What are the major factors leading to consumer trust in optical staff and an eyecare brand?

Free prescriptions have not increased the number of sight tests.

Are grocery multiples and Internet companies likely to become a force in the eyecare market in the future?

Since Mintel last reviewed the market for spectacles, contact lenses, lens care and eyecare solutions in April 1999, the rapid sales growth seen up to 1998 has slowed and stabilised. Volume demand for spectacles was met during the late 1990s with 2-for-1 offers and other price-led promotions. Now, with the increase in the wearing of glasses/contact lenses only growing in line with the total population, rising sales are dependent on consumers trading up to more expensive products.

A certain proportion of the target audience are able and willing to do this - chiefly the better-off middle-aged, and younger consumers with fewer financial commitments - but a large proportion of the market is with older and/or poorer consumers who, while apparently willing to pay a little more for acceptable eyewear, are unable to purchase designer glasses or afford the cost of the top-priced disposable lenses.

Mintel believes that a two-tier market is apparent, with the better-off demanding stylish designer frames and new technology lenses, while those of more limited means or with family and other financial commitments simply want inexpensive glasses which improve their eyesight and look attractive.

Other Mintel reports of relevance include:

- Sunglasses, Market Intelligence, April 2000

- Opticians, Retail Intelligence, December 1999.

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