Report: Most ECPs display a median of 600 frames, sourced through sales reps
New research from The Vision Council details purchasing trends in eye wear frames, including information about inventory on display and the styles and sources of frames most frequently purchased.
“The findings from this report ... reveal that eye care providers are strategic in balancing patient preferences with inventory constraints in the curation of frames sold at their practices,” Alysse Henkel, vice president of research and inSights at The Vision Council, said in a council press release.
The report found that 78% of providers display between 200 and 1,200 frames (median, 600 frames) on their boards, which typically comprise 80% ophthalmic frames and 20% sunglasses. Providers reported that 62% of frame sales were made through in-person sales representatives, while 19% are ordered from a website. Most providers (70%) update their inventory quarterly, with 73% introducing new styles every 3 to 6 months.
About a third (34%) of frames are large corporate brands, 25% are independent boutique brands, 20% are licensed designer brands and 16% are budget brands. Although large corporate and licensed designer brands make up more than half of inventories, four out of 10 providers prefer boutique brands.
Providers also believe square and rectangular frames are the most popular shape among customers, making up an average of 53% of available styles.
“Customer preferences and historic sales, such as the popularity of square and rectangular frames, influence frame buyers’ decisions, even if they would like to sell more unique styles from boutique brands,” Henkel said in the release. “Overall, the report underscores the key trends shaping the eye wear market and offers a roadmap for suppliers to better align with provider and customer needs.”
Reference:
- Focused inSights: Frame buyers 2024 report summary. https://thevisioncouncil.org/product/focused-insights-frame-buyers-2024-summary. Published Jan. 7, 2025. Accessed Jan. 7, 2025.