A July 2026 study by recruitment firm IseeOp surveyed approximately 40 optical professionals in France, representing nearly one-tenth of the estimated 400 relief opticians. The findings challenge the notion that temporary store replacements are merely transitional roles; 65% describe the work as an assumed career choice rather than a waiting solution. Most respondents (73%) entered this field after prior salaried or managerial experience, with only 7% starting immediately after graduation. While 57% report monthly net earnings or billed revenue exceeding €2,500, half cite difficulty finding regular missions as their primary structural obstacle. Notably, 62% would cease relief work if offered an attractive permanent contract, indicating a persistent link to traditional employment despite the current preference for flexibility among many practitioners.
Acuité has launched a survey asking optical retailers to compare their October 2026 revenue against October 2025 figures. This initiative follows confirmed market recovery data for September 2026, which showed a 1% year-on-year increase in revenue, after an August rise of 1.7%. The source notes the first half of 2026 was difficult but highlights two consecutive months of growth prior to October. Respondents completing all questions will receive early access to the analysis results. The article emphasizes the importance of monthly tracking amid economic uncertainty and aims to provide comparative benchmarks for participants. No specific October 2026 market totals are reported; the text focuses solely on soliciting retailer input to determine if the positive trend continued.
In Italy, approximately 1,600 opticians and optometrists are hired each year, while the educational system certifies only 600 to 700 professionals. This imbalance leaves about 400 positions vacant annually, with companies reporting recruitment difficulties for 77.6% of open roles. Job searches typically last three to five months, though most new graduates secure employment within a quarter at gross annual salaries between €25,000 and €28,000. With 21,500 active workers nationwide, demographic turnover is expected to worsen shortages over the next 5–10 years. US Bureau of Labor Statistics data indicates low AI exposure for optometrists (15-20%) and moderate exposure for opticians (30-35%), suggesting technology will aid rather than replace clinical tasks. These findings were released by the Istituto Benigno Zaccagnini Observatory ahead of a November 23 event in Milan.
Eyewear manufacturer VonBogen, based in Fürstenzell near Passau, was voted the number one frame supplier by opticians in a nationwide survey conducted by industry information service "markt intern Augenoptik/ Optometrie." In the 2026 "Leistungsspiegel" (performance comparison) for eyeglass frames, VonBogen achieved the best overall grade of 1.32 among 29 manufacturers, winning in seven of nine subcategories including product quality and service behavior. This marks the company's first participation in the biennial survey. Co-managing director Benjamin Brickl stated the award confirms their commitment to listening to customers and continuous development. Founder Gerhard Brickl, who established the company nearly 35 years ago, continues to lead design efforts, emphasizing a unique combination of craftsmanship and independent design alongside comprehensive repair services for the entire optical industry.
Bausch + Lomb released multinational research on October 30, 2026, revealing a gap between self-reported dry eye symptoms and formal diagnoses. The NESTS survey found up to 39% of respondents in five countries reported regular symptoms, compared to a maximum of 25% with healthcare professional diagnoses. Over 80% modified behavior due to symptoms, while up to one-quarter of those consulting professionals felt guidance was inadequate. This announcement coincides with strong third-quarter 2026 financial results reported on October 28, showing total revenue growth of 7% to US$1.375 billion. Pharmaceuticals grew 11%, driven by a 42% surge in MIEBO® revenue; Vision Care rose 5%; and Surgical increased 9%. Chairman Thomas J. Appio noted consistent delivery against commitments.
The global sunglasses market is estimated at USD 44,305.87 million in 2026 and projected to reach USD 93,729.67 million by 2035, reflecting an 8.6% compound annual growth rate. This expansion is driven by rising health awareness regarding ultraviolet protection, lifestyle shifts, and technological innovations like smart frames and eco-friendly materials. Key industry players include EssilorLuxottica, with combined parent revenue of approximately EUR 25.40 billion; Kering, whose eyewear division contributes over EUR 1.50 billion to its EUR 19.56 billion group revenue; and LVMH, generating EUR 86.15 billion in total group sales through its Thélios unit. Other significant manufacturers such as Safilo (EUR 1.02 billion), Marcolin (EUR 558 million), De Rigo (EUR 508 million), Prada (EUR 4.72 billion group net revenue), and Richemont (EUR 20.64 billion group sales) operate globally across various value tiers, utilizing licensing agreements and direct-to-consumer channels to capture market share.
