VisionPlus India

The Indian optical industry enters 2026 at a critical inflexion point. The past few years, and especially 2025, were defined by rapid expansion, capital inflows, aggressive store rollouts, and heightened visibility of organised retail. As industry steps into 2026, the narrative begins to shift — from speed to sustainability, from expansion to meaningful growth, and from visibility to value creation. 2026 will likely be remembered as the year the Indian optical sector began to mature. MARKET REALITY CHECK India’s eyewear market continues to grow at a pace faster than the GDP, driven by rising screen time, lifestyle changes, urbanisation, and increasing awareness of eye health. However, large disparities remain — between organised and unorganised retail, between urban and rural access, and between aspiration and affordability. We must also keep in mind that the import data is not an indicator of the consumption pattern of the Indian market, as we need to eliminate exports from the same to arrive at the net figure of pure India-specific wearers. The 2025 market is estimated to be at approximately 150- 170 MILLION units of lenses annualised and eyewear revenue at INR 32K -35K Crores 3.5B$- 3.9B$ at the consumer level and growing at 5-7% in value terms. Eyewear includes frames, lenses, sunglasses & contact lenses In 2026, growth alone will no longer be the defining metric. Productivity, unit economics, and consistency of service delivery will take centre stage. RETAIL EVOLUTION: BEYOND STORE COUNT The era of store-count-led storytelling is gradually giving way to a more disciplined approach. Metro cities show signs of saturation, while Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities present the next frontier — not as replicas of metro models, but as formats adapted to local demand, price sensitivity, and service expectations. In 2026, success will be measured by: • Same-store sales growth • Conversion efficiency • Customer retention • Store-level profitability THE INDIAN CONSUMER IN 2026 The Indian eyewear consumer is evolving. Aspirational but value- conscious, digitally informed yet comforted by physical reassurance, today’s customer expects reliability over novelty. Replacement cycles are shortening, driven by fashion consciousness, increased digital eye strain, and better awareness of vision quality. Trust, transparency, and service consistency will define loyalty. TECHNOLOGY: FROM ADOPTION TO DEPENDENCE Technology in 2025 was about pilots and proof-of-concept. In 2026, it becomes foundational. Artificial intelligence, data analytics, and integrated CRM systems will increasingly influence: • Inventory planning • Demand forecasting • Personalised recommendations • Clinical decision support Technology will no longer be a competitive advantage — it will be a survival requirement. 43 VISION PLUS INDIA EDITION