The Vision Council (TVC) has published its “Consumer inSights Canada Q1 and Q2 2025” report, providing an overview of Canadian consumer behaviors and attitudes toward vision correction, eye exams, managed vision care, and eyewear purchasing.

The findings are based on a nationally representative survey of 3,077 Canadian adults conducted earlier this year.

 “We’re seeing improvements in eye exam rates and continued strong in-person purchasing, with 47% of prescription glasses wearers making a purchase in the last year, with most buying from their exam provider,” says Alysse Henkel, TVC vice president of research and insights. “These insights are essential for businesses that want to remain competitive and responsive to the evolving expectations of Canadian consumers.”

Here are key findings from the report:

• Vision correction is used by 82%of respondents, with 50% indicating they have had an eye exam in the past year.

• Forty-three percent report having vision care insurance, most often through employer-sponsored plans, with most using benefits to offset eyewear and contact lens costs.

• Prescription glasses were purchased by 47% of wearers in the past year, most often from their exam provider.

• In-person shopping accounted for 87% of eyewear purchases, though 34% of those who previously bought online returned to a physical retailer for their most recent purchase.

• Online purchasing was reported by 29% of contact lens users, though many limited orders to short-term supplies.

• Fifty-five percent of respondents spent under $50 on a recent plano sunglasses purchase, with Ray-Ban, Oakley, and Foster Grant the most frequently cited brands.

The full report is available through The Vision Council’s Research Download Center as a complimentary download for members, with a paid option for nonmembers.