The Vision Council released its Consumer inSights Q3 2026 report, based on a survey of 12,099 U.S. adults conducted between July 29 and September 12, 2026. The findings indicate continued stability in eyewear spending, extending trends from Q2. Consumers shifted toward mid-range purchases, with buyers spending $100 to $199 increasing, while those spending under $100 or over $200 declined. In-person eyeglasses buyers reported higher average out-of-pocket costs compared to online purchasers. Additionally, 53% of online buyers purchased multiple pairs versus 36% of in-person shoppers. Smart eyewear adoption among recent buyers fell three percentage points to 13%. Managed vision care coverage reached 72%, the highest level in five quarters.
The Vision Council released its Consumer inSights Q3 2026 report, surveying 12,099 U.S. adults to analyze purchasing behavior across optical categories. Findings indicate stable market conditions with consumers shifting toward the $100–$199 price range, while spending under $100 or over $200 declined. The report highlights that in-person buyers incur higher average out-of-pocket costs than online shoppers, though 53% of online buyers purchase multiple pairs compared to 36% of in-person shoppers. Smart eyewear adoption among recent buyers fell three percentage points to 13%. Additionally, 72% of respondents reported having managed vision care coverage, the highest level in five quarters, and 59% spent less than $100 on contact lenses. Gen Z and Millennials drove increased eye exam rates, whereas Gen X reported the lowest.
AR Insider estimates that Meta Reality Labs sold approximately 1.76 million XR devices in Q3, comprising 1.47 million smart glasses and 286,000 VR headsets. The analysis reverse-engineers these figures from Meta’s $443 million Reality Labs revenue, which fell 5.7% year-over-year despite a 20% growth in Ray-Ban Meta Smartglasses sales reported by EssilorLuxottica. Key estimates include 1.05 million Ray-Ban Meta Smartglasses units, 165,000 Oakley HSTN units, and 162,000 Quest 3s units. The report notes that while smart glasses drive volume, higher-priced VR headset fluctuations significantly impact revenue. Meta Reality Labs recorded $4.13 billion in losses for the quarter, though this narrowed from Q2.
The Vision Council released its Consumer inSights Q3 2026 report, surveying over 12,000 U.S. adults to analyze optical category purchasing trends. Findings indicate stable market conditions with consumers shifting toward the $100–$199 price range, while spending under $100 or over $200 declined. The data reveals that in-person buyers reported higher average out-of-pocket costs than online shoppers, though 53% of online buyers purchased multiple pairs compared to 36% of in-person shoppers. Managed vision care coverage reached a five-quarter high at 72%. Smart eyewear adoption among recent purchasers fell three percentage points to 13%. Additionally, 59% of respondents spent less than $100 on contact lenses, the highest share in five quarters. Gen Z and Millennials drove increased eye exam rates, while Gen X reported the lowest.
The Vision Council released its Consumer inSights Q3 2026 report, surveying over 12,000 U.S. adults on optical purchasing trends. The data indicates stable consumer behavior with a shift toward mid-range eyewear, as more buyers spent between $100 and $199 while shares of those spending under $100 or over $200 declined. Online eyewear buyers were more likely to purchase multiple pairs (53%) compared to in-person shoppers (36%), though in-person purchases reported higher average out-of-pocket costs. Smart eyewear adoption among recent buyers dropped three percentage points to 13%. Additionally, 72% of consumers reported having managed vision care coverage, the highest level in five quarters, and 59% spent less than $100 on contact lenses. The report is part of the organization's quarterly research program.
The Vision Council released its Consumer inSights Q3 2026 report, analyzing optical purchasing behavior among over 12,000 U.S. adults surveyed between July 29 and September 12, 2026. Findings indicate consumer spending remained relatively flat compared to the previous quarter, though buyers shifted toward the mid-range $100–$199 price point, while those spending under $100 or over $200 declined. In-person eyeglasses purchasers reported higher average out-of-pocket costs than online buyers. Key data points include a five-quarter high for managed vision care coverage at 72%, increased eye exams among Gen Z and Millennials, and a three-percentage-point drop in smart eyewear purchases to 13%. Additionally, 59% of respondents spent less than $100 on contact lenses, marking another five-quarter high.
