Spectacles in South Africa

2020 IMPACT

Temporary closure of optical shops during lockdown results in slowing demand for optical shops, exacerbating trend already noted pre-COVID-19 due to economic instability

Prior to the emergence of COVID-19 in South Africa, the country was already experiencing economic instability and declining disposable incomes, resulting in general slowing demand for spectacles in the country. These products require an initial costly outlay which is beyond the reach of many lower-income consumers, despite their need for spectacles to halt further poor eye health.

Spectacles fairly concentrated in the hands of major players in 2019

Eyewear in South Africa continued to be led by Essilor SA (Pty) Ltd and Hoya Hill Optics (Pty) Ltd, which gained marginal value share in 2019 due to their strength in spectacle lenses, while third-ranked Luxottica South Africa Pty Ltd retained its lead of spectacle frames with high-end brands such as Ray-Ban and Oakley. While the latter benefits from a wide distribution network in the country, including its ownership of chained retailer Sunglass Hut, it continued to lose ground to smaller players under “others” as increasingly price-sensitive consumers searched for more affordable options.

Heightened awareness of need for strict hygiene routines during the pandemic could benefit further development of spectacle lens cleaning solutions

One notable trend which has continued to gain momentum in South African spectacles is the expansion of spectacle lens cleaning solutions, with chemists and parapharmacies in particular dedicating greater shelf space to these products. With this channel permitted to remain open during lockdown and consumers of eyewear including spectacles encouraged to follow strict cleaning and maintenance regimes, demand for spectacle lens cleaning solutions was likely to have benefited and encouraged a higher number of brands to enter, offering different product formats based on user affordability and enhanced convenience.

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