EB asked; you answered. The 2025 annual regional market trends survey garnered more than 150 responses from all regions of the country, and what we heard is that, overall, business sentiment is mixed. Nearly half of respondents report bottom-line growth this year versus 2024, whereas a significant segment cited flat or declining margins. The greatest opportunities lie in selling premium products, with the upper-mid to high-price tiers seeing the most retail growth. Practices remain focused on optimizing product mix and patient experience. Social media continues to play a central role in nurturing patient relationships, with Facebook and Instagram the preferred platforms. Stress levels are rising, fueled by economic uncertainty, inflation, and persistent staffing and reimbursement challenges.
In this issue:
EB’s July/August edition delivers
men’s eyewear fashion trends—
frames with an adventurous
take on the looks of the latest
men’s fashion runways.
Frames: Illa style Vanni from
ClearVision Optical
Photo: Melinda DiMauro
Key takeaways? In the face of competitive and economic pressure, attracting new patients and elevating the intrinsic value of in-practice purchases are critical growth strategies. Practices are increasingly looking for actionable business trends and peer insights to navigate today’s dynamic market. We invite you to delve into the five different sections of the regional trends report for an overall national summary as well as details on the four census areas. For more actionable insights, see this issue’s Back to Basics column for tips on positioning accessories in the optical and our Staff Hiring, Training + Retention column on responding to online reviews.
For even more help with elevating the product in your practice, this issue also spotlights key trends defining the new era of men’s optical fashion. Men’s eyewear is having a fashion moment, with bold new collections that channel the adventurous spirit of the season’s menswear runways. From Victor Glemaud’s sophisticated Glemaud x Tura collab to retro-inspired frames from Saint Laurent and street-chic looks by Diesel, designers are embracing expressive style for today’s modern man.
We hope these survey results and practice insights help to inform and prepare you for this year and beyond.
—Jennifer Ford
Content Director, Vision