A study commissioned by Krys and conducted by Discurv among 1,000 people reveals increasing visual and auditory discomfort among French video game players. The research, presented during the Paris Games Week held from October 22 to 25, 2026, found that 41% of gamers report eye issues such as dryness or blurred vision, a four-point increase from 37% in 2025. Among frequent players aged 18–34, this rate rises to 46%. Additionally, 22% of respondents experience hearing symptoms like tinnitus, up three points from the previous year. Smartphones are now the primary gaming device for 56% of French players, intensifying near-vision strain. The findings suggest opticians and audiologists should consider gaming habits during client consultations.
During the Paris Games Week (October 22–25), eyewear retailer Krys released study results indicating increased visual and auditory strain among French video game players. The data shows 41% of gamers report eye discomfort, such as dryness or blurred vision, a four-point rise from 37% in 2025. Additionally, 22% experience hearing issues like tinnitus, up three points year-over-year. The study notes that 73% of French people play video games, with smartphones serving as the primary device for 56% of users. Young adults aged 18–34 are disproportionately affected, with 46% reporting eye strain. Krys recommends preventive measures including the "20-20-20 rule" for vision and limiting audio volume to 60% for hearing protection, though these guidelines do not guarantee risk-free usage due to varying device capabilities.
French optical store revenue increased by 1% year-on-year in September 2026, following a 1.7% rise in August. This growth masks significant disparities across different locations. Stores in commercial activity zones (ZAC) performed best with a 2.6% increase, while city-center stores rose by 1.5%. Conversely, shopping centers saw a 1.6% decline after strong August performance. Overall, 56.2% of points of sale reported higher activity. The September result marks the second consecutive month of growth since a low point of -8% in May 2026. However, October activity was noted as particularly disrupted, suggesting this positive trend may not continue into the next month.
Specsavers Canada issued a public advisory on childhood myopia during Children’s Vision Month, emphasizing early detection and management. The company reported that its myopia management treatments tripled over the past 18 months, with approximately 1,800 children presenting with myopia monthly across Canada. Specsavers cited an estimated 30% population prevalence for myopia, noting it increasingly affects children as young as six or seven. Clinical Services Director Naomi Barber stressed that regular comprehensive eye exams are critical because symptoms like squinting or screen proximity may not be obvious to parents. The Canadian Association of Optometrists recommends annual exams for school-aged children until age 19. Specsavers, which entered Canada in late 2021 and operates 278 locations, offers affordable solutions through independent optometrists.
Specsavers Canada released data citing Angus Reid, revealing that 73 percent of Canadian children under age five have never undergone an eye exam with an optometrist. Among those aged five to nineteen, 31 percent have not had an exam in the past two years. The company noted a threefold increase in myopia management treatments over the last 18 months and sees approximately 1,800 children presenting with myopia monthly across Canada. Citing the Canadian Association of Optometrists, Specsavers highlighted that 30 percent of Canadians are affected by myopia, which increasingly develops at younger ages. Clinical Services Director Naomi Barber emphasized annual exams for early detection and stated the company offers affordable myopia management solutions during October’s Children's Vision Month.
The Alliance for Affordable Vision Care released "Keeping Vision Care Within Reach," a report based on surveys conducted in July and August 2026. Findings indicate that 90 percent of employers are satisfied with the value of vision benefits, while 82 percent of covered adults say coverage meets their needs. Cost remains a barrier, as 84 percent of uninsured consumers who did not seek care cited cost as a main or contributing factor. Both groups expressed concern about legislative changes potentially increasing costs; 74 percent of consumers and 83 percent of employers believe officials should prioritize affordability. The study surveyed 4,027 employed adults and 201 benefits decision-makers. VSP Vision is noted as a funder of the coalition.
ARtillery Intelligence projects global spatial computing revenue will grow from $28.2 billion in 2025 to $59.7 billion in 2030, representing a 16.2 percent compound annual growth rate. The forecast identifies AI-powered smart glasses as a primary driver, with Meta’s earnings showing these devices offsetting declines in consumer VR. While VR currently leads in total revenue ($13.75 billion last year) due to established software ecosystems, non-display AI glasses lead in unit sales and are projected to challenge VR’s revenue position. Mobile AR generated an estimated $8.9 billion in 2025, primarily through enterprise productivity and B2B2C marketing rather than direct consumer hardware purchases. The report highlights a strategic shift toward diversification into purpose-built form factors, including flat AR displays and full spatial experiences, though specific product launches remain anticipated for 2027 and 2028.
Research by Specsavers and Crisis indicates that 47% of surveyed individuals experiencing homelessness in the UK and Republic of Ireland reported deteriorating sight or hearing, while 21% developed new issues. The study, conducted with 292 participants in August and September 2026, identified cost as the primary barrier to care for 36% of respondents, alongside transport challenges and competing priorities. Rough sleepers were most affected, with 80% stating free or low-cost devices would have helped. Specsavers’ Charity VIP scheme, available across all UK and Ireland practices since 2023, has supported over 7,000 people. Company leaders emphasized that systemic access requires collaboration between government, healthcare providers, and the optical sector, noting no single solution fits all experiences.
A study by the University Hospital Freiburg, published in Frontiers in Public Health, indicates that myopia prevalence among children and adolescents in Germany has remained stable between 2001 and 2025. Analyzing approximately 1.25 million eyeglass prescriptions for about 437,700 individuals aged three to 18, researchers found no increase in myopic prescriptions, with roughly 40 percent of youth affected. The findings contradict assumptions of a global myopia epidemic, attributing higher rates in East Asia primarily to intensive schooling and limited outdoor time rather than digitalization or pandemic effects. Separately, a Shanghai-based retrospective analysis of 182 young adults (aged 18–25) with high myopia revealed that progression can continue into adulthood, though rates decline with age; no clear link to pathological myopia was established.
A master thesis examines how trust and storytelling influence supplier selection among optical retailers in the German-speaking region. The study finds that trust, defined by competence, integrity, and benevolence, is the strongest factor determining supplier preference, outweighing traditional criteria like price and quality. Storytelling supports this process only when credible and aligned with actual business behavior; otherwise, it fails to build confidence. The research highlights that reliable communication and consistent service during issues are critical for maintaining trust. Digitalization was analyzed as a potential moderator. The findings suggest that optical suppliers must strategically cultivate trust through verifiable actions rather than relying solely on marketing narratives to secure long-term partnerships with independent retail stores.
Commissioned by Sidol, an OpinionWay survey of 2,034 French adults aged 18+ (conducted August 19–September 1, 2026) reveals that while consumers are generally satisfied with their optical equipment, they face specific irritants regarding lens maintenance and cleanliness. Price is the primary filter for purchasing decisions, structuring consumer expectations more than brand image or fashion. Despite this focus on cost, there is a noted lack of clarity around health insurance schemes like "100% Santé," particularly among younger people and lower-income households. The study highlights insufficient post-purchase support as a key area for improvement. Additionally, opticians are urged to better promote underutilized segments such as contact lenses, sunglasses, French-made products, refurbished items, and technological innovations, as consumers seek practical solutions and proactive advice from professionals.
Jobson’s Practice Performance Tracker reports that the national average for gross revenue at ECP locations decreased by 8 index points in September 2026 compared to August. This places gross revenue 2 index points below September 2025 levels, though it remains above prior years from 2019 through 2024. Most other optical sales categories also declined month-over-month: exams/refractions fell 8 points, frame units 6, lens pairs 7, and contact lenses 11. Year-over-year comparisons show decreases across all categories, with contact lenses dropping 9 points. Despite these declines, all categories exceeded the 2019 baseline of 100 index points, with gross revenue reaching 141. The data derives from 1,500 reporting optical locations tracked since 2019.
Altares data shows French optical businesses faced a 29.4% increase in collective procedures during the third quarter of 2026, affecting 44 stores compared to 34 in the same period last year. Specifically, judicial reorganizations doubled to 16 cases, while liquidations rose slightly to 26. This deterioration contrasts with the broader national trend, where total business failures stabilized at 14,652 (+0.5%). The optical sector’s vulnerability is attributed to eroding margins caused by household budget constraints and rising fixed costs like rent and labor. Regionally, Occitanie recorded the highest concentration of liquidations with seven cases. Year-to-date, the sector has logged 120 failures, approaching annual totals from previous years and indicating sustained financial fragility despite the general economic stabilization.
Altares director Thierry Millon reports that optical retail is experiencing a net slowdown, with business failures projected to reach a record level in 2026. The number of defaults for optical shops surged by 20% during the first nine months of the year, surpassing the 157 recorded in 2025 and trending toward exceeding 160. This rate outpaces pharmacies (+10%) and automotive repair (+8%), aligning with trends in supermarkets and bookstores. Although the overall market remains robust, high revenue does not guarantee stability; financial fragility from heavy debt and insufficient cash flow drives insolvencies. Some top-revenue firms faced judicial proceedings due to unpaid taxes and creditor claims. Consumers' cautious spending and intense local competition further pressure margins.
The German consumer eyewear market is undergoing a structural transformation driven by demographic changes. Although the number of glasses wearers continues to rise, purchasing habits are shifting significantly. Currently, the average replacement cycle for new glasses stands at approximately 4.5 years. Market expectations suggest this period could extend by around 50% in the coming years, meaning many customers may only purchase new frames every six to seven years. This longer interval reduces annual unit demand and pressures revenue for optical retailers, despite the growing wearer base. Additionally, consumers show decreased willingness to pay high one-time costs, preferring predictable monthly expenses. The industry also faces a shortage of skilled workers as experienced staff retire. To mitigate these challenges, retailers are increasingly focusing on long-term customer retention models, such as service memberships, to stabilize repeat purchases and enhance economic predictability.
Optik (Sweden) summarized the largest eyewear-related startup investments of 2026. San Diego-based Ollin Biosciences secured the year's biggest single round with $330 million in June for Phase 3 studies on diabetic macular edema treatments. Science Corporation, led by Max Hodak, raised $230 million in March to commercialize its PRIMA retinal implant, which uses special glasses to restore vision for geographic atrophy patients; the company plans a near-term European launch. Shenzhen-based Even Realities raised $150 million in July, reaching a $1 billion valuation for its camera-free smart glasses with built-in displays. Chinese competitors RayNeo and Xreal also raised over $100 million each. The analysis notes that funding concentrated on pharmaceuticals, implants, and consumer electronics, while traditional optical services attracted less investment.
A web-based survey conducted by Norstat for pharmaceutical company Santen across Sweden, Norway, Denmark and Finland (May 8–21) reveals that 55% of Swedish parents with glasses-wearing children believe their child’s myopia impacts school well-being. Additionally, 45% reported effects on academic performance, while 23% noted impacts on sports and leisure activities. The study highlights significant knowledge gaps: 66% of respondents were unaware of long-term risks associated with high myopia, such as retinal detachment or glaucoma, and 57% did not know about methods to slow progression. Opticians were the most common information source (52%), followed by ophthalmologists (40%). Approximately 500 parents of children aged 0–18 were interviewed per country.
According to the Altares barometer, the French optical retail sector recorded 125 insolvency procedures (liquidations, reorganizations, and safeguards) in the first three quarters of 2026. This includes 44 procedures in the third quarter alone, comprising 26 judicial liquidations, 16 reorganizations, and 2 safeguards. The total exceeds the 106 procedures logged during the same period in 2025. Since 2025 marked the highest annual failure rate since Altares began tracking the sector in 2016 with 157 cases, maintaining this pace in the fourth quarter would result in a new record for 2026. Among the 42 failing businesses excluding safeguards, only 24 had published recent accounts; these showed a median revenue of €230,000 and an average of €350,000, with half reporting deficits.
The Kuratorium Gutes Sehen (KGS) has outlined the defining eyewear frame trends expected to shape the market in 2027. According to the organization, clear edges, reinterpretations of known classics, and striking material combinations will be prominent. Sport-inspired designs and tinted lenses are also gaining significance. Specific geometric frames featuring straight lines, distinct angles, and high or double bridges will take center stage, while faceted acetate models offer a sculptural effect. Retro styles remain popular, with angular navigator variants appearing alongside classic aviators, and 1990s-inspired oval, round, and soft-rectangular shapes continuing in current offerings. Manufacturers are increasingly combining materials such as acetate with steel and titanium with carbon, complemented by glossy, brushed, or satin finishes. Additionally, large curved lenses and dynamic lines inspired by cycling or ski glasses are being integrated into everyday collections.
An OpinionWay study for Groupe Afflelou reveals that vision and hearing rank low among health priorities for French parents and young adults, cited by only 16% and 15% respectively. Conducted between July 25 and August 5, 2026, with 1,017 parents and 1,003 youths aged 18–34, the survey shows nutrition and sleep dominate concerns. While 79% of parents checked their children’s vision recently, half have not tested hearing in two years. Although 88–89% recognize screen risks, 91% of youths reported excessive exposure, and 90% experienced symptoms like visual fatigue or tinnitus. Financial barriers led 30–32% to skip checks. CEO Anthony Afflelou stated the findings confirm prevention gaps, prompting new initiatives including mobile screening units and youth hearing support.
A July 2026 OpinionWay survey commissioned by Groupe Afflelou reveals that vision and hearing are not health priorities for most French respondents. Among 1,017 parents of children under 18 and 1,003 young adults aged 18–34, only 16% of parents and 15% of youth consider these senses a priority, ranking them below diet, sleep, physical activity, and mental health. Despite 88% of parents and 89% of youth acknowledging screen and headphone risks, habits remain unchanged. Vision checks are more common than hearing tests (91% vs 75% among parents). Key barriers include wait times, proximity, and cost; 30% of parents and 32% of youth reported skipping checks due to financial reasons in the past three years.
The Vision Council’s Consumer inSights Q2 2026 report indicates a stabilizing eyewear market among more than 12,000 surveyed U.S. adults. Spending is broadly distributed across value, mid-range, and premium tiers, with purchases under $100 dipping slightly while those over $200 grew, reflecting deliberate consumer behavior rather than distress. Key findings include widening out-of-pocket cost gaps between managed vision care users and non-users, strong FSA/HSA utilization, steady plano sunglasses trends, and continued contact lens purchasing at corporate and chain locations. The report offers three years of trended data and is available through The Vision Council’s Research Download Center.
The 2026 Benefits Canada Healthcare Survey reports that while 67 per cent of plan sponsors offer vision coverage, members receive only 44.6 per cent reimbursement on average. Total vision expenses averaged $560, with workplace plans covering $263.43. Costs included $140 for eye appointments and $469 for glasses or contacts. Higher estimated costs were reported by groups including those with poor benefits ($665), household incomes over $150,000 ($663), unionized respondents ($623), and women ($590). Seventy-six per cent of members needed prescription eyewear personally, and 67 per cent required contact lenses. Thirty per cent had dependants needing eyewear. Personal or dependant use likelihood was higher among workers with secondary plans (85 per cent) and those aged 55 and older (83 per cent).
Revenues from the sale of optical products and services in Spain increased by 3.9 percent in 2025, reaching €2.251 billion from €2.166 billion the previous year. This growth follows a 2.9 percent market increase in 2024 and a 6.2 percent rise in 2023. The figures were reported by Fedao, the trade association for the optical sector.
Solocal+, an entity of the PagesJaunes.fr operator, released findings from its Hyperlocal Observatory analyzing searches by nearly 16 million internet users against listings for approximately 25,000 establishments, including 14,500 exclusive opticians. The study indicates that consumers prioritize proximity and specific professional expertise over brands or product references when searching for optical services. On average, users consult two establishment profiles to compare offerings before making a choice. Solocal+ describes the French optical market as resilient, with a dense geographic distribution averaging 36 opticians per 100,000 inhabitants. This network ensures that 98% of French residents live in departments with at least 30 opticians per 100,000 people, effectively eliminating "optical deserts" and guaranteeing local access across both urban and rural areas.
Revenues from the sale of optical products and services in Spain increased by 3.9 percent in 2025, reaching €2.251 billion from €2.166 billion the previous year. This growth follows a 2.9 percent market increase in 2024 and a 6.2 percent rise in 2023. The figures were reported by Fedao, the trade association for the optical sector.
The Vision Council released "Focused inSights 2026," a report based on an online survey of 1,089 U.S. adults conducted April 13–30, 2026. Findings indicate 78% experienced eye fatigue after screen use in the past three months, yet 39% of symptomatic respondents never raised issues with healthcare professionals. Awareness gaps persist, with 63% unfamiliar with digital eye strain and half unaware of dry eye disease. Eye doctors are the primary information source (40%) and most influential factor in treatment product selection (38%). The report was shared at Academy 2026 Anaheim (Sept. 30–Oct. 3). Full access is complimentary for Vision Council members; non-members may purchase it. Survey results carry a margin of error of approximately 3%.
The Contact Lens Institute (CLI) has released "Profitability Perspectives: Rethinking the Value of Contact Lenses," a report analyzing patient profitability factors in U.S. optometry practices. Based on primary data collected between November 2025 and May 2026 from 20 optometry offices across various U.S. communities, the study indicates that contact lens patients generate 29% to 86% higher annual profits compared to eyeglasses-only patients. The research, conducted by an independent team including professors from the University of Manchester, University of Waterloo, and Appalachian State University, attributes this upside to contemporary contact lens performance driving patient satisfaction and clinical success. The publication includes implementation tools and will be highlighted at the American Academy of Optometry 2026 Annual Meeting in Anaheim, California.