The optical market - Portugal

The industry therefore includes all the players and processes involved in the design, production and marketing of eyewear. On a global level, promising market growth projections are expected. The ageing of the world's population and the increase in life expectancy around the world explain the forecasts, which point to a growing number of users. In developed countries, estimates are still rising, with about 70% of adults requiring corrective lenses. In addition, rising disposable income is expected to continue to drive the high-end segments of the eyewear industry. For the Portuguese market, growth prospects are very optimistic. Indeed, between 2014 and 2019, 265 new opticians have opened their doors in the country. However, intensifying competition has led to increased aggressiveness in terms of offers and promotions, putting some small independent players in difficulty. Many have ended up integrating large groups or franchises: the percentage of opticians belonging to large chains has risen from 60% in 2005 to 95% in 2019. [ Opticapro ]