CooperVision Acquires GP Specialists

SAN RAMON, CA — CooperVision has acquired C&E GP Specialists Inc., a manufacturer and distributor of customized orthokeratology contact lens. The move expands CooperVision’s Specialty EyeCare business and its leadership in addressing the increasing severity and prevalence of myopia, according to a press release.

“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,” said Juan Carlos Aragón, OD, president of CooperVision Specialty EyeCare. “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.”

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Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

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 key distributor of Paragon CRT lenses.

“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.

Wagner will serve as a consultant to the company over the next several months to assist with the transition. Industry veteran Mark Cosgrove will remain as GP Specialists’ general manager, responsible for daily operations. Rich Jeffries from CooperVision Specialty EyeCare’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 EyeCare entities, GP Specialists will retain its name and operate as a complementary business, headquartered in San Diego, CA. GP Specialists’ customers should continue to work with their current representatives.