Inspecs founder warns over tariff 'uncertainty' as he steps down

The founder and chair of Bath-based designer eyewear business Inspecs is to step down 37 years after launching his enterprise. Robin Totterman established Inspecs in 1988 and it designs,

manufacturers and distributes sunglasses, optical frames and lenses. The AIM-listed company was admitted to the London Stock Exchange in 2020 but in recent months has experienced weak

trading. At the company's annual general meeting on Tuesday (June 3) Mr Totterman will tell investors that uncertainty surrounding US tariffs is impacting group sales, which as of the

end of May were behind the year previously. However, he will add that demand in Europe has "begun to strengthen", and projects with major retailers in the US and Canada are

"progressing well". "Despite the challenges faced since the start of the year, the group remains focused on improving operational efficiency and implementing cost-saving

initiatives which are expected to accelerate in the second half, to mitigate these headwinds," he said in a statement to the London Stock Exchange on Tuesday morning. "We expect

revenue for the full year 2025 to be broadly flat versus 2024, and our guidance on EBITDA remains unchanged." In April, the group initiated a strategic review of Norville - the

Gloucester-based lens business it acquired from administration in 2020 - which is expected to conclude by the end of the month. "The board continues to make good progress in its search

for a new Independent non-executive chair and a new chief financial officer," Mr Totterman said. "An update on these processes will be provided in due course." He added:

"I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has been part of the journey - our employees, suppliers, and customers. I look forward to supporting the new chair, once

appointed, to ensure a smooth transition as we continue to deliver value for all our stakeholders." Christopher Hancock, the company's senior independent director is currently

acting as interim chair. LIKE THIS STORY? WHY NOT SIGN UP TO GET THE LATEST SOUTH WEST BUSINESS NEWS STRAIGHT TO YOUR INBOX.