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Cover Story

ONLINE OP T IC AL S ALE S

“ The 2018 Forbes report also states that the outfit was close to

launching an online tool to measure PD using the camera on a
“
computer or smart phone. This, too, remains in the future.

One of the major obstacles to the online
buying process in the optical sector
is that an eye examination and a
prescription are still needed, requiring
a visit to a brick-and-mortar store. In for instance – online services may not
2018 Forbes reported that digital eye be able to achieve the exact fit needed.
exams couldn’t be far off, but this hasn’t And finally, insurance coverage may
yet happened. 3 vary between providers.
Another issue preventing online sales Even taking the above into account,
from becoming completely virtual optical e-commerce is continuing
is that shoppers need to know their to gain critical mass in Canada and
PD and it’s not always included in a globally. In 2019, Global Market
patient’s prescription. While some Insights, a global market research and

retailers’ websites have how-to guides management consulting company,
for measuring PD, many consumers published its Eyewear Market Report

are understandably reluctant to on the state of the optical industry in
trust their competency in doing this 31 countries. The report states that,
themselves. Zenni, a leader in the “Online stores are projected to witness
optical e-commerce sector, has around six per cent CAGR (compound
developed an online PD ruler which annual growth rate) up to 2025”.
4
is downloadable on their website. The
2018 Forbes report also states that the Despite the extreme supply chain
outfit was close to launching an online shortages caused by the pandemic
tool to measure PD using the camera across all retail sectors, optical
on a computer or smart phone. This, e-commerce is expected to continue
too, remains in the future. thriving due to a combination of
improved technology-driven shopping
A third factor is that fit adjustments solutions and growing acceptance of
to glasses must be done in-person. the channel as an attractive alternative
Fourth, if the wearer has specialized to the conventional brick-and-mortar

prescription needs – progressive lenses, retail model. n
E

References:
1. Retail-Insider.com: Online Sales of Eyeglasses Have Spiked in 2021. Accessed January 20, 2023.
2. McKinsey.com: The Great Consumer Shift: Ten Charts that Show how US Shopping Behavior is Changing. Accessed January 20, 2023.
3. Forbes.com: Buying Glasses Online Is Becoming The Norm — But Growth Will Explode Once Eye Exams Go Digital. Accessed January 20, 2023.
4. Gminsights.com: Eyewear Market Size and Share | Industry Statistics - 2025 - Table of Contents. Accessed January 20, 2023.

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