THE chairman of Optos, Peter Fellner, has said the proposed £259m takeover of the eye test technology firm by Nikon could help boost its growth prospects and be good news for employees.

In a circular sent to shareholders detailing the 340p per share offer, Mr Fellner said directors of Fife-based Optos believe the firm could achieve long term growth as an independent. However, he said achieving this growth, and the potential valuation increase that would follow, is uncertain. Mr Fellner noted that Nikon does not have any current plans for headcount reductions at Optos and has no intention to change Optos' principal places of business, including its headquarters in Dunfermline. The Japanese firm has stated the senior management team of Optos will continue to have an important role in managing Optos' Business. The circular notes Optos' chief executive Roy Davis has 54,069 shares in the company. These are valued at £184,000 by the deal.