July was a bleak month in regard to weather on the Isle of Man in which we seem to have had more than our fair share of the cold and rain. But on the positive side the Island has had over 70 days of no new COVID-19 and with pubs and restaurants open as normal masks and social distancing have become things of the past (and long may they stay this way).
The return to more normal circumstances has finally allowed Manx Precision Optics to move ahead with its next phase of expansion. The new mezzanine floor mentioned in last month’s blog is now almost finished and we have started planning out the new research lab space, the new staff area etc. We’ve also ordered and took delivery of an additional polishing machine and once the machine has been fully commissioned, we will post some photos of this new addition to our polishing shop.
The end of August would also be the time of the Manx Festival of Motorcycling (or Manx Grand Prix / MGP as it used to be called), but as with most events, this was unfortunately cancelled this year. The Manx Transport Festival, celebrating the Manx Vintage Transport system as well as the 125th anniversary of the Snaefell Mountain Railway was moved online and was hosted as a virtual festival. Talking about cancellations, the situation does not look much better on the trade show circuit. Photonex in Coventry, where MPO has exhibited since 2013 has been moved online, so none of us ‘will be sent to Coventry’ this year. This is just another example of another trade show altering its plans to adapt to the climate we find ourselves in although we look forward to exhibiting in this alternative format.
As most of you will know, It is very difficult to plan for any trade shows at present with short-notice lockdowns, quarantines etc so, unfortunately, it looks increasingly likely that we will not have many personal meetings this year – trade show or other, and whilst this is disappointing the safety of staff, customers and suppliers is our priority.
Of course, you can still keep in touch with us through our website – why not have a look at our increasing portfolio of technical notes. If you have a question, we are of course available via email, phone, or any of the virtual meeting apps available. Here at Manx Precision Optics, we all hope you have a good summer and, in the words of the late Dame Vera Lynn ‘ We’ll meet again’…