Should I Buy Glasses Online?

In the United Kingdom, purchasing glasses and contact lenses online has become increasingly popular, but there are still many factors to consider before making a purchase. While shopping online can save time and money, it is essential to consult with an eye doctor to ensure that the glasses or contacts are suitable for your eyes.

According to a report by The Vision Council, online shopping for eyewear is influenced by various factors, including sustainability, technology, and shopping habits2. The report highlights differences between online and in-person shoppers, brand and fashion trend influences, and whether sustainability and technology play a role in purchasing frames.

For instance, online purchasers of prescription glasses tend to prefer square, brow line, and cat-eye frame shapes more so than in-person shoppers. Additionally, fashion-conscious consumers are more likely to prefer rimless, brow line, cat-eye, aviator, geometric, round, and wraparound frame shapes. Technology enthusiasts have a stronger preference for rimless or semi-rimless and aviator frame shapes compared to consumers who are not as interested in technology.

Furthermore, frame selection is influenced by what trends are important to consumers. Sustainability, fashion trends, and brand recognition are more important for non-prescription wearers than prescription glasses wearers. Brand and fashion trends also have greater weight in purchasing decisions for those that find shopping for frames fun.However, for consumers that don’t have a straightforward frame experience, certain factors may not be important in the purchasing of frames. Consumers who run into frame fitting issues are more likely to deprioritize fashion and brands compared to those with no fit issues.

The eyewear industry in the UK is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 7.9% from 2024 to 2028, reaching US$2,200.0 million by 20283. Fashion brands represent 35% of annual retail revenue generated by the eyeglasses market. For eye care retailers, eyewear purchases account for around 10% of their annual revenue.

If you are thinking of buying your next glasses online, here are some of the important considerations;