancing the profession.

Alongside completing a PhD in diabetic eye disease, he has played an influential role in professional education, organised nationally recognised continuing education events for more than 30 years and held leadership positions across several professional organisations.

Yet Scott says the practice’s success has always been measured by the relationships built with patients.

He said: “From the very beginning, our focus has always been our patients. Every decision we’ve made has been about delivering the very best care and creating a practice where people feel valued, listened to and looked after.

“As I retire, I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve built and genuinely excited for the future. Neil is an outstanding clinician who shares our values, and I know the practice will continue to flourish under his leadership.”

Neil Gray said taking on the leadership of Mackie Opticians is both a privilege and a responsibility. He added: “Scott has built an outstanding reputation over many years through clinical excellence, integrity and genuine care for his patients. Those values have made Mackie Opticians the trusted practice it is today.

“My commitment is to build on those foundations while continuing to invest in outstanding eye care, the latest clinical technology and an exceptional patient experience. Existing patients can be assured they will continue to receive the same high standards of care they have always known.”

Scott’s retirement marks the culmination of a distinguished career that has helped shape both community eye care and the wider profession in Scotland.

While stepping back from day-to-day practice, he will continue contributing to optometry through consultancy work, allowing him to remain connected to the profession while enjoying more time with his family and pursuing his passions for golf and sailing.