Non-prescription Reading Glasses Market - Global Industry Size, Share, Trends, Opportunity, and Forecast, 2019-2029F

The Non-prescription Reading Glasses Market was valued at USD 108.79 Billion in 2023, and is expected to reach USD 152.58 Billion by 2029, rising at a CAGR of 5.80%. Factors such as sedentary lifestyles, poor dietary habits, and increased screen time, particularly from devices like smartphones and computers, have led to a rise in conditions like presbyopia, astigmatism, and other vision issues. The rising prevalence of eye problems is anticipated to fuel the demand for reading glasses in the U.S. during the forecast period. Moreover, the aging population and the efforts of key market players to innovate advanced reading glasses to meet demand are significant factors driving market growth.

In 2024, The World Health Organization (WHO) has launched the SPECS 2030 initiative, a global alliance to address the issue of uncorrected refractive error, the leading cause of vision impairment worldwide, by increasing access to affordable eyeglasses. SPECS 2030 aims to provide hundreds of millions of people with access to essential eyeglasses and is supported by a global network of stakeholders The market for non-prescription reading glasses has seen substantial growth due to the increasing global population and heightened awareness about eye care. Projections indicate continued market expansion, suggesting a steady upward trend in the coming years.

Additionally, the increased use of digital devices has highlighted the need for blue light-blocking glasses to prevent eye strain, further driving market growth. The trend of wearing glasses as a fashion accessory is attracting younger consumers, thereby boosting the market. The expansion of online retail channels, offering a wide range of affordable options, has made non-prescription reading glasses more accessible, contributing to market growth. The development in lens design and materials aimed at enhancing comfort and visual performance points to a positive outlook for the global non-prescription reading glasses market.

Key Market Drivers

Increasing Number of Eye Conditions

The prevalence of vision problems such as presbyopia, astigmatism, and digital eye strain is increasing due to sedentary lifestyles, poor diets, and extensive screen time. A 2022 Healio report revealed that over 120 million Americans suffer from presbyopia, highlighting a large segment of the population experiencing a decline in the ability to focus on close objects with age.

Extended screen time and prolonged use of digital devices worsen these conditions, even among younger demographics. This increase in vision problems drives the demand for non-prescription reading glasses as an easy and accessible solution. The aging process naturally exacerbates these issues, further compounded by the global trend of a growing elderly population. As people age, presbyopia and other vision-related conditions become more prevalent, boosting the need for reading glasses.

Shift to Online Purchasing Platforms

The shift towards online purchasing platforms has been significant in recent years. Key reasons include the rising number of online retailers and the significant price differences between online and brick-and-mortar stores, prompting U.S. consumers to prefer online channels. The broad selection of reading glasses and the availability of virtual tools for an interactive shopping experience have shifted consumer preferences towards online platforms. This trend allows manufacturers and retailers to reach a wider audience, including those with limited access to physical stores. The convenience of online shopping, which allows individuals to search for and purchase non-prescription reading glasses from their homes, increases market reach and attracts more customers.

Technological Advancements in Lens Design and Materials

Technological innovations in lens designs and materials are key drivers for the non-prescription reading glasses market. Leading industry players are focusing on developing advanced reading glasses to close the supply-demand gap. Innovations such as blue light-blocking lenses, progressive lenses, and multifocal lenses improve visual performance and comfort. These advancements address various consumer needs, from reducing digital eye strain to providing seamless vision correction across different distances. Additionally, improvements in the materials used for frames and lenses, such as lightweight and durable materials, enhance the comfort and appeal of non-prescription reading glasses. Such technological advancements not only attract current users but also encourage new users to opt for these improved products.

Key Market Challenges

Competition from Alternative Vision Correction Methods

Alternatives such as contact lenses and LASIK surgery are becoming more popular, reducing the reliance on non-prescription reading glasses. Benefits like improved aesthetics, the elimination of discomfort, and permanent correction of vision problems attract customers to these alternatives. Contact lenses provide clear vision without altering appearance, while LASIK surgery offers a long-term solution, eliminating the need for glasses or contact lenses. These alternatives pose significant competition to non-prescription reading glasses, potentially limiting market growth.

Difficulty in Selecting Proper Strength for OTC Glasses

Consumers often struggle to choose the correct strength for over-the-counter (OTC) reading glasses. Unlike prescription glasses tailored to individual vision needs, non-prescription reading glasses are available in standardized strengths that may not address specific vision issues. Determining the appropriate magnification can be challenging for consumers, leading to suboptimal vision correction and discomfort. This accuracy challenge can deter potential buyers from non-prescription reading glasses, pushing them towards personalized solutions like prescription glasses or contact lenses, thus hindering market growth.

Impact of COVID-19 on Production and Demand

The COVID-19 pandemic adversely affected the non-prescription reading glasses market. The demand for routine optical exams dropped, significantly reducing the market revenue. Reduced optical exams decreased the adoption of reading glasses in the U.S. Furthermore, supply chain disruptions and the unexpected shutdown of manufacturing facilities hindered demand for these glasses. According to PentaVision, Inc., the pandemic's impact on eyeglass sales was notable, with personnel shortages, decreased production, and supply chain issues highlighting market vulnerability to external shocks.

Key Market Trends

Fashion Trends Making Reading Glasses a Statement Accessory

Reading glasses are increasingly considered fashionable accessories, particularly attracting a younger clientele. Integration of stylish designs and trendy frames has broadened their appeal beyond functional use. Leading brands are partnering with fashion designers to introduce contemporary styles catering to fashion-conscious consumers. This trend transforms reading glasses from merely functional items to fashion statements, encouraging consumers to own multiple pairs for different looks and occasions. The blend of functionality and style drives market growth and attracts a more diverse consumer base.

Enhancements in Online Shopping Experience

The growth of online retail channels has made non-prescription reading glasses more accessible to consumers. Online platforms offer a wide array of options, from budget-friendly to premium products, catering to various consumer preferences. The inclusion of virtual try-on tools, detailed product descriptions, and customer reviews has enhanced the online shopping experience, making it more informative and engaging. These advancements help consumers make informed purchasing decisions, boosting online sales. The convenience of online shopping, along with competitive pricing, is a significant trend driving market growth.

Segmental Insights

Application Insights

Non-prescriptive reading glasses are increasingly favored by adults aged 19 to 40, despite this age group generally having healthier eyes. This trend is driven by the rise in vision issues linked to prolonged exposure to short-wavelength visible light, commonly emitted by digital screens, as well as eye injuries. These factors have made reading glasses a practical solution for many within this demographic. The growing awareness of eye care in emerging markets is significantly propelling the demand for reading glasses. As more people become educated about the importance of eye health, the accessibility and adoption of reading glasses are on the rise.

This trend is particularly notable in regions where eye care products were previously less available or less prioritized. The aging population is a key driver in the reading glasses market. As people age, they are more likely to develop age-related vision issues such as presbyopia, a condition that affects the ability to focus on close objects. This natural decline in vision with age leads to an increased demand for reading glasses, further fueling market growth. The convergence of these factors highlights the expanding market for non-prescriptive reading glasses across various age groups and regions.

Regional Insights

North America

North America's dominance in the non-prescription reading glasses market is largely attributable to several interrelated factors that highlight the region's unique consumer behavior and health trends. A significant driver of this market is the high prevalence of ocular disorders, particularly among the aging population. Adults over 40 years old are more susceptible to age-related vision issues such as presbyopia, which increases the demand for non-prescription reading glasses. This demographic shift has been a critical factor in the market's expansion, as a growing number of consumers seek convenient and affordable solutions to address their vision needs.

There is a marked consumer preference in North America for high-quality eye care products. Consumers are increasingly conscious of the importance of eye health and are willing to invest in premium products that offer not only functionality but also comfort and durability. This demand for quality is met by a diverse range of non-prescription reading glasses that cater to varying needs, from basic magnification to more sophisticated lenses that reduce glare and filter blue light. The trend of using spectacles as fashion accessories has significantly boosted market revenue in North America. Non-prescription reading glasses are no longer seen merely as a necessity but as a style statement.

This trend reflects a cultural shift where eyewear is valued for both its health benefits and its ability to complement personal style. Fashion-forward designs, collaborations with luxury brands, and seasonal collections have made reading glasses a fashionable accessory, appealing to a broader audience. The North American market for non-prescription reading glasses thrives due to the convergence of an aging population, a focus on quality eye care, and the integration of fashion into eyewear. These factors collectively create a robust market environment that continues to drive growth and innovation in the industry.

Key Market Players

• FGX International Inc.
• Movado Group, Inc.
• Cyxus
• Felix Gray, Inc.
• TruVision, Inc.
• SEE, Inc.
• Pixel Eyewear
• Heywind Technology Limited
• Zenni Optical, Inc.
• Dresden Optics Pty Ltd

Report Scope:

In this report, the global non-prescription reading glasses market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends which have also been detailed below:

Non-prescription Reading Glasses Market, By Type:

• Full Frame Glass
• Frameless Glass
• Half Frame Glass

Non-prescription Reading Glasses Market, By Application:

• Adults
• Kids

Non-prescription Reading Glasses Market, By Distribution Channel:

• Online
• Retail Stores
• Optical Stores

Non-prescription Reading Glasses Market, By Region:

• North America
• United States
• Canada
• Mexico
• Europe
• France
• Germany
• Spain
• Italy
• United Kingdom
• Asia-Pacific
• China
• Japan
• India
• Vietnam
• South Korea
• Middle East & Africa
• South Africa
• Saudi Arabia
• UAE
• Turkey
• Kuwait
• Egypt
• South America
• Brazil
• Argentina
• Colombia

Competitive Landscape

Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies present in the global non-prescription reading glasses market.

Available Customizations:

With the given market data, the publisher offers customizations according to a company's specific needs. The following customization options are available for the report.

Company Information

• Detailed analysis and profiling of additional market players (up to five).

This product will be delivered within 1-3 business days.