Look online for savings on specs

People who wear glasses or contact lenses could be missing out on huge savings by failing to look online, according to new research from shopping website Quidco.com.

Three out of four people surveyed by the site said they automatically bought their most recent glasses or lenses from the high street optician where they had their eyes tested, although nine out of ten knew that they could ask the optician for their prescription and then shop around for their eyewear.

Almost one in five were unaware that prescription glasses and lenses could be bought on the internet. Looking online enables consumers to view a wider choice of frames, compare prices and take advantage of voucher codes and cashback deals.

Glassesdirect.co.uk says its customers save from a third to over 50% buying online instead of on the high street, and visiondirect.co.uk says it charges up to 70% less on branded lenses. People who buy online via a cashback site such as Quidco.com can get further discounts on glasses and lenses of up to 28%.

According to Mintel, the optical goods market was worth £2.65bn in 2009 with 32 million UK adults now wearing spectacles and 4 million using contact lenses.

Nicola Frame from Quidco.com says:

“Consumers have become really savvy about comparing prices on just about everything, but when it comes to glasses and contact lenses they often fail to look around for the best deal. There’s a lot to be said for trying on frames to make sure they suit you, but it’s possible to do this in-store or via a home trial, and still make a big saving buying online.”

Tips for buying glasses online:

1. Ask your optician for your prescription and pupillary distance (the measurement between your pupils)
2. Check what suits you by trying on frames on the high street, or using an online retailer’s virtual mirror
3. Compare prices at a range of high street and online retailers, and check for any special offers or cashback
4. If your chosen retailer offers a free home trial, you may be able to try a selection before deciding
5. Check the returns policy before you buy as prescription glasses are not covered by the Distance Selling Regulations

Tips for buying contact lenses online:

1. Ask your optician for your contact lens prescription
2. Compare prices for the same brand and lens type at a range of high street and online retailers, and check for any special offers or cashback
3. Check the returns policy before you buy as prescription lenses are not covered by the Distance Selling Regulations