NZ Optics' former publisher Lesley Springall (centre) with new owners James Butcher (left) and Steve Old (right)

After more than a decade, NZ Optics publishers Lesley Springall and Nick Griffiths have sold their business to Auckland-based media-business duo James Butcher and Stephen Old.

Formerly Warner Bros’ senior manager, digital, Old said he’s spent a great deal of his career in B2B publishing and has always loved being involved in producing and sharing content that matters to people and their working lives. “NZ Optics immediately struck me as a publication with purpose, integrity and loyal readers. The idea of carrying that forward, with the same dedication Lesley and Nick have shown, really appealed.”

Old’s friend, former colleague and now business partner, Butcher, NZME’s former chief commercial officer, said NZ Optics’ deep community roots and long legacy were particularly appealing. “What stood out was the strength of the community around NZ Optics – readers, advertisers and contributors who care deeply about the industry. In a world of short attention spans, that kind of connection is rare.”

Springall admitted she’d shed a few tears about the sale but was thrilled NZ Optics would still be run by two independent, New Zealand-based individuals who were truly excited about the publication and getting to know the eyecare community it serves. “The last 10 years have been a helluva ride and I’ve loved getting to know everyone in the eyecare world in Aotearoa and Australia, but I truly believe this is the right move for NZ Optics and for me.”

On the magazine side there’ll be little change, said Springall, as the team – led by editor Susie Hill and supported by writers Susanne Bradley and Drew Jones – will continue to handle all the editorial. “Nick and I are also on board until the middle of December to ensure a smooth handover of the accounts and advertising sides of the business.”

It’s not about changing what works, said Old. “It’s about supporting the team to keep delivering excellence and evolving thoughtfully. The quality of the journalism and the trust the publication has built were big drawcards. You can’t manufacture that. The optical sector is also fascinating – a mix of science, health and small business – and NZ Optics sits right at the intersection. It has a clear role in connecting and informing that ecosystem and that’s something we’re proud to continue.”

In the short term it’s all about listening and learning, added Butcher. “We see NZ Optics continuing to thrive as a trusted, independent voice, but also evolving digitally to meet how professionals consume information today. That could mean new formats, smarter audience engagement and more integrated advertiser partnerships that feel additive rather than intrusive.”

Springall will be introducing Butcher and Old to the industry at RANZCO in Melbourne. “We’re hoping to meet as many people as possible at conferences, seminars and other events, so we can get to know the industry, listen to ideas and understand where NZ Optics can add even more value for both readers and advertisers,” said Old. Both may also pen the odd article if required, he said. “But our main goal is to back Susie, Drew and Susanne, who are already a great team and know and care about NZ Optics’ audience better than anyone.”

“It’s rare to find a business with history, purpose and potential all in one,” said Butcher. “We’re incredibly grateful to Lesley and Nick for trusting us to take it forward.”