Glasgow-based IbisVision is ramping up the launch of its remote vision testing technology by bringing on additional staff in the UK and the US, its two main markets.

Currently employing 10 people, the company has added two client-facing staff in the US where one of its lead investors, Compiler Venture Capital, is facilitating the Scottish firm’s entry into that country’s optical health market. There are plans to create two similar new roles in the UK.

The move follows an £800,000 top-up investment by Compiler in November. IbisVision’s original investors include Deepbridge Capital, the Scottish Investment Bank, Apollo Informal Investments and Biocity.

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Set up in 2014 by former eye surgeon Blair Donaldson, the company’s Ring of Sight platform allows for unobtrusive and remote testing for a range of eye diseases. This can be done without any direct contact between healthcare professional and patient.

“Whilst we could never have foreseen the circumstances that we all face now, the Covid-19 pandemic has added real urgency to our efforts at IbisVision and validated our remote optometrist technology focus,” commercial director Melville Berwick said.

“Put simply, our technology could be the factor in saving someone’s eyesight. By allowing optometrists the ability to undertake a comprehensive eye test without having to meet up with the patient, we are playing our part in ensuring that we find our way through these difficult times.”