60 Minutes: Luxottica monopoly on eyewear market

[Deleted]

Did anyone see the piece on 60 minutes about Luxottica, the Italian brand that owns the vast majority of the eyewear market? It was an interesting interview with their CEO. He was very evasive about the idea that they not only make most of the sunglasses and eyeglasses out there, but they also own large companies in every area of the market (Sunglass Hut, Lenscrafters, Pearle Vision, even EyeMed, the vision insurance I have through my job). No wonder eyeglasses are so expensive!

My current eyeglasses are 10+ years old. I have been reluctant to replace them due to the cost and the fact that I wear them <30 min/day, except when I have an eye infection (maybe three days out of every two years). Now I'm thinking I'll get fitted at my optometrist's office and order from Warby Parker.

[marshmallowevening]

I saw it, and agree it was very interesting. I had no idea all that was owned by one company. A little scary how they kept going on and on listing brands they manufacture and stores they own.

[mlvmd]

I thought that it was interesting as well. Unfortunately I also saw a pair of Tiffany glasses in the factory shots that I really liked. Consumer alert fail.

[Deleted]

I'm just about to watch that segment!

[dexteroni]

Yes, it was interesting; I had no idea. I don't wear glasses but DH does and I was just telling him about Warby Parker, and they were mentioned as one of the few competitors.

[ladyk]

Mine are from zenni optical. Best $18 I've ever spent.

[iheartbanjos]

I saw it! I think they said that they consider Walmart and Costco competitors even though those stores carry some of their brands. Crazy story. DH and I just about flipped when they said that they also own EyeMed.

[Deleted]

Hmm. I never heard of Warby Parker but I am done with "retail glasses" I am using either Costco or some online retailer for my next pair. Warby sounds great!