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a few, were pioneers, leading the development to global products, Indian consumers began to
of prescription lenses and creating a foundation demand higher-quality eyewear options. This
for what would become the modern eyewear period saw the entry of international brands
market. such as Essilor, Zeiss, Nikon, and Rodenstock into
the Indian market. Their introduction of plastic
The product range back then was limited. lenses – lighter and unbreakable compared to
Single vision and bifocal lenses were the norm, traditional glass lenses – marked a significant
catering largely to users over 40, with few shift in consumer preferences.
offerings like photochromic lenses and tinted
lenses for specific needs. Marketing efforts were These foreign brands also brought advanced
minimal, as eyewear was seen as a medical lens technologies to the Indian market, including
necessity rather than a lifestyle product. The focus anti-reflection coatings and UV protection.
was entirely on affordability, with little emphasis With global companies came robust marketing
on product innovation or aesthetics. strategies, elevating eyewear from a medical
necessity to a fashion statement. In-store
THE ECONOMIC REFORMS AND branding, price transparency, and authenticity
THEIR IMPACT cards with customer names and prescriptions
became commonplace, building trust and loyalty
The 1991 economic reforms in India opened
the market to foreign competition and triggered among consumers.
a revolution across industries, including eyewear. The cultural shift around eyewear was stark.
With rising incomes and increased exposure Spectacle lenses evolved from basic visual aids
to sophisticated products with multiple options
catering to fashion-forward and tech-savvy
consumers. Indian consumers, especially in urban
centres, began to see eyewear as an extension
of their personal style, driving the demand for
premium lenses.
THE DIGITAL AND PREMIUM
REVOLUTION
In recent years, India’s eyewear market has
continued to diversify and grow. E-commerce
has played a transformative role in reaching
consumers in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, where access
to physical optical stores may be limited. Well-
known online retailers have revolutionised the
market by offering virtual try-ons, home delivery,
and competitive pricing, making high-quality
lenses accessible across the country. This shift
has democratised access to not only prescription
lenses but also fashion-forward eyewear.
The growing health consciousness and
increased awareness of vision care have pushed
consumers to invest in premium, personalised
eyewear solutions. Today’s Indian consumer is
willing to spend on advanced lenses such as
progressive lenses, blue light-blocking lenses,
and photochromic lenses. The market is also
witnessing a surge in demand for eyewear
designed for children, reflecting a rising
161 | THE INDIAN OPTICIAN | NOV-DEC 2024 OPTOMETRY
