Optician India

The eyewear market in India has observed a noticeable transformation over the years. Once viewed as a medical necessity, eyewear is now a fashion statement for all age groups. This market has witnessed substantial growth as the demand for luxury brands has increased resulting in the amplification of corrective lenses and greater awareness of eye health needs. The international brands have also leveraged social media as a means to promote eyewear as a statement of style and have influenced Indian consumers to bring a change in their perspective on seeing eyewear as a trend and not a medical necessity.

The Changing Face of Eyewear

Traditionally, eyewear in India served as a tool for vision correction. However, there has been a remarkable shift from this mindset. It has evolved from a medical accessory to an important element that people now include in their day-to-day outfits. The exposure to the international market and fashion trends has influenced Indian consumers, making stylish eyewear more desirable.

In recent years, eyewear has also emerged as a significant form of self-expression. Consumers nowadays value individuality and this trend is reflected in the eyewear they choose. Today’s frames have become a platform for personal style, allowing eyewear enthusiast to express confidence and creativity with their fashion. From choosing bold and colourful frames or more casual and aesthetic thin frames, eyewear has evolved into a statement piece and offers a spectrum of possibilities to cultivate a unique and unforgettable look.

A Market on the Rise

According to a report by IMARC, the Indian Eyewear market size is estimated to be US$9.7 bn in 2023 and it is anticipated to reach US$ 18.6 bn by 2032 with a Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 7.3%, between 2024 and 2032.

The expansion of India's economy is also helping the market to boom. The rising disposable income has allowed eyewear enthusiasts to spend more on luxury eyewear. Increased awareness of eye health through public initiatives and marketing campaigns has encouraged people to go for regular check-ups and use corrective lenses in the right way.

E-commerce platforms are another reason of the potential growth of the said market as it has empowered consumers to choose from a wider range of brands and styles in a more comfortable and accessible manner. The influence of social media has made a mark in the fashion industry, especially with how international luxury brands are bringing craftsmanship into their glasses and meeting the stylish requirements for Gen Z and Millennials.

The Evolving Consumers

As was previously mentioned, initially, eyewear was considered necessary for medical purposes.However, due to the changing attitudes and mindset of the Millennial and Gen Z generation, the Indian consumer of eyewear is experiencing a substantial shift. Young people in India who are considered "digital natives", are looking for a balance between style and functionality in eyewear and that fits their busy lifestyles.

Brand consciousness is also playing an important part in the eyewear market. Well-established luxury brands enjoy a good amount of brand loyalty among their consumers along with the trust they have built for their products. This makes the eyewear enthusiastic to choose more and more well-known brands that promise quality, variety and style. Price sensitivity is still a significant factor as eyewear fashion followers are looking for brands that can offer a good mix of design, and affordability. Celebrities and influencers also have significantly impacted the role of promoting eyewear as a fashion in the Indian eyewear market.

Considering the Future

The eyewear market is expected to see a significant impact from omnichannel retailing. It will be crucial for eyewear businesses to provide a smooth transition between online and offline shopping.This concept has already been embraced by well-established Indian brands and somehow it is becoming the go-to option for the consumer. The eyewear industry might also enter a new era as a result of technological advancement. The integration of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) technologies is expected to improve the experience of purchasing eyewear. Virtual Try-On, for example, is something that is becoming trendier and more preferred by consumers as they can sit at home, scan, and see what suits individual styles and choices.

Innovative materials like Blue light-blocking glasses, polarized lenses, and UV protection layers will become a very important part of manufacturing any eyewear, meeting the needs of the digital-first generation's trendy demands. The rise of premiumization can also be seen as a future for the eyewear market as Millennials and Gen Z becoming more interested in fashion and exploring different personal styles. They are willing to pay a premium for high-quality, designer eyewear that perfectly reflects their personal style.