VisionPlus India

VP: With the luxury eyewear market expanding, are stores missing out on significant opportunities? DP: India's luxury market is rapidly growing. Lesser- known luxury brands are finding willing buyers, while established brands benefit from customer familiarity. With the right product mix and inventory, purchases are straightforward. Our stores currently offer a variety of products but lack a dedicated luxury section. Independent luxury eyewear stores, similar to luxury watch stores, could thrive by offering 8-10 brands with 30-40 units each, providing diverse choices beyond catalogues. This model can meet the significant demand for a luxury shopping experience with various styles and materials.Eyewear is always visible and makes a statement about one's personality, unlike luxury belts or watches. A good frame enhances one's personality regardless of its price. Luxury brands often incorporate rich histories into their designs, creating strong consumer connections over decades. This presents a great opportunity to build a successful eyewear market focused on luxury brands. By curating 8-10 luxury brands with a variety of products, we can replicate the success seen in the luxury watch market. Consumers are ready for this, and it's time to provide the environment and products they desire. VP: How does Eternity Lifestyles maintain its unique position in the luxury eyewear market and ensure a continuously refreshed brand portfolio? Kiran Sheth: We're pioneers in luxury eyewear, specialising in both luxury and alternate a successful business model. Some stores already excel in this segment, as evidenced by their sales and reputation. Future opticians will likely adopt this approach, offering products that exceed expectations to cater to customers' desires. Personalised, one-on-one service can enhance the shopping experience and improve sales quality, even if foot traffic remains steady. Luxury car and watch customers often wait weeks or months for their desired products. While eyewear may not require such long waits, offering similar service and exclusivity can drive sales in optical shops. By providing the right products in the right environment with exceptional customer care, opticians can tap into the growing demand for luxury eyewear in India. (LEFT TO RIGHT) DEEPAK PANCHAMIA, KIRAN SHETH, RONAK SHETH 32 VISION PLUS INDIA EDITION