Resilient market buoyed by ageing population and tech advances

Market research company, Mintel, has released its report into the optical market in the UK for 2026, finding the market is remaining resilient.

Mintel has published its UK Optical Goods Retailing Market Report 2026, identifying trends shaping the industry.

The report looks at the impact of cost-of-living pressures on eye tests and purchasing behaviours, reasons consumers choose a particular practice, and barriers to having a regular eye test.

Preferred channels for purchasing and interest in shopping online and virtual try-on tools are also covered.

The report describes the optical goods market in the UK in 2026 as remaining “resilient,” supported by a stable demand base which is driven by an ageing population, greater consumer emphasis on preventative health, and innovation across the market.

With the focus of the NHS 10-Year Health Plan, Mintel suggested that in the medium-term (2027–2028) optometry practices will expand their additional services, noting that customers will seek them out for preventative treatments such as for dry eye.

The market in 2026 has been supported by the acceleration of innovation across frames, lenses, diagnostics, and technology such as smart AI glasses, the report suggested.

These tech advances will drive growth in the future beyond 2029, Mintel suggested, as smart eyewear becomes mainstream and circular repair subscription models embed loyalty.

The report notes: “Digital booking, 3D facial scanning and AR try-on double online share, but stores remain the clinical hub.”

Online, in-practice and premium experiences

Mintel noted that purchasing in practice is still key for the market, but that younger and higher-income consumers are driving growth online, with 63% of under-34s agreeing that the option to try on frames or lenses at home is more convenient.

The report suggested that providing a stand-out and seamless multichannel experience is key to gaining share in a market where customers are brand-loyal, while artificial intelligence could be used to enable a hyper-personalised premium service.

The report authors suggest that despite the economic pressures, the industry could take advantage of a "growing shift among customers towards more premium, customised products and solutions.”

The report authors suggested that consumers with healthy finances are more likely to be drawn to practices that use the latest technology.

Practices could create tiers and charge more for eye tests that make use of this technology, Mintel suggested.

Eyewear trends: sports, social media and multifunctional glasses

An increase in people participating in sports and fitness activities has led to a rise in demand for specific eyewear types, such as sports sunglasses with wraparound styles and prescription sports glasses.

The report authors suggest there are opportunities for optometry practices to promote the sports eyewear category, through initiatives in practice and online, as well as partnerships and collaborations.

Mintel pointed to examples such as a partnership between Cubitts and specialist performance running brand, Soar, on titanium sunglasses designed for runners, and a partnership between Specsavers and sports clubs.

Mintel found that a growing trend for wearing glasses among male celebrities and actors has been driving sales among young men, reporting that 64% of Gen Zs use social media to spot trends.

The report suggests social media could be used to drive purchasing and promote eyewear as a fashion statement.

Transition lenses have also risen in popularity, with Mintel noting that growing interest in multifunctional glasses and additional features such as these lenses could drive an increase in value sales.

This could particularly be presented as an option for older women, Mintel suggested, as women over 55 are the main purchasers of prescription glasses.

Mintel also noted that the ageing population will drive demand for combined sight and hearing solutions, such as Nuance Audio smart glasses with hearing solution. The report authors recommended practices offer in-store demonstrations to help drive interest.

Find the full UK Optical Goods Retailing Market Report 2026 on the Mintel website.