When you buy contact lenses from an optician, you might think you are getting a unique brand that only they offer. In reality, it could be the same lenses sold under a different name by another retailer—often at a lower price. This phenomenon is called “private labeling” or rebranding, and it is used by optician chains to create customer loyalty and limit consumers’ ability to compare prices.
How Does It Work?
Many major contact lens manufacturers, such as Alcon, CooperVision, Bausch + Lomb, and Johnson & Johnson, sell their lenses to various retailers. Instead of using the original product name, optician chains rename the lenses under their own brand. This means that the exact same lens can be sold under different names depending on where you buy it.
The Problem for Consumers
The biggest disadvantage of this tactic is that it makes it difficult for customers to compare prices. For example, if you receive a lens with a unique name from your optician, you cannot easily search for it online to find cheaper alternatives. This forces many customers to continue buying their contact lenses from the same optician, even though cheaper options may be available elsewhere.
Another issue is that it can lead to misunderstandings about product quality. Some customers believe they are getting an exclusive product when, in reality, it is a standard lens available elsewhere at a lower price.
How Can You Protect Yourself as a Consumer?
Ask for the original name – Request the original name of the lenses from your optician so you can compare prices yourself.
Compare specifications – If you cannot get the original name, compare parameters such as base curve, diameter, and material with other lenses to find a matching product.
Shop from other retailers – Many online stores sell the exact same lenses at lower prices, but under their original names.
Conclusion
Rebranding contact lenses is a smart strategy for opticians, but it makes it harder for consumers to make informed decisions. By being aware of this tactic, you can take control of your purchases and avoid overpaying.
Have you noticed that your lenses have different names at different retailers? Do some research—you could save both time and money!
Sources
Lensshopper.co.uk(2025-03-13), Rebranded Contact Lenses
https://www.lensshopper.co.uk/rebranded-contact-lenses.asp