Is The Indian Optical Retail Future Ready?
The future of Indian optical retail lies at the intersection of tradition and transformation. We asked four influential voices from the optical retail industry to reflect on how the business was, how it stands today, and what it needs to become for a sustainable, customer-first tomorrow.
The Indian optical industry is at an inflexion point. From humble, family-run neighbourhood stores to expansive retail chains and luxury boutiques, the journey has been nothing short of remarkable.
Add to that the digital revolution—tele-optometry, AI-driven recommendations, and e-commerce, and we’re looking at an ecosystem that’s more dynamic than ever before.
But amid this transformation, a critical question arises: Are we evolving in tandem with what today’s consumer truly expects?
Today’s eyewear buyer isn’t just looking for vision correction—they’re seeking experience, style, transparency, and trust. The buying journey has shifted from transactional to emotional, and the expectations from opticians have never been higher. So, where do we go from here?
“The optical business in India till the late 90s was traditionally driven by the functional need for vision correction, with limited emphasis on style or brand. Today, rising awareness and easier access—especially in metros, mini-metros, and Tier I & II cities—have transformed eyewear into a fashion and lifestyle accessory, coupled with options of coatings and indices in spectacle lenses. Looking ahead, technology will lead the way with a growing presbyopic population. The future lies in delivering quality lenses, durability, yet affordable fashion eyewear that blends function with sophistication.”
-Ramachandran Parthasarathy, Eyewear Expert
“Yesterday, specs were selling through local opticians and small shops with limited varieties and materials. Today, there are organised retail chains, online platforms, along with strong local as well as small players. Wide range of styles, materials and brands available. Tomorrow, continued growth of organised retail with different business models and online retail providing AR/VR experience for eyewear shopping, with growing focus on sustainable materials.”
Chetan Gangar, Gangar Eyenation.
“Change is inevitable, so adaptation and not resistance are key. Marketing and Distribution strategy will be a big differentiator now and in the future. Upgradation in all spheres of activity is of great importance. Optimed Corporation believes, implements and adapts with the times."
Ameet Poojara, Optimed Corporation.
“It’s a Kal, Aaj our Kal, optics and eye have remained the nodal point, yester years, retail was simple as spectacles were a necessity, then came necessity driven by fashion, we started playing with colours, styles and brands, with designer labels and going forward, with wearable audibles and technology driven lenses, we look forward to necessity, fashion and multitasking eyewear.”
Anup Kumar, R Kumar Opticians